Bathroom remodel is one of the top five projects that add value to your home. They’re also ideal for addressing safety hazards like slippery floors, mold, and mildew.
A bathroom remodeling project is a big undertaking. It’s also expensive and requires a significant amount of time, so it’s important to set realistic expectations about the results you can expect from your project.
Start by asking yourself what your goals are for the remodel. Do you want to improve the functionality of the space by adding storage or changing the layout? Or do you simply want to update the style of the room with new paint and fixtures?
The type of changes you make will determine the scope of your project. For example, if you are planning to expand the existing space by removing walls or adding square footage, this will require more demolition and construction than simply painting or changing the flooring. It will also require a permit from the local building department.
You may be able to save money on your bathroom remodeling by doing some of the work yourself. Refinishing your cabinets, for instance, can give them a brand-new look for less than the cost of replacing them. Purchasing secondhand bathroom fixtures and materials can be another way to cut costs without skimping on quality.
Once you’ve determined the scope of your project, you should create a comprehensive task list and assign due dates to each item. Use software to organize your list and keep track of your progress. If you are working with a contractor, schedule an in-person meeting to discuss the project location and plans and ask for a bid in writing.
During the bathroom remodel, it’s also a good opportunity to address any safety issues, such as rotted floorboards, lead paint or old plumbing that doesn’t meet today’s codes. Adding anti-slip flooring or grab bars to the shower and bathtub can be simple ways to improve safety. You should also consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and lighting during your remodel, which will help you reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
Be sure to check with your city about whether you need a permit for your bathroom renovation. Most projects that include expansions, renovations, additions or improvements will require a permit. Depending on the complexity of the work, you might be required to have multiple inspections. In some cases, city building inspectors will stop by for sign-offs on plumbing and electrical before the walls are opened up, and then again once the work is underway.
Permits and Approvals
Getting a new bathroom is exciting, and it’s easy to jump right into the fun parts like picking out vanity sinks and bathtubs. However, there is one important element that must not be overlooked: ensuring that the remodel is done with proper permits. In short, permits ensure that the work being done on your home meets building codes and safety standards. Failure to follow the rules can result in fines, delays or issues when selling or insuring your property.
Permit requirements can vary widely from city to city, and it is your responsibility as a homeowner to research the laws in your area and adhere to them. A general rule of thumb is that any remodeling project that involves changing the plumbing, electrical or structural components of your home will require a permit. This includes things like changing your tub and shower, moving your toilet or relocating the sink. However, cosmetic changes such as painting or floor resurfacing do not typically require a permit.
If you have any doubts about whether or not your project requires a permit, consult with a professional contractor. They will be able to walk you through the process of applying for the necessary permits and obtaining approval from local authorities.
Depending on the complexity of your remodel, you may also be required to submit architectural plans or other types of drawings. This is especially true if your project includes a significant change in the layout of your bathroom, including adding or moving walls and expanding its size. In addition, your plumbing and electrical systems may require new or updated wiring.
While permit processes can feel tedious and add to the overall cost of a remodel, they’re vital in protecting you and your property from legal issues down the road. It’s also a good idea to find out who is responsible for paying for the permits, as this will be different from one contractor to the next. At Sweeten, we match homeowners with trusted general contractors who can assist them with the permitting process. They can provide you with the best remodeling experience possible, while navigating your city’s requirements and ensuring that your project is up to code.
Contingency Planning
Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in your home, and they’re also one of the most common rooms to undergo a renovation. Whether you’re sprucing up a powder room, optimizing the family bathroom or expanding your master bath, a bathroom remodel can significantly improve the comfort of your home and increase its value. However, like any home improvement project, smooth and stress-free bathroom remodeling isn’t always a given.
Before beginning your remodel, you should take some time to consider your goals and priorities. Do you need to accommodate an aging family member? Are you looking to increase storage or add more functionality? Determining your goals and priorities will help you make better decisions throughout the process.
You should also establish a budget to guide your remodel. This will help you avoid overspending and ensure that all of your needs are met. During this phase, it’s also helpful to identify any areas where you may need to cut back on certain elements to stay within your budget.
Lastly, it’s important to develop contingency plans for the duration of the project. Depending on the scope of your remodel, you might need to make alternative arrangements for a place to shower or use the toilet while construction is taking place. Similarly, you might need to have supplies on hand in case of any unforeseen issues that arise during the work.
When it comes to selecting materials for your bathroom remodel, be sure to look for items with the WaterSense label that meet EPA water efficiency standards. This will help you save money on your utility bills and reduce your water consumption without sacrificing quality or performance.
If you’re planning to finance your bathroom remodel, be sure to compare the costs of a personal loan with other borrowing options. A personal loan typically offers a lower interest rate and a longer repayment period than other borrowing options, which can help you manage the cost of your remodel.
Communication with Your Contractor
The best bathroom remodeling contractors are great communicators, planners, and problem solvers. They can take your ideas and make them work within the limitations of your budget and timeline. Some contracting companies even offer design and architecture services to streamline the process.
Before hiring someone, gather all of your ideas and information about the project. Sketches of the space, images of things you like, and clippings from magazines are all good reference points to help a contractor develop your vision into a realistic plan for execution. It’s also a good idea to write down what your goals for the remodel are, including specific aesthetic and design elements you want to incorporate.
It’s important to understand the difference between a bathroom remodel and renovation. A remodel includes substantial changes to the look and function of the room, such as replacing a tub with a shower. A renovation is less intensive and could simply include a paint job, new vanity, or replacement fixtures. If you’re planning on a major remodel, it’s a good idea to get estimates from multiple contractors for comparison purposes.
Ask each contractor to provide a written estimate for the job. This ensures that all of the details are clearly documented and minimizes human error when calculating. It also gives you a better understanding of the costs involved for your project, including materials and labor.
If you’re going to be supplying some or all of the materials for your project, let the contractor know so they can factor that into their quote. You should also discuss whether you’ll need to supply a toilet or water heater, and what the plan is for electrical and plumbing work.
When evaluating potential contractors, ask to see examples of their previous work. A quality contractor will be happy to share photos of projects they’ve worked on in the past, along with detailed project plans and sketches. You should also be sure they’re bonded, insured, and licensed as required by your area’s standards.
