Renovating your bathroom can go one of two ways—either it is a smooth and easy process or it’s fraught with delays and challenges. The way to avoid the latter is through preparation and planning of your bathroom remodel. Whether you’re getting a replacement shower or a top-to-bottom renovation, you’ll benefit from learning how to plan out your bathroom remodeling project. Let’s take a quick look at what the project entails.
Decide on a Budget
You might want to determine your available budget for that bathroom remodels first. While our professional team can help you with setting the prices for your renovation, it’s better to decide how much you are willing to spend ahead of time. Consider using sites like HomeAdvisor and Angie’s List to get a ballpark estimate of bathroom remodeling costs in the New Jersey area. You can even find general pricing for specific projects, such as a tub or shower installation.
Decide on Design Elements
Before you start remodeling the bathroom, choose a design that fits your vision, as well as your DIY skill set. There are many different ways to approach this project, ranging from repainting and swapping out the vanity to gutting the space and starting from scratch.
Here are a few details you absolutely need to nail down before you begin your bathroom renovation:
- Color scheme: Interested in a modern farmhouse look? Or are you looking for a clean, contemporary design to match the rest of your home decor? Find inspiration photos for your vision ahead of time to make sure your new bathroom tiles don’t clash with your choice of paint.
- New fixtures: Will you replace your shower or tub? Are you installing a new sink? Replacing one or both of these fixtures will add to your project’s timeline and budget.
- Storage spaces: Where will you keep your towels and toiletries post-remodel? If you’re removing a closet to expand the room, make sure you have shelving or cabinets to make up for the lost storage space in your bathroom.
- Location of utilities: Do you know where the electrical wiring and plumbing pipes are located? Keep these areas marked to avoid damaging these hookups and having to make expensive repairs.
Think About The Future
If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, there is a good chance you’ll only be able to do it once. Because of this, there are a few modifications that can help you plan for the future while maintaining comfortable and accessible spaces for all ages. Walk-in curbless showers and built-in benches are features that could be considered a luxury now but become vital as we age gracefully.
If part of your renovation includes reconfiguring the bathroom entry wall, consider widening your doorway. This will allow for easier access for someone using a walker or a wheelchair in the future. Installing comfort-height toilets is another easy change that will be beneficial down the road. If mobility becomes an issue in the future, the added height will ease accessibility.
Don’t Forget The Little Details
Small details can become big issues. A misplaced outlet in the vanity area can make getting ready for your day challenging. What about a shower with no towel bar within reaching distance? Small details are much easier to resolve beforehand. During the planning phase, do a trial run. How do you move about your day? What is your bathroom routine? Create a list of optimal locations for outlets, towel bars, and other functional accessories.
Making The Appointment
Last, but not least, you’ll make an appointment with your bathroom remodeling contractor. The contractor will send a representative out to take more accurate measurements of the bath enclosure. They will also set a tentative date for installation, but this depends on the status of your bath products with the manufacturer. The remodeler will likely contact you closer to the estimated installation day to set a firm day for the appointment.
For a free consultation about your bathroom remodeling project with Bath Planet New Jersey, give us a call today. If you would like to request a free quote for a new shower, bathtub, or bath conversion, fill out our online form today.