The bathroom sometimes serves as a sanctuary to some from the craziness that surrounds our every day lives. It is the moment you get to spend some personal time relaxing. It would then seem reasonable that some prefer a bathroom that is soothing, rejuvenating, and practical. Bathroom remodeling can add value to a home as well as serve the above. Before you start on remodeling your bathroom, you have to first decide exactly how much time (and budget-wise) are you willing to spend on getting a remodeling work done. Just exactly how far do you want to go with the remodeling work?
1. Different types of remodeling options
Surface Alterations
The simplest of all remodel is to NOT change the general layout and size of the bathroom as well as the structure supporting the bathroom (joists, walls, etc.). All that needs to be done is to do a surface-level bathroom remodel.
No huge changes to the structural elements, with some surface alterations, and some layout change.
Complete Remodel
Changes to structural elements, layout and surface alterations. This is also an option when you want to repair any rot or damage areas as well as damaged fixtures in the bathroom. You will also need to consider the general timetable for bathroom remodeling and decide if this is something you think you want to go through.
2. Budget
Bathroom remodeling is expensive. Bathroom remodeling costs typically range from $15,000 to $18,000 just for a basic, functional remodel. The bulk of the cost comes from sub-contracting to electricians, plumbers etc., as well as expenditures for fixtures, cabinetry and the likes. Of the many methods of funding your bathroom renovation, perhaps the most common way is with a home equity loan. While looking at financing, you may wish to also think about ways to save on your bathroom remodeling costs.
3. Remodel Bathroom Yourself or Hire a Contractor?
If you’re only doing surface alterations and is confident in getting the work (and done right!) you need to take a good hard look at the project and decide if you want to do it yourself or hire a contractor. Installing a new toilet may be simple; building a new tiled shower should be left to the pros. Do an assessment on which projects you can do yourself and which to leave to the professionals. If you decide to go with hiring a contractor, ensure that the contractor is properly licensed. Though licensure is not a mark of quality workmanship, it does mean that they have fulfilled the basic minimum requirements of the licensing agency. Make sure you hire a contractor who will be able to translate what you want ultimately in your home, it is a huge investment, and is something that you want done on time and done right! Do not skimp on the first bid of a cheap contract, as the term “you get what you pay for” may come into play when a contractor realizes he runs out of time or am unable to keep to schedule, and starts cutting short on workmanship or materials.
Ensure that you have all required electrical, building, and other permits early.
4. Changing the Layout of Your Bathroom
Changing a layout of a bathroom isn’t as easy as when you are remodeling a bedroom and wish to change its layout. It is not just a closet moved around or a wall pushed back. Bathroom remodeling involves the underlying structure of plumbing and electrical system. Layout changes, such as switching toilet and shower, drive up the cost of bathroom remodeling in a big hurry, so consider this carefully.
5. New Bathroom Walls, Joists, and Other Structural Elements
Over time there is a good chance that you will need to replace a drywall. Bathrooms are areas of high moisture content, so there will always be a high probability of drywall damage occurring. When replacing a drywall, a special moisture-resistent drywall will be needed. In the very wet areas like showers and baths you will need moisture-proof backer board. If the wall studs and joist are also damaged then they will need to be completely replaced.
6. Shower and Tub Repair, Refinishing, or Replacement
Fixtures and finishing are what constitute the look and feel of a bathroom. When looking to remodeling your bathroom, fixtures and finishing are caps the final look of a remodeled bathroom. If there are a few cracks then it is possible to do some DIY repairs. The surface might be stained and discolored, so tub refinishing would be in order. If you’re looking to go beyond repair and refinishing, it is possible to install a bathtub liner or build a tiled shower. You also have the option of installing pre-fabricated acrylic or fiberglass shower/tub that do not need on-site building, as they have been fabricated in the factory. Just make sure that you don’t buy a unit that is too big to fit through the doorways.
7. Bathroom Flooring
Moisture is always present in the bathroom, and moisture/water is a boon for floorings. The type of flooring must be carefully considered especially in the bathroom. Ceramic tile seem like the common choice, but laminate flooring and engineered flooring could work too. Avoid hardwood flooring, as it does not tolerate moisture well.
