Remodeling a bathroom is a great way to refresh the space. Besides, upgrading the fixtures and changing the floors and walls can add to the overall value of the house in case it goes up for sale in the future. The best bathroom remodeling does not necessarily have to involve breaking everything down and building it from scratch. A homeowner can simply choose to install new fixtures or put on a coat of paint.
Things to do for bathroom remodeling
Learn about the costs involved
Before looking for contractors nearby for a bathroom remodel project, find out how much a full bathroom remodel should cost. On average, the cost can be about $11,365, and it can range from $5000 to $80,000. There are various factors that affect the pricing, such as the size of the bathroom, materials used, type of modeling, contractor fees, labor cost, and so on. For example, a 5×8 bathroom remodel cost will be more than a 5×7 bathroom remodel cost even if there is not much difference in the size.
Hire a reputable contractor
Experienced, reputable contractors have worked hard to meet their customers’ requirements and build trust over the years. They have the necessary licenses and certifications to ensure that their work meets industry standards and all safety regulations and building codes. Checking reviews is a good way to find contractors who are known for their quality of work. Asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have remodeled their bathroom can also be useful.
Know about standard bathroom dimensions
It helps to understand the various standard dimensions of different parts of the bathroom. It will help plan the bathroom remodel at home more effortlessly. A few key measurements that should be known include the size of a typical bathtub, space required for a toilet, dimensions of a standard shower head, and so on. For instance, when doing a small bathroom remodel, it can be helpful to know that an alcove bathtub with a standard size of 4.5 to 6 feet long, 2.5 to 3 feet wide, and 1 to 2 feet deep will be suitable.
Splurge on the shower
Earlier bathtubs were quite popular, and many homeowners preferred having a tub along with a shower in their newly remodeled bathrooms. But most of them often discovered that the bathtub was rarely used. It took up too much space, which would have been used for making a bigger shower. So, now it has become popular to spend a bit more money on the shower with his and her shower heads, steam generators, and body sprays. But when remodeling a bathroom shower, don’t get rid of the bathtub completely if there are no other bathrooms in the house with a bathtub.
Consider water efficiency
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a country WaterSense program that puts labels on products like faucets, toilets, and showerheads that are over 20% more efficient than federal standards. Installing such products during the home bathroom remodel can help to save gallons of water as well as money over the years.
Things to avoid for a bathroom remodel
Skimping on skilled labor
Many homeowners plan to take a DIY approach when remodeling their bathroom. While the goal is to save money, many often have a misconception that the remodeling can be easily managed since the bathroom is a relatively smaller space. Unless one is highly skilled in dealing with electrical wiring, plumbing, and other intricate work involved, it is best to hire professionals who have the right skills and expertise. For example, a professional tile setter can make even the most low-budget tiles look like premium materials with their skilled setting. But a bad tile layer done the DIY way will make even the most expensive tiles look unappealing.
Trying to save money on important materials
Avoid going for cheaper options for things that will be used more frequently. Faucets, tiles, sinks, toilets, and other fixtures must be made of durable materials so that they last long. Make sure these have lifetime warranties that cover stains and leaks. Instead, try saving on light fixtures since these have the same performance across different price ranges. Also, it is alright to forego high-end features like those on new-age toilets so that the remodeling project does not go over the budget.
Ignoring storage
It can be quite convenient to have bath essentials as well as skincare products in the bathroom itself. So, never forget about the smallest of storage spaces when remodeling the bathroom. Something as basic as a vanity cabinet can make life quite easy. A simple chest or a small closet can also come in handy if there is enough space in the bathroom for these.
Not considering ventilation
With moisture and humidity levels being quite high in some regions, it is necessary to have multiple ways of drying out the inside of a bathroom. Otherwise, mold and mildew will grow abundantly, making remodeling completely a waste of money. A multifaceted approach is a great way to avoid this. For example, one or two operable windows along with a fan that has vents to put the air outside can be useful in keeping the bathroom dry.