When a bathroom needs an update, there are a lot of decisions to make. Before any aesthetic choices can be made, the question of who will carry out the work must be addressed.
Many homeowners have two main concerns with a remodel: expense and time. When viewed in terms of cost per square foot, a bathroom can be one of the most expensive spaces in the home to remodel. Therefore, many homeowners may be tempted to try to carry out this project on their own. Unfortunately, this can actually end up costing even more money in the long run.
How Does Bathroom Remodeling Work?
Bathroom remodels typically fall into one of two categories. The project may be a complete overhaul that involves gutting the existing bathroom and starting fresh. In this case, walls may be removed or added, showers and toilets might be relocated to other parts of the room, and windows might be added or modified.
In a strictly aesthetic update, the floors and tiling may be changed and new fixtures might be installed, but the room’s overall footprint will generally remain the same.
Why Should I Avoid Performing A DIY Bathroom Remodel?
The main reason to avoid performing a DIY bathroom remodel is the potential for problems to arise. Given the proximity of plumbing to electrical work and the potential for flooding, there is a lot at stake should something go wrong during the remodel.
While homeowners who enjoy DIY projects might be able to take on certain steps of the process such as painting the walls, getting a contractor to plan and carry out the overall project can save a lot of stress, time and money. Here is a closer look at some of the specific reasons to enlist the help of a contractor.
Plumbing Is Difficult To Install Correctly
Although it may look easy on home renovation shows, installing plumbing correctly can be quite challenging. Unfortunately, poorly installed plumbing can be a source of leaks that can cause expensive damage to a home.
Moreover, some homes already have damage from leaking plumbing that goes undetected until the renovation gets underway and walls are removed. Contractors know how to handle these problems and can ensure that the new plumbing will not meet a similar fate.
Materials May Not Be Compatible
Inexperienced bathroom remodelers may choose materials for the project that are not compatible. Professional contractors, on the other hand, are familiar with a variety of materials used in bathroom renovations, including the newest offerings. Their experience has given them insight into which materials work best for the various tasks involved, so they can guide homeowners to those that will best suit their goals and budget.
Ventilation Is Often Missed
Contractors are also experienced in giving a bathroom proper ventilation. Poor bathroom ventilation can lead to many problems throughout the home, including the growth of mold. This can be particularly challenging when a bathroom does not have any windows. Those carrying out a DIY bathroom remodel may not realize that there is a ventilation problem until it is too late, and correcting it often means having to redo work that was already carried out, not to mention a higher expense.
Contractors can identify ventilation issues during the planning phase and ensure that they are factored into the total cost and timeline of the project to avoid unpleasant surprises and protect your family from the growth of dangerous mold.
DIYers Are More Prone To Mistakes
A bathroom is easily one of the most complex spaces in a home. Remodeling it requires expertise in trades such as electrical, plumbing and waterproofing. Mistakes in this room can be costly and even dangerous. Moreover, it is not unusual for unforeseen obstacles to arise in a bathroom renovation, and DIYers lack the necessary experience to handle them effectively.
Contractors Complete Remodels Faster
Contractors are able to carry out a bathroom remodel faster than most homeowners can do it as a DIY project, which is very important when your family is waiting for full use of the bathroom.
Homeowners tend to do bathroom remodels in their spare time. After work, family commitments, socialization and other chores, there is often very little time left for finishing the bathroom project. Weeks and even months can pass without much progress.
However, a contractor’s only priority is getting your bathroom project done in a timely fashion, and their reputation depends on finishing on schedule. They already possess the skills needed to carry out the project from start to finish, whereas many homeowners have to stop to learn each step along the way.
Contractors Are Licensed And Insured
Another benefit of using contractors is that it provides a degree of protection for your investment. A licensed contractor who has insurance and will stand behind their work can provide a degree of protection should something go wrong during the renovation. Because contractors have a reputation to uphold, they will do their best to ensure your satisfaction.
They are also familiar with relevant building codes. Some rules might apply to minimum distances between items such as sinks and tubs, for example, and it is important to get this right from the beginning to prevent costly backtracking. Some homeowners overlook the importance of complying with building codes, and they often end up having trouble selling their home in the future until they bring the bathroom into compliance.
Contractors Are More Cost-Effective
It is a common misconception that carrying out a renovation on your own is cheaper. Professional contractors have the experience to help you make over your bathroom in a way that adheres to your budget. They know about more economical materials and procedures that could end up saving you a lot of money, not to mention time. In addition, they can take advantage of lower prices thanks to their relationships with suppliers.
Speak With A Professional Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
If you are ready to give your bathroom an update, whether it needs a full overhaul or more modern aesthetics, get in touch with the professional bathroom remodeling contractors at Dirt Connections. They can help you with all aspects of bathroom remodeling, from selecting materials to getting the job done right the first time.
Summary
