Planning Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

A newly remodeled bathroom has much to offer to homeowners, both for personal comfort and for adding value to your house. As with any extensive home project, a bathroom remodel requires proper planning to minimize stress and cost. When preparing for this project, keep the following tips in mind to aid the process and avoid potential pitfalls.

Create a Budget

Before anything else, decide how much you are willing and able to spend towards the renovation. This will create a defined scope for the project and determine how you will proceed. Don’t be discouraged if your budget is not as high as you’d like; even small changes like new tiling or a replacement shower head can do a lot to improve the bathroom.

Find a Vision

Consider what you want the bathroom to look like and develop a vision in your mind for your intended design. It can help to do some preliminary window shopping to find potential materials or fixtures. You can also visit showrooms or check out online galleries for ideas; see if a local contractor has a section on their site for past projects completed so you know what they can do.

Outline and Measure

Take the time to create a detailed basis for your design vision. Outline exactly what needs to be changed and, if possible, options for what to use as replacements. You’ll want to get some measurements done so you know what to look for when choosing new installations or replacements.

Weigh Your Options

With the sheer breadth of available fixtures, flooring and counter materials, vanities and more, you need to decide what’s most important. Consider and compare quality, durability and maintenance costs, especially for resale. You may want to create a list of pros and cons for every material and fixture you’re considering.

Hire the Right Professionals

Even if you prefer DIY solutions, it can be quicker and less expensive to find a reputable contractor to aid you in planning, purchasing and installing. Professionals in bathroom remodeling have experience in all aspects of the process. Look up local contractors and compare their services and reviews from prior clients.