Budget for surprises
It’s not uncommon to uncover hidden water damage when doing a bathroom remodel. A leaky pipe or running toilet can cause water damage to walls and floors and result in rot and mold. Water damage is a serious problem and needs to be addressed. Budget about 10%-15% of your remodeling for unexpected repairs. If it’s not needed, then you have money to to use for other projects.
Think about the future
Replacing a tub/shower combo with a large, luxurious shower stall may suit your needs today, but it’s important to consider future needs and uses. If you are thinking of ripping out the only tub in the house, we recommend against it. Tubs are an important feature for home buyers with small children or pets.
If you are keeping the tub, consider a grab bar. Adding a grab bar is not only beneficial to the elderly, it can also help children or pregnant women get out of the tub. Grab bars come in a variety of shapes and designs, and the models available today are much more ascetically pleasing than the industrial style designs from the past. If you are leaning toward a shower unit, consider adding a built-in seat. A built-in seat is handy for a woman shaving her legs, and be a huge help for anyone with back/leg/foot injuries.
Go green
A remodel is a great opportunity to upgrade to water-efficient showerheads and faucets.
Adequate ventilation
The bathroom is the wettest place in the house and the humidity that is produced by a hot shower can breed mold and mildew. Adequate ventilation is important to remove humidity and keep your bathroom mold free!
Hire Skilled Labor
Choosing the do-it-yourself approach to a bathroom remodel can be cost-effective. However, if you are doing anything that you don’t have prior experience with, please hire a professional. Piping leaks behind a wall can go unnoticed initially and cause major damage. It will cost a lot less to hire a professional plumber than it will to fix water damage after your bathroom is finished.
Standing Shower
Locker room showers and toilet
Bathroom
