Renovating your bathroom can be an exciting yet overwhelming project. There are numerous details to consider, such as style, price, functionality, and more. With an abundance of styles, products, color schemes, and prices available, it can be challenging to know where to begin.
Whether it is a simple refresh or a full renovation, you should know what steps need to be taken for a successful project. But first, let’s learn a little more about bathroom remodeling.
Bathroom Remodeling Options
When it comes to renovating a bathroom, there are four main types of options. These include:
- Cosmetic or surface-level
- Replacement
- Layout changes
- Full remodel
A surface-level bathroom remodeling involves minor changes such as updating the paint or replacing the fixtures. The changes are aesthetic in nature and do not involve any structural updates.
Replacement remodels involve replacing some or all the elements. These bathroom remodeling projects usually cost more than surface-level remodels. They can involve replacing the bathtubs, countertops, showers, toilets, and other fixtures while not interfering with the layout.
Layout changes involve moving the fixtures and electrical wiring around. While the major elements in your bathroom move around, the overall square footage is not affected.
A full remodel, as the name suggests, involves demolition, new plumbing work, construction, and new electrical work.
While a surface-level renovation doesn’t require bathroom design reconsideration, other types of remodels will require you to plan a design. If you will be updating your bathroom’s layout, make sure to answer the following questions:
- How well does the current bathroom layout work for your needs?
- Is the new layout user-friendly?
- Does the layout maximize the available space?
- Does the new layout require moving any elements in your bathroom?
Steps for Renovating a Bathroom
It is recommended to follow these steps when renovating a bathroom:
1. Gather Ideas and Get Inspired
Consider how you want your bathroom to look at the completion of the project. There are numerous details to consider, such as style, price, functionality, and more. With an abundance of styles, products, color schemes, and prices available, it can be challenging to know where to begin.
To start, I recommend finding inspiring pictures of bathrooms with layouts similar to your own, especially if you plan to keep the existing layout. You can search on social media for a world of bathroom ideas.
- Pinterest is a great platform for getting design ideas. You can check out hundreds of bathroom remodel ideas.
- Use online design websites to see what your bathroom design ideas look like in real life.
- For faucets and other fixtures, you will need to see and use them in person. You can visit a local store to check the fixtures. Make sure to take photos of fixtures that you find interesting.
Every time you come across an idea, take a photo. Bathroom space is always at a premium. Adding wall-mounted fixtures such as floating toilets and vanities can add greater value while creating a sense of open space and convenience. It is also important to consider storage when renovating a bathroom. Whether it is storing toilet paper and towels or cleaning and bath supplies and accessories, most homeowners underestimate this factor.
2. Consider Your Budget
While you are considering the type of project for renovating a bathroom, you should also keep your budget in mind. Your budget can be affected by the following factors:
- The type of remodel
- The amount of work involved
- The amount and quality of materials required
- Labor costs
- The cost of acquiring permits
Make sure to set aside 10% of the budget to meet any unforeseen contingencies.
3. Get a Plan with Measurements and Details
If you are considering relocating major bathroom fixtures like the vanity, shower, or toilet, it is essential to have a detailed plan in place. Without a plan, your contractor may struggle to meet your expectations.
4. Source the Right Materials
It is crucial to source your finishing materials in advance and ensure that your suppliers have an adequate supply of the products you need. Look for deals on high-quality items, as last year’s models are often available at a discounted price without sacrificing quality.
Also, if you are adding new types of surfaces, make sure to consider their maintenance needs regardless of their aesthetic benefits. When choosing materials and colors, make sure there is a proper balance between the different elements.
5. Choose the Right Contractor
When selecting a bathroom renovation contractor, prioritize hiring someone who is RBQ licensed and insured. Request job pictures and client references to ensure that the contractor has a proven track record of reliability and quality work.
Additionally, make sure that the contractor hires reputable, licensed plumbers and electricians to avoid potential issues down the line. Beware of contractors who offer unusually low prices, as this may indicate inexperience or unreliability. Quality workmanship is essential for long-lasting results in your bathroom renovation project. Investing in experienced workers will ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome.
To Summarize:
- Get inspired
- Consider your budget
- Get a plan with measurements and details
- Source your finishing materials
- Hire a proper licensed and experienced bathroom contractor and do your homework: Check your contractors credentials and references.
Once you have addressed these points, it will become easier for you to discuss your bathroom remodeling plan with your contractor. Based on the scope of the project, you may require one or more permits. This is one area your contractor can help take care of. If you need more information on renovating a bathroom, Final Finish Renovation can help you with planning and executing your project.
