Homeowners can be somewhat torn on how important a bathroom remodel is to the market value of a property. Everybody will tell you that a kitchen is the most critical source for return on investment for your remodeling budget – which is true – but are many areas used more frequently than the bathroom?
What makes a bathroom remodel so valuable is that it pays back in a multitude of ways. There’s the obvious market value increase of a memorable commode, not to mention the increased quality of living that an open, relaxing space has to offer. Bathroom renovations will also help increase energy efficiency with the installation of low flow water fixtures and non invasive lighting.
Like any home improvement project, budget is always something to take into consideration. Homeowners need to weigh pros and cons of what are important features to include, and where to focus their finances. In order to do that, it’s important to understand where the biggest costs are going to be in a bathroom remodel:
Labor
It’s no surprise that 30 – 50% or more of your bathroom remodel budget will be spent on labor. The more rigorous the project, the higher that labor cost is going to be unfortunately.
Consider if you want to change the layout of the bathroom. That involves paying a plumber to move water lines, an electrician to run new wiring, a construction contractor for demo and the rebuild, as well as a tile specialist for new flooring / shower / backsplash. That doesn’t include a painter and/or a finish carpenter.
Some of that labor cost can be recouped with DIY work, most frequently the demo part of the project. Plumbing and electrical needs to be performed by a professional however.
Tile
Since bathrooms are generally smaller than other areas of the house, the good news is that labor costs for plumbers, electricians, etc. are generally lower because the job is done faster. It’s nothing for these trades to be done with their work in a single day or even an afternoon.
That’s not the case with tile installers though, whether it’s the floor, a shower, backsplash, etc. Tile installation is a very time consuming process – but in a way you want it to be so that the job looks nice.
Tile can only be laid in sections, and the mastic must be allowed to dry before the finishing grout can be applied. Before that the area needs to be measured and spaced out for aesthetics which is why many times a tile job can take 2-3 days or more.
It should also be noted that different tile materials will affect the budget. Natural stone tiles can cost 10X as much as basic ceramic products.
Fixtures
Low end bathtubs are going to start off with a price tag of around $400 even on sale at big box stores. High end, freestanding soaking bathtubs can be priced at $2,000 to $3,000 or more. All of these fixtures have great ROI when it comes time to sell the house (as well as an increased quality of living), but will put a significant dent in the budget at the time of remodel.
Low flow toilets don’t cost a considerable amount more than standard models, and they’re reported to save upwards of $150 per year in water bills. That may not seem like much, but compounded over 10 years it definitely adds up. Plus, sometimes there are tax incentives or rebates for having water saving fixtures installed.
Vanity
When you really think about it, there aren’t that many places to spend money in your bathroom. Lighting, painting, trim, and other miscellaneous items are going to pale in comparison to the big three of tiling, fixtures, and finally the vanity.
A vanity has become an increasingly important aspect of the bathroom for convenience as well as market value. His and her vanities are now the norm that buyers are looking for, but pedestal/wall mounted features also offer more room and make the bathroom look bigger. Vessel vanities provide a unique, modern look as well.
There are simply tons of options available in vanity choices, each with varying costs. Countertop material choices are included in that pricing as well, with marble/granite being more high end and laminate a more cost-efficient choice.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Summary
The ultimate thing to remember is that no matter how you want to lay out a bathroom or what features you want to include – it will all cost to have the work and installation done. Any time plumbing is added to the normal construction work, the labor prices will increase.
That doesn’t mean it’s not worth it though. There have been “Million Dollar Listing” type shows where a sale is lost simply because the master bathroom doesn’t have a tub to soak in. You’re in the bathroom multiple times a day for a number of different functions, you might as well enjoy the stay.
Giving construction estimates on a whim is a tough job. A contractor may run into a potential client on the street and they ask a very broad, “how much to to put up a garage” question even though there are dozens of variables that would affect that answer.
Bathroom contracting specialists deal with the same thing, specifically in questions about the timeline of a renovation. Homeowners have every right to know these details (along with cost, starting date, scope of work, etc.) but there are also a number of factors that go into this answer. Here are the steps of a bathroom renovation and how long you can expect each to take:
Permit Acquisition
Home renovations that require structural, electrical, or plumbing alterations will more often than not require a permit depending on your jurisdiction. If you just plan on changing the visual appearance of the bathroom (paint, new lighting or trim) then work can commence immediately. Also the good news about a bathroom renovation is that it is interior which means a permit can usually be granted within a week. Exterior remodeling in historical districts requires a board meeting and can take up to 6 weeks.
Demo
Once the scope of work is approved by the proper authorities, it’s time to start the ‘out with the old in with the new’ process. Many homeowners consider the demolition process a very doable DIY project, but just know that do-it-yourself jobs almost always stretch out the timeline.
Instead of a multi-person crew working 8 hour days, you’re likely having untrained friends and family volunteering their time on nights and weekends. Professional contractors can usually have bathroom demo done in a day, but DIY depends on how aggressive a person is with their time.
Framing and Rebuilding
You’re not dealing with the biggest square footage even in spacious, luxury, master bathrooms so the work involved with re-framing the room isn’t that time consuming. Replacing rotted subflooring is a one-day project, as is framing new walls for layout changes.
With interior work, the good news is that contractors can stick to deadlines regardless of weather. The only thing that would push the re-framing aspect into a second week would be a material shortage. It’s incredibly important that all of this work is done on time because services trades cannot start their work until the ‘bare bones’ are back in place.
Plumbing and Electrical
What many homeowners find is that the plumbing and electrical required for a bathroom renovation usually isn’t all that time consuming – but getting the tradespeople on site is. Construction contractors often get blamed for project delays when the truth is they are playing the waiting game on the often swamped service techs.
Don’t be surprised if your bathroom sits torn apart and idle for a week or two while waiting for a plumber and/or electrician to get to the job site. That’s why it’s important to have prompt demo done, and also have a general contractor with specific timelines and who stays on top of the service trades promises.
Tile Installation
Whether it’s flooring or a shower wall, it’s not a stretch to assume that tile installation will be the most time consuming aspect of your bathroom renovation. This is definitely a job that you don’t want rushed though, so give the installer plenty of time before scheduling the next service.
There’s just a lot that goes into the tile application process. For one, an installer can only work in sections since the adhesive mastic will dry up if they get too far ahead of themselves. Each individual tile needs to be placed meticulously so that it is straight and spaced out properly. Then, once the mastic and tiles are down, at least 24 hours should pass before applying grout.
The good news is that other types of flooring besides tile can be applied in a much quicker manner. Laying a laminate floor for example is usually a one-day job, but at the same time it doesn’t provide the same durability (or often the same aesthetics) as tile.
Fixtures, Paint, Trim
Installing new fixtures as well as painting and applying base, window, and door trim aren’t especially time consuming either. The thing is, you want to dedicate a day (two on the safe side) to each. Painters can do their job a lot faster before the vanity and trim is installed. The vanity should be installed before the base trim so it can be flush against the wall as well.
It’s not fair to ask multiple contractors to try and work at the same time in a space as small as a bathroom. Not to mention, each of them waiting to get in and out of a room is going to drive labor costs through the roof.
How Long Does a Bathroom Renovation Take Summary
There are little nuances during each step of a bathroom renovation that could really stretch out this project. You’ve got the design and permit phase before any work can even be done, then the demo, then giving plumbers and electricians enough time to install the ‘guts’ before the actual rebuild can begin.
Tile mastic and grout needs time to dry, as does paint. Fixtures, vanity, and trim all needs to be applied in a certain order as well. If you’ve got a contractor that is well-versed in all of these services, that’s going to significantly cut down on your timeline, but this is still a 2-week job at minimum.
One of the biggest aspects of home renovation is the ‘samples.’ This is most commonly used when painting rooms in your house as you take home the swatch to see how the colors will match your current décor.
“Samples” are also prevalent in bathroom renovations via the showroom. The showroom is the base example of what your current, perhaps bland, bathroom has the potential to be. That’s one of the reasons you want the showroom to be luxurious as well – to show you options. An underwhelming showroom is a telltale sign of how the contractor’s work will be. Here’s what you should look for in choosing the best bathroom showroom:
Bathroom Vanity
The feature may seem somewhat inconsequential, but the vanity is really what holds the bathroom together. You should be able to see all your vanity options available when you visit a showroom.
For starters, do you want one sink or two? Do you want the sink to be embedded in the countertop or the modern bowl types that have gained popularity lately? These bowls can be rustic, clear, or even different shapes like rectangles.
A great showroom will also give you an example of the types of materials that are available for your vanity. Marble seems like the go-to, but in some homes is almost too fancy. Granite is durable and peaceful.
Vanities don’t always have to be the traditional “drawers underneath” style either. No doubt this style offers great storage, but open bottom vanities are gaining in popularity because they make a small bathroom look more open. That’s what a great showroom will do – show you your options.
Functionality of Your Bathroom
Don’t always expect a bathroom showroom to have working plumbing, but top-notch bathroom showrooms will have some functionality though. How does this showerhead detach from its holster? What do these kinds of lights look like turned on? Even something as simple as opening and closing drawers lets you visualize them being installed in your home.
Customizable Options for Your Bathroom
One thing to remember is that the showroom is just an example of the features that are available. It can be renovated “as-is” or you can mix and match the different products and styles that fit your tastes.
Home renovations always come with options. It’s a good rule of thumb that to remodel to your tastes while also considering future buyer’s preferences – but that’s not a law. Free-standing bathtubs may look too modern for some buyers. Others will say “we’ll never use that bathroom fireplace or that heated towel rack.” You can’t please everyone, so you might as well please yourself.
Bathroom Renovation Pricing
Budget is always a concern when discussing home renovations. A showroom can ‘show’ you all the potential that your bathroom could see and note many of the luxury items available, but they should also be upfront about what those features would potentially cost.
The decision to invest in your bathroom is a wise one, and you’ll likely recoup your finances in market value at some point if you hold on to the home. The bathroom also has to be part of the whole house scheme though too. You want to ultimately create a space that home buyers remember, but not at the cost of other areas of your home.
What you’re ultimately looking for in a showroom is value. Don’t spend your entire budget on the shower, only to be left with a low-end vanity and flooring.
Integrate Your Bathroom With the Rest of Your Home
Showrooms give you an idea of options available when remodeling a bathroom, but you’ve also got to consider how these features and layout will integrate with your current square footage.
Will you need to do more extensive renovations to install the features you’ve found attractive in a showroom? We would all love a spa in the corner of our bathroom, but not if it means having to knock down walls in the master bedroom and downsizing from a king bed to a twin.
The bathroom only has value if the whole house has value. Showrooms give you an idea of the potential that can easily be reached. The ultimate bathroom comes from one part showroom, and one part creativity of the homeowner. A perfect recipe.
Best Bathroom Showroom Overview
Bathroom showroom browsing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You’re not locked into any of the products on display, and these are just options available for remodeling.
You should make a list of your bathroom renovation priorities. Looks are huge, functionality is important, and energy efficiency should always be considered. Something else to note is that you shouldn’t have any regrets. If you’ve always wanted a walk-in shower, go for it. You can always make one feature your focal point, and design around that.
Ask any real estate agent or financial adviser and they’ll say the best investment out there is putting money back into your home. It’s your biggest purchase (this side of a Lamborghini) and thus eventually your biggest sale.
So where do I spend on home improvement? Eight out of ten contractors will say in the kitchen because it is the focal point of a property. Master bedroom renovations are profitable too, but what is a room in your home that each resident and nearly every guest uses? The bathroom.
Bathroom renovations might not sound like a worthwhile area to invest in. That budget could be better off used in creating a man cave or turning that spare bedroom into a craft room, right? Sure, but here are also some reasons why renovating your bathroom is more rewarding than you think.
Creating a Sanctuary
Bathrooms are functional for sure, but they don’t have to be “get in and get out.” There’s nothing wrong with enjoying what can be a very peaceful time in the bathroom.
Instead of cold, plain, bland tile, imagine your bathroom smelling like lavender, having soft accent lighting, and with neutral décor that is relaxing and inviting.
We think of finished basements or upstairs media rooms as the spots that really offer the improved quality of living in a home. But how often do you use those areas? Weekends? Random Tuesday nights? You use the bathroom many times a day.
So Many Options
Bathroom renovations don’t sound all that appealing, but that’s because most homeowners think of it as putting in a new toilet and vanity and being done with the process. There are so many options out there to customize a bathroom though, including:
More Accessible
In commercial construction, amenities have to be considered for individuals of all different capabilities and accessibility levels. Light switches need to be at a certain height, there needs to be enough space to turn a wheelchair or walker around, there should be a lot of bracing, etc.
There’s no reason not to incorporate that into a residential bathroom remodel, even if you don’t need it now. If you’re getting the room down to the bare bones anyways, there’s no sense in not making it accessible in case of future health woes, if an older relative visits or moves in, or for potential buyers that may have a family member with a disability.
Energy Efficiency
A lot of home renovation projects pay you back in the long term by increasing your home’s market value. But with how much water and energy your bathroom uses you can start recouping payback in the first month.
Let’s look at the very simplest bathroom renovation, you don’t have to run an exhaust fan and you’ll prevent mold growth just by having a window installed if there’s not already one there. Privacy glass can be used to maintain that sense of calm.
Bathroom renovations work great for reducing water consumption as well. Low flow faucets and toilets pay themselves off, and even something as simple as a shower timer can really start reducing your carbon footprint. Many homeowners make money off their bathroom renovations eventually.
Making the Space Memorable to Buyers
Every floor plan has an open concept and a breakfast bar now. So much so that these are indistinguishable aspects to home buyers. With an exquisite bathroom renovation, you create a selling point that future buyers cannot forget.
A bathtub, heated floors, creative lighting, and some technological upgrades are things that a future buyer will remember.
You can enjoy your renovation now, but also get paid for the project when the time comes to sell your home and you subsequently need to remodel your new property.
Yes, a kitchen is very important, so is a master bedroom, but they won’t get nearly the usage (or the compliments) as a bathroom renovation.
Remodeling comes with some perks, most notably a new bathroom in the end. However, the process often involves a ton of dust, time, and debris. The disorganization and disarray are some reasons you may be putting off that update that would make your home more perfect.
We have great news – with our 1-day remodeling process, you can get up and leave for work in the morning and return to a brand new, fully renovated bathroom when you get home. Imagine avoiding all the muss, fuss, and construction mess!
You may ask how such a transformation is even possible, but we promise there are no magic tricks involved. We come out to your home and leave you with a completely transformed bathroom in a single day. The testimonials of our happy former clients are proof that our process is highly effective.
Customer-Centric Process
Our secret is that we have no secret! We use a highly customer-centric process that guides you through the whole project from start to finish. You’ll work with a design team to create the perfect bathroom, understanding all the while what the costs will be and how different choices can be made to suit your budget.
Then, a highly trained team of professionals will expertly tackle even the trickiest of bathroom remodel jobs. Their experience means that they’ve seen it all. At the end of the day, as you admire your new bathroom, you’ll wonder why you didn’t give us a call sooner!
What are the benefits of going with a 1-day bathroom remodeling?
The primary benefit of choosing Columbus Bath Design for your 1-day bathroom remodel job is that our system works. It’s that simple. We have worked hard to learn about different remodeling processes and have a thorough understanding the bathroom remodeling business.
We’ve listened closely to our customers to get the best idea possible of how the remodeling process works from their perspective. This insight is incredibly important in understanding where our customers are coming from.
By combining all that we know about the goals, desires, and frustrations of our customers and our extensive knowledge of the bathroom remodeling business, we developed the perfect way to help you create the perfect bathroom oasis.
We refined our process over the years and now we are the experts when it comes to bathroom remodeling. We eliminate the hassle and guesswork out of the process. We guarantee that there will be no surprises at any time during the renovation.
What makes your process different from a regular bathroom remodeling project?
We heard our customers loud and clear that their main concerns when it comes to bathroom remodeling are that it is messy, expensive, time-consuming, and overwhelming. We specifically designed our 1-day remodeling process to address these major headaches and concerns.
We know that the surprises that come up in the middle of the project only add to the frustration, and we have taken steps to address these concerns. With our free estimates, you’ll know exactly what the project will cost from the very beginning.
With the help of our design experts, you’ll create the perfect plan for your bathroom. We’ll help you choose just the right fixtures and create a complete design document. With all the choices made and the plan in place, you’ll know exactly what the bathroom renovation project will cost.
Once the design is completed, the project is taken over by our professional installation team. You’ll get a call to schedule remodeling day and they’ll get everything together ahead of time, putting all the pieces in place for your scheduled project day.
We fully understand that you need to have your bathroom operational, so we take great care to keep it out of commission as little as possible. It’s the degree and scope of our advanced planning that makes it realistic to complete the remodel in just one day.
One advantage we also offer through our process is that our expert team knows exactly what to do and what the project requires, reducing the need for multiple contractors in your home.
What steps are involved in the 1-day remodeling process?
The most critical step is for you to pick up the phone and give us a call or come down to our showroom for a free consultation! Our design experts are ready to guide you through the process and help you create the perfect bathroom design.
We’ll walk you through all of the necessary choices, honing in on the look, feel, and function that you are looking for. We’ll help you choose the perfect accessories, tub, tile, and fixtures that fit your style and desired functionality.
Our one-day remodeling process is designed to give you the best possible new bathroom without the hassle that is usually involved in the remodeling process.
Then we’ll give you a free estimate, get your remodeling day scheduled, and you are on your way to a great new bathroom!
Let’s face it, not everyone has the luxury of having a massive, spa-like bathroom in their home. While it may seem like a big challenge to create a bathroom design if you only have a small space, using the right design-savvy goes a long way in not only making your small space stylish and practical but even making it appear bigger than it is.
There are several things you can do to take your small bathroom space and make it look and feel more spacious. The design experts at Columbus Bath Design can guide you through the options available, from storage and décor to design choices that don’t break the bank but make a huge difference.
The first thing to do to make your bathroom look bigger is to take a step back and see if some easy projects could make a big difference. For instance, if each wall of your bathroom has a patterned wallpaper or paint job, it likely has the effect of making the space seem crowded and cluttered.
Consider ditching these wall coverings in favor of a simple, clean paint job. You’ll be surprised how that can instantly make your bathroom appear bigger. When making color choices for a new paint job, consider choosing something light, like a sky blue or a pastel yellow. Neutral shades like off-white and beige are also good choices.
A fresh paint job also gives you a blank canvas when you start considering the fixtures and accessories that will give you not only storage but pops of color and style.
You can look down to the floor to immediately make a small space look bigger. By installing the right floor tiling in the right way, you can create the illusion of larger floor space. While it’s commonly thought that small tiles installed in a small bathroom are the best way to make space seem larger, the truth is that the numerous grout lines have the opposite effect.
Busy, patterned tiles are likewise a poor choice for small spaces. Stay away from these, and instead use large, plain tiles with few grout lines. Like paint color, plain-colored tiles are more effective than patterned tiles, since check marks and other geometric designs lead to the impression of an even smaller space.
As with any room, lots of mirrors creates the effect of a bigger area, plus in a bathroom, they are useful and needed tools. When installed appropriately in conjunction with plain tiles, the effect can be multiplied, tricking the eye into a perception of even bigger space.
While tiling, paint, and mirrors are the low hanging fruit when it comes to making your bathroom look bigger, more extensive projects include choosing the right fixtures and making sure shower and tub enclosures are properly designed to increase space.
For instance, if you use the right toilets and sinks, you can immediately realize space gains. There are tons of new models out there that attach directly to the walls, reducing clutter and increasing floor space. Also, wall-hung units are specifically designed to be as compact as possible.
By taking them off the floor, they don’t “stick out” as much. Anything with a long profile not only encroaches on valuable floor space but also draws the eye, making the room appear cramped and small. By taking up a smaller space than regular features, wall-mounted fixtures are an excellent way to make your small bathroom look bigger.
Likewise, making good design choices when it comes to shower enclosures is critical. Consider quadrant shower enclosures, which are enclosures with doors that fold in or slide. These are the perfect choice to maximize space in a small bathroom.
In-folding doors fold neatly in on themselves instead of opening into the room, and streamlined sliding doors use rails in the enclosure to slide without encroaching on your valuable space.
Without question! Rails and hooks are a great way to free up space in a small bathroom and can be used for bath towels and clothing. Hooks only use a few inches on a wall or door without affecting the design flow of your bathroom.
Hanging storage in your shower is a fantastic way to save space. Using wire baskets for your shampoo, soap, and sponges gets them off the shelves or floor and creates an attractive look.
For shelving, consider open shelves as a smart way to visually open up space while at the same time providing a ton of storage. Plus that gives you the freedom to be creative with your towels and other beauty projects!
Another easy one – give us a call! The design experts at Columbus Bath Design know exactly how to make a small bathroom look bigger using the tricks described here, plus they are well-versed in all of the newest products and trends.
We look forward to helping you create the perfect bathroom oasis out of your small space!
While the dream of many a homeowner is to gut their bathrooms and remodel them in a new and more updated style, the fact is that many people simply don’t have the budget for a complete overhaul.
The good news is that there are some very cost-effective things you can do to update both functionality and style without breaking the bank. At the top of this list is updating your bathroom with a new sink/vanity.
While you can certainly install a state of the art toilet or ultra-cool waterfall shower, the best thing you can do to freshen up your bathroom’s look is to install a new vanity. Not only are they easy to install, but they are also the focal point of the room and can quickly and easily give it a new look.
There are a few things to consider when looking for your new vanity. For instance, not everyone has the luxury of an oversized bathroom, so finding a vanity that fits your space and budget is key.
We’re here to help! The designers at Columbus Bath Design have helped homeowners like you not only update their bathroom but to do so on a budget and with style. Give us a call and we’ll help you get started on your project today.
Why is updating your vanity an easy way to freshen up the bathroom’s look?
While updating or installing a new toilet or shower usually requires advanced plumbing skills that add cost to the budget, bathroom vanities can be updated with relative ease. Chances are good that if you are comfortable using basic tools already in your home, you would feel comfortable replacing your vanity by yourself, without the need for expensive plumbers or contractors.
Not only that, with the wide variety of shapes and styles out there, you can quickly change the overall look of your bathroom just by changing out your sink and vanity. Since most tubs and toilets tend to be white, adding color and style to your room is best achieved with a new vanity.
And as mentioned above, updating your vanity is one of the most cost-effective and budget-friendly options for giving your bathroom a fresh, clean, and new look.
What kinds of design factors do I need to consider when updating my sink/vanity?
There are a few basic design elements that will drive your choice of the new vanity. First is size, then theme, and then finally countertops. Once you’ve made these choices, all you need to do is get your new vanity in place to have a fresh look!
Vanity Size
When it comes to size, the overriding question is how much space you have for your vanity. If you have a large or oversized bathroom, you don’t need to worry about space requirements. You could easily add an extra-wide vanity with oversized mirrors.
Most of us, however, don’t have that luxury. Small spaces do not mean that there are no good options, though. For instance, if you have a small space and like a more traditional style, a pedestal sink with a simple hanging mirror is not only a good style choice, it can also help to make your bathroom look larger. Consulting with a design expert will help you discover the full range of options available to fit your size requirements.
Choose Your Theme
The theme is the next big choice to make after you’ve settled on size. Since one of the main reasons to update your vanity is to give your bathroom a new look, deciding on the theme is critical. You’ll want to explore all of the design options available before making your final selection.
Some people prefer art deco or black, some a more modern flair. Rustic, country bathrooms are gaining in popularity. More traditional vanities are now available in all sizes and shapes, with styles anywhere from shabby chic to farmhouse. Deciding on what style you want is one of the most fun parts of the project – you’ll get to preview all that is available and refine the look to fit your taste.
Consider Countertop Options
Finally, make sure you pay attention to the countertops. Choosing the right surface is important since it not only completes the look but needs to be right for the job. Non-porous countertops are the best choice since continued exposure to moisture can shorten the lifespan of countertops made from laminate, natural wood, and other materials.
What should I do if I want to update my sink/vanity?
When you approach a project like updating your sink/vanity we know the choices can be overwhelming! We’re here to help. Our design experts know exactly how to walk you through the process, taking the guesswork out of where to start and making it a fun experience. We can’t wait to help you start the updating process!
When it’s time to remodel your bathroom, one of the most important considerations and decisions you’ll make is whether to choose a bath or shower. The choice you make will completely change the layout and look of your bathroom. It will also play a significant role in the budget for your project.
If you don’t have the space to install a combo shower-tub and need to make a decision, what option is right for you? Whether or not to go for a bathtub or a shower is something almost all homeowners contemplate.
Not to worry, we’ll discuss all of the differences between a shower and a tub with their respective pros and cons so that you can make a choice that not only suits your needs but also adds the most value to your home. The design experts at Columbus Bath Design are here to help! We’ll guide you through the options you need to consider during the design process.
What are some factors to consider in choosing between a shower and a tub?
Regardless of whether you are going to install a new bathtub or a new shower, you need to make plans for the installation well in advance, even before the drywall is installed and other bathroom fixtures are added.
Not only do practical considerations like plumbing need to be addressed, but there is also the challenge of clearance. Especially if you choose a prefabricated unit, your new fixture will need to be physically moved into your home. If there are doors, appliances, or other fixtures in the way, you’ll need to find a way to get around them.
The overall installation process is fairly straightforward regardless of whether you choose a bathtub or a shower. First, the plumbing will be prepared and the floor will be strengthened where the unit will go. Once the drain plumbing is in place, either a shower pan will be put in place or your new tub will be secured and properly plumbed. After tiling and cleanup, and you have your new bathroom!
What are some cost factors to consider?
If you are on a budget, there are some choices you make that can limit costs. For example, a prefab shower is generally less expensive than a custom installed shower with designer tile.
Likewise, a jacuzzi tub will cost far more than a standard tub. The choices you make then drive the cost of finishes like tilework and fixtures. An expert designer, like those at Columbus Bath Design, can walk you through the many choices and options that are available.
In the end, your bathroom needs to be functional for you. If you are on a budget, you may need to adjust your expectations, but the perfect solution is out there for you.
There are styles and designs to suit every budget, so no need to shy away from a bathroom renovation over concern about cost.
What are other factors to consider when deciding between bathtub and shower?
Other factors that are important to consider include energy and cost efficiency, convenience for family members, available space, and maintenance.
When it comes to energy and cost efficiency, the most significant consideration is water usage and capacity. For instance, a standard bathtub will hold around 25 to 40 gallons of water, while a whirlpool tub generally uses 80 to 100. And with a bigger tub, you may also need to consider the size of your hot water heater!
Another important consideration is to pay attention to the use you expect. A tub may be a great idea for parents with small children, but a shower is a far better plan for older people who may not be comfortable climbing into a tub for a shower. If you are short on time in the morning, a shower is much quicker than a tub, which needs to be filled with hot water before bathing.
When it comes to available space, the choice may be made for you. A tub takes up a lot of space, usually 72 inches long and 30 inches wide. Showers are generally 36 by 48 inches, meaning they have a much smaller footprint than a bathtub.
Finally, maintenance considerations should be key to your decision. Showers are generally easier to maintain and clean than a tub, but showers also have more glass and tile surfaces that need to be kept free from mineral deposits and grime. Whichever choice you make will determine the type and schedule of maintenance you’ll need to keep.
How do I get started designing the bathroom of my dreams?
That’s the easy part, just give us a call! One of the expert designers at Columbus Bath Design will walk you through the different options available and help you put together an installation plan that fits your style and budget. We look forward to helping you create the perfect bathroom oasis.
When you picture your dream home, there is probably a good chance that a beautifully designed, spa-like bathroom in pristine condition plays a big role in your vision. A dream bathroom can be the perfect place to unwind and relax, a great place to either start the day or to put the worries of the day to rest.
We’re here to help! The design experts at Columbus Bath Design know exactly how to help you turn your dream into reality. Whether you are looking for spa-like elegance, storage solutions, or just need to modernize your existing bathroom, we’ll work with you to sharpen your vision, guide your decisions, and make your dream bathroom come to life.
What are some things I should consider in designing my dream bathroom?
A bathroom redesign and renovation can be a daunting task. There are many things to consider, from finishes and fixtures to storage and styles. Our experts will help guide you through the key areas you’ll need to focus on for your project to be a success. Keeping these key factors in mind from the start will guarantee a smooth and headache-free project.
The first thing to consider is customization. How you utilize your bathroom and your vision for what it should be is the most critical part of the planning process. After all, if the finished product doesn’t meet your needs, then it’s a waste of both time and money!
You don’t have to be an expert in interior design to get started. We’ll sit down with you and go through pictures, discussing what you like and don’t like about individual design features and choices. In just a little while, your vision will emerge, and we can keep narrowing the focus until the perfect design has been created.
What choices and features do I need to include in my dream bathroom design?
When you first start seriously planning your dream bathroom, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the number of choices you need to make. One good idea is to start with the basics. By making the overarching, basic choices first, you can gradually narrow down the more specific choices. The very first decision you should make is as fundamental as choosing the color palette you’d like to have in the space. From there you can make choices on décor and fixtures that fit the color scheme and add the functionality you need.
It’s also important to be aware of the current design trends on the market, especially if you intend to sell your home in the next couple of years. By making good decisions in the bathroom remodeling process, you can not only create a dream bathroom for your use but also a design feature that could increase your property value. A great example of this is the current trend of combination bathrooms that include both a walk-in shower and a soaker tub. If space exists to include this best-of-both-worlds scenario, why not take advantage of it?
The essential choice that needs to be made, apart from the color palette, is whether you want your dream bathroom to be more minimal or more functional. Each category has a wide array of customization available, with minimalist designs focusing on keeping spaces open with a modern flair, while functional designs are generally more comfortable and focus on the use of the space.
How do I make sure my dream bathroom is personalized for me?
When you are creating your dream bathroom, the most important part of the design is you! It’s your dream space, so it should reflect your vision. Accessories and products can add a lot of personality. Bringing together all the fixtures and finishes in a way that is appealing to you is important in creating a dream bathroom that makes sense for you and your space.
You need to live in the space, so while it’s important to keep trends in mind while inspiring your decisions, our goal is to help you create a space that you feel comfortable in. Your choices and taste should inform every step of the process, and we’ll help you make the right decisions to bring your dream to life.
No matter what design choices you make, functionality needs to be kept in mind. A bathroom has specific functions it needs to be a successful project. Everything from faucet design to tub size is critical in how you use your bathroom. Having the right touches not only creates a space you’ll be comfortable in, but it will also make your dream bathroom function perfectly.
How do I kickstart planning my dream bathroom?
Ready to go? Stop procrastinating and give us a call! We have a simple process that will take your dream and make it a reality. We’ll meet up, explore designs, create an estimate, finalize the design, then turn the project over to our professional technicians for easy installation, often in as little as a single day.
We look forward to helping you create your dream bathroom!
Because of their practicality and efficiency, shower/tub combos have been staples of American households for decades. With the combo, homeowners have the options of a long, soaking bath or a quick hot shower.
For all their practicality, though, the shower/tub has had its share of problems — most notably mobility issues for older generations.
Even though the shower/tub combo has enjoyed a long run of popularity, the latest bathroom design trends are to do away with it entirely and instead go with a freestanding tub or walk-in shower.
In this issue, the bathroom remodeling experts with Columbus Bath Design will talk about the pros and cons of bathtubs and showers, and each fits into your bathroom.
Few things beat the luxury and relaxation of a soaking bath. If you have young children, it makes sense to have at least one tub in our home. Relatively easy to clean, soaking tubs offer great solutions for pain relief, circulation, and physical therapy.
Tubs don’t have to be boring. Many models have air jets and whirlpools to relax and soothe your every muscle.
Here at Columbus Bath Design, we have the ability to get you just about any tub design you want. Here are the most popular options.
Even as it adds value and comfort to your home, a tub also has a few drawbacks.
Rather than wait for your water when taking a shower, you simply turn the nozzle and walk right in. It’s simple as that.
You’ll also be saving water. According to a study from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an average full bath will need 70 gallons of water each time you take a bath. On the other hand, a quick shower usually requires only 10-25 gallons.
Other advantages of walk-in showers include;
This is definitely a good time to be in the market for a new shower.
Just about everything in life has its drawbacks, and showers are no different.
Bath design and installation are all we do here at Columbus Bath Design, so we’re confident we can find the right solution for you and your home.
For inspirational ideas, check out our online video gallery. You can also reach us at 614-907-4558 or complete our online contact form to have a better idea of what you’re looking for.
Contact Columbus Bath Design today to start designing your dream bathroom. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
