New Year – New Plumbing: 6 Steps to Remodel a Bathroom

Are you planning to start off the new year fresh? Bathroom remodeling is a significant undertaking. But it can yield exceptional results when executed properly. Here are some key steps to remodel a bathroom so your hard work leads to success.

6 Steps to Remodel a Bathroom

1. Determine What You Can Afford

A budget is a must as there are many considerations. Research local building and materials costs and contractor rates. Proper planning can help manage costs, as any remodel can get quite expensive, especially when you consider the cost of labor. Cost factors also include the quality of materials, whether you relocate plumbing fixtures, and if you change all or just parts of the bathroom.

If you’re planning on selling your home, you could recoup about 60% of a mid-range bathroom remodel, based on data from Remodeling’s 2021 Cost vs. Value report.

2. What Type of Bathroom Do You Want?

Once you know what you can afford, pick a bathroom type. An interior designer can help you weigh all the options. The type will help determine the layout and the limitless variations thereof. When selecting a bathroom type, your choices include:

• Standard Bathroom: A full bath with a toilet, sink, and bath/shower. It can range from the basics to a luxury master en-suite accessible via the master bedroom.

• Half-Bath: Also known as a powder room, it contains just a sink and toilet. It is perfect for guests and to provide more room for your family.

• Wet Bathroom: A full bathroom, where all elements are waterproofed, and the shower isn’t partitioned. There are no shower doors, opening the design and reducing mobility obstacles.

3. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

Painting is one of the most influential steps to remodel a bathroom. The color and texture of paint can brighten up the space, while a fresh coat eliminates dirt and grime buildup. Lighter paints provide the illusion of size (adding large mirrors does as well). Neutral colors or cool whites are typically best for remodeling small bathrooms.

4.Decide What You’re Going to Change/Add

At this point, there are a few decisions to make. Important aspects of a bathroom remodel include determining whether to overhaul, upgrade, or replace the:

• Bathtub: Tubs can be re-glazed to restore their shine. To remove and replace a bathtub, expect to spend an average of $3,000, according to The National Kitchen and Bath Association. Refinishing a tub cost significantly less. If you don’t take a bath, consider whether a water-saving shower is a better alternative; or, perhaps you can afford a vintage clawfoot tub or jacuzzi.

• Lighting: Outdated light fixtures can make your bathroom look obsolete. By updating the lighting, which is inexpensive, you can make the room look more modern and luxurious. Adding windows and skylights can take advantage of natural lighting, while recessed LEDs with dimmer switches can add energy efficiency. Focal points for lighting should be the vanity and shower area.

• Storage: You can open up your bathroom with wall-mounted cabinets, washbasins, and even toilets. This also lets you add storage. Tall storage cabinets are great for fitting in extra toilet paper, towels, and cleaning supplies. If you have outdated hardware, replace it with up-to-date knobs and handles.

• Old Furniture: An old dresser, if it fits, can be a great addition and serve as a fully functional vanity. It can add plenty of storage space. You can refurbish a dresser you find at home or purchase one outright.

• New Hardware: If stained and rusted, faucets are probably out of style as well. New faucets, showerheads, and handles can make your bathroom look up-to-date and clean. It’s important to match the finishes, so keep all hardware, stainless steel, brushed nickel, aged bronze, etc.

• Ventilation: Proper ventilation can tackle mold and mildew problems. For the greatest benefits, match the vent fan with the square footage of the bathroom. This is generally one CFM per square foot for a standard 100 square foot or smaller room.

• Luxury: If you can afford luxury, you may choose to invest in a heated floor, which can let you lower the thermostat temperature. There are heated towel rails on the market as well. Also, luxury wall tiles and backsplashes can spice up the look of your bathroom.

5. Window Treatments

Old, dingy window curtains or shades can make your bathroom dull. If you’re remodeling, find shades and fabrics that match the design and provide a fresh look and feel. If your bathroom has large windows, consider installing Roman shades. In general, mildew-resistant fabrics should be used, as moisture is present even in the most modern bathrooms.

6. Invest in Eco-Friendly Updates

Low-flow toilets, sinks, and showers can reduce the amount of water you use and save on utility costs. These are relatively affordable updates. They can also make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

Contact Black Hills Inc. Home Services

We hope these steps to remodel a bathroom help you along. If you need assistance, our professional plumbing, AC/heating, and electrical service technicians can provide advice, options, and installation help. Request service online or call 888-338-1312 to get started.