Does your bathroom need a makeover, but you’re unsure where to start?
Your home’s bathroom should be your retreat, an oasis that allows you to prepare for a busy day ahead or unwind for the night. Bathroom remodels are also the projects that generate the highest return on investment (ROI), making them a worthwhile task. We have compiled a few bathroom remodeling tips to help turn your existing bathroom into your favorite room in the house.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget provides a basis for your bathroom remodeling project. An estimated budget allows you to choose the specific projects and renovations that fit your plans. You may want to stick to repurposed materials and cost-effective decor if you have a smaller budget. If you have a larger budget, you may be able to complete a full bathroom reno, including updating your existing plumbing and essentially designing a brand new bathroom.
The expected cost of a bathroom renovation typically depends on the layout, quality of materials used, and any added features. Create a list of which features are most important for you to update to create an accurate budget. For example, some homeowners may want to splurge on a heated floor, whereas others prefer installing a new sink and vanity combo.
Know When to Hire Professionals
Some bathroom remodels are best left to the professionals. Contacting a professional when adding a new bathroom or expanding your current one is always a good idea. A bathroom remodeling project that includes a complete renovation usually requires a professional.
Remember that remodeling your bathroom isn’t just about creating a space you love but also about increasing your home’s resale value. Optimize your bathroom project’s ROI by working with a professional. Contacting PacWest Restoration at 503-746-6546 also connects you to experts who can help you save on your bathroom renovation project by choosing the right materials and doing the job right the first time.
Bathtub or Shower?
Some decisions, like whether you want a bathtub or shower, should be one of the first things you make when planning a bathroom remodel. The bathtub or shower is often your bathroom’s center and focal point. They also take up the most space, meaning you’ll need to choose your toilet and vanity carefully based on this decision.
Both a bathtub and a shower are practical choices. You could also opt for a bathtub with a built-in shower or both in larger bathrooms, using a small wall shower and a freestanding tub in different corners. The best choice will depend on how much square footage is available and whether or not you’re planning a gut renovation.
If you don’t have a strong preference, a shower/tub combo may be the best option and one that appeals to more home buyers. The layout and presence of a shower or tub in other bathrooms in the house can also help you make this decision. Having at least one bathroom in the house with a tub is always a good idea, especially with children in the house or when appealing to home buyers with family in the future.
Decide on a Bathroom Layout
A bathroom’s layout is extremely important to avoid an overall sense of clutter. There are only so many layout options when designing a bathroom, typically including three-in-a-row (the toilet, sink, and shower/tub in a row) or opposite wall (one or more fixtures on the opposite wall) designs.
If your bathroom has more space, you may have more room to play around with different layouts. You could also add separate bath or tub areas or put the toilet in its own room. The options depend on your cost budget and existing room, but creating a layout to make sure it makes sense is a great first step.
Whichever layout you choose, try to make the focal point of your bathroom something other than the toilet. Make your vanity or tub stand out to give your bathroom an aesthetically pleasing design. Consider what you like or dislike about your bathroom’s current layout.
Utilize Available Space
If your bathroom makeover includes a full remodel, you essentially have a blank slate. You want to make the best use of the available space. You could rework each wall and the shower’s location if it’s within budget and makes sense. However, keeping the toilet, shower, and vanity position as it is can help you save money.
Rearranging these bathroom fixtures may require moving plumbing, waste lines, and electrical wires and can take up a significant portion of your remodel budget. If you’re unsure how to layout a bathroom so that it’s practical and makes the best use of your existing space, an interior designer can help.
If you’re short on space and never take a bath, consider swapping out that bathtub for a more space-efficient shower instead. You can also use designs that trick the eye into thinking there’s more space than there really is. A space-saving vanity makes your bathroom appear larger and more organized. Ample lighting brightens the room and helps a small bathroom feel bigger.
Bathroom Colors
The colors you choose for your bathroom affect more than its design. Color has proven to impact your mood, and since most people are going for a sense of relaxation when in the bathroom, grays and purples are a great choice. Whites, tans, and mauves can also give your room a more relaxing vibe, which will be useful when soaking in your tub.
Of course, you could also make your bathroom stand out with bright, bold colors, or go with something more neutral – the choice is yours. Neutral colors can make your room feel larger and give you more opportunities for brighter, bolder fixtures. You can also use a nice mix of paint, tiles, and fixtures to create a design you love. When painting, don’t forget about the ceiling.
Bathroom Mirrors
Most bathrooms have at least one mirror, but adding more is an excellent way to make the room appear larger. Choose multiple mirrors surrounding the bathroom vanity, or go with one large frameless mirror that gives the whole room a lighter appearance.
The number and size of mirrors you choose aren’t the only things to consider. You want to put your mirrors in a position that makes sense. Your mirror should be at eye level for most household users, typically between five to 10 inches above the sink. This is usually somewhere between four to seven feet from the floor. Adding the mirror before installing your tiles is best because you can save some money on materials.
Think About Lighting
Lighting in your bathroom is also important. You want a well-lit space, especially around the vanity. You have a few options available when it comes to bathroom lighting.
Natural Light
Natural lighting instantly gives your bathroom a brighter outlook but requires windows or a skylight. If you have a window or plan to install a window in your bathroom remodel, where you position the vanity is important. Positioning the vanity facing the window allows you to use natural and artificial light.
The addition of a window to your bathroom also offers other advantages. Windows add dimension, which makes your bathroom appear larger and more open. Homeowners also typically enjoy the fresh air that comes with a bathroom window. If the cost of installing a window isn’t in your budget, a skylight may be a more cost-effective choice.
Artificial Light
Artificial lights are also important in your bathroom project, especially since you can’t control how much sunlight the room gets each day. Be sure to add artificial lighting around the vanity and above the bathtub so you can enjoy a good book while soaking. A dimmer switch allows you to adjust your bathroom’s lighting based on your current needs. With so many artificial lighting options, you have endless design choices available.
Consider Ventilation
Don’t forget to consider ventilation when planning your bathroom remodel. Mold and mildew are common in bathrooms, so proper ventilation is necessary. If possible, try to implement more than one ventilation property to keep your bathroom mold and mildew-free. Windows, vents, and exhaust fans are all appropriate methods to avoid moisture buildup.
Other things to consider when it comes to property ventilation are the bathroom size, material quality, and purpose of materials. Larger bathrooms will require more heat and ventilation to avoid moisture buildups. The quality of the materials you choose during your bathroom renovation also determines how well they prevent moisture. Make sure all materials you use in your new space are designed for bathroom use.
Flooring and Tiles
You have a lot of options available when it comes to flooring and tile designs. Natural stone is one of the most popular bathroom materials, and for good reason. Your bathroom is exposed to a lot of moisture and water, and natural stone holds up well against it all. You can also find natural stone in a wide range of materials, meaning you can create a unique design.
Ceramic tile is also a popular choice in bathrooms. Tile made of ceramic is slightly more durable than natural stone but can last just as long with professional installation and the right maintenance.
Whichever flooring or tile choice you choose, make sure it’s slip-resistant. Ideally, you should choose a flooring material with a slip-resistant rating of at least 0.42. Remember that you don’t have to use the same tile material on the floors and shower. Mixing and matching designs and materials gives the bathroom a luxe look that’s all the rage right now.
Ceiling tiles also cover more of your wall, helping control moisture. Install tile all the way to the shower ceiling to make cleaning easier.
Plumbing Fixtures Design
Don’t forget about your plumbing fixtures. You spent all this time planning your bathroom remodel and choosing the best tile and floor materials, so don’t ruin the design with generic fixtures. Your plumbing fixtures are used daily, so it’s usually a good idea to go for higher-end materials. Choose materials that match the rest of the bathroom to create a consistent design theme. Also, choosing the best sink and bath fixtures makes cleaning easier as they prevent limescale and hard water.
Choose Bathroom Furniture
Your bathroom furniture ties together the aesthetics and gives it a complete design. Take some time to choose the right vanity and medicine cabinet for your bathroom. Consider something with ample storage so you can keep your bathroom essentials organized. Choosing neutral furniture helps prevent your bathroom remodel from going out of style too quickly. Many homeowners opt for grays or tans and use bathroom fixtures or wall tiles to create a more distinct design.
The positioning of your bathroom furniture also makes a difference. Each piece should be situated close enough to the mirror and sink for practicality but not so close that you can’t fully open the cabinets or drawers. Your counter height should be between 30 to 32 inches, which is considered standard in the industry.
Don’t forget about shower storage. Adding built-in storage in the shower can help maximize organization in a small space. You can also install a few storage shelves on the walls, like above the toilet or directly outside of the shower.
Heated Floor and Towel Rail
Once you have a layout and have accounted for ventilation, it’s time to get to the fun part of your bathroom remodel – the high-end features that transform the space into your private oasis. Adding a heated floor can make a huge difference when stepping out of your bathtub, and now is the time to consider it. If you’re going to be ripping up the floors anyway, this may be the time to splurge on heated floors.
Carefully consider the different showers available today. A smart shower allows you to control your shower using your voice or smartphone and is sure to generate a nice ROI when selling the house. Bluetooth speakers allow you to listen to your favorite playlists or books while enjoying a bath. Don’t forget about a heated towel rail to indulge in a warm towel fresh out of the shower or bath.
Drop the traditional shower head and opt instead for a rain shower head to give your shower a more luxurious appeal. You could also build a double shower for more space and comfort. Other luxuries to consider in your bathroom remodel include a fireplace, a sauna, or a smart toilet. Get luxury design inspiration from your favorite hotel stays when creating your bathroom.
Are You Ready for a Bathroom Remodel?
Do you want to design a bathroom with a better layout? Are you ready to invest in that soaking bathtub you have always dreamed of finally? PacWest Restoration is here to help you build your dream bathroom. Whether your dreams include soaking in a hotel-quality tub or finally fitting in some “me time” while showering, our remodeling services help you make the most of your budget. Call us today at 503-746-6546 to explore your custom bathroom options.
Bathroom Remodel FAQs
What Is the First Thing to Do in a Bathroom Remodel?
When planning a bathroom remodel, the first thing to do is set a budget and create a layout. You need to know how much space you have to work with before buying materials or ripping out existing fixtures.
What Not to Forget When Remodeling a Bathroom?
Some important features to not forget when remodeling a bathroom include proper ventilation, water-proof materials, and a practical layout. The most cost-effective time to splurge on the extra luxury items you have always wanted is when completing a bathroom remodel anyway.
How Do I Get the Most Out of My Bathroom Remodel?
The best way to get the most out of a bathroom remodel is to consider practicality and aesthetics. Your bathroom remodel project should include your ideal designs but should also factor in how the project affects your home’s future resale value.
How Many Weeks Does It Take To Renovate a Bathroom?
How long your bathroom renovation takes depends on many factors, including whether you’re making a few aesthetic changes or changing plumbing. A simple bathroom project with updated walls and new floors can take between one to three weeks. A more extensive remodel project that includes a new tub, wall, or changed plumbing can take four to six weeks or longer.
Can I Do a Bathroom Renovation Myself?
Whether or not you can complete a bathroom renovation yourself depends on your design plans. If your project includes simple tasks, like painting the walls or swapping out fixtures, you may be qualified to do them yourself. However, it’s best to seek expert advice if your project includes installing a new bath or moving plumbing. While an expert may cost more money, guaranteeing the project is done right is well worth the price and may even save you money in the long run.
What Adds the Most Value to a Bathroom?
Replacing an outdated bathtub with a walk-in shower adds the highest value to a bathroom remodel. Many homeowners today prefer shower enclosures to bathtubs simply because of their practicality. Other projects with a good ROI include installing a window, upgrading the floors, and renovating the bathroom’s tile.
How Can I Make My Shower Luxurious?
Updating your shower’s tile and floor can instantly make it feel more welcoming. Don’t forget about the ceiling. Ample storage also makes showers more practical without adding too much to the cost.
