A bathroom renovation is an impressive task to do and plan and nevermind if you have a simple and small bathroom or a master en suite, functionality and smart use of space should be the core of your bathroom rebuild.
Before jumping to the latest tile or bathtub design, there are some less exciting things to consider, like the overall size of the bathroom, the location of existing plumbing, and electrical wiring.
Because it can be an overwhelming, time-consuming and a pricey project, these are some pieces of advice on how to ensure the renovations turn out exactly as you wished.
But first – Budget
This issue is definitely to be worked up before any taken steps.
The amount for the elemental units (like plumbing, materials, lightning) that have to be bought and the amount allocated to labor (if you’re hiring the professionals) should be first on your list, and then you will have a cleaner idea how much goes for the design part (for tiles, mosaic, features and extras). How much a renovation actually costs will be calculated on the size of the space, the intensity of the project, and the quality of materials used.
Therefore, set a realistic expectation and be sure to:
- Evaluate your finances
- Consider the essentials
- Stay on track
- Add a little bit more just in case
Watch Out For The Plumbing
The next step is taking care of the “veins” of your bathroom – take a quick consideration of the pipes and drains. Are you planning around your existing plumbing or need a budget for plumbing rearrangement too?
For example, if you live in an area that drops into freezing temperatures during winter months, your pipes that are inside an exterior wall are far more affected by the elements and need to be insulated.
Also, if you decide on the shower and tub drain to be a 1.5-inch drain as the industry standard, be aware that a drain this small quickly becomes clogged with products of using the features. Consider upgrading to a 2.0-inch drain because it could essentially save you money on maintenance in the long run.
Overall, you need to:
- Insulate plumbing that runs along an exterior wall
- Optimize shower flooring to drain
- Consider drain size
Surfacing Walls and Floors
There is an abundance of materials that could be used in bathroom renovations and whatever the choice, make sure that the principle encloses durability, slip-resistance and waterproofness.
Depending on your budget and style, you may choose all kinds of tiles (ceramic, mosaic, marble, vinyl, granite) or cement (painted or stained).
Popular opinion based on experience is that it is easier to tile the walls first and then the floor. This ensures that you keep the floor tiles cleaner as you won’t be doing so much work around them once they are installed, for example.
Lost In Space
Next, you really need to consider the layout of your bathroom and make sure you record accurate measurements and plan cabinets, shelving and storing solutions.
Not only must they fit into the available space, they need to look stylish too.
Apart from storage features and furniture, these are some other tips how to achieve functionality in this limited space:
- If you don’t have a lot of space, replace the tub with a walk-in shower.
- Invest in furniture that has enough of storage space without downsizing floor area
- Consider drawer storage which is easier to access and organize and are often times larger
- Use wall depths behind the mirror or getting mirror cabinets
- Place hooks, benches, grabbing bars and shelves in the bathing area
- Invest in double sinks if you have a larger family
Lost In Time
Whether you are remodeling your bathroom alone as a DIY project or your hiring professionals, be very well aware that this would take between six weeks to three months for the planning, execution, and wrapping up loose ends.
Given the complexity of the task and the difficult operations including electrical, plumbing, tiling and other actions presented – do not ignore the advantages of hiring a contractor and save yourself a haul of headache and time.
Only make sure to:
- Hire a licensed professional
- Ask for references
- Have insurance coverage
- Most importantly, choose someone you can trust around and in your home
Be Cosy In Your Design
At long last, you will be able to take time in choosing accessories and adding important finishing touches to your newly decorated bathroom.
Regardless of your tastes, you can create the perfect space that fits both your needs and your style, while learning tricks for gaining storage, improving lighting and drainage, you did more than to ensure that your renovated bathroom stands the test of time.