Flip through magazines or design blogs, and it’s easy to start feeling the itch to remodel. Maybe your bathroom is outdated, and you’ve wanted to update it since you bought your home. Maybe you don’t like certain features; or perhaps, inspired by fresh designs, you’re just ready for a change. Whatever the case, before starting a renovation project, there are many factors to consider. To save yourself headaches, hassles and regrets in a remodel that goes south, it’s important to take time to think through the decision carefully.
What do you need to take into account before starting a bathroom-remodeling project? To help you have the best remodeling plan, here’s a checklist of factors worth considering before jumping into a new design:
- What you want from the bathroom. Ask yourself why you’re renovating: What’s your goal? Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value, make the living spaces more comfortable, add luxury or get modern style, your objectives matter. They will guide your renovation decisions and priorities.
- The current fixtures in your bathroom. In the world of remodeling, everything is up for discussion. Just because your bathroom currently has a tub and a shower, for example, doesn’t mean those are the same fixtures you have to stick with in your new design. Be sure to evaluate all the fixtures you currently have, and consider whether or not you want to keep them in the new design. As long as you’re planning to remodel, you may as well do it the way you really want to do it.
- The current layout of your bathroom. Also up for consideration is your bathroom’s layout. True, sticking to the existing layout will be easier, faster and often more cost-effective than moving the sink to another side of the room. Sometimes, however, changing the layout makes sense — like when the current layout is awkward, not visually pleasing or otherwise frustrating to you.
- The current style of your bathroom. Of course no remodel would be complete without a look at style. Most likely, that’s a big part of why you want to remodel the room in the first place. Explore possibilities, and get a clear sense of what you like. Whether you’re swapping dated décor for modern style or switching from a country look to one that’s more contemporary, knowing what you want is key to creating a cohesive appearance.
- Who uses the bathroom. How many people will need to use the shower? How many people brush their teeth at the same time? Will you want a two-person tub and double vanities, or does a single vanity and shower/tub combo make more sense? Take time to think through the way you use the bathroom — and the way you wish you could use the bathroom — and let that factor into your remodeling choices.
- How you could save water. Using eco-friendly bathroom features is more than good for the planet — it’s also good for your water costs, your home’s resale value and your peace of mind. Look into features like water-saving toilets or eco-friendly shower features to see what works for you.
- How you could add safety. It’s not just seniors who benefit from safety-focused bathroom elements. When you find ways to boost safety without sacrificing style, you add value for anyone. Take a look at possibilities like walk-in bathtubs or attractive grab bars and consider the perks they could add.
- Luxury elements. If there’s room in the budget and it matters to you, consider adding luxury elements that turn your bathroom into a lovely retreat. Whether you opt for heated floors, an in-bathroom TV, rain shower heads or a jetted tub, you have something special to get excited about in your new bath.
- Your budget. Whenever you’re taking on a remodeling project, there’s a chance you’ll go over budget. What helps is researching costs upfront and adding a cushion of 10 to 15 percent above projected expenses. You can’t think of everything, and unexpected expenses are bound to come up, but by doing some due diligence ahead of time, you may save yourself financial headaches.
- What remodeling will be like. No matter how excited you are about the finished renovation product, remodeling can be stressful. Going into the experience with eyes wide open will only help you. That’s why it’s crucial to think through what to expect beforehand. How can you prepare yourself? This previous Homeowners Hub blog post is a good start, providing a rough idea of what steps are involved in bathroom remodeling.
At the very least, completing a successful bathroom remodel means doing your research. Use the 10 tips above to start assessing what you do and don’t want and need in your renovation. By carefully evaluating, investigating and preparing for your project, you’ll set yourself up for a better project and results you can enjoy for years to come!
Author bio: Erica Garland is Content Marketing Manager at Modern Bathroom and has 15 years of experience in the bathroom renovation industry. Modern Bathroom sells a variety of products you would need for any bathroom renovation project. With such a large selection of contemporary bathroom vanities, sinks, toilets and showers, Modern Bathroom is sure to have the perfect piece to give your bathroom an updated look.
