What to consider when remodeling a bathroom?
Your bathroom is one of the most important places in your house, where you start and finish each day. A well-designed bathroom can create a private space which allows you to feel relaxed and unwind after a stressful day. By contrast, a stinky and outdated bathroom with poor ventilation will probably not be able to do the same for you.
Whether you've wanted to update your bathroom since you bought your house because it was already outdated, or you have been recently inspired by appealing bathroom designs on a home interior magazine, a bathroom remodel can be difficult for anyone to start in the beginning. When updating or remodeling your bathroom, there are a number of details and aspects to focus on and consider. You should take time to think through the decisions carefully if you want to save headaches in the future. In this article, we will list out a few things you need to know if you're considering a bathroom remodel.
Keep the main reason that you want to renovate your bathroom in mind
What's the primary reason you want to remodel your bathroom? What do you want from your new bathroom? What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?
Whether you're looking to make this space more cozy and comfortable, add modern style to update the look, or increase your home's value for sale, don't forget why you want to do this in the first place. It will guide your bathroom remodeling decisions and priorities in the right direction.
What's your budget?
First of all, research an average cost upfront for a bathroom remodel project in your area, and set a realistic budget. In the Atlanta area, the average cost for these small bathroom remodels is about $18,000. The average upscale bathroom remodel in Atlanta area, according to the Cost vs. Value Report, is about $51,572. Although each home is unique, your own remodel plans may be larger or smaller in scope than others, you should still have a general idea of the average bathroom remodel cost, in order to come up with a reasonable number.
Even with due diligence ahead of time, there's a chance you will go over budget because of unforeseen misadventures which lead to unexpected expenses. Therefore, don't forget to add a cushion of 15 to 20% above your estimated expenses for covering the cost of those surprises.
Who will be using this new bathroom?
Who uses this bathroom usually? How many people share this bathroom? These factors are all very important for a successful bathroom remodel. Take time to think through the way your family uses the bathroom, and design the new bathroom in the way they wish they could use it. For example, if there are multiple people using the bathroom at the same time very often and you don't enjoy waiting in the morning to brush your teeth, then perhaps you should consider of adding a second sink.
Don't ignore the need for storage. Installing cabinetry or open shelving is a great and practical option, especially when it's incorporated into a bathroom vanity. If you have toddlers in your family, you might also want a storage space in the bathroom to keep cleaning chemical or medicines so that it stays out of their reach.
Design your new bathroom for your needs
If you're planning a remodeling project for your own bathroom in the master bedroom, it is very crucial to consider how you typically use the space. If you take baths often and enjoy taking a hot bath with company, installing a two-person bathtub is a good decision. If you only use it for a quick daily shower, a rainfall shower head with a spacious shower stall can be an ideal option for you. If you like to sit on the toilet for a while every day to get inspired or just relax, having a Japanese style toilet will increase the comfort level of sitting on the toilet seat. Deciding these features for your dream bathroom can be very exciting, but enjoying the results is even better.
Boost the safety of your bathroom
Even if you don't have any seniors or infants living with you, you should still put safety as the top priority when remodel your bathroom. Did you know that 12% of all accidents occurring in the bathroom happen as people of any age are getting into and out of the shower or bathtub? Take a look at walk-in bathtubs, slip-resistant flooring, or grab bars. There are some nice-looking items out there that increases bathroom safety without ruining the style, and they deserve to be considered.
Energy saving
An eco-friendly bathroom is good not only for the environment, but also for your energy costs and the resale value of your house. Besides installing water-saving faucets, you can also switch to energy-efficient lighting which lasts longer, provides sufficient amounts of light, and uses up to 80% less energy than a standard light bulb. Additionally, try to reduce the lighting in your bathroom, since most bathrooms are over-lit. After all, you probably don't need a tacky five-bulb vanity light above the sink in your bathroom.
There are also some other great options to save you money on energy bills, such as variable flush toilets, temperature-controlled faucets, and adjustable-flow shower heads. You will be surprised how much they can save you in the long run, and you can't even tell any difference after you swap them out.
If you found there's a leaking problem in your bathroom, all that water is not only wasted, but also quickly affecting your monthly energy bill. Always get leaks fixed as soon as you find them.
Hire a professional to help
Compared with DIY methods, hiring a professional local remodel team will set you up for a better remodeling experience and results that you can enjoy for years to come. An experienced Design Build company can handle the project management and deliver a successful home remodel which adds value to your home without you having any stress.
If you want to achieve a stress-free and successful bathroom remodel in Atlanta area, Sanctum Design Build is always ready to help. Call (770) 777 0100 and set up an appointment with our professional team and let's build you a stylish bathroom.