Spacious bright bathroom with white storage combination and glass door shower
You’re ready to jump into your bathroom remodel, and you’re feeling excited! You have visions of a newly minted bathroom, pristine and inviting. Before you put all those Pinterest ideas into the world, consider some things with the power to either elevate your remodel or completely demolish it.
BUDGET How much are you willing to spend on the whole project? If you’ve found online inspiration, know those projects can get pricey. Guide your decision-making by making a list in two columns: Must-Haves and Luxuries. Then, talk to your contractor about your luxury items to see if they know some tricks to create your upgraded look for a reduced price.
TIMELINE The timeline is one of the most intricate and complex parts of your project, because so much depends on it. Schedule for special orders, changes in plumbing, and hidden problems (especially if you have an older home). Tell your contractor how long you want it take and listen to their feedback.
SPACE LIMITATIONS Your bathroom is probably the smallest room in your home, so all that extra storage you’d like to put in? You should probably measure first. You can increase your bathroom’s footprint; keep in mind how that will affect adjacent rooms.
THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR Your contractor can make or break your remodeling investment. Find reviews, speak with previous clients, and look into The Better Business Bureau. Ask if there will be a foreman on site you can communicate with regarding progress and concerns.
WALLS & FLOORING Decide your walls and flooring first. Everything else goes around it. If you’re going with the classic design, get personal by adding heated marble floors or scratch-resistant linoleum. Don’t forget the wall in your shower; that can be a beautiful space to personalize with unique tile designs.
PROPER VENTILATION Airflow is a must in a damp place, so plan for it. Will there be a window or an extractor fan?
GO GREEN Environmentally-friendly options abound. Low-flow or dual flush toilets, low- or no-VOC paints, wood from sustainably harvested sources, recycled glass tile surface countertops, or buying used are all viable options for the average homeowner. Look into second-hand stores like Habitat For Humanity’s ReStore. They sell ready-to-use salvaged home pieces.
DEMAND COMPLETE SATISFACTION When your foreman tells you your bathroom is finished, do a walkthrough with your initial estimate in hand. Is your space cleaned up? Is everything as you hoped it would be? Speak up if you have a question or are unsure of anything you see. You deserve a beautiful bathroom!
