Thinking of a Bathroom Remodel? Ten things to think about before you get started.
There are a gazillion things to think about when planning a bathroom remodel. The options for each and every aspect of your remodel can be mind-boggling, and the costs seem to escalate with every new feature. Research and planning are key when deciding to remodel your bathroom or add a guest bathroom to your home.
Here is what you need to know to get started:
1. What does a bathroom remodel cost?
The answer to that is, as you might expect: “It depends…” The size of the bathroom, what materials you select for tile, walls, fixtures, vanity, and décor will determine the cost of the remodel. What has to be removed before the new materials are installed? As a rule of thumb, according to Houzz is a basic bathroom update is around $3,000 – $12,000. A mid- to upper-range remodel can be from $10,000 – $35,000 and you can expect to spend $30,000 – $100,000+ for a deluxe bathroom remodel!
That is quite a range in price for bath remodeling!
That is why it is vital to research various design themes and products and to bring your contractor in early to guide you to a design that will not only realize your vision but fit your budget.
2. Will My Vision for a Bath Remodel Fit?
It is important to know standard measurements of typical bathtubs, showers, or toilets. For example, countertops are usually 32 inches – 34 inches from the floor. Some sinks sit above the counter, rather than in the countertop, so that fact needs to be taken into consideration. Some people prefer “raised” countertops and toilets for comfort. Here is a guide to key measurements in the bathroom.
In addition, when selecting floor and wall tile, know that the size may not be precisely what you expect. Tile is sold in millimeters, so a 12-inch tile may actually be 11 3/8 inches. Your contractor will measure and advise you how much to buy, taking the tile sizing and grout joints into consideration.
3. What to Choose First When Remodeling my bath?
The faucets – sink and tub or shower – may be the most visible hardware in the bathroom. Select the hardware that suits your style and theme and then match the towel bars, toilet flush lever, and other hardware to the faucet’s finish and style.
4. Where Should Splurge on my Bathroom Remodel?
You can make a bathroom look amazingly luxurious by adding a few higher-end materials. Check out a trendy or more lavish lighting fixture or floor tile or sink. You may find the investment in one area can upgrade your design considerably without sacrificing your budget.
5. How Can You Save Space and Money When Remodeling my Bathroom?
One way to save is to consider this: If you prefer a shower to a bath and rarely use a bathtub, think about using that 5-foot x 2 ½-foot area for something more functional for you. Plumbing will likely not need to be rerouted so converting to a shower can be a cost-effective way to get more out of your bathroom.
6. What Should You Know about Bathroom Tile?
Today, cement and encaustic tiles are trendy, but they are pricey and are more difficult and expensive to install. They can be marred by harsh detergents and require annual sealing. Instead, consider porcelain, which are crack- and stain-proof. There are styles that mimic the look of handmade ceramic, natural stone, and wood!
To guard against slipping, be sure the tile you select for the floors is textured or has a matte finish or contains sand in the glaze. You can also choose small tiles with grout lines that add traction.
7. What About Bathroom Storage and Counter space?
A pedestal sink has a slim silhouette that is great for small bathrooms, but there is no vanity for storage and limited counter surface. A vessel sink is a bowl that sits on top of the vanity or counter that can include drawers and storage space beneath … but not much usable counter-top space. A traditional vanity offers storage space below and counter space above.
8. How to Control Temperature and Humidity in a Bathroom Remodel.
Reducing mold and mildew begins with removing moisture. A multifaceted approach uses an appropriate fan that vents to the outside (not into an attic) and an operable window.
Be sure to include a vent in the bathroom if you have forced-air heating and cooling. For hot-water heat, you should consider radiant floor heating which uses PEX tubes underneath the flooring, usually ceramic tile or hardwood. Radiant floor heating heats the body and objects in the room – not the air. The warmth stays down around the floor where it is needed the most.
Splurge on an ultra-quiet exhaust fan set to a timer to run for 20 minutes after a shower. For a guest or family bath, select a model with mid-range power and noise level. Consider a humidity sensor on the exhaust fan so it goes on automatically when the humidity reaches a certain level. An exhaust fan in a powder room should have a loud fan that provides sound privacy in well-trafficked areas
9. Should You Upgrade Your Electrical During a Bathroom Remodel?
Depending on the age of your home, the electrical circuits for your bathroom are probably 15-amp wiring and may have been abused by years of high moisture in the air. Today you will need code-mandated GFCI outlets and you may want dedicated 20-amp wiring and lots of outlets to deal with electric razors, hair dryers, makeup mirrors, electric toothbrushes, and hair styling appliances.
10. What is One Thing NOT to do when Remodeling my Bath?
Don’t make the toilet the focal point of the room! Be sure the toilet is not the first thing one sees when opening the door. Let’s face it – the toilet isn’t the most attractive aspect of the bathroom. Think about the lighting, or luxurious shower stall or attractive floor tile as what greets the eye of the person entering the room whose response will be an enthusiastic WOW!
There are many details to think about when planning a bathroom remodel.
When you are ready to get started on your plan, contact Albert Puma at A.W. Puma by calling 508-918-0422 or use the form on our Contact page.
