Remodeling a bathroom can be messy, expensive and disruptive. A good contractor will help minimize inconveniences and work with you to create a timeline that fits your schedule.
Some projects such as installing new showers, relocating plumbing, or changing cabinetry will require permits. Contact your local building department for more information.
The design phase is a critical point in any bathroom remodel. The process involves determining what improvements will have the most impact on the space and how to achieve those goals within your budget. It’s also a good time to start gathering ideas and inspiration to narrow down your style preferences. Ideally, you’ll work with an interior designer to help you achieve your dream bathroom while staying within your budget.
A simple bathroom remodel involves replacing existing fixtures and updating the style of the room. This might include a tub-to-shower conversion, adding a new vanity, or switching out the toilet for a more accessible one.
This level of upgrade can be very cost-effective and make a huge difference in how you use your bathroom. It can also increase resale value and make your home more comfortable for older family members or guests.
If you plan on transforming your entire bathroom layout, it’s best to leave this type of project to a professional remodeler. These professionals have experience with complex tasks and will ensure that your renovation stays on budget and is completed correctly.
It’s also important to set a realistic timeline for your bathroom remodel. The remodeling process is messy, and unexpected issues can delay progress. Staying flexible with your schedule will help you cope with these challenges and minimize disruptions to your daily routine. It’s also helpful to have a backup plan for bathroom usage, like using a neighbor’s or friend’s home, if possible.
Before beginning your project, determine what materials you need and how much each item will cost. This will give you an idea of your total costs and prevent surprises down the line. Once you’ve established a firm budget, your contractor can help you find creative ways to save money on your renovation by finding more affordable finishes or fixtures.
It’s also a good idea to order your materials early in the project. Some items may be out of stock or on backorder, so having them delivered in advance will help keep your project on track. Be sure to check the contents of your shipment when it arrives to ensure that all the items you ordered are present and in good condition.
Plumbing
The plumbing system in a bathroom connects all the fixtures and pipes into two systems: delivering fresh water and eliminating waste water. Any changes to these systems require a plumber, so it’s important to keep your budget in mind during the planning stage. For example, moving a toilet from one wall to another can cost thousands of dollars because of the need to relocate drain lines. If you can design a new bathroom that keeps the major plumbing lines in their current locations, your project will be much less costly.
If your renovation involves converting an existing closet or enclosing an open space, you’ll likely need to tear down shelving and flooring and remove and replace drywall in the areas where plumbing lines will be installed. You may also need to have a plumbing contractor reroute the existing water supply line or install new water and sewer lines, depending on the extent of your remodel.
To reduce your plumbing costs, try to make only minor modifications to your sanitaryware layout and choose standard products such as basins, taps, showerheads, toilets, and vanity units. Choosing the right size and material for your countertops and deciding whether to have them custom-made or use an off-the-shelf option will also impact your overall bathroom remodeling budget.
Ventilation is also an important aspect of your bathroom’s plumbing. It ensures that your bathroom stays fresh and dry, which helps prevent unpleasant odors and moisture buildup. It can be as simple as installing a fan or as complex as adding an exhaust system that connects to your home’s ventilation system.
Before hiring contractors, check for their licensing and insurance requirements to ensure they’re qualified to work on your project. It’s a good idea to interview multiple candidates and obtain multiple estimates before making your final decision. The contractor you choose will be responsible for obtaining any necessary permits and, in NYC, navigating building board approvals, as well.
Be patient throughout the remodeling process, and remember that it will be worth it when you have a new, functional bathroom. Don’t let the inconvenience of construction delay your progress or cause you unnecessary stress, and make sure to keep your budget in mind.
Electrical
A remodeled bathroom can bring the space up to date with modern amenities and improve its appeal to home buyers. It can also bring safety and convenience features to the home, making it more functional for all household members.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their current bathroom wiring configurations do not meet the latest code requirements. The good news is that there are many upgrades to your electrical system that you can undertake during your remodel that will bring the room up to standard and increase its functionality.
A professional electrician can help you evaluate your electrical system and determine whether or not it is ready to handle the load of a new bathroom. This includes determining the number and placement of outlets and circuits to support your appliances. It is important to be honest with yourself about the power demands of your bathroom and consider how many people will be using it at once. For example, two teenagers using hair dryers at the same time can easily exceed the capacity of a single outlet. It is also a good idea to upgrade your fuse box at this time to one with GFCI protection, which is required by the current code for any bathroom that has a water source (shower, sink, tub).
Another electrical upgrade that should not be overlooked during a remodel is installing an exhaust fan. This is required by the code and ensures that moisture-laden air is pushed out of the room and does not accumulate in the ceiling. A professional electrician can also help you determine the proper size of an exhaust fan and install it in your bathroom.
It is important to consult with a professional electrician early in the remodeling process to determine what upgrades are necessary for your project and what the costs will be. It is a good idea to obtain quotes from multiple contractors and choose a licensed contractor with a proven track record of quality work.
A licensed professional should also be able to help you navigate permitting requirements and board approvals, if applicable in your area. This can add a lot of time and complexity to your project, but it is crucial for the safety of everyone working on the job site. It can also save you a lot of money in the long run if you avoid having to redo poorly done plumbing or electrical work later on.
Flooring
Probably the most visible aspect of any bathroom, flooring is also one of the most important in terms of function and aesthetics. Because of moisture and frequent use, bathrooms need special flooring that is both functional and durable. Depending on your budget and design preference, there are many options available from ceramic and porcelain tile to natural stone, luxury vinyl flooring, and sheet vinyl. Other popular choices include cork and bamboo floors.
Painting is another bathroom remodeling aspect that can have a big impact on the space. A fresh coat of paint will brighten the room and may even be enough to give the space a whole new look. However, be sure to use a moisture resistant paint, as regular interior paint is not designed to stand up to repeated exposure to wetness.
The most significant level of bathroom remodeling involves major structural changes and/or changing the layout of the room. These types of projects can be more expensive than simple makeovers and are often accompanied by plumbing and electrical rewiring.
Layout changes that alter the footprint of the bathroom can involve moving and/or relocating fixtures such as the tub, shower, toilet, or sink. This is an invasive and messy project that can be costly, and it usually requires hiring a professional to do the work.
If you have solid hardwood floors, a simple solution is to cover them with moisture-hardy tile. It will help protect the wood from damage and keep it looking good for as long as possible.
It’s a good idea to do the floor first, which will enable you to get the most out of your renovation dollars. It will also allow you to work on other elements of the bathroom without fear of damaging your brand new flooring.
A qualified and experienced bathroom remodeling contractor will be able to work with you to design and remodel your bathroom into the dream space that you’ve always wanted. This is an excellent way to improve the functionality of your bathroom and can also increase the resale value of your home.