A bathroom remodel can expand an existing space or add a linen or supply closet. It can also include a steam shower or other features to create a luxurious spa-like experience at home.
A seasoned contractor knows how to handle the minor snags that can crop up during a project (like rotted subflooring or leaking pipes) without adding to the final cost.
When you’re planning to remodel your bathroom, think about the design and layout of the room. This will help you determine what changes can be made and the overall cost of your project. Make sure to set a budget before you start and stick to it. If you’re not sure where to begin, hire a contractor who can offer suggestions and assist you with the design process.
It’s also important to decide between a full renovation or a simple remodeling job. A full renovation includes changing the layout of your space, adding or removing walls, and even expanding your bathroom to include new elements like a walk-in shower. A simple remodel, on the other hand, is more cosmetic and doesn’t change your floor plan or add new plumbing fixtures.
Once you’ve decided on the type of remodel, you can move forward with selecting materials and finishes. Be sure to select durable materials that will stand up to heavy use and water exposure. For example, tile is an excellent choice for bathrooms because it’s waterproof and easy to clean. You may also want to consider using a material that’s heat-resistant and antimicrobial for added safety and longevity.
Before you begin the work, check that all the existing plumbing is in good working condition and that there are no clogs or leaks. You should also inspect the electrical rough-ins for any updates or upgrades that will be needed.
Don’t forget to consider the lighting and ventilation options for your new bathroom as well. Be sure to incorporate natural light into the design, and make sure there are enough lights to illuminate the space adequately. It’s also a good idea to place light fixtures on dimmer switches so that you can adjust the lighting depending on your mood or task. If you’re installing a new vanity, consider incorporating extra storage space into the design, like a linen closet or medicine cabinets. Also, be sure to install accessible outlets and replace old ones if necessary. Finally, don’t forget to include the latest technologies in bathroom materials and systems, like water-saving toilets, shower heads, faucets and more. These might be a bit more expensive, but they will save you money in the long run on utilities and replacement costs.
Plumbing
A bathroom remodel involves plumbing and electrical work, so it’s important to find a reputable pro who is knowledgeable in these areas and can manage the installation process. The best contractor for your needs will have a strong reputation, an appealing portfolio of completed projects, and references who can attest to how well this professional met or exceeded expectations. They’ll also carry the right licensing and insurance, and bring a wealth of ideas and resources to the table.
Once the design is finalized, it’s time to start building. The project manager will create a schedule and keep the trade partners on track. They’ll be responsible for ensuring that all the elements are installed in accordance with the design plan. This includes things like laying tile, installing shower systems, running water pipes, and moving electrical wiring. The project manager will also be tasked with managing any changes that come up during the remodel, such as tearing down a wall or swapping out a sink.
The plumbing and electrical aspects of the remodel are typically managed by a licensed plumber and an electrician. While some minor tasks like swapping out a lighting fixture may be easy to DIY, working with electrical wiring is dangerous and requires a building permit in many jurisdictions. A reputable plumber will be able to handle everything from replacing a faucet to adding a new GFCI outlet.
Another crucial aspect of a bathroom remodel is making sure the space is safe for all users, especially anyone with disabilities. To do this, the project manager will install grab bars and non-slip flooring where needed. They’ll also make sure that the location of electrical wiring and water pipes are marked so that they don’t get damaged during construction.
A renovation is an improvement that revives a space and increases functionality. It might involve repainting the bathroom vanity or changing out fixtures. However, a renovation does not typically change the layout or significantly alter the appearance of the room. It also doesn’t include any structural changes, such as adding or removing walls. A remodel is more involved and usually adds value to the home.
Electrical
There are many factors to consider when deciding whether you want to renovate your bathroom or remodel it completely. One of the most important is the cost. It’s essential to weigh the cost against the value of your home if you plan to sell your house in the future. Renovating the bathroom can add a lot of value and be very cost-effective.
Full bathroom remodeling includes changing the layout of the space, which can be expensive. It also requires rewiring and plumbing work. It’s best to hire a professional for a complete remodel, especially if you’re planning to move or expand the existing walls. A professional will have the expertise to do the job correctly, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.
You can do some DIY renovations to a bathroom, such as repainting and swapping out the vanity. However, you’ll likely need to hire a contractor for more extensive projects like replacing the tub or shower. These types of changes will usually require a permit and will be subject to building codes. If you don’t get a permit, the city may fine you or your contractor.
Another important factor to consider when considering a full bathroom remodel is the cost of new fixtures and appliances. It’s not unusual for a full remodel to cost more than $10,000, but you can reduce costs by installing energy-efficient appliances and fixtures.
Lighting is an important part of any bathroom design, and it can be a significant cost. There are a variety of lighting options available, from simple ceiling-mounted lights to elaborate chandeliers. The most expensive part of lighting is the installation, but there are ways to lower the cost. For example, you can choose recessed lighting or track lighting that can be installed at an affordable price.
When choosing a contractor for your remodel, make sure you choose a reputable professional with a good reputation, a portfolio of finished projects and references that can speak to their professionalism. They should also be licensed and insured to work on your project. You can find a qualified professional by using Sweeten, an online marketplace that matches homeowners with trusted general contractors and offers expert guidance throughout the process.
Ventilation
Bathroom ventilation is crucial to a healthy, sanitary home. Ventilation helps to remove odors, prevent mold and mildew, and keep the room comfortable. Ventilation typically takes the form of an exhaust fan, and is a relatively inexpensive project that most homeowners can do themselves. However, installing a ventilation system from scratch will likely require professional help for electrical work and installation of ductwork and vents to the roof.
In addition, if you are adding a fan or installing a vent that doesn’t exist in your bathroom, it is important to have the unit properly sized to ensure proper air flow. A professional will be able to provide an accurate assessment of your space and recommend an appropriately sized unit.
A vent fan that isn’t sized correctly can actually decrease efficiency and increase energy costs by drawing in air from outside, rather than extracting it from the room. If you are choosing a new vent fan, look for one that is ‘HVI-Certified’ as this indicates it has passed independent performance testing.
Another way to improve your bathroom’s ventilation is by opening a window during and after showering, if possible. However, relying on the open window as the only source of ventilation isn’t a reliable option and can lead to rooms that remain humid even after using a bath or shower.
Before beginning any remodel, decide if you want to make cosmetic changes or if you are aiming for a more functional layout. Changing the layout is often more expensive than a cosmetic change because it involves moving fixtures connected to plumbing and changing the footprint of the room. This can add up to $5,000 to the overall cost of your project, and may require rewiring, framing, drywall installation, and insulation. If you’re unsure whether your project falls under the category of renovation or remodel, consult a licensed bathroom design and remodeling professional to get a realistic estimate of the costs involved. Depending on where you live, material and labor prices can vary significantly. Keeping these factors in mind, you can make the best decision about what upgrades will improve your home’s comfort and increase its resale value.
