Achieving a bathroom renovation that looks and functions beautifully all comes down to the decisions you make. A bathroom remodeling contractor will be able to guide you through the renovation process, but you’ll have a better experience and outcome by taking these essential decisions into consideration before starting your project.
Follow Platinum Sand Construction’s bathroom renovation tips below to get a finished bathroom you’ll love for years to come.
Important Considerations for Bathroom Renovations
There are many factors to consider when beginning a bathroom renovation, but some are more important than others. That’s why we’ve narrowed down the eight most essential decisions for bathroom renovations so it’s easier for you to forward with your project.
1. Setting a Budget
Bathroom renovation costs vary but they can be upwards of four to six figures depending on the project’s scope. Setting a budget is critical, whether it’s a minor renovation or complete remodel. A general recommendation from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is budgeting 5 to 10 percent of your home’s value on a bathroom renovation.
2. Hiring a Professional
There are certain things you can do yourself in a bathroom renovation like painting and switching out hardware, but you should definitely hire a professional contractor for more complex work such as electrical and plumbing. Not only is it safer to hire a general contractor, but they’ll also do the job right and efficiently.
3. Creating a Design
Design is one of the fun parts of bathroom renovations, however, you should select the design elements carefully to ensure they all work together and with the rest of the house. Paint color, tile, vanity, fixtures, and more should be in harmony and add to the home’s overall value.
4. Upgrading the Plumbing
While maybe not as exciting as design, plumbing is crucial for a functional bathroom. A renovation is the perfect time to upgrade to a larger 2-inch drain for better drainage rather than using 1½-inch pipes for drains which are typically installed in residential plumbing. The plumbing upgrade is worth it because you’re less likely to get clogs, which can save money in the long run.
5. Getting the Right Shower/Tub
An important part of creating a spa-like bathroom is getting the right shower and tub. For a standalone shower stall, we recommend using smaller tiles over large tiles because they have more traction to prevent slipping. Also, it’s critical to select A Quick Guide to Wall Materials for Bathroom Remodels that work well in wet, humid environments (e.g. stone, quartz).
If you don’t take baths, save some money by not installing a tub. However, if you love a good soak, look for a tub that not only complements the bathroom design, but one that you can get in and out of without trouble.
6. Adding More Lighting
Even bathrooms with lots of natural light can benefit from extra lighting since it’s not always sunny. Popular places to add more lighting in bathrooms is in the shower, around the vanity, and above the toilet. Your contractor can also install a dimmer switch so you can control the amount of light for different moods.
7. Replacing the Toilet
Toilets are available in a variety of options such as wall-mounted, compact, single or double-flush, and more. In addition to numerous styles, you can choose from different bowl shapes and colors. The price of toilets vary but consider investing in a flush efficient toilet to save more water, which is better for the environment and your wallet.
8. Increasing Storage
Installing a medicine cabinet is a smart storage solution that blends in with the rest of the bathroom design. Medicine cabinets can either be in the wall or protrude from the wall 4 to 5 inches. Another way to increase bathroom storage is by choosing a vanity with drawers instead of doors for superior organization and storage.
Start Your Bathroom Renovation with Confidence
Bathroom renovations require careful planning to produce successful results and stay on budget. These eight essential decisions, however, will set your renovation on the right path to achieve the best bathroom within your means. For homeowners in South Florida, hiring a licensed and insured contractor is a must to achieve a bathroom renovation that works for your needs now and later.
Platinum Sand Construction has over 25 years of combined experience with full home, kitchen, and bathroom renovations. We provide general contracting servicesacross South Florida in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, and more.
Call 561-299-4000 or schedule a free bathroom renovation quote today!
