Upgrading your bathroom is a great way to add value to your home. Whether you install a wall-hung toilet or recessed storage cabinets, the right remodel can make your bathroom feel brand new!
Cosmetic changes do not require a permit, but layout changes (such as moving the toilet or sink) may. Visit https://www.tacomakitchenremodel.com/ to learn more.
When you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom, lighting is one of the first aspects to consider. The type of light you choose can make or break the look and feel of your bathroom.
A popular option is to install a vanity light bar. These lights are placed horizontally above your mirror and come in a variety of styles. Some have upward illumination, which illuminates the whole room, while others are oriented toward your mirror to help with applying makeup or shaving.
You should also consider the color temperature of your light fixture. Some bulbs produce a warmer tone that helps create a relaxed and calm atmosphere, while others have a cooler tone that is more stimulating. When shopping for bath fixtures, it is helpful to bring a sample of your current paint and wallpaper so the professionals can match the new fixtures to your existing space.
It is generally best to stick with neutral options for your main fixtures such as the sink, toilet and tub. This can help prevent your style from becoming dated or limiting your options for future upgrades. It is also a good idea to layer your lighting, incorporating task, accent and ambient lighting so each area is properly lit for your needs. This will also help keep your energy costs down in the long run. For example, if you install LED lights in your bathroom, they are more efficient than traditional bulbs and last up to 50,000 hours.
Flooring
One of the most significant costs in a bathroom remodel is flooring. The material you choose must be both durable enough to withstand heavy traffic and resist moisture damage.
Solid hardwood isn’t a great option because even the slightest amount of water can penetrate its surface and cause it to rot. But, if you really want wood floors in your bathroom, then it’s best to opt for site-finished wood. This technique floods the seams of the boards with coating, preventing any moisture from migrating through to the interior.
Ceramic tile is a popular choice, as it’s both durable and visually appealing. It’s available in a wide array of designs and colors, making it easy to match your bathroom’s decor. It’s also a relatively affordable flooring option, though it can become expensive if you’re using an elaborate design.
Vinyl sheet flooring is an alternative to pricier options like ceramic and stone. It’s highly durable, resistant to stains and water damage, and can be printed with a variety of colors and patterns. However, low-quality vinyl may off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for a period of time after installation.
Another popular option is concrete floors. While it must be sealed periodically so it doesn’t stain, concrete is hard-wearing and extremely durable. It can be stained, etched, or textured to add visual interest. Just make sure to use a nonslip finish, as concrete can be very slippery when wet.
Cabinets
Cabinets are a crucial component of bathroom design, providing much-needed storage in often cramped spaces. They can also emphasize a design theme or make a bold visual statement. Working with a skilled contractor like Reborn Bath Solutions will help you plan your new bathroom’s cabinet layout and select a style that complements the rest of your home’s décor.
The best cabinets are those that offer ample storage without looking cluttered or overcrowded. If you need to store a lot of toiletries and other items, opt for a large vanity with plenty of drawers or a deep linen cabinet. If your space is limited, a shallow cabinet can provide a great spot to stash slim items such as medicine and toothbrushes.
You can further maximize your storage space with a custom-built pantry, which can be installed in a hallway, laundry room or another nook of the house. You can also install a standalone linen cabinet, which is an ideal solution for storing bulky items like towels and sheets.
You can choose from a wide variety of materials for your new bathroom cabinets, including wood and high-end metals. It is also possible to create a more visually interesting aesthetic by mixing contrasting textures. For example, you could combine a rustic-looking reclaimed barnwood countertop with sleek stainless steel cabinet hardware and fixtures. Your renovation specialist can suggest different material options and help you coordinate them.
Countertops
Countertops are not just functional but can also ramp up the aesthetic of your bathroom. It’s important to choose a material that is durable, able to handle moisture and cleaning products, and will complement other features like flooring, tub and other fixtures, paint color, hardware finishes and cabinets. The wrong choice can result in a project that takes longer to complete, costing you more money and adding less value to your home when it’s done.
Granite is a popular countertop option because it’s extremely durable and adds a lot of resale value to your home. Quartz is an alternative that offers even greater durability and requires less maintenance because it’s non-porous and resists staining from water, chemicals and other substances.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, laminate is a great choice. Though this material has gotten a bad rap in recent years, noticeable manufacturing improvements have made it more durable and stylish than ever before.
Increasingly on-trend, concrete is a beautiful and unique countertop surface that can be stained in a wide variety of tones. However, it is heavy and must be installed by a professional to ensure it’s properly secured. There are also concrete-inspired countertops available in a range of colors and styles that may be more within your budget. These are often a mix of natural stone and resins. Another option is wood. This is a gorgeous material that can elevate modern bathrooms and offers a warm, luxurious feel. It can be made to be more durable with epoxy seals, and can stand up to moisture and everyday wear and tear.
Shower/Tub
While showers are the most common bathroom fixture replaced during a remodel, tubs also play an important role. If you’re adamant about keeping your old tub, you may want to consider having it refinished or replacing the faucet and showerhead to add new life to your bathroom and make it more appealing for potential buyers.
The cost of a bathtub install depends on the size and material you choose, but it usually starts at around $200. A walk-in tub, on the other hand, can start at $8,000. Depending on your budget and space constraints, you might opt for a shower-tub combo or simply replace the bathtub with a shower enclosure that is more functional and easier to clean.
Another common upgrade is a new toilet, which can be installed for as little as $100. Be sure to look for WaterSense-certified models that use less water per flush and can help you save money on your water bill in the long run.
While it’s tempting to do some of the bathroom renovation yourself, if you don’t have experience with construction or plumbing work, leave the more complex tasks to professionals. Make sure you hire a licensed contractor for your project and apply for the necessary permits before starting work on any electrical, plumbing or general construction jobs. It’s also a good idea to check with your local government about regulations and fees in your area.
Hardware
While this isn’t as big of a deal for some projects, there are many factors that go into choosing the best fixtures and hardware for your bathroom. For example, if you’re installing recessed lighting or updating your receptacles and switches, there are various types to choose from that will work with your design plans. You may also want to consider eco-friendly products like low-flow toilets and shower heads, or even a tankless water heater that will reduce your utility costs.
While it’s important to note that a bathroom renovation can be a great way to add value to your home, there are some projects that may not be worth the investment. This is especially true if you’re going for something extremely unusual or trendy, which can turn off some potential buyers. For instance, a completely themed bathroom could be a deal-breaker for some buyers, so be sure to think about your target market before investing in that under-the-sea theme!
The difference between remodeling and renovating isn’t necessarily black or white – some projects fall into both categories. For example, if you’re converting a tub into a shower or adding a second sink, these are both considered layout changes. However, you’ll also likely have to replace or install drywall and run wire for these, which is considered a remodel project. This is because the first four feet of drywall in your bathroom must be moisture resistant, as per building codes.
