Comfort, relaxation, rejuvenation. These are the things that an expertly built bathroom can offer you. But do a novice remodel and the serenity you seek will forever evade you. Bathrooms are tricky spaces to work with; there are a lot of bits and pieces that need to make sense in tight square footage, not to mention the challenges of plumbing and electrical work that the will require. We have a compiled a list of do’s and don’ts to help you master the concepts of a bathroom remodel.
Beauty, Value, Efficiency
No matter what type of renovation or remodeling project you are doing, you need to aim for results that add value to your property, make it beautiful and pleasing, and ensure that your space runs efficiently. The following tips will help you understand bathroom remodeling trends and technologies.
Common Culprit
The most common issue bathroom renovators encounter is water damage; it can either come from a running toilet, a leaky faucet, or a clogged drain. Work with an experienced plumber to initiate an inspection that will check for any issues.
Budget
For any renovation, it’s always recommended to prepare 10 to 15 percent to add to your budget as a cushion. If everything goes to plan, this extra amount can go straight back to your savings account.
Water Efficiency
We rely on water for a variety of uses around the house -, especially in the bathroom. From fixing leaks to cutting back, there are several ways to save on water use. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created an initiative called WaterSense, which identifies products that are efficient than the typical federal standards. Shower heads, faucets, and toilets that are WaterSense-qualified will improve water efficiency and save on water costs. You can install low-flow faucet aerators in the sink, which only flows 1.5 gallons of water per minute. Conventional faucets, on the other hand, flow as high as 3 gallons of water per minute. Low-flow showerheads also meet the flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute while providing a gratifying water pulse. Toilet models that are WaterSense-certified only use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving your household 16,000 gallons per year, which is about $100, according to EPA.
As for a leaky faucet, did you know you can lose up to 20 gallons of water a day from it? Better fix the problem right away to save on water bills.
Toilet
A toilet doesn’t always add to the sleekness and style of a bathroom. Thus, when remodeling, consider being discreet and tucking this essential fixture away. A piece of beautiful furniture, like a dresser or even an armoire, can be utilized to frame the toilet without having to spend on an actual framed wall.
Surfaces and Countertops
Besides contributing to the overall aesthetics of the space, the surfaces and countertops in your bathroom also do a lot of hard work and take so much abuse. Porcelain tiles are often used in a bathroom remodel for floors and walls. You should use larger tiles to reduce grout and lines and for easier upkeep. Porcelain is also a favorite pick for bathroom sinks. However, we’ve encountered chipping when we tested porcelain for sinks. Enamel-on-steel and stainless steel sinks are stain-resistant and durable. Solid-surface sinks are also a durable and robust option; they can be integrated with the vanity countertop and even the cove or backsplash. Laminate is another popular option as it offers affordability albeit more prone to scratches.
As for countertops, quartz and granite are no longer used just for the kitchen. They offer durability as well as visual interest.
Shower
Ask any homeowner and they could probably count on one hand how many times they have used the tub. Thus, when doing a bathroom remodel, it is a growing trend to ditch the tub entirely and splurge on top-of-the-line shower features instead.
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Using the tub space to make way for more massive showers with body sprays, sauna and steam generators and his and her shower heads, are just some of the shower remodeling trends we see today. These features could get pricey, but many homeowners who have done it say it’s well worth the price tag. Make sure to work with a trusted and experienced contractor if you are planning to upgrade your bathroom with a shower remodel.
Ventilation and Lighting
Ensuring that your bathroom has proper ventilation will help prevent mold and mildew growth. A humidity-sensing ventilation unit will automatically turn on and off when it senses moisture in the air and how much of it is present.
Proper lighting can initiate efficiency and ambiance in the bathroom. Dedicated task lights for the shower, medicine cabinets, and toilets, as well as appropriate light fixtures for the vanity and counters, should be appropriately placed.
Consult with an electrician so your required light levels can be reached depending on the task and mood you are aiming to achieve.
