Bathroom remodeling is not the easiest thing to do. Many skilled trades (plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, flooring, to name just a few) are involved, and the material options seem limitless. How do you ensure that at the end of the project you have an attractive and functional bathroom design at an affordable price? Here are 5 steps to guide you through this process:
Step 1 – Let your fingers do the work of searching the Internet – There used to be a saying “don’t be fooled by cheap knock-offs” – in today’s world “you don’t want to be fooled by inexperienced store salesmen or contractors.” remodeling” who are not aware of the wide range of bathroom products and systems available on the market.
The reality is that there is no single person or company that can keep track of everything available. If you’re looking for a glass tile backsplash, search online for keyword terms involving glass tile. If you’re looking for a custom waterproof shower tray, plug it into your browser and let your fingers do the work. The good thing about researching on the internet is that you can find unique bathroom products that are not available in the local market. This allows you to save money and get a fresh bathroom on a budget. For example, a couple in Cleveland, Ohio were able to find some stylish glass tile accents that they felt made their small bathroom remodeling project unique.
Step 2 – Shop smart scraps to save money – Don’t buy cheap junk to save a few bucks. Look for smart remnants to save money and add the cool factor. Maybe you can get a remnant piece of granite from a granite manufacturer. Consider some surplus mosaic tiles for a surplus store. Deals are available, but think “caveat emptor” (buyer beware) before you buy something just because it seems like a good deal.
Step 3 – Limit the glare – Think simplicity, modern design, and function. The glitter is out: a modern, functional and relaxing bathroom design is in fashion. If you’re looking to remodel a small bathroom, look for a smaller vanity or pedestal sink (don’t let furniture or toilet fixtures eat up the space) or mirrors to open up the little one. Think neat, clean and simple to reduce clutter.
If you want to enhance the function of your bathtub’s shower area and need a safer, more functional design, consider a tub-to-shower conversion. You can do this in a tub space as small as 60 x 32 or 60 x 34 and you can even incorporate a doorless shower design with a glass block tray.
Choose a color palette for the walls and floors that is calming and inviting. Place candles in the space to create a resort spa-like feel.
Step 4 – Use a combination of craftsmanship and effort – Ask, “what can I do (and save money) and what should I get others to do” to ensure the project is done right the first time. Honestly (and this word should be underlined) assess what you know how to do or are comfortable with what you’re willing to learn to do for your bathroom remodel.
For most bathroom projects, it’s usually best to hire general professionals and subcontractors to do plumbing, electrical, and finishing work like cabinetry and trim, and shower and tub installations. The parts of the project most often done by homeowners include painting, tile work, hanging mirrors, and fixtures.
Step 5 – Choose Your Bathroom Remodeling Contractor Wisely – Insist on the quality you see and the quality you don’t. Choosing the contractor with the lowest bid can be foolish. In remodeling, what you don’t see (in the quality of plumbing connections and valves behind the wall, electrical expertise, quality of shower backboard and base installation, wall studs for shower rods, etc.) is just as important as what you do see (transition details in tile work, quality of miters on crown molding, caulking to seal a shower door to the wall, etc. .).
Ask about the expertise of the actual craftsmen and associated subcontractors that will be used on your project. What kind of work have they done? What is the financial backing and stability of these companies? What kind of background checks do you do on your internal and external staff? You may want to visit third-party rating services, such as Angie’s List, Insider Pages, or blogs, to see what has been written about experiences with these companies. Potentially the most powerful thing you can do is ask a trusted friend or family member about the company.
Now that you’re equipped with these 5 steps, you’re ready to start designing and getting started on your bathroom remodeling project to add value, simplicity, and attractive design to your home.