Your bathroom is one of the most important rooms in your home. And a bathroom remodel can make the difference between a dated space that no one wants to spend time in and a room that is both beautiful and functional.
Before you begin a bathroom renovation, make sure you understand how the project will impact your budget and timeline. It’s also crucial to choose a contractor you can trust to do the work and treat your home with the respect it deserves.
Layout Changes & Structural Alterations
When you’re making major structural changes to your bathroom remodeling, such as changing the floor plan or removing an exterior wall, you must first obtain a building permit. This is because these changes may affect your plumbing, wiring, and fixtures.
You’ll need to find a licensed and insured contractor who has experience in the type of work you want done and can handle the necessary permits. The contractor should be able to provide you with multiple bids and a time line that is realistic for your budget.
In addition, a qualified contractor can help you select the right materials for your new bath. These include tiles, flooring, and countertops.
Depending on your budget, you can opt for more expensive tile and porcelain, or you can stick with basic ceramic, porcelain, or vinyl. Whatever you decide, it’s important to keep durability in mind so that you don’t have to replace the tile or floor sooner than you should.
If you’re working within a small budget, consider using heated floors, which can cost just a few dollars per square foot for a 100-square-foot bathroom. They also help prevent abrasions on your feet and reduce the risk of water damage.
Smart showers and tubs are also becoming increasingly popular, saving energy while reducing your water bill. They also offer convenience features, such as built-in handshowers and thermostats.
Other considerations to make when remodeling your bathroom are the layout and functionality. For example, you can install a grab bar in the shower or near the toilet to improve safety and accessibility for people with disabilities. You can also add storage or increase the height of the vanity to accommodate a taller person.
A bathroom remodel can be a great way to update your home’s aging or outdated aesthetic, but you need to take into account how long it will last. If you’re planning to sell your home, a renovation can be a great way to attract potential buyers.
Before completing your bathroom remodel, consider whether there are any hidden issues that you need to resolve, such as a leaky faucet or a broken shower door. Some problems are easy to fix, but others can be difficult and costly to repair.
If you’re renovating a small bathroom, it can be a good idea to hire a professional plumber to do any work that involves pipes, faucets, or drains. A plumber can help you find and fix leaks, and he or she can check for other plumbing-related problems that might otherwise go unnoticed.