Welcome back for the second half of our 2-Part blog series, Bathroom Remodeling – Dos and Don’ts. Today, we’re going to focus on seven things to avoid in regard to a bathroom remodel. Avoiding these seven common goofs could save you thousands on the project, especially if you’re planning an upscale remodel. You’re also likely to enhance the comfort, style, and efficiency of the finished project.
DON’T rush the process.
Now that you’re committed to the idea of a new bathroom, you’re probably excited to have the remodeled bathroom of your dreams. But poor planning is the leading cause of cost overruns on these projects. Depending on the size and scope of your bath project, you should spend several weeks to a few months on the planning process. As you plan the space, try to come up with a design that keeps the major plumbing lines in place. Moving the toilet from one wall to another will mean relocating a 3-inch drain line in a home, which can cost thousands.
DON’T skimp on skilled labor.
The do-it-yourself approach can be an effective way to trim costs, but could end up costing you more in the long run. It’s best to leave remodeling to professionals, like MDV Remodeling, to ensure The work is done accurately, professionally and expertly. Given how many skills are required for a typical bathroom remodel – plumbing, electrical, masonry, cabinetry, etc.—it pays to work with a contractor like MDV. Meet with at least three contractors, preferably those you find through word of mouth. Make sure the person you settle is licensed and bonded. And scrutinize the contract; it should list every product down to the model number and finish.
DON’T cut corners on key materials.
Another common mistake is going cheap on those items that get the most use. Lifetime warranties that cover leaks and stains have become more common on all but the cheapest faucets. Tile is another material that you touch and feel each day. While you can find quality options for $5 per square foot, lower-priced tiles may have slight size inconsistencies. The results will be crooked lines that make a bathroom look shoddy. So where can you save? Light fixtures tend to perform the same across most price points – it’s the design that costs more. You might also find that opting for a basic finish on faucets and fixtures saves you hundreds of dollars without compromising quality.
DON’T stop thinking about tomorrow.
You should ensure that your bathroom will serve you and your loved ones regardless of your abilities by following the basics of Universal Design (i.e. aging in place). Many universal design features are now part of mainstream bathroom design. For example, the larger shower stalls that we mentioned in Part 1 offer easy access and universal use, provided it has a zero-threshold and a built-in seating platform. Even grab bars – which accommodate not only the elderly, but pregnant women or young children, too – have enjoyed a design upgrade. In many cases you can find ones to match towel bars and other accessories.
Even if you don’t want to incorporate every element of universal deign into the bathroom now, it’s worth putting in the structural framework, such as blocking in the walls for future support bars. Make sure your contractor makes a drawing of the wall so that you can find the blocking if, and when, the time comes.
DON’T forget to factor in water use.
Bathroom fixtures have become more water-efficient over the last couple years, but the trend high-end showers that might include multiple showerheads and body sprayers will likely result in your water and energy use going up. It also means your bathroom’s existing drain and plumbing lines might not be adequate, requiring an upgrade which may include an upgrade to your hot water heater as well (such as increasing from unit that holds 50 gallons a day to one that holds 80 gallons, for example).
DON’T buy products online without seeing them in person.
Going online is great for researching products and design ideas, but materials and finishes aren’t always as they appear on your computer screen. That blue-gray quartz vanity top might be more blue than gray in real life, or the light fixtures that look understated online could overwhelm your actual space. That’s why we always recommend visiting a showroom or design center before you buy online. While you’re there, you may even get the showroom to meet or even beat the online price.
DON’T forget about storage.
Running from the shower to grab a towel from the hallway linen closet gets old fast. A closet inside the bathroom is ideal, though an armoire or even just a simple chest can handle the essentials. And an adequate medicine cabinet is still the best place for your various health-care and first-aid essentials.
Taking these seven Don’ts into consideration when finalizing the plans for your bathroom remodel will help to smooth the process and make you aware of things that you may have overlooked. If you are ready to get started with your bathroom remodel, contact us today and set up a free estimate!