Tips For Successful Bathroom Remodeling

Bathroom Remodeling Lexington KY is a great way to upgrade your home and increase its value. It may seem daunting, but with proper planning you can avoid costly mistakes that will only derail your project.

Learn the difference between a remodel and renovation to make the right decisions for your budget, timeline and home. 

The layout of the bathroom is critical, as it influences how you use the space and determines how much storage space you will have. Ideally, the space should be configured to suit your needs and provide you with plenty of storage.

In addition to addressing aesthetics, you will also need to consider how your family uses the space and address any issues with functionality. This may include requiring additional storage space, adding a bathtub, or upgrading the shower. Changing your bathroom’s layout is usually a major undertaking that requires the help of professionals. This is especially important because plumbing and electrical can be concealed behind walls in moist locations, making them prone to corrosion or failure without proper installation.

Detailed design plans are the cornerstone of any successful remodel, allowing you to visualize your vision and fine-tune every aspect before work begins. Clearly outlining your goals is essential, as it will guide the design process and ensure that the final bathroom renovation aligns with your lifestyle.

While it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of a remodel, be sure to consider your budget and any structural changes before you begin. It’s best to start with a realistic plan of the changes you want to make and build from there, says Carroll. That way, you can avoid impulsive changes that will end up costing more money in the long run.

Whether you’re going for a spa-like retreat or a functional family bathroom, it’s crucial to create a floorplan that meets your needs and accommodates accessibility needs. Getting it right the first time will save you money, hassle, and time as well as help you achieve your design dreams.

Lighting

If your bathroom is dim or lacks natural light, consider adding recessed lighting on a dimmer switch. This can help you create the perfect ambiance in your bathroom for different times of day or to suit the mood you’re looking for.

Upgrading the lighting in your bathroom is also a great way to make it more energy efficient. New LED lights can provide a brighter, more natural light while still using less power. Plus, they last longer than traditional bulbs, which means you’ll save on replacement costs.

Other updates that can improve the functionality of your bathroom include installing a fan and incorporating mirrors into your design. Fans can help reduce humidity and keep the room comfortable, while mirrors will reflect more natural light throughout the space.

In addition to improving the look and feel of your bathroom, remodeling it can also bring your home up to code. This is especially important if your bathroom has outdated electrical and plumbing that could be hazardous to use. Having your bathroom updated with the latest electrical and plumbing fixtures is an excellent way to increase the value of your home while making it more functional for you and your family.

Another reason to remodel your bathroom is to accommodate older family members. Adding accessibility features like grab bars and walk-in showers can greatly improve the usability of your bathroom for people with disabilities. In addition, upgrading to a more accessible floor material like tile or vinyl can make the bathroom safer for people of all ages to use. If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market in the future, upgrading your bathroom with universal design principles will improve its appeal to potential buyers.

Fixtures

The fixtures in your bathroom are more than just functional elements; they can help set the tone for your overall design style. From modern minimalism to traditional elegance, the right bathroom fixtures can elevate your home’s comfort and functionality.

Before starting any construction, it’s important to select and purchase your bathroom fixtures. You may want to take the time to read reviews and seek advice from experts to ensure you are selecting the best possible options for your project.

Consider the style, finish, and quality of your fixtures. Matching your fixtures can create a more uniform look and feel, while mixing styles or finishes can add an element of interest to the space. It’s also important to think about the durability and maintenance requirements of your bathroom fixtures. For example, it’s recommended to use non-abrasive cleaners and wipe down your fixtures regularly to prevent buildup or water spots.

If you’re remodeling a small bathroom, choose light fixtures to brighten the room and make it appear larger. Additionally, consider using vertical design elements like tall mirrors and cabinets to draw the eye upward. Lastly, you should opt for a premium vanity and countertop material that will hold up to regular use.

It’s also worth considering the energy-efficiency of your new bathroom fixtures. Investing in efficient showerheads and faucets can lower your water usage and save you money on utility bills over the long term. It’s also a good idea to upgrade your ventilation system to keep the air in your bathroom fresh and clean.

Materials

The materials you choose for your bathroom remodel impact the look, durability, maintenance requirements, and value of your space. The right mix of elements transforms your bathroom into a comfortable retreat that’s unique to your tastes and complements your lifestyle.

Many materials have specific advantages for your bathroom based on their stain- and water-resistance, bacteria-fighting properties, and cost. Marble slabs are the ultimate high-end choice because of their timeless beauty, while quartz and large-format porcelain slabs offer superior durability at a lower price point. Non-porous materials like glazed tiles or composite countertops also require less frequent resealing than natural stone.

Other materials that add a pop of style to your bathroom are brass and reclaimed wood, which lend a sleek, modern feel to any decor. Subtle touches of these materials can make your bathroom feel elegant and luxurious, while reusing reclaimed wood reduces demand for new timber and decreases deforestation. Glass, especially recycled glass, offers a minimalist aesthetic and can bring in natural light. Concrete and concrete-look finishes provide a modern texture and color to the room, while also being durable and easy to clean.

Bathroom remodeling can be complicated by the fact that you’re working with a very moist environment where there are many electrical and plumbing components, all of which must be protected from moisture and corrosion. To prevent costly damage and repairs, it’s important to plan out your project well in advance. This includes preparing a checklist of necessary tools and understanding the location of all utilities so that you don’t accidentally cut or sever any wires during demolition.

Cabinetry is an essential part of any bathroom, providing storage and aesthetics. Custom cabinets allow for the most efficient use of space and can be designed to fit a variety of styles and budgets. Floating vanities are popular because of their sleek appearance, while built-in cabinets can create a more traditional look and are great for smaller bathrooms.

Budget

As with any home improvement project, budgeting is essential. A bathroom remodeling project can be as simple or as extensive as you want it to be, but the overall cost will depend on a variety of factors. Some of these include the amount of work involved, the type and quality of materials, and the size of the space.

Ultimately, the choice of materials will have the largest impact on your remodel costs. Budget-friendly options like laminate can cost as little as $4 per square foot, while upscale materials such as quartz and granite can run up to $200 per square foot or more. Another major expense is plumbing and electrical upgrades, which can add up quickly depending on the scope of the job. Adding a shower, replacing the bathtub, or expanding the space may require new wiring and plumbing, which can significantly increase costs.

It’s also important to consider the location of your home when planning for a bathroom remodeling project. Labor and material costs can vary across the country, and some metropolitan areas have higher costs than rural regions.

Once you’ve established a rough idea of what your remodel will entail, make a list of must-have and nice-to-have features. This can help you to cut down on the items that aren’t necessary and keep your budget in check. Remember, however, that even the most well-planned projects can have unforeseen expenses, so always set aside 10-15% of your budget for contingencies.