Sometimes your bathroom just needs some sprucing up. Maybe the fixtures and design are dated or maybe you just don’t like it anymore. Whatever your reason, bathroom remodels are a great way to make one of the most important spaces in your home feel like new.
Before you embark on a remodel project, there are a few things you need to know. You’ll need an idea of what you want your new bathroom to look like, a budget to keep costs from getting out of control and a contractor who can help you make the changes.
Design Ideas
When it comes to a bathroom remodel you can change as much or as little as you want. You can switch out the fixtures, get a new tub, install new flooring or just a fresh coat of paint. It’s all up to you! To help you brainstorm what you’d love to see in your new bathroom, here are a few design ideas to consider.
- No tank or low-flow toilets. Not only do these help cut down on water usage, but they also have a more sleek appearance and take up less space in your bathroom. This option is great for smaller bathrooms where you’d like a little more room to move around.
- Textured tiles. This design is mostly used in the shower where slip and falls are more likely. You can use a textured tile on the floor and walls of your shower to add an interesting visual element and make the area a bit safer.
- Natural light. A window in your bathroom can make the room feel bigger and help you combat mildew. The sunlight (paired with good ventilation) can help keep the humidity levels down so mold and mildew are less likely to populate your clean space.
Creating Your Budget
Bathroom remodels can cost up to $25,000 and sometimes even more depending on the size and scope of the project. That’s why it’s important to establish a budget before you get started. This will help you get the bathroom you want without breaking the bank.
When creating your budget, consider the cost of materials and labor in your area. It can be helpful to do a quick search for prices in your area with queries like “bathroom remodel cost Seattle” or “bathroom tile prices Austin.” This information should give you a good idea of the average cost in your city and if your budget can support the remodel you want.
While you’re pricing materials, don’t forget you’ll also have to pay for labor. It’s smart to do some research about contractors in your area too so you know what to expect from their bill too. Price isn’t the only thing to consider with a contractor, though. Let’s look at some other important factors.
Choosing a Contractor
You want to make sure the contractor you hire is qualified to do the work and reliable enough to see the job through. The last thing you want is a contractor going AWOL halfway through the project. One way to make sure you’re hiring someone reliable is to check that their license is valid and up to date. You can usually do this through your state’s licensing board website.
Another wise step is to do phone interviews and gather some references for the person you’d like to hire. They should be able to point you toward some testimonials and previous projects. If you know someone who’s used them before, even better! Ask around to see what they thought of them and how they liked their service.
Finally, be sure you get some price quotes and a payment schedule in writing before you sign any contracts. The cost of your remodel shouldn’t be a surprise and being on the same page with your professional can help prevent problems down the line.
So if you’re ready to dive into your bathroom renovation, just remember to have some ideas ready, plan out your budget and find a contractor you can trust.
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