Plan Your Bathroom Remodel

Published by: Donna Kshir
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

The days of overly expensive bathroom renovations are over. It is easier than ever to remodel your home at your own pace and cheaper than ever before.

Planning to remodel your bathroom takes time and a lot of effort, but in the end, the money you will save will be well worth your time and energy. Here are a few steps to get you started.

Step 1:
First and foremost, the most important step is to determine the purpose of the remodel. Do you want to sell your home, or is the size and layout of your bathroom no longer fitting your family’s needs? Do you want a total upgrade or just a few improvements from a visual standpoint?

Answering these questions will give you an idea of how you want your bathroom to change to meet your specific needs.

Step 2:
Get an estimate of the overall cost of materials. Make your selections well in advance and this will help determine how much professional help you will need.

* Electrical supplies include wiring, light switches and outlets. Carefully weighing your selections will determine if you need to hire a professional electrician.

* Plumbing supplies include copper pipe for supply lines and PVC for drain and vent lines, pipe fittings, couplings, elbows and T-fittings, solvent cement, flux and solder.

* You can make a dramatic change through the flooring you choose. The best options are vinyl and ceramic tile. Always make your selections carefully, as wood and carpeting options are all good choices but can create moisture and dampness.

* Always be selective and choose water-resistant materials for the bathroom. In addition to the drywall, you will need special drywall screws, tape, and joint compound.

* There is a large variety of hardware to choose from: sink faucets, shower heads, toilets and ventilation fans. These choices are based on the degree of the remodel.

Step 3:
It is always a good idea to create a budget for materials and labor. Always leave an extra 15% for “Wiggle Room,” just in case the unknown occurs and something unexpectedly happens during your remodeling project. Having a small overhead budget can save you a lot of time and unwanted stress.

More problems can occur if your remodel is in an older house. You may be forced to fix or replace something you didn't originally intend to.

Keep in mind that a small problem can easily become a big problem and will need to be performed by an expert, especially looking at it from a safety and house building code standpoint.

Once the renovations are done, the ways you are able to decorate the bathroom are endless and only limited to your own imagination. Be creative is the best advice in this stage. Your bathroom is yours and it represents you so take your time, let your personal style shine through and make a statement.

For help with your bathroom remodeling job in Connecticut, browse our directory to find a bathroom remodeler near you.

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