If you’re tearing out walls or moving fixtures, plan accordingly. This includes adding time to your timeline and lining up materials before construction begins.
Swap out a tub for a walk-in shower, or upgrade your toilet to a modern, water-efficient model. Add a stylish mirror and medicine cabinet for more storage options. Ventilation is also important to avoid mildew and mold issues. Contact Bathroom Remodel Tacoma WA now!
A bathroom remodel can be a great way to refresh your home’s appearance while adding functional value. However, it’s important to be strategic in your design choices. Generally, the best designs combine efficient functionality with your personal style preferences.
The layout of your bathroom is the most crucial aspect of the remodel, and you have several options. Some are more efficient, such as a single-wall layout that keeps all of the plumbing fixtures on one wall and reduces construction costs. Other designs are more aesthetically appealing, such as an L-shaped layout that allows for a separate shower room, toilet area, and vanity. This type of layout works well if you have ample space to work with, and it can increase the functionality of your bathroom by allowing for simultaneous use by multiple people.
You may also want to include a freestanding soaking tub as a focal point in your bathroom. Gayer explains that “this is a great option because it helps visually anchor the space.” You can even add a window to this style of bathroom, which can increase natural light and improve visual appeal.
Depending on how you plan to use your bathroom, you might need more or less storage space. Installing cabinets or shelving can be a cost-effective way to add storage. If you’re working with a small space, try installing a wall-mounted shelving unit or a corner shelf for towels and toiletries. You can also use a hanging fabric shower basket to store supplies and make the room feel more organized.
The type of bathroom renovation you choose can have a big impact on your budget and timeline. You can do a replacement remodel, which replaces your existing fixtures with new ones, or you can do a full or layout change remodel, which expands the footprint of the room and adds features such as a walk-in shower or a window other than a replacement.
Fixtures
A bathroom’s fixtures, such as sinks, faucets, showerheads, and tubs, can be an opportunity to elevate a remodel’s aesthetic. Today’s bath products come in a wide range of designs and finishes, allowing you to create a space that feels like a luxurious spa-like retreat or a classic contemporary aesthetic. The fixture selection process can feel overwhelming and it’s important to set a budget for your project before getting into the details of fixture styles, materials, and finishes.
While it’s tempting to add a few luxury items to your remodeling list, the NKBA advises that you focus on functional upgrades that are aligned with your space vision. If you want to turn your bath into a true spa-like retreat, consider lux options like a rainfall or handheld showerhead and body sprays. However, this upgrade will likely require a complete overhaul of the existing drain and plumbing lines—an expensive proposition that may push your project’s overall cost well past your original budget.
Another fixture-related expense to consider is the cost of replacing or upgrading toilets, a task often overlooked by homeowners. The good news is that the current crop of high-efficiency toilets can reduce water and energy consumption without sacrificing comfort or style.
The same can be said of bathroom sinks, which now come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, including quartz and marble. You can also add a modern touch by choosing an integrated vessel-style sink, or opt for a statement piece such as a claw-footed tub. To finish off the look, don’t forget about lighting, fans, mirrors, and other accessories, which can all make a big difference in the room’s ambiance. Choose fixtures that are WaterSense-qualified to reduce your home’s environmental footprint as well as utility bills.
Flooring
The right flooring can transform your bathroom and make it feel more inviting and spacious. You can choose from a wide range of floor materials, depending on your needs and budget. Waterproof vinyl and tile are highly durable and resist the splishes and splashes of a bathroom, while wood and stone offer a more elegant and luxurious look.
If you want to save money, consider refinishing your existing bathtub instead of replacing it. A good DIY project, this can take a few weeks or less, and you can do it yourself or hire someone to handle it for you. You can also refinish your vanity top to update the look of your bathroom for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one.
One of the most important decisions to make during a bathroom remodel is whether you want to do some of the work yourself or hire a general contractor to manage the project. If you do hire a contractor, it’s crucial that you find one with a high-quality reputation and excellent references. Look for a contractor that is licensed and insured, and always read the fine print in your contract.
If you’re planning a DIY project, be sure to carefully follow manufacturers’ instructions for installation. It’s also smart to consult a flooring expert who can answer questions and help you select the best products for your project. For example, if you’re replacing a tub with a shower stall, it’s a good idea to measure the space before installing your new floor. This will ensure that the new walk-in shower fits properly and looks aesthetically pleasing. Also, it’s essential to choose a flooring material that is resistant to impact damage, since dropping heavy objects in a high-traffic area can result in costly damage to your floor.
Paint
When it comes to the bathroom, a fresh coat of paint can be one of the most impactful changes you make. The right shade and finish of paint can create a spa-like atmosphere or give the room a bright, clean look. You should always choose water-resistant paint for bathrooms because moisture can damage standard paint. This type of paint has a higher sheen and is less porous, meaning it will be more difficult for moisture to penetrate the surface and cause mold or mildew.
If you have a large wall in your bathroom that is blank or unadorned, consider adding art to the space. Framed art and handcrafted items can fit any budget and provide a personal touch. This is also an opportunity to be eco-friendly by choosing reclaimed or recycled materials.
Depending on the style of your home, you may want to add more storage in your bathroom. Cabinets are a traditional choice, but you can also incorporate shelving into the walls or use a freestanding wardrobe as a vanity. This will help keep the room neat and organized and eliminate clutter.
You can also install a new shower to save space and increase the functionality of your bath. A shower enclosure is an affordable option, or you can opt for a prefabricated tub and shower unit, which will cost even less. The latter option will allow you to avoid the mess and expense of a full tile remodel.
A remodeling project is an excellent way to update your bathroom and increase its value in the future. But it’s important to understand the difference between a remodel and renovation before you get started on your project.
Lighting
If you’re planning on upgrading the lighting, make sure that the new fixtures will match your existing design style and function with the rest of the space. For example, a contemporary bathroom will benefit from fixtures that have clean lines and geometric shapes. A traditional bathroom would do well with more ornamental details and brass or crystal materials.
A well-designed bathroom has ambient, task and accent lighting to illuminate all areas of the space. Ambient lighting softens the mood and adds visual interest to the room. Task lighting provides illumination over counters and vanities, while accent lighting highlights decorative elements in the space.
Whether you want to replace the existing light fixture or install a new chandelier, it’s important that the dimensions of the fixture fit correctly with the room and the electrical wiring. A qualified electrician can help with this step. If you’re installing a lighted mirror, or any other electrical fixture, make sure to have the electrician wire the fixture prior to drywalling. This prevents the hassle of pulling out drywall anchors and having to rewire the fixture.
In addition to adding style and functionality, backlit mirrors also eliminate the need for additional light bulbs, saving you money on energy bills. These stunning focal points come in a variety of designs, sizes and materials to suit any bath remodel.
Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need to obtain a permit for your project. A qualified build contractor can handle the zoning process for you and ensure that all of the necessary permits are in place. This is a key step to ensuring your remodel is handled properly and safely.
