Bathroom Remodeling

Getting Busy in the Bathroom: Tips on Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling is a very popular home improvement project because most sellers have found that the resulting return on investment is high. Depending on the nature of your project, it can cost you as much or as little as you want. Smaller additions or cosmetic work can cost around $1,000, while a completely new, fully upgraded bathroom can cost upwards of $10,000.  Below are some tips to help you make the most out of your project:

Tip #1 – Decide on your needs
Are you looking to expand your bathroom?  Are you looking to tear down completely and reinstall?  Or do you want to do something simpler, like replacing your toilet?  Do you want to let some light in by adding a window or two? Do you want to install new tiles?  Visualize what your ideal bathroom will look like, and then prioritize as far as what you need. 

Tip #2 – Think about the design
Design preparations are always helpful to you and your contractors.  After all, you want your remodeled bathroom to look good, right?  Enlist the help of an interior designer for ideas in this realm.  If your budget won’t allow you one, you can always browse through home improvement magazines for designs and photos for inspiration.  If you’re going with a designer, sketch out your plans so that he’ll be able to see what you’re looking for.  This will help him guide you accordingly.

Tip #3 - Think about your budget
This is very important: it’s no use planning a huge project if it turns out you can’t even afford it.  So you need to determine how you will finance the project.  Do you have the money set aside or will you need a loan?  Will this be a major overhaul of your bathroom, or are you making minor adjustments?  When you establish your budget, keep in mind whether the design ideas you like are feasible. It’s also less expensive if you don't need to relocate plumbing fixtures, so if you’re on a smaller budget, you may wish to incorporate your current layout into the new design.  You’d be surprised at what you can do with existing space!

Tip #4 – Obtain a building permit
Make sure to obtain a building permit from your city or county government before you start.  It can be a heartbreaker if you find out that the projected you’ve invested all this time and money in turns out to be illegal, so do this early!

Tip #5 – If you’re stuck for ideas, consider popular trends in bathroom design.
Second sinks have become very popular, as they allow two people to use the bathroom simultaneously.  Another popular trend is separating the toilet from the rest of the bathroom.   Some houses were only designed with showers, so many people opt to replace with a bathtub.  Whirlpool bathtubs have also become very popular. Nearly everyone elects to include a bathroom exhaust fan so as to keep unwanted spots from appearing on the ceiling.