A bathroom renovation is a fun and rewarding project. However, before you get too excited about picking out the latest tile or bathtub design, there are a few less exciting things to consider to ensure that your project ends out just the way you want it to. Bathroom renovations can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and expensive. To ensure that your project stays on track and that the renovation goes smoothly, we’ve created a simple 7-point bathroom necessities checklist that you can follow.
Here at GreatBuildz, we speak with clients every day who are planning a bathroom renovation in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura & San Diego Counties. GreatBuildz is a free service that connects homeowners with reliable, pre-screened remodel contractors, then provides ongoing project support to ensure a stress-free experience.
Related: Estimate the cost of your remodel with our bathroom remodel cost calculator
1. Bathroom renovation planning
The success of your bathroom remodeling project is dependent on the creation of an overall strategy and design. Begin by discussing the area with all of your family members who will be using it. Inquire with them about a variety of alternatives, such as what fixtures they prefer, how much storage space they require, and whether they prefer a large shower area instead of a bathtub, as well as what is important to them in terms of how they intend to make use of the bathroom.
A bathroom renovation contractor, such as the ones who do bath remodeling in Sacramento, can assist you in refining and reducing the scope of your design and budget. With the help of a good firm, you will be able to confidently choose between numerous bathroom designs by offering options, providing guidance, and making recommendations.
What to look for in a bathroom remodeling contractor: In most cases, only general contractors are qualified to perform full bathroom remodels. This is because bathroom remodeling requires multiple trades: tile, electrical, plumbing, paint, demolition, carpentry and possibly framing. You’ll want to hire a general contractor rather than hiring each of these trades yourself. And make sure your general contractor is fully licensed and insured. An unlicensed or uninsured contractor is a red flag…if they can’t run their business legitimately, you shouldn’t expect them to do a great job on your remodel.
2. Floor and spacing planning
Now that you have a broad idea of what you want your bathroom to look like and how it will be designed, you and your remodeler can start working on the precise floor plan and layout. If you want to save the most money on your bathroom remodel, consider keeping your floor plan and area as is. If the current bathroom arrangement is functional for you and your family, leaving any plumbing in place and not relocating it should save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
3. Lighting and fixtures
It is necessary to sort out the lighting and fixture options after you have determined the bathroom’s layout. While these may seem like little modifications, they can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic. Naturally, occurring lighting is the ideal option, so try to incorporate as many methods of increasing it as possible; whether you choose to install a skylight or an additional window is all up to you.
Even while natural light can have a big impact throughout the day, you will require alternate lighting solutions for the evening. Consider using incandescent lighting instead of fluorescent lighting.
Once you’ve finished with the lighting, it’s time to turn your attention to the fixtures. If you have cabinets in your bathroom, consider replacing their handles with ones that are more elegant and modern in appearance. Bronze, silver, and black are the colors to choose from because they can be used in contrast to virtually any color cabinet.
4. Do not forget the ventilation fan
You should install a high-quality ventilation fan in your bathroom for various reasons that do not require more explanation. Aside from eradicating odors, ventilation fans can also help to eliminate moisture from your bathroom, hence reducing the likelihood of mold growing in the first place. Like with lights, now is an excellent opportunity to either install a new bathroom ventilation fan or replace an existing one. Additionally, if you have children, you may want to look for a model that has a timer that automatically turns off the appliance.
5. Go green!
Make an effort to be environmentally conscious. Recognize that the state of our environment now is a result of our failure to fulfill our responsibilities. If you do decide to do a bathroom renovation, consider using environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.
Consider, for example, employing faucet fixtures and toilets that consume less water and do so more efficiently than their counterparts. Every time you flush your toilet, you waste approximately 5 gallons of water; this seems excessive. So why not take action to correct the situation?
Aside from that, you can also incorporate plants into your bathroom design. Consider including some indoor plants in the bathroom, but avoid going overboard with the greenery. Investigate the types of plants that would thrive in such an environment and then choose the alternative that will require the least amount of upkeep. Apart from being a fashion statement, it is also an excellent way to purify the air in your bathroom while also giving it a beautiful and sleek modern vibe.
6. Select a classic, durable floor style
Styles come and go, but the flooring in your bathroom is supposed to remain for years and years. As a result, it is recommended to avoid passing fashion trends and instead select traditional designs and time-tested materials such as porcelain, stone, ceramic, and other non-porous tile alternatives. Tiles now come in a wood-look plank format that is available in a variety of colors and sizes. These tiles will look beautiful now and in the future, and they will provide a solid and durable surface for your bathroom. (Bathroom Necessities Tip: Remember to seek flooring options that are slip-resistant as well!)
7. Design for the future
Designing a bathroom in the modern day is rather simple (at least in comparison to previous generations). Then there’s the question of the future. You should think about whether or not you plan to sell your home soon. Do you intend to retire in your current residence, or do you want to expand your family? Consider the possibilities for the future when designing your bathroom, and you will have a space that will make you happy for decades.
Not sure how to find a bathroom renovation contractor in Southern California? Let GreatBuildz help streamline your renovation experience—we’ll connect you with screened and dependable bathroom remodel contractors in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura, and San Diego. We’ll also give you project support so you can turn your inspiration into reality.
Call now (818.317.3567) to chat with a real person about your next renovation project or visit our website for more information: www.greatbuildz.com