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Tips For a Successful Bathroom Remodel

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When you are ready to remodel your bathroom, choose a professional contractor like Richmond Va Bathroom Remodel. Check that they carry a current license and are insured.

A bathroom renovation or remodel combines cosmetic, style, and layout changes. It can also include wiring alterations and plumbing changes.

 

The budget for a bathroom remodel is a major decision, and it will dictate how much you can accomplish within the confines of your project. Bathroom renovations can be as simple or lavish as your budget allows — from minor cosmetic changes to a complete overhaul with high-end materials.

Your project’s scope and installation requirements will influence the overall cost, as will your geographic location. Labor costs, material prices, and permits can vary widely, so setting a realistic budget early in the planning stages is important.

While remodeling isn’t always necessary, adding resale value can be beneficial. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2022 Cost vs. Value Report, midrange bathroom remodels have a return on investment of about 58.9%, while universal design and upscale remodels have an ROI of approximately 56.7% and 53.5%, respectively.

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is assuming they can remodel their bathroom DIY and cut out the need for a contractor. However, the reality is that some jobs, such as plumbing or electrical work, require professional expertise and cannot be safely completed by a homeowner. A contractor can provide expert advice and ensure your renovation is up to code.

The size and extent of your bathroom’s wet area will also influence the project’s final cost. Small projects, such as a tub refinish or liner, will take just a few hours, while large ones, like converting to a walk-in shower, can take several days to a week or longer.

Lastly, remember hidden costs that can sneak up on you. For example, the cost of ADA-compliant appliances and accessibility features will increase your remodel’s total price tag.

When designing your bathroom, there are many things to consider:

  1. Decide your budget and how much you are willing to spend on materials. It is also important to consider the size of your space and how you will use it. For example, if you plan on using a lot of bath towels, install an extra towel rack or add some other storage solution.
  2. Decide which features are most important to you. For example, installing grab bars or non-slip flooring might be a good idea if you are remodeling to accommodate aging in place.
  3. Choose a color scheme and style that will work for your space.

While a bathroom renovation can be labor-intensive, planning will save you time and money in the long run. Shopping around for the best deals on fixtures and materials is also recommended. If you purchase something like a toilet, compare the price of multiple options to get the best value. Also, avoid cutting costs by buying cheap materials that will need replacement sooner than more expensive ones.

Another thing to consider is whether you want to stay home during the remodel. If you do, it is important to have a schedule with the contractor for when they can come in and work. This will help you plan out your life and also allow you to schedule appointments for inspections. It is also a good idea to figure out if you can use other bathrooms for remodeling.

A bathroom remodel involves changes in the bathroom’s plumbing and electrical. Not all general contractors have specialized skills; even small changes may require a plumber or electrician. For example, moving a sink from one side of the room to the other could require running new pipes through drywall. Or a homeowner may need to add an extra outlet in a closet or on the wall. Opening up walls can reveal corroded wiring and other issues that must be addressed.

Before hiring a contractor, the homeowner should create a renovation plan and timeline. This will help to keep the project on track and avoid surprises. In addition, it will help the homeowner set realistic expectations. During planning, homeowners should also discuss any special requests with their contractor. This will help ensure the contractor understands their vision and can provide an accurate quote.

Finding a reputable contractor is crucial for a successful bathroom remodel. Homeowners can start the process by requesting referrals from friends and family members. After receiving a few quotes, they should carefully compare each candidate’s work history and credentials to find the best fit. The contractor should have, at minimum, a valid contractor license and insurance coverage. It is also important to check the contractor’s website for photos of completed projects and testimonials from past clients.

Homeowners should arrange temporary bathroom access and cover furniture near the construction zone during remodeling. They should also be prepared for dust and noise during the project. Ultimately, a successful bathroom remodel will enhance the living space and add value to your home.

Consider including bold patterns and textures to give your bathroom a unique look. From geometric tiling to floral wallpaper, these elements can make a big impact. Adding more storage options can also help – consider installing a new vanity with extra cabinets or a hanging towel rack.

It’s important to hire a professional when you remodel your bathroom. This is because the space contains a lot of water and electrical components. If you’re not a pro, damaging the pipes or wires is easy. The last thing you want is a costly repair bill or, even worse, a house fire.

A good plumber can work wonders, especially in a space with so much water and electrical activity. It would help if you also considered hiring an electrician. You can tackle plenty of DIY projects, but rewiring and moving outlets should be left to a pro.

Incorporating energy-efficient lighting and appliances is another great way to add value to your home. These updates, from LEDs to programmable thermostats, can save you money while helping the environment.

Depending on the scope of your project, you might need a permit. Cosmetic renovations typically don’t require a license, but remodeling a powder room or changing the layout of a large primary bath may need one.

If you have mobility issues or an elderly relative living in your home, a bathroom remodel can make the space safer and more comfortable. A professional can help you with a wide range of safety upgrades, including moving outlets farther from the sink and shower, lowering cabinet heights, and ensuring grab bars in the tub or shower.

The flooring is usually fine when making cosmetic or style changes. However, the floor will be affected when you alter layouts or move fixtures to accommodate a larger tub or shower.

This is a good time to consider whether you want to stick with your existing flooring or change to something more up-to-date and durable. The best choice is to use a moisture-resistant, attractive material, such as ceramic and porcelain tile or natural stone. Linoleum is another option that received a makeover in the 2000s and is now popular with eco-conscious homeowners. This raw material made from linseed oil, plant fibers, and resins resists water damage and claims to suppress allergens and harmful microorganisms.

Solid hardwood floors are also an option, but only if you choose site-finished wood. This means the seams are flooded with coating, blocking moisture migration from the bottom of the boards. Unfinished hardwood is an unacceptable choice for a bathroom, as even the slightest moisture will rot the boards.

Whatever you decide, hiring a reputable and experienced remodeler is important. The contractor should have the right credentials, an appealing portfolio of past projects, and references who can vouch for their work quality. Also, a seasoned professional can help you avoid costly mistakes and get the most out of your remodeling budget. Be sure to find a pro for your project, as lead times can be long, and you want to push your timeline back for a while. Contact remodelers as early as possible to ensure they can meet your schedule and start on the project when needed. The sooner the work begins, the faster you can complete your remodel and enjoy a new and improved bathroom.

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How To Estimate The Cost Of Bathroom Tile Installation

by Posted in Bathroom Remodeling Tagged , , , ,

remodelingIf your tile isn’t square, it may look cockeyed when guests enter the bathroom. To avoid this, make a chalk line at the room’s center. This will be the starting point for your layout. Most wall and floor tiles are applied on a cement or backer board base. You must prepare this surface by sanding and priming to ensure the thin-set adhesive adheres properly.

Regarding bathroom tile installation, costs vary widely depending on the type of tile you choose and the size of your project. For example, vinyl tiles are the cheapest option, while natural stone tiles are the most expensive. The cost of labor is also a significant factor in the overall price of your project. To determine how much your Jacksonville Bathroom Remodeling tiling project will cost, consider the area’s square footage, the amount of grout and sealer required, and the cost of materials.

You may need to pay extra for other materials necessary to complete the job, such as a backer board or a cement subfloor. These are especially important when laying tile on floors that will be exposed to water, like showers and tubs. Backer boards provide a sturdy, solid surface for laying tile that will prevent moisture from seeping underneath the tile and damaging the floor. You should expect to pay an additional $10 per square foot for these materials.

Ceramic tiles, which are common in bathrooms, are reasonably priced at $3 to $30 per square foot. These tiles are available in a wide range of colors and shapes and can mimic the appearance of other types of material, including wood, concrete, and metal. Porcelain tiles have a low water absorption rate and come in glazed and unglazed options. They can be textured or polished, and you can even get slip-resistant porcelain tiles.

Other types of tile are more exotic, such as glass or marble. These tiles are more expensive than ceramic, but they have a unique look that can add elegance to your bathroom. They are also very durable and require very little maintenance. If you want to save money, you can purchase a cheaper alternative such as travertine or slate.

If you are planning to lay your tile, you should plan the purchase of a tile saw, high-quality mortar and grout, and a variety of trowel sizes. You should also invest in a rubber flat and a level to help ensure the smooth application of your tile. You should also purchase 15% more tile than the amount your project calls for, to ensure you have enough.

Materials

If you’re planning to install tile in your bathroom, it’s important to know what materials are needed. Some types of tiles require special tools and adhesives, and other varieties are best installed with a certain type of grout. Consult a tiling expert to learn more about the specific requirements of your bathroom. A tile contractor can also recommend some of the best tools for the job.

Before you begin laying tiles, make sure your wall surface is even and dry. If necessary, use a power grinder with a diamond blade to smooth out any bumps or irregularities. Once the surface is ready, take measurements and plan your layout carefully. This will ensure your tile fits the space perfectly. It’s also a good idea to have extra tile on hand in case of any break or crack during installation.

Once you’ve determined the size of your space, estimate how many tiles you need. It’s a good idea to pad this figure by 10 percent. This will help cover any unexpected breakage and allow you to make repairs in the future if necessary.

After your tile is laid, wait 24 hours before grouting. You can then use a rubber grout float to spread the mortar between your tiles and give your bathroom a cohesive look. To keep your hands clean while working with the mortar and grout, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves.

While home centers and tile specialty shops carry the most common tile styles, you may need to order some specialty tiles or require them to be delivered from a distributor. A tiling expert can assist you in finding the right style for your project and help you select an appropriate adhesive.

You’ll also need to purchase a variety of supplies for the actual tile installation process. Start by purchasing the thin-set for your space, which is usually a cement-based glue made from Portland cement, fine sand, and water-retaining agents or a latex additive. If you choose a pre-mixed adhesive, consult the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine how much to use for your space.

Layout

If you’re going to invest in a tiled bathroom, it’s essential to think about the layout of your design before you start laying tiles. It’s a good idea to mock up and measure the tile layout before you install it so that your results look more like those of a professional tile worker than those of a do-it-yourselfer who hasn’t yet mastered the craft.

If your bathroom is small, a single door makes it particularly challenging to get the tile layout right. It’s tempting to just start tiling at the back corner of the room, but this can lead to misaligned tiles down the line. The best way to ensure that your floor tiles line up correctly is to use tile spacers in between them before laying them out.

Wall tile can also be tricky to lay out, especially if you’re working over an existing surface that may not be perfectly even. A good way to avoid this problem is to build up the substrate with cement boards before laying the tile. These are available at any home improvement store and provide a solid base that will not flex or warp once the tiles are installed.

When tiling the walls of your tub or shower, it’s important to have a full row of tile that extends past the edge of the tub. This will help prevent water from collecting behind the tub, which could cause mold and mildew. To achieve this, start by marking the center point of each wall. Then, draw a line connecting the two points. You can then use this line as a reference when measuring your tiles and determining the placement of the tile layout.

When tiling the wall of a bathroom with a window, it’s important to make sure that your tiles overlap the windowsill so that they aren’t visible. This will keep your bathroom looking clean and polished. You should also pay attention to the grout lines on your tiles. Thinner grout lines can be harder to install, but they’re more forgiving if your tiles aren’t exactly uniform in size.

Installation

Tile is one of the most durable, moisture-resistant types of floor and wall coverings you can choose for your bathroom. It comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes and can be installed on most surfaces. However, it requires special materials to be properly installed. The process can be tricky for do-it-yourselfers, so hiring a professional may save you time and money.

The first step in tiling your bathroom is to prepare the surface. The subfloor needs to be flat and smooth before you begin, and the drywall or cement board should be primed for a long-lasting finish. You should also remove all existing tiles, linoleum, and wallpaper. If you are replacing the floor, it is important to add a new baseboard to protect the subfloor from water and sewage damage.

Next, you need to mix your thin-set mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can use a hand or power mixer to achieve the best results. Once your thin-set is mixed, apply a small amount to the application area and spread it with a notched trowel. When you begin laying the first row of bathroom wall tiles, make sure that you place the spacers correctly to maintain uniform spacing.

Depending on the size of your tiles, you may need to trim them to fit your installation area. Be careful not to over-cut them, or they will crack once they dry. Once the first row of tiles is complete, it’s time to grout. Grout not only adds color and texture, but it seals the tile and prevents moisture from seeping in between the joints.

Before you finish your grouting, make sure that the surface is completely dry. It will take 24 hours for the tile to cure, and you should avoid using your bathroom until then. This is why it’s important to have a plan in place for how you’ll manage the bathroom renovation, including where your furniture and accessories will go while it isn’t usable.

Tile installation is an intermediate-level project that most do-it-yourselfers can accomplish with a bit of planning and the right tools. Several aids can make the job even easier, including uncoupling tile membranes, plastic tile spacers, notched trowels, and pre-mixed thin sets. With these helpers, most do-it-yourselfers should be able to tile their bathrooms with no trouble.