Bathroom remodeling is not a decision to be made lightly or to go into blindly, as innumerable choices will need to be made before the initial construction can begin. From hiring a contractor to setting a budget to drawing up a design plan; the options can quickly become overwhelming for a first timer.
Bathroom remodeling is one of the best investments a homeowner can make, as most bring an 80% return on the initial cost of the redo. While there are some brave and adventurous homeowners out there who will opt to go the DIY route for bathroom remodeling,
most will decide that a professional contractor is the way to go. These professionals will be able to offer guidance through the drawing up of a design, establishing (and sticking to) a budget and navigating homeowners through the endless aesthetics of their new bath: colors, textures, finishes and amenities.
The budget for a remodel is the most vital initial decision to be agreed upon between homeowner and contractor. This will determine the starting point of the remodel, whether going high end or cheap chic, a number should be written down, agreed upon and adhered to. This figure should be all inclusive: design, permits, labor and materials. A contractor should offer proof the company is certified, insured and bonded and provide several references with telephone numbers and photographs of work they have completed both before and after the work is done.
An agreement should be written up in regard to a time frame, from demo of the old bath to completion of the new one. Bathroom remodeling is not recommended to begin less than two months before a holiday or important event as an inevitable delay, beyond the contractor's control, may arise and prevent the completion of the project on time: delay in shipment, back orders or damaged items, etc. To meet the agreed upon deadline alternative materials may need to be selected, preventing the desired outcome of the remodel. So, allow for delays, which will keep the experience fun and exciting instead of stressful and disappointing for everyone involved in the project.
A contractor will offer to draw up plans, or suggest a designer be called in, to assist in the selection of the amenities before the bathroom remodeling begins. Contemporary, modern, old world, rustic, luxurious, eco-friendly or traditional, the options are endless. Colors, textures, tiles, woods, stone finishes all must be selected for walls, floors and counter tops. Sinks: singular or double? Tubs: claw foot, soaking, antique, refinished or spa? Showers: glass, stone, tile, multi head, rain soaker or water saving? The options are numerous. Some bathrooms are now including saunas, steam rooms and fireplaces. Then there are mirrors, storage, shelving, light fixtures, towel warmers and televisions, to consider. Oh and then there are the toilets: one piece, water saver, oval or round, computerized lid, self-cleaning… and possibly a bidet, too?
Additional costs to consider are the need for electrical and plumbing to be relocated during the remodeling, so these figures need to be discussed in advance with the contractor, as well.
The cost of bathroom remodeling, if done correctly and in keeping with the style of the home, is almost always recouped in the sale of the property. So set a budget, find the right contractor and allow a realistic time frame for the project to be completed. And have fun while anticipating the completion of a beautiful customized bath to relax in every night!
