Embarking on a well-planned bathroom remodel can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space, ultimately providing you with a kitchen that caters to your needs and preferences while easing the stress commonly associated with substantial home improvement endeavors.
Remodeling a bathroom can be a fun, exciting upgrade for any homeowner. Before heading to your local home improvement store to dream up your new design, we have a few things for you to consider.
Budget
Every remodeling project is different, so although you may have tackled remodeling projects in the past, the one you are currently dreaming about will bring new challenges, including budget. The good news is that home renovation costs are expected to drop in 2023. Determining your budget for a bathroom remodel project may start with researching average prices or using a handy bathroom cost calculator. Establishing a budget is a very personal but critical part of a remodeling project. It is essential to research, be realistic, and always factor in a little extra for unexpected costs.
Planning
Planning your dream bathroom will take a little time. A great place to start is by writing down your ideas. You can find inspiration by looking through style guides and browsing the internet. Establish your new concept of how you want your bathroom to feel, function, and look. Another critical decision involves deciding between renovation vs. a complete remodel. Do you want to redo your bathroom layout completely? Or do you want to leave the layout as-is and renovate what is currently in place?
When creating a plan for your bathroom remodel, think about how you will use the space. Designs with cohesive function and style aspects can create a perfect layout for you and your family. For example, do you use your primary bathroom to linger or to get ready fast? Another example includes remodeling a guest or half bath. In that case, your project will need fewer materials and a simpler layout.
Bathtub, Shower, or Both?
The tub and shower are a commanding focus in a primary bathroom. When considering a remodel, decide if you want to replace what you have or work around your current setup. There are pros and cons to having either or both. The decision is often centered around personal preference and budget. Tubs are often less expensive to install. A standard tub and shower combination is usually the least costly option. A shower stall or walk-in shower offers a space-saving effect for small bathrooms. Also, walk-in showers are more accessible for elderly family members. On the other hand, tubs may be a factor for resale value.
Lighting
A bathroom remodel is the perfect time to change lighting fixtures. Planning ahead is key to placing lighting fixtures correctly. Great lighting is especially important in the bathroom. Another essential element to lighting the bathroom is allowing as much natural light as possible. When developing a remodeling plan, work around natural light sources and place lighting fixtures in optimal locations, such as recessed lighting in the ceiling and a fixture over the vanity. Ensuring your lighting choices are compatible with appropriately bright bulbs is also a top priority for bathroom lighting.
Plumbing
When establishing a bathroom remodel plan, it is crucial to consider the plumbing in the process. The average family uses over 400 gallons of water per day, and most indoor water use happens in the bathroom. It is common to replace fixtures when working on a bathroom remodel. However, other plumbing considerations are essential for a successful remodel, such as relocating plumbing fixtures or enlarging a drain. Another decision to make concerning water in the bathroom includes ventilation. Hot water can create excessive steam, and a poorly ventilated space allows moisture buildup. Proper ventilation helps prevent excess humidity and potential mold and mildew issues.
Flooring
First, when planning your bathroom remodel, decide if you need or want to replace your flooring. If you are happy with your flooring and want to keep it, designing a remodel around the current layout is the safest choice. When selecting new flooring, it is important to remember that waterproof flooring that is easy to maintain is the best choice for bathroom flooring.
Time
Bathroom remodeling projects may take about three to four weeks. It is better to overestimate your timeline. It is also best to avoid scheduling remodels close to holidays or significant events. Working closely with your contractor and setting realistic expectations is a critical part of the process.
Unexpected Problems Affecting Time and Budget
Many factors can affect the remodeling process and estimated timetable. Challenges that can interrupt the progress include the availability of materials, plumbing issues, and scheduling conflicts with tradespeople or crewmembers falling ill. Making changes to the plan during the process can also interfere with the progress of a project. Additionally, it is wise to include extra money for unexpected problems because various unforeseen issues can affect the project budget.
Choose a Reliable Contractor
Choosing a reliable contractor is essential to bathroom remodeling preparation. Many homeowners decide to attempt a DIY remodel. The benefits of hiring a contractor outweigh the potential pitfalls homeowners can face when doing extensive bathroom upgrades. Bathroom remodeling preparation is an extensive process. A contractor can access the highest quality materials and the right tools for the job. Also, contractors can handle complicated tasks like plumbing and electrical work. Finally, most contractors will offer warranties on materials and workmanship.
Volpe Enterprises
We hope you will consider Volpe Enterprises for your bathroom remodeling project. We are proud to be a locally owned and operated business, active in the greater Philadelphia area for over 50 years. Our team of professionals, including project managers, designers, and expert craftsmen, will work to ensure you have the bathroom of your dreams, tailored to fit your home with long, lasting high-quality materials. Contact us today to discuss your bathroom remodel project.