Tips for a Quick and Efficient Bathroom Renovation Jennifer Reynolds, May 4, 2024April 18, 2024 Upgrading your bathroom is an easy way to add value and appeal to your home. Adding new, energy-efficient plumbing fixtures can also save on utility costs and improve your household’s environmental footprint. Decor trends change in a matter of months, so make sure your renovation choices will stand the test of time. Follow these tips for a quick and efficient bathroom remodel to get the job done right. Learn about key factors in selecting the perfect bathroom remodel contractor at Big News Network. Ensure expertise, reliability, communication, budget alignment, and customer satisfaction. Determine Your Budget A bathroom renovation is a costly project. It involves plumbing and electrical work that is generally best left to professionals, so you can expect a certain amount of unexpected expenses to come up. A good way to keep your costs down is to create a list of your needs and wants for the remodel, starting with what you must have and working down. For instance, a new sink might be a must, but you can save some money by choosing a standard, ceramic under-mount rather than a more expensive designer vessel sink. Other items like new mirrors, light fixtures, and paint can add up as well. If you’re on a budget, consider going with inexpensive, energy-saving lighting options and adding decorative elements later to save money. Lay Out the Space It’s important to have a clear plan in place before you start your renovation. This will save you money and make the process much smoother. It is also an excellent idea to start gathering inspiration and design ideas. There are a lot of great resources available like Houzz or Pinterest where you can find some outstanding ideas. Changing your bathroom layout can be expensive, so make sure you know exactly what you want before starting. Also, remember that decor trends change quickly, so if your renovator suggests that a particular fixture might not hold up over time it may be for the best. Your contractor is an expert on materials, fixtures, and layouts, so listen to them. They have likely built thousands of bathrooms and have accumulated a wealth of knowledge that you can benefit from. Start with the Fixtures One of the most cost-effective ways to freshen up a bathroom is by painting its walls. Since bathrooms produce a lot of moisture, opt for mildew-resistant paint. Use an angled brush to tackle trim and door frames, then cover broader surfaces with a roller. While you’re at it, swap out dated light fixtures for modern, energy-saving versions. Similarly, replacing the tub or shower with a more spacious shower can make a big difference in the room’s feel. This project isn’t recommended for homeowners without DIY experience, as it requires re-routing and knocking down walls, and could affect load-bearing structures. However, if you do decide to go for this project, choose fixtures that match the bathroom’s overall theme. Otherwise, they’ll clash and look out of place. Paint the Walls A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest ways to transform a room. Choosing the right shade is key, however. Make sure you choose a mildew-resistant product that will hold up to moisture in the bathroom. You’ll also want to consider the amount of natural light in your space. If your walls have a lot of grime on them, give them a good clean before you start painting. This step will ensure that the new paint will adhere properly and prevent future mold problems. You should also scuff the wall before you paint, this will help give the new color something to grab onto. If you’re not sure about your choices ask for color swatches at the paint store to test them out in the room. Cover the Floors Once the drywall is up, it’s time for plumbers and electricians to get to work. An experienced contractor will do exploratory work to sniff out potential issues before they become problems (like a leaking shower pan or overloaded electrical circuits). Ideally, you can keep major plumbing lines in place. Moving a toilet or drain line can add thousands to your bill. A simple upgrade to a modern WaterSense-qualified showerhead might reduce your water and energy consumption significantly. Linoleum makes for an inexpensive, durable flooring material. Concrete is also an option. It can be stained any color, buffed to a variety of finishes and is resistant to moisture. But if you want to give your bathroom a more luxurious look, consider tile. It’s available in a dazzling array of colors, designs and textures that will fit any budget. blogs