What To Consider Before Remodeling A Bathroom

There is a lot to consider when beginning a new bathroom remodeling project. Whether it is your first time going through a renovation or it is something you do fairly regularly, you will want to get everything right and choose a design you’ll be happy with for many years.

All renovations can be a bit daunting at times, but the stakes are particularly high in the bathroom given the high presence of water and moisture combined with electricity. You will need to make a lot of decisions, both big and small, throughout the process while also making sure that the entire project stays within your budget. Here are some factors you should consider before your bathroom remodel gets underway.

How Much Room Will You Have?

Before you embark on a bathroom remodel, it is important to consider how much space you have available. Prior to putting any of your bathroom remodeling ideas into action, you will need to ensure that you have enough space to carry them out properly. Take measurements and be sure to set realistic expectations for what you can accomplish in the area in question.

What Kind Of Look Are You Going For?

It is helpful to have an idea of the style you want to use before you start planning the new bathroom. For example, if you are going for a modern bathroom with a sleek and streamlined appearance, you will want clean details like glass shower enclosures, minimalist faucets and frameless mirrors. The color palettes of modern bathrooms tend toward clean whites, subtle neutrals and black, with pops of color appearing only in the form of accessories.

A traditional bathroom has a timeless and refined look with plenty of decorative details. For this type of bathroom, you will want a furniture-style vanity, antique-style lighting, decorative molding and elegant countertops. Colors like subtle neutrals and pale greens and blues tend to look nice with this style.

A rustic bathroom, meanwhile, embraces the beauty of nature and combines rugged materials with cozy textiles. Natural stone counters or floors might be paired with wood vanity, copper bathtub and hardware in weathered finishes.

A beach-style bathroom is airy and light, with natural materials and colors that call to mind a relaxed week at the beach. A beach-style bathroom uses features like spacious showers, bold tiles, textured elements like pebble tile and accents in coastal colors inspired by the sea, sky and sand.

Will You Need A Full Or Partial Bathroom Remodel?

Decide in advance if you will be going for a full bathroom remodel or a partial one. Budget is a big consideration in this regard as bathroom remodels can get expensive rather quickly, particularly if you have a top-of-the-line overhaul in mind. However, making smaller swaps such as switching out an old tub with a statement bathtub can help you save money while still changing the look of the room significantly.

Do You Know Which Fixtures You Will Install?

You need to know which fixtures you will install so you can ensure the room is laid out properly before walls are closed up and finished. Certain showers, tubs, toilets and sinks may require changes to the room’s plumbing, so fixtures are one of the earliest decisions you should make.

How Will The Lighting Be Configured?

Bathrooms tend to be small and dark spaces, and getting the lighting right can make all the difference. Before the project starts, think about the placement and configuration of the room’s lighting before the ceiling is finished. Some bathrooms might use wall sconces, while others work better with ceiling-inset downlights and mirror lights.

Is Your Plumbing & Electrical Wiring Up To Code?

When you carry out a bathroom renovation, it is important to make sure that the plumbing and electrical wiring are up to code. If your bathroom is older, even if you are not replacing these elements, a renovation is a good time to bring everything into full compliance, particularly if you think you will be selling your home in the future. These requirements vary by area, and professional bathroom remodelers will ensure that their work is up to code.

If you are carrying out the renovation on your own, be sure to find out about the regulations in your area and adhere to your local codes every step of the way. The codes apply to many elements of the bathroom, including the circuits, light fixtures, exhaust fan, outlets and outlet receptacles, and the plumbing.

Does Your Contractor Understand Your Project?

Contractors understand bathroom renovations inside and out. However, it would be a mistake to assume that they are on the same page as you when it comes to your particular project. Take the time to spell out each part of the plan and make sure that everyone knows what is expected. Remember that it is always better to explain too much than to not provide enough information and end up with something that does not meet your expectations and is difficult to undo later.

How Much Will Everything Cost?

Many people tend to underestimate the cost of a bathroom remodel. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) reports that the average cost of a bathroom remodel in 2016 was $11,364. You can likely complete a basic renovation using less expensive materials for a few thousand dollars, while a complete floor-to-ceiling renovation with high-end materials may cost upward of $23,000.

According to the NKBA, plumbing and fixtures account for around 29% of bathroom remodel costs. This is followed by counters and surfaces, which account for 21%, labor at 20% and hardware and cabinetry at 16%.

It is also important to keep in mind that experts recommend that the costs of bathroom projects do not exceed 10% of the home’s overall value.

Speak With A Northern VA Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

If you are ready to get started on a new bathroom remodeling project, get in touch with the Northern Virginia bathroom remodeling contractors at Dirt Connections. Their experts can help you ensure your bathroom strikes the right balance between comfort, appearance and function while working within your budget and schedule.