Bathroom remodeling checklist

Bathroom remodeling checklist

A bathroom remodeling is a very challenging assignment. However, before you think about what materials you should buy or check out latest designs in bathtubs, there are several things to consider in order to make sure that your remodeling project is a success.

Because a bathroom remodeling can be overwhelming, it can take some time and it can be pricey, therefore we prepared below a simple list with 14 important points that everyone should take into account for a bathroom remodeling.

The budget

If you did not know that already, the first thing you should think about is how much you are willing to spend on the remodeling to begin with. A budget will help you make important decisions in what you will include in the remodeling. Once you have determined how much you can spend, you can have a clearer idea on the work program, bath tiles, materials and other accessories.

Duration

Many people think that to remodel a small bathroom only lasts a few days, far less than it would take to remodel a larger bathroom. This is not necessarily the rule. Depending on how many things are changed in the bathroom, the workers will spend the same amount of time to carry out those works – whether it’s about installing a large Jacuzzi tub or just a small bathtub. However, planning is not just about defining the duration of the remodeling work, but also certain additional steps, such as ordering and purchase of bathroom tile for those who want something custom made.

Project steps

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, the best thing you can do is to plan what steps to follow and when. This can prevent you from buying things that you don’t need. Whether it’s a complete demolition or whether it’s a remodeling, you should always start at the top of the room. Renovate the roof / ceiling first, then the walls and floor final, to prevent damage to new improvements.

Hidden problems

If you decided to do a major upgrade to your bathroom, it’s best to change the whole installation. A professional with experience must do this, so at the end you don’t have to worry if everything doesn’t work flawlessly. This will give your house a higher value and you can be assured that you won’t have problems with the plumbing. Depending on the age and how well the house was built, hidden problems will be caused by water in general, so you have to look after traces of rust on pipes and valves. Be careful about outlets and light, always note where the cable is routing, so you won’t have any surprises if you make a hole in the wall without knowing that there is a tension cable on it that can cause an electric shock.

Style, design and functionality

The first step in this regard is to think about how you want your bathroom to look like. Here are several factors you need to consider: paint color, bathroom tiles, shower, tub, faucets, etc. The search itself can become overwhelming, but you can start with an internet search. You can search for more items and then try to find a common ground, or you can search for a stronger element of design around which to build the bathroom.

The design should be hand in hand with functionality, so consider how many people will be using the bathroom and how they will do it. Take in consideration a possible resale of the house in the future and how the bathroom design will fit with the entire house.

Measurements

There are 3 important thing to consider when it comes to the sizes calculated in a bathroom (usually the smallest room in a house): the location of pipes, electrical cables and standard sizes of plumbing elements. Therefore, make sure you have the exact measurements and specifications when you go to the store. More frustrating than going shopping without accurate measurements is buying things that don’t  fit according to the size and specifications.

The contractor

Hiring a contractor for this operation would be a smart thing, considering the complexity of the project (electrical, plumbing, etc.) and how many contractors are on the market and willing to take the job. Therefore, you should benefit from the advantages of hiring a professional contractor, authorized to work in the field that could help you get rid of many headaches and hassles.

Sanitary equipment and accessories

No bathroom remodeling is complete without repairing or changing the sanitary equipment such as shower, bathtub, toilet, sink, faucets etc. In some cases, it’s also necessary to recondition or replace the mirrors. You can give your bathroom a fresh look, by changing the door handles.

Cabinets, storage and shelves

Installing cabinets and shelves is a delicate matter, in most cases, more so in small rooms such as bathrooms. They must be functional to occupy as little space as possible, to store all the necessary things in a bathroom and, most importantly, provide an elegant design.

Walls and flooring

Virtually any material can be used for walls and floors in the bathroom, as long as it’s waterproof, either naturally or through a waterproof finish. Depending on your style and budget, ceramics, marble and granite can make the floor surface and walls of the bathroom extremely durable and stylish. For flooring, it’s advisable to take into account two important criteria: durability and how slippery the materials are.

Lighting fixtures

The bathroom can be classified as being impractical or downright dangerous without adequate lighting, so we suggest you think about a practical lighting plan, but it also makes a pleasant atmosphere. Try to maximize the use of natural light as much as possible.

Accessories

Although it seems of little importance, no bathroom remodeling is complete without adding new accessories. Quite surprising to some people is that little things such as towels or bath mats make a wonderful addition to a renovated bathroom. If you have a smaller budget, new hand towels are better than any accessory.

Ventilation

Venting or ventilation is essential in a small room such as the bathroom, as it’s always wet. It’s a difficult task that requires good planning: choosing the right fan, choosing the right place where to install it and you also have to solve the problem of electric cables. Lack of or poor ventilation can lead to abundant moisture in the bathroom, creating mold and can even put your health at risk. However, a well-ventilated bathroom is not only a healthy bathroom. Continuous airflow prevents any surface decomposition of wood and insulation walls protect the room.

Final cleaning

The final cleaning is very important and shouldn’t be overlooked in any place in the room: all the bathroom cabinets, pipes, walls, windows, floors, lighting etc. If you feel able to do this alone, you should take into account an extra day or two just for cleaning.

Good Deal Remodeling is specialized in bathroom remodelkitchen remodel and other type of home remodeling projects. Our team has gained over the years the trust of many satisfied customers in the Philadelphia area. You can contact us for a free estimate of your project an we’ll help you make the best decision.