Remodeling a bathroom is a significant undertaking that can transform your daily routine and increase your home’s value. Always approach projects with a clear vision and strategy, whether you’re planning a minor update or a complete overhaul. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of bathroom remodeling, from setting goals and budgets to choosing fixtures and tackling common issues.
Understanding Your Bathroom Remodel Goals
Take time to consider your objectives before diving in. Are you looking to increase storage, improve accessibility, or create a more luxurious space? Consider who will use the bathroom and how your current layout affects your daily routine. If you plan to sell your home in the near future, focus on cosmetic updates that appeal to potential buyers. If you plan to stay put, consider incorporating elements to make the bathroom more comfortable and accessible as you age.
Setting Your Bathroom Renovation Budget
Determining your budget is a crucial step in the bathroom remodeling process. The cost of your renovation will depend on the scope of work, the quality of materials, and who’s doing the labor.
Estimating Costs
A basic bathroom update might involve replacing fixtures and refreshing paint, while a complete remodel could include moving plumbing, expanding the space, or adding luxury features. Labor costs alone can account for 40% to 50% of your total budget, so consider which tasks you can tackle yourself to save some money.
Always include a contingency fund in your budget. Bathrooms can hide surprises, especially in older homes. We recommend setting aside at least 10% of your total budget for unexpected issues or changes in plans.
Financing Options
Bath remodels can be expensive. Thankfully, there are a variety of ways to finance your renovation, including a home equity loan or line of credit, as well as FHA and personal loans. Some homeowners refinance their mortgages or borrow against their 401Ks. Research each option carefully to find the best fit for your financial situation and project needs.
What Bathroom Remodel Tools and Equipment Do We Recommend?
You’ll need a few basic tools for most bathroom repairs. First and foremost: a good plunger. We recommend water pump pliers — which must be big enough to fit around pipes — an adjustable wrench, a basin wrench, and a decent screwdriver for other plumbing emergencies. A closet auger is helpful for the toilet, as is a snake for drain traps.
Additional tools for projects and upgrades include a standard level, tape measure, hammer, and cordless drill with driver and bits. For tile jobs, plan to have on hand a wet saw, trowels, grout float, grout sponge, chalk line kit, rubber mallet, tile spacers, and a bucket for the thin-set mortar.
What Are Some Essential Components of a Bathroom Remodel?
A successful bathroom renovation addresses all the key elements that make the space functional and appealing.
Bathtubs and Showers
Consider your household needs and the bathroom’s size when choosing a tub or shower. Freestanding tubs can be a luxurious focal point, while built-in tubs are more practical for showering. For shower-only options, walk-in designs with glass enclosures can make the room feel more spacious.
We recommend having at least one tub in the house for resale purposes. Remember that the floor needs to be strong enough to support not only the tub’s weight but also the tub when it’s filled with water and a person.
If you’re converting a tub to a shower, make sure the door has at least 30 inches of clearance. Consider features such as built-in niches for storage and curbless entries for accessibility.
Sinks and Vanities
Your choice of sink and vanity can significantly impact the bathroom’s style and functionality. There are a couple of primary options:
- Pedestal sinks for small spaces
- Vanities with built-in storage for larger bathrooms
- Vessel sinks for a modern look
- Wall-mounted sinks for a minimalist aesthetic
Carefully consider countertop materials. Natural stone is beautiful but requires more maintenance, while engineered quartz is durable and easy to care for.
Toilets and Bidets
Modern toilets offer water-saving features and sleek designs. Look for models with a Maximum Performance (MaP) score of 500 or higher for efficient flushing. Wall-hung toilets can save floor space and make cleaning easier. If space allows, consider adding a privacy wall or separate water closet for the toilet area.
Bidets are becoming increasingly popular in American bathrooms. These devices offer improved hygiene and potentially reduce toilet paper use.
Flooring and Tile
Bathroom flooring should be durable, water-resistant, and slip-resistant. Popular options include the following:
- Ceramic or porcelain tile
- Luxury vinyl planks or tiles
- Natural stone (when properly sealed)
- Cement tiles for a bold look
Subway tile remains a classic choice for shower and tub surrounds, while large-format tiles can create a sleek, modern appearance. Pay attention to slip resistance ratings, especially for shower floors.
Crucial Bathroom Systems To Consider
The unseen systems in your bathroom are just as important as the visible elements.
Plumbing
Updating old pipes can prevent future leaks and improve water pressure. If you’re changing the layout, try to keep fixtures close to existing plumbing lines to minimize costs. Consider installing wider drainpipes for improved flow, especially in shared bathrooms.
Electrical
All bathroom outlets must be GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters) for safety. Also, check that your electrical panel can handle the additional load of new fixtures or heated floors. We typically recommend a dedicated 20-amp circuit for bathrooms.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for preventing mold and mildew. Install a fan that vents to the outside, not just into the attic. Look for quiet models with humidity sensors that automatically turn on when needed and timers that make sure the fan runs for an adequate amount of time after a shower or bath.
Design Elements for a Stylish Bathroom
The right design choices can elevate your bathroom from functional to fabulous.
Lighting Fixtures
Layer your lighting for the best effect:
- Ambient lighting from an overhead fixture
- Task lighting around the mirror for grooming
- Accent lighting to highlight architectural features
Avoid harsh downlights that can cast unflattering shadows. Instead, opt for sconces on either side of the mirror.
Storage Solutions
Maximize storage with creative solutions:
- Built-in niches in shower walls
- Floating shelves for decorative items
- Medicine cabinets with hidden storage
- Under-sink organizers
Custom cabinetry can make the most of awkward spaces and provide a cohesive look.
Color Schemes and Paint
Lighter colors can make a small bathroom feel more spacious. Neutrals are always a good choice for bathrooms. Use semi-gloss or satin finish paint to resist moisture and make cleaning easier, and look for paints with antimicrobial properties for frequently used bathrooms.
DIY vs. Professional Remodeling: What You Can Tackle
Some parts of a bathroom remodel are DIY-friendly, but others require professional expertise. Understanding the difference can save you time and get the job done correctly:
| DIY-Friendly | Needs a Professional |
|---|---|
| Painting walls and ceilings Installing a new toilet Installing new hardware (towel bars, toilet paper holders, etc.) Replacing faucets or showerheads Updating light fixtures | Installing new tubs or showers Major structural changes Moving plumbing or electrical lines Tiling large areas Waterproofing and moisture management |
A general contractor can help you coordinate multiple tradespeople and ensure the project meets local building codes.
Maximizing ROI in Your Bathroom Renovation
To get the best return on investment, focus on improvements that appeal to a wide range of buyers:
- Add storage solutions
- Consider universal design elements for accessibility
- Create a cohesive, neutral design scheme
- Improve lighting and ventilation
- Update outdated fixtures and finishes
While luxury features can be appealing, they may not always recoup their cost at resale.
Common Bathroom Problems and How To Fix Them
Addressing common issues can extend the life of your bathroom and improve its use:
| Plumbing Issues | Fix leaky faucets promptly to prevent water damage. Clear slow drains with a plumber’s snake or natural cleaners. Replace worn-out toilet flappers to stop running toilets. |
| Moisture and Mold | Improve ventilation to reduce humidity. Reseal grout lines and caulk around fixtures annually. Address any leaks immediately to prevent mold growth. |
| Outdated Fixtures | Replace old, inefficient toilets with water-saving models. Update worn faucets and showerheads for improved function and style. Swap outdated light fixtures for modern, energy-efficient options. |
How To Plan Your Bathroom Remodel Timeline
Even the best-planned construction projects can run into issues and delays, but having a rough idea of your timeline helps make a remodel feel smoother. This is especially important if your bathroom is going to be out of commission for a period of time.
Pre-Construction Phase
This is when you’ll plan, hire contractors, and purchase materials:
- Develop your design concept and budget (2-4 weeks)
- Hire professionals and obtain permits (2-3 weeks)
- Order materials and fixtures (4-8 weeks, depending on availability)
Construction Phase
This is when the majority of the work gets done, and when part of all of your bathroom might be temporarily out of service:
- Demolition (1-2 days)
- Rough-in plumbing and electrical (2-3 days)
- Install insulation and drywall (2-3 days)
- Tile work (3-5 days)
- Install fixtures and finishes (2-3 days)
Final Touches
The final days are when you make sure everything looks just right:
- Paint and install accessories (1-2 days)
- Final inspections and touch-ups (1-2 days)