Bathroom Remodel Jacksonville is a great way to upgrade your home and add some personality to the room. It can range from repainting to a full gut renovation.
It’s important to start with a budget and determine what scope of work you want for your bathroom. A complete gut renovation will involve dropping walls, rerouting plumbing and electrical lines, and may require a permit.
When it comes to bathroom remodels, there are many factors to consider. Aesthetics, layout, materials and functionality all work together to transform an outdated space into a tranquil retreat. A remodel can be as simple or complex as you want, but the process begins with a well-thought-out design plan.
Evaluate your needs and goals to determine if you want to make a functional change or simply update the look of the room. A functional change may include a more spacious layout or upgrading fixtures that enhance the overall function of your bathroom. For example, a larger shower or double vanity can help meet your family’s daily needs and increase the resale value of your home.
If you’re looking to create a unique style, look for inspiration online or in magazines. Then, sketch out your ideal version of the bathroom within the existing four walls and show it to your contractor for a discussion of feasibility and costs. Be sure to consider the plumbing and electrical requirements of your new layout, as any changes can affect your budget and timeline.
During the demo stage, it’s a good idea to add blocking between wall studs that will support grab bars. This will save time later when you need to cut into drywall to install them. You should also consider adding a moisture resistant vapor barrier and cement board in your tub, shower stall and toilet areas, as these are moist and can harbor mold and mildew.
During this phase, it’s also a good idea to swap out outdated fixtures and hardware for contemporary alternatives. This can give a quick boost to the look of your bathroom without a major renovation. Be sure to pick out vanity mirrors, light fixtures and cabinet hardware that coordinate with the overall look you’re going for in your bathroom.
Layout
The layout of your bathroom is where the practicality of the room meets the design of the space. A few basic layouts fit most rooms, though you have plenty of flexibility for personalizing the space with colors, types of fixtures, flooring, and accessories.
Developing your ideal layout is the first step in a successful bathroom remodel. It will help you decide what materials you want, how much space you need for everything, and whether to change the plumbing or not. This step is especially important if you’re relying on existing plumbing hookups and drains, as changing those can add to your total costs.
A simple and effective layout for a full bathroom involves the vanity, toilet, and tub/shower combination all lined up in a row. This floor plan is efficient and affordable, as it uses the square footage effectively. This style of layout is particularly popular for primary bathrooms.
For a more luxurious look, consider placing a standalone tub in the center of the room. This layout allows you to enjoy the beautiful view and natural light of your window while taking a relaxing soak. Leigh Lincoln of Pure Salt Interiors used this strategy in a gorgeous master bathroom, where she placed a large soaking tub as the focal point.
A small, narrow bathroom can still accommodate a tub/shower combo and vanity by using an angled wall. This layout maximizes your space and makes the room feel larger.
Plumbing
A bathroom is one of the most complex areas in your home when it comes to plumbing and electrical work, so unless you have experience, it’s best to hire professionals for this part of your remodel. Plumbing and electrical upgrades add value to your home, but improper installation can lead to leaks, mold, and other serious problems. If you are going to hire contractors, get references and verify they have your area’s necessary licenses. They should also have a current certificate of insurance.
Once your contractor obtains all the required permits, they will start the actual renovation. This involves shutting off water to the existing bathroom, removing old fixtures and exposing piping, wiring, and wall framing. This step is called rough-in, and it allows your contractors to install new plumbing lines, reroute electrical wiring, and create HVAC venting in the ceiling, walls, and floor.
Some of the most expensive parts of a bathroom remodel are new fixtures and materials, but you can cut costs by choosing off-the-shelf items instead of custom options. Also, consider reusing your toilet, sink, and bathtub if they are in good condition. Refinishing or repainting them can save you money and give the old fixtures a new look.
When choosing a vanity, tub, shower, or other fixture, remember to factor in energy-efficient models and water-saving faucets. These will not only reduce your utility bills, but they will also help you make your bathroom a greener, more eco-friendly space. Also, when selecting a color scheme for the room, choose neutral tones that will appeal to a wider range of buyers should you ever decide to sell your home.
Electrical
The electrical work in a bathroom remodel can be complex and time-consuming. You’ll want to hire a licensed professional who can ensure your new remodel meets local electrical codes and safety regulations. They’ll know how to install new fixtures and lighting, and they can also help you create a layout that suits your space.
Whether you’re adding a new light fixture, towel warmer, or vanity, the right electrical system is critical for functionality and compliance with safety standards. Start by assessing your current electrical circuit’s power capacity to ensure it can handle the additional appliances. You’ll also need to install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) near sinks and bathtubs, which protect against electrical shock and are mandatory in bathrooms to prevent fire hazards.
Before you begin working on your bathroom layout, you should map out where you’ll want the switches to go. This will make it easier for the electrician Vancouver to work out the wiring plan according to your preferences. If you’re going to add a hair dryer, for instance, it will need its own dedicated outlet and should be placed in a location where you can reach it easily.
You should also take the opportunity to consider how you’ll use your bathroom and what types of storage space you need. If you’re removing a closet to expand your bathroom, for example, make sure you have enough storage to keep towels and toiletries. Also, mark the locations of existing plumbing and electrical wiring to avoid snagging them during demolition or construction. This will save you the hassle of having to repair or replace them later. To further streamline your remodel, you should also make a list of materials you’ll need and find prices online to get an idea of what your budget will be.
Finishing Touches
Once the rough-in work is done, it’s time to install fixtures and finishes. This includes bathtubs, showers, toilets, sinks, vanities, cabinets, and other items that will define the style and functionality of your bathroom. It’s important to use quality materials, as these will be in contact with water and should be able to resist mold, mildew, and other moisture-related problems.
Tiling is another important finishing touch, allowing you to add both style and function to your new bathroom. There are many design options available, including color, pattern, and texture. Light colors can make a room appear bigger, while darker tiles can add depth. It’s also important to choose non-slip, easy-to-clean tiles to prevent accidents and injuries.
Other finishing touches include adding decorative elements, such as mirrors and shelf space, to add personality to the room. You can also choose decorative lighting that matches your theme and is energy efficient. These details will give your bathroom a finished, functional look that’s unique to your tastes.
By planning ahead and having a budget, you can avoid any surprises during your remodel. You can also minimize costs by using a contractor who specializes in bathrooms and has experience with remodeling projects. Finally, it’s smart to have some extra money set aside for unexpected expenses during your remodel. This will help you stay within your budget and ensure that your new bathroom will be everything you want it to be. With a little time and effort, you can turn your old, outdated bathroom into a modern, functional space. This new space will be a place you can enjoy and relax in for years to come.