Important Elements of a Bathroom Remodel
It’s crucial to work with contractors who have the right insurance. Your contractor should be covered for personal liability, workers’ compensation and property damage.
Walk-in showers and other ADA-accessible features add to cost, but make your bathroom more functional for people with reduced mobility. They also increase home value. Visit the Bathroom Remodel Lexington KY for more information.
Lighting
One of the most important elements in a bathroom remodel is getting the lighting right. It needs to be functional, but it should also be able to set the mood. Adding multiple layers of task, accent and ambient lighting is a great way to achieve both goals. It’s also a good idea to consult with an electrician at this stage of the project.
This is a good time to consider adding recessed lighting and replacing or adding light fixtures, as well as changing the switches and outlets. If you’re adding a vanity, be sure to factor in the height of the new fixture when planning where the power outlet will be. It’s a good idea to have your electrical plan drawn up at this point so that the electrician can be informed when it comes time to wire the fixture and add an outlet.
Another item to consider at this stage is whether or not you want a tub in your bathroom. Some people prefer a shower, while others like to have the option of taking a long, luxurious bath. If you do decide to add a tub, be sure to factor in the size of your current toilet and how much space will be needed for it when making your decision.
Once the plumbing is in, cabinets are installed and the flooring is down, you should be ready to install the appliances and finish the trim. This can take several days to a week, depending on the materials you choose and how big your room is. It’s also a good idea at this point to have an electrician come in and make sure everything is up to code, especially if you’re planning on installing a washer/dryer.
Finally, be sure to give yourself plenty of time for bathroom remodeling and don’t rush it. It’s best to work with a professional contractor that can handle the permit process, inspections and help ensure your project stays on schedule and on budget. They can also offer design and layout ideas that you might not have thought of, as well as industry connections that could save you money on materials or equipment.
Flooring
When choosing flooring for your bathroom remodel, it is important to consider function and style. Tile and vinyl are durable options that can be installed quickly. Tile is available in many colors, shapes, and sizes and can be customized to fit your space. The choice of grout color can make or break your design, while slip-resistant materials are essential for wet spaces.
Choosing a material for the walls of your shower or tub is another important decision to make. Some materials require a special application, which may add to the installation time and cost. For example, marble walls can be very beautiful but must be carefully sealed to keep them water-resistant. For this reason, many homeowners choose a less expensive material like porcelain or granite for the walls of their showers or tubs.
The flooring you choose will also depend on the budget for your project. There are many affordable flooring materials, such as vinyl and laminate, that can provide a high-end look for your space. If you are working with a limited budget, look for vinyl sheets or tiles that can be cut easily with a utility knife. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and engineered wood floors are another option that have the appearance of natural materials without the price tag.
You can even use concrete as a flooring material, which offers an edgy alternative to traditional tile. This material can be custom-colored and stamped to fit your design style and is very durable, but it will feel cold underfoot unless accompanied by underfloor heating.
Once you have a clear idea of the style and materials you want for your bathroom remodel, it is a good idea to work up an estimate of how much the project will cost. This will help you to narrow down your choices and decide which items are most important to you. It will also be helpful to know what financing options are available to you, such as home equity loans, personal or private loans, or Federal Housing Administration loans.
There is a difference between remodeling and renovating. Performing cosmetic, style, and layout changes is considered a remodel while completely replacing the fixtures, walls, and flooring is a renovation. It is important to consult with a professional before deciding which type of project you need.
Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures are more than just decorative additions to a room; they help carry water and offer access for a range of bathroom needs. Faucets, sinks, tubs, showers and toilets are just a few of the many fixture choices homeowners have. Modern technology and style trends are ensuring that no matter your tastes, you can find the perfect bathroom fixtures for your home.
One thing to remember when selecting bathroom fixtures is that consistency can be an asset in creating a cohesive look. A good way to achieve this is by choosing fixtures that match or complement the finishes of other elements in your bathroom. You can also mix and match styles to create a more eclectic look. Just be sure to balance the colors and finishes so that your bathroom is not too busy.
Another consideration when choosing bathroom fixtures is that energy efficiency is important. Depending on how old your current fixtures are, upgrading to newer models can help reduce your energy bills. Installing low-flow toilets, faucets and shower heads can preserve water while enhancing the appearance of your bathroom. Additionally, choosing sustainable materials such as FSC-Certified wood can help you go green in your bathroom remodeling project.
Lighting, a fan and mirrors are also essential in completing your bathroom remodel. Lighting should be designed to both illuminate the space and set the tone for your design scheme. Fans should be selected based on both room size and noise level, while mirrors come in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes.
Once your basic design is complete, you can add the finishing touches to make your bathroom feel like home. This may include artwork, plants and accessories that reflect your personal style. It is also a good idea to include storage solutions that will keep the space organized and clutter free.
The most expensive part of any bathroom remodel is the plumbing work, and it is often a job best left to the professionals. Unless you have experience in plumbing, budget for a minimum of $1,450 in materials and up to $16,000 in labor costs. To save money on materials, consider using leftover paint or wallpaper from previous projects. Alternatively, you can use your home equity line of credit to pay for this portion of the remodel.
Plumbing
One of the most important aspects of any bathroom remodel is the plumbing. A skilled plumber can make sure that the new layout doesn’t interfere with existing pipes and systems, and that all the necessary fixtures are installed correctly. This includes toilets, tubs and showers, and the vanity and sinks. It also includes piping and valves that control water flow. If you plan to replace these parts, be sure to get estimates from multiple contractors so you can compare prices and quality.
When planning a bathroom remodel, it’s helpful to create a renovation timeline with your contractor to help you stay on track. Having a clear schedule will reduce the stress of the project, and it will ensure that all necessary work is completed by the end date. You can also set up a temporary bathroom arrangement such as using a neighbor’s or family member’s bathroom to minimize disruptions while the work is being done.
Many homeowners have a vision of what their bathroom will look like once it’s finished, but sometimes these expectations are unrealistic and can cause problems during the remodeling process. The best way to avoid this is to have a thorough assessment done by a skilled plumber before starting the remodel, and to keep communication open with your contractor throughout the project.
Another major factor to consider is the age of your existing pipes. If you have older galvanized pipes, they’re likely nearing the end of their life and should be replaced during a remodel. Copper supply lines can also be prone to corrosion and pinhole leaks, so it’s best to upgrade to flexible PEX tubing.
A skilled plumber can help you understand your options and choose the right materials for your remodel. It’s also important to discuss your budget before starting a bathroom remodel so you don’t go overboard. You can save money by keeping the existing footprint if possible, and by choosing less expensive products or refinishing your existing fixtures. Research and talk to your contractor about material dupes or other cost-saving tricks they know about.
A final consideration is whether or not your renovation requires a permit. While cosmetic upgrades usually don’t require a permit, more extensive changes may require approval from your city’s planning or building department. Your Sweeten contractor can help you determine if you’ll need a permit and assist with the application process.
