What to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

Remodeling your bathroom can be an exciting project that transforms one of the most important spaces in your home. Whether you’re updating a dated design, enhancing functionality, or increasing your home’s value, a bathroom remodel can have a significant impact. However, it’s not a simple task, and there are a variety of factors to consider to ensure you end up with the bathroom of your dreams. Here are some essential things to think about when remodeling your bathroom.

1. Budgeting for Your Remodel
Before diving into the design process, it’s crucial to set a clear budget. Bathroom remodels can range from a minor update to a complete overhaul, and knowing how much you’re willing to spend will help guide your decisions. Consider the costs of:

• Materials (tiles, countertops, fixtures)
• Labor (plumbing, electrical work, installation)
• Unexpected expenses (hidden water damage, structural issues)

Allocating extra funds for unexpected surprises is always a smart move. A well-planned budget will help you prioritize your needs and avoid overspending.

2. Choosing the Right Style
Your bathroom should be a reflection of your personal style, but it also needs to complement the overall aesthetic of your home. When considering the design, think about the color scheme, fixtures, and finishes. Are you aiming for a sleek, modern look, or do you prefer a more traditional, classic feel? Some popular bathroom design trends include:

• Minimalist: Clean lines, simple fixtures, neutral colors.
• Farmhouse: Rustic finishes, shiplap walls, vintage-style accessories.
• Spa-like: Calming tones, natural materials, and relaxing elements like a freestanding tub or rainfall showerhead.

Having a clear vision of your desired aesthetic can help ensure that your design choices work together. You can use tools like Pinterest to help consolidate your design ideas to show your designer or contractor.

3. Maximizing Space
Bathrooms are typically smaller spaces, so making the most of the available square footage is key. Here are some ideas to maximize space in a bathroom remodel:

• Storage Solutions: Consider built-in shelves, vanity storage, or floating vanities that offer additional space while maintaining a sleek look.
• Open Shelving: For a more airy and modern design, open shelves can be a great storage solution for towels and toiletries.
• Mirrors: Large mirrors or mirrored cabinets can create the illusion of a bigger, brighter space. Recessed storage mirrors can also be used for extra storage. 
• Space-Saving Fixtures: Opt for a smaller vanity, wall-mounted toilet, or a corner shower to free up more floor space.

Think about how you use the space and how to make it work better for your needs.

4. Quality Materials
Since bathrooms experience high humidity and regular use, it’s essential to choose durable, moisture-resistant materials. When selecting materials for countertops, flooring, and shower/tub areas, prioritize materials that stand up to moisture and wear over time, such as:

• Porcelain or Ceramic Tiles: Both durable and moisture-resistant, perfect for floors and walls.
• Quartz Countertops: Non-porous and resistant to staining, perfect for bathroom surfaces.
• Waterproof Vinyl Flooring: A great option for bathrooms because it’s moisture-resistant and easy to clean, but be aware that water can get underneath and create mold.
• Natural Stone: While it’s beautiful and durable, make sure to seal it regularly to protect it from water damage.

Choosing the right materials is crucial to ensuring the longevity and functionality of your bathroom.

5. Plumbing and Electrical Considerations
Plumbing and electrical work are at the heart of any bathroom remodel, and any changes to these systems should be approached with care. Before you start:

• Check for Existing Issues: If there are any plumbing or electrical issues, such as leaks or outdated wiring, address them before beginning the remodel. This will prevent more costly repairs down the road.
• Upgrading Fixtures: You may want to replace outdated plumbing fixtures such as faucets, showerheads, and toilets with modern, water-efficient models. New technologies like touchless faucets or smart toilets can enhance the bathroom’s functionality.
• Adding New Fixtures: Consider adding new outlets, LED mirrors, sconces or a double shower to improve your bathroom's usability.
• Proper Ventilation: Bathrooms need good ventilation to prevent mold growth. Consider adding or upgrading an exhaust fan, or even installing windows for natural ventilation.

It’s important to work with licensed professionals for plumbing and electrical installations to ensure everything is up to code.

6. Lighting
Lighting is crucial in any bathroom. It sets the tone for the space and makes it functional. Consider the different types of lighting needed for your bathroom:

• Ambient Lighting: Overhead ceiling lights or recessed lights provide general illumination.
• Task Lighting: Bright, focused lighting around the mirror area is essential for tasks like shaving or applying makeup.
• Accent Lighting: Soft lighting around features like a bathtub or vanity can create a spa-like atmosphere.

Make sure the lighting is sufficient, energy-efficient, and appropriate for the activities that will take place in the space.

7. Water Efficiency
If you’re looking to make your remodel eco-friendly, consider incorporating water-saving fixtures. Modern toilets, faucets, and showerheads are designed to use less water without sacrificing performance. For example:

• Low-flow Toilets: These use less water per flush, reducing water waste.
• Water-Efficient Showerheads: Opt for models that provide a strong flow while using less water.
• Faucets with Flow Control: Install faucets with a flow rate of less than 2.2 gallons per minute to conserve water.

By choosing these options, you’ll save water and lower utility bills in the long run.

8. Hiring a Professional Remodeler
Unless you have extensive experience in construction, it’s typically best to hire a professional remodeler to handle your bathroom project. An experienced contractor can help with design ideas, provide quality craftsmanship, and ensure everything is completed on time and to code. Working with a remodeling company will also allow you to tap into their expertise in materials, space planning, and managing subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, etc.).

Conclusion
A bathroom remodel is an exciting opportunity to create a functional and beautiful space. By considering your budget, design style, space efficiency, materials, plumbing, electrical needs, lighting, and water efficiency, you can make informed decisions that will ensure your remodel meets your needs and enhances your home’s value.
Whether you’re upgrading a few fixtures or completely redesigning your bathroom, taking the time to plan carefully will help ensure a successful and satisfying remodel. Ready to start your bathroom transformation? Real Deal Remodeling can help bring your vision to life. Contact us today for expert advice and remodeling services!