Bathroom Remodel is a great way to refresh the look of your home and increase its value at the same time. Prices range from a simple transformation (painting, changing hardware and accessories) to a full-on renovation.
The demolition and installation phases require a combination of precision, safety and planning. It’s also the phase when costs begin to rise. Contact San Jose Adu Builder & Room Addition for professional help.
When remodeling a bathroom, the layout is one of the first things to consider. It affects both aesthetics and function, so be sure to draw up a plan before you begin. This can help prevent costly mistakes that result in shoddy work and frustration.
Ideally, your bathroom should be able to accommodate both a tub and shower and provide ample room for storage. However, sometimes space is limited. In this scenario, you can still make room for a tub by providing a walled-in private area. This layout uses partition walls and a pocket door to reclaim space used by a conventional swinging door. This allows a larger bathtub to fit into the bathroom while also creating an alcove for the toilet.
Before starting your remodel, draft a list of both “must-have” and “nice-to-have” features to help you determine what’s best for your space. This will help you create a budget that reflects the scope of your project and inform your overall design.
While a new vanity, tub, and floor-to-ceiling cabinet can be overwhelming to plan for, this bathroom layout makes it look easy thanks to smart spacing of basic elements. The long vanity makes a double sink possible, while the large shower provides space for a soaking tub. The use of a pocket door reclaims space used by a conventional door’s swing, which is especially helpful in tight spaces.
If you are renovating your bathroom to be a forever home, consider incorporating a soaking tub that can easily be converted into a shower when your needs change. Leigh Lincoln of Pure Salt Interiors created this layout for a spa-like master bathroom that features both a shower and a tub.
Plumbing
As you make your bathroom remodel plans, a plumber can help guide you to ensure that your home’s plumbing and electrical systems are up to code. This is especially important for older homes that may have rotted vent pipes or no traps, both of which are major safety issues.
It’s also possible that you will need to install a new septic system or reroute drain lines to accommodate your new layout. This is an expensive project that should be considered carefully before you start the work.
A permit will likely be required for any structural changes, such as moving walls or changing the size of your bathroom. You will need to check with your city or county to determine the exact requirements for your area.
When completing a renovation, it’s important to have a clear plan and budget for the work that will be completed. A good rule of thumb is to allow 5-10% of your overall budget for unexpected expenses. This will help keep you from getting into a situation where you need to choose between your dream bathroom and staying within your budget.
The difference between a bathroom renovation and remodel can have significant consequences on your home’s value, so it is crucial to understand the differences before starting any projects. By understanding the difference between remodeling and renovating, you can be sure that your project is done right the first time around and avoid a costly mistake down the road.
Electrical
Electrical work isn’t usually a DIY task, and when it comes to your bathroom, it’s best left to professionals. This includes everything from changing the location of outlets to installing new lighting and exhaust systems. This is also the time to rewire your bathroom and upgrade any outdated wiring that may not meet today’s safety standards.
A rewire can save you money in the long run, as it makes future remodeling much easier. For example, if you want to add a recessed lighting fixture in the future, it’s much easier to do that when cabling is already ran to its destination.
Any changes to your bathroom’s layout will require a permit, including changing the position of fixtures or making any other structural changes. Converting a tub into a shower, moving or adding a toilet or vanity, or increasing storage are all examples of layout changes. Similarly, replacing a shower curtain with a glass door, removing a mirror, or a adding a window are all style changes.
Installing new lighting can help bring your design plans to life, but it’s important to follow proper electrical safety guidelines. You’ll need a dedicated circuit for lights and fans (or at least a shared circuit with an appropriately rated switch) and GFCIs for wet areas.
Make sure your rewire includes adding extra outlets for things like hair dryers and electric toothbrushes, as well as providing the capacity for any future upgrades you might desire, such as heated mirrors or towel racks. A professional will be able to ensure you’re following all proper safety guidelines and avoiding potential hazards. In addition, they’ll be able to help you navigate permitting processes and determine whether or not your existing electrical panel can handle any additional load from your remodel.
Finishes
The installation phase is where the bathroom remodel transitions from paper to reality, and where the design plans come to life. It’s a time of craftsmanship and precision, ensuring that all elements fit together seamlessly.
It’s also when homeowners are able to truly customize the space with their preferred finishes. Choosing materials that are easy to maintain will save you time and money in the long run, as they’ll be less prone to staining or water damage. For example, opting for solid surface counters over laminate will help you avoid unsightly chipping and scratching.
Faucets are another opportunity to add a pop of color or personality to the bathroom. Polished chrome is classic and versatile, while brushed nickel offers a more subdued look that hides fingerprints and water spots more effectively. Matte black has gained popularity as a modern alternative to chrome, offering a bold statement that creates drama and depth to bathrooms large and small.
Shower walls are another essential component of a well-functioning and stylish bathroom. While practical walls must be waterproof, showers are an opportunity to bring a touch of luxury with natural-looking materials like marble and travertine. While these options are more expensive than synthetic and porcelain, they can offer unmatched style and beauty.
Once the finishing touches have been installed, it’s important to give the space a thorough inspection. It’s at this point that small leaks and other problems can be addressed, so it’s crucial to catch them early before they get out of hand. This is also a great opportunity to make any final adjustments to ensure that all fixtures are working properly and that they align with the design plan.
Storage
Whether you’re going for a modern look or favor traditional design, there are plenty of storage solutions to suit your tastes. Achieving bathroom organization that looks both stylish and uncluttered is all about finding the right balance of storage and decorative elements. From repurposed furniture to hidden shelving, these savvy bathroom storage ideas will help you add space and stay organized.
One of the best ways to make a statement in your bathroom is to add a pleated fabric skirt around your sink, as this gorgeous powder room from AP Design House does. The textured fabric introduces softer dimension, color, and pattern while also concealing eyesores like stacked storage containers. You could also try a narrow shelf over your sink as an alternative to a cabinet, which can be a cost-effective way to keep things like skincare products and cotton swabs organized. Look for shelves with pretty packaging for added appeal, or repurpose an old Mason jar as a vanity organizer (like this DIY project from The DIY Playbook).
It’s easy for drawers to become a graveyard for expired beauty products and miscellaneous supplies, but these handy dividers from A Fresh Nest are a great way to organize and see your essentials at a glance. You could also install a shallow closet into your wall to save on floor space and create an extra spot for towels, linens, and toiletries.
When floor space is limited, it’s important to think up, not out. Installing open shelving above your existing fixtures is a smart way to use vertical space and free up cabinet or counter space. Look for a wide variety of styles/sizes/price points, from streamlined options that blend into the wall to ones with doors that double as extra towel storage.
