Bathrooms are one of the most popular room renovations, and for good reason. They can give your home a fresh, clean look, improve your daily routine and increase your property’s value.
But remodeling your bathroom can also be a complicated project that requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure success. Here are some key tips to help you get started and keep your remodel on track.
Set a Budget: It’s important to have an accurate picture of your project’s cost before you start. You’ll want to factor in the costs of plumbing, tile, fixtures, labor and more, so you can plan accordingly. If you’re building a new home, don’t forget to consider the cost of any construction permits or inspections that may be required.
Don’t Let Design Overtake Functionality: While you want your bathroom to look great, it’s important to remember that this is a place where you’ll be spending a lot of time, so make sure the design reflects your needs as well. If you have a small space, for example, consider a compact toilet instead of a standard one; if you’re looking to save on water, opt for a water-conserving toilet or a showerhead that uses less than a gallon per minute.
Choose the Right Materials: Whether you’re replacing your bathtub or installing a new shower, it’s important to use materials that are specially designed for bathrooms. These include wallpapers that can handle high moisture levels and wood vanities that don’t rot quickly.
Keep Storage in Mind: This is a room where you’ll be using your most frequently-used items, and it’s important to ensure that they are easily accessible. Adding cabinets and shelving can help maximize storage, especially for small bathrooms.
Paint: If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, painting is an easy way to breathe life into your bathroom. But it’s important to choose a paint that’s resistant to mold and mildew.
Use a Safety Net: You can’t always predict weather or delays in materials and supplies when you are remodeling your bathroom, so it’s essential to have some extra money on hand in case things go wrong. Add about 10 to 20% extra on top of your project’s estimated budget so you can handle unexpected setbacks and mishaps.
Fix the Gaps in Your Vanity: The smallest gap in your sink or vanity can quickly become a huge eyesore, so make sure it’s smoothed out before you start the next step of your bathroom remodel.
Keep Cleaning in Mind: Whether you’re choosing grout, tiles or flooring, it’s important to think about how easy it will be to keep your bathroom clean and looking its best. For instance, if you don’t want to constantly have to scrub your floors, opt for a tile with a distressed finish that won’t show dirt.
Avoid Color Overkill: It’s tempting to use a lot of bright colors in your bathroom, but this can be a big mistake. Too many colors can overwhelm the room and create a feeling of clutter. To keep your space feeling airy and light, stick to a few neutral shades and add pops of color with accessories and accent pieces.