Monday, November 24, 2008

So You Want To Remodel Your Bathroom...

Remodeling your bathroom can be an exciting and rewarding experience. There are many things to consider when deciding to take on this challenging task.

The most important issues for you will be your choices for sinks, showers, tubs, toilets and lighting. But keep in mind that the focal point of your room will definitely be your tub and shower.

Your tub and shower is the place to start and will make the biggest impact on your space. Once you have decided on the look for the tub and shower area, all other elements will revolve around and define your space.

Bathtub and shower selections take a lot of planning. There is a wide variety of tubs from whirlpool, to walk-in, clawfoot, to cast-iron. This will also be your biggest cost saver if you plan on working with the plumbing that currently exists. Your contractor will know the in's and out's of your space and will have much to offer in terms of drainage issues, ventilation, pre-made showers, what fits and what won't. These questions are best answered by professionals and bathroom remodels should not be attempted without your contractor's advice.

There are many styles of bathroom sinks to choose from. There is the standard white porcelain, glass, granite, ceramic and free-standing basin to mention a few. When you shop around, pick up information and clip pictures so you can show your contractor what you are considering to make sure the overall look will match your bathtub and shower stall choice. Redo-ing your sink is the simplest way to avoid high costs of replacing it. This can seriously help your budget if staying within a strict budget is your priority. It is probably a good idea to design your sink and countertop choices at the same time to ensure that they will compliment each other. Again, doing your research and providing pictures of your ideas will move you closer to your ideal bathroom when you meet with your contractor for the first time.

A bathroom remodel is not complete without lighting and flooring.

Your first task is to determine how you use your bathroom in order to decide what flooring will work best for you. Look beyond color and tile size. Flooring choices are endless and include hardwood, carpet, and linoleum as well as tile. Some flooring choices can be laid with heating elements under the flooring for providing warmth in cooler climates, and are something to consider for those cold winter mornings. Your contractor should have a lot to say about your flooring choices, so it is best to consider all of your options even if they weren't something you had originally thought about.

Lighting is critical to your remodel. The current trend is currently ceiling vanity and recessed lighting to accent your counter space, shower and tub stalls. This lighting will also add a decorative feel and mood to your overall look. Consider your morning routine and the lighting you will need to enjoy your morning experience. Again, choices abound and your contractor can help you make a determination on what works best for you and stay within your budget.

A critical element of any bathroom remodeling project is the toilet. You will be amazed at the selection once you start looking. There are as many choices here as with any other bathroom fixture. Here again, your biggest cost savings will be to determine your existing plumbing and use what you currently have as a home for your future toilet! Changing the plumbing and layout of your bathroom can bring the cost of your bathroom remodel way above average, so careful choices here can make a big difference in your final budget planning.

Remember that a well-done bathroom remodel can add a great deal of value to your home, and increase it's resale appeal significantly. Your design choices will provide years of comfort and joy to your family experience. It is well worth your time to listen to the advice of your contractor and research your project thoroughly so that you will feel comfortable and overjoyed with the final product.

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