So, you’ve decided that your bathroom is in dire need of remodeling. While this project can prove a great boon to your home’s value, the road ahead will be time-consuming and full of important choices to make. While the right contractor can make the process as smooth as possible, there are still a few important things to keep in mind to ensure you’re not blindsided:
It Will Be Costly: There’s no way around it—a bathroom remodel will be a significant financial investment. While some sources might tell you that you can do a complete remodel for only a couple thousand dollars, this is a generously low number. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the average cost of a bathroom remodel was just over $11,000 in 2016. Although a low-grade renovation, that consists of smaller updates could be as low as $1,500, a complete bathroom remodel could set you back $23,000 or more.
Communication is Key: So you’ve found the perfect general contractor, one whose vision of utility and luxury perfectly matches your own. Time to step back and let them do their thing, right? Not so fast. Experts have noted it is important for each party to spell out each part of the plan and never assume the other is on the same page. Treat your relationship with your contractor like the collaborative partnership it is!
Get the Right Materials: While it’s more exciting to fantasize about the luxury features you want in your new bathroom, like heated floors or an air-jet tub, make sure you invest in high-quality, durable materials. Non-porous tile, like glazed ceramic or glazed porcelain, is the way to go. Quartz countertops and solid wood cabinets will hold up longer, and plumbing valves with ceramic mixing cartridges will prove much more durable than cheap plastic fixtures.
Keep Ventilation in Mind: Since bathrooms are prone to more dampness (for obvious reasons, especially if it has a shower or tub!) you need adequate ventilation in the form of windows, window vents, and exhaust fans. Proper ventilation can eliminate odors, reduce the possibility of water damage, and keep your mirrors fog-free.