A sleek, updated bathroom instantly increases your home’s value. Adding a tub-to-shower conversion, replacing tile, or installing a new vanity can make a huge impact on your bathroom’s look and function.
Know what to expect and budget properly. Hiring a quality general contractor to manage the project can help you stay on track with your renovation goals and avoid costly surprises. Contact San Jose Adu Builder & Room Addition for professional help.
There are many bathroom layouts to consider, based on your specific needs and space. The goal is to create a functional space that is easy to use, and that fits the style of your home.
A tried-and-true three-piece bathroom layout places the vanity, toilet, and tub or shower on one wall for an efficient arrangement that requires less plumbing. This design works well in smaller bathrooms and can be a cost-effective option.
Some homeowners prefer a more spacious layout that includes room for a tub and shower, as well as a double sink. This layout maximizes open floor space, and careful sizing of the tub, toilet, and shower can ensure that the door swings clear of the vanity.
You can also opt for a freestanding bathtub and a separate shower in a more compact design that keeps your bathroom looking spacious. By positioning the toilet opposite of the shower, this layout helps keep it out of direct view, and you can add a window above your freestanding tub to brighten the room.
If you need to accommodate family members with mobility challenges or plan on aging in place, an accessible bathroom is an important consideration. This type of bathroom is designed with wider doors, a lower-threshold shower, and grab bars, so it is easier for those with physical disabilities to navigate the space. When considering a full-scale accessible bathroom remodel, consult with your contractor to determine what modifications will be needed to the existing floor plan and plumbing fixtures.
Plumbing
There are a few plumbing and electrical considerations that go along with bathroom remodeling. This includes relocating or adding fixtures, installing new pipes, and replacing outdated ones. It also involves installing a venting system that prevents gases and odors from entering living spaces.
A remodel may also include changing the position of fixtures, reconfiguring the water heater, and adding or moving outlets and light switches. It may even involve demolishing walls and expanding the size of a bathroom. In many cases, this will require a permit from the local building department.
This type of project is also a good time to install energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Upgrading to low-flow toilets and faucets can help reduce water consumption, while replacing old fixtures with LED bulbs can lower electricity bills.
During the design phase, it’s important to define goals for the remodel and establish a budget. This will help ensure that the project stays on track and makes progress toward your desired outcome.
It’s also essential to choose a contractor with the right experience and credentials. You want a pro who is licensed, insured, and brings a portfolio of successful projects to the table. They should also have excellent references, and a good reputation in the community. The more planning you put into your project, the less likely you’ll experience costly bumps in the road. By choosing a qualified and experienced remodeling professional, you’ll save time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Electrical
There are strict electrical codes for bathrooms that need to be followed to prevent safety hazards like electrocution or fires. This is why it’s important to have a professional electrician handle the complex electrical work involved in a bathroom remodel.
This includes installing GFCI outlets, which quickly cut off power when they detect a fault to prevent electric shock. It also involves rerouting existing wiring or installing new circuits as needed. The latter may include a separate circuit for lights, wall switches, and appliances such as a whirlpool tub or hairdryer. It’s crucial to learn the power capacity of existing electrical circuits before adding any new devices or appliances to avoid overloading them and potentially causing a fire.
Lastly, it’s important to have proper ventilation to avoid moisture problems like mold and mildew. Typically, this is done with an exhaust fan that costs between $250 and $500. However, more advanced models that are quieter and come with features such as LED lighting can be more expensive.
When choosing a professional to work on your bathroom, choose one with the right credentials, experience, and reputation. Request references and a portfolio of previous projects to see examples of their work. Then, meet with potential contractors to assess their communication skills, professionalism, and response time. After all, you don’t want to end up with a poorly executed remodeling project that’s costly and dangerous!
Cabinetry
The bathroom’s cabinetry is one of the most prominent features, and a major factor in its style. Replacing dated or outdated materials with sleeker options can refresh the look of your bath and improve its resale value.
Custom cabinetry is often the most cost-effective option, but home improvement stores may have premade cabinets that fit your space and budget. Some manufacturers offer free catalogs that can help you select a design.
A new vanity with more storage can make a huge difference in a small bathroom, and it can create the sense of spaciousness that many homeowners desire in this important room. Cabinetry is available in a wide variety of styles and finishes, so you can find the perfect look to complement your decor.
Some cabinetry is designed to accommodate all stages of life and abilities, a concept known as universal design. This includes easy-to-manipulate handles, lower switches, and other innovations.
You can also add visual interest to your bathroom with the use of arches, which add dimension to a space and are a beautiful alternative to standard doorways, walk-in showers or recessed storage nooks. Plush seating is another way to expand sight lines and make a room feel larger, as seen in this punchy powder room design. Just be sure that the stools or chairs you choose coordinate with your decor theme to avoid creating a clutter-filled look.
Flooring
The floor is a key functional element of any bathroom. The material choice will impact the overall design of the space, and it’s also an opportunity to add personality. Some homeowners choose ceramic tile flooring for its durability and water resistance, while others select vinyl for its flexibility and affordability. Hardwood floors are popular in bathrooms, but they should only be used in rooms that don’t get much moisture (like powder rooms and half baths).
Upgrading the flooring in your bathroom can make a significant difference in the look and feel of the room. It’s a great time to consider adding a pop of color or pattern, and it can complement other elements like the lighting fixtures and vanity.
If the bathroom in your home is outdated and dated, it may be time to consider a remodel. Outdated materials and fixtures can detract from the value of your home, and a remodel is an opportunity to update the look with modern materials that align with current design trends.
A renovation can be anything from changing out the vanity hardware to removing a wall and moving a plumbing fixture. If you’re planning a major renovation, it’s important to talk with your contractor about permit requirements in your region. Depending on your building, you may need to submit a permit application and navigate any board approvals in order to proceed with the renovation.
Lighting
Lighting is a crucial element in any remodel, providing the final layer that elevates the design to a new level. The right lighting can create the illusion of space in a smaller bathroom, and it can also add depth to your overall design. Properly placed ambient, task, and accent lighting can transform the bathroom from a utilitarian space to a relaxing sanctuary.
Consider the preferences and needs of the primary users of the bathroom, as well as your desired ambiance. For example, if you want the room to feel airy and light, opt for skylight windows that let natural sunlight flood in without compromising privacy.
Ambient Lighting
The right ceiling or pendant lights can brighten the whole bathroom and set the mood for the space. Ensure that the style of these fixtures match the rest of your design scheme, whether it’s modern, traditional, or transitional.
Task Areas
The vanity, bathtub, and shower require dedicated task lighting to avoid glare and ensure visibility. Select fixtures with dimmable switches to adjust the brightness based on your personal preference and the time of day.