Hiring a professional contractor to do a bathroom remodel is a smart option, especially if you don’t have the time or desire to undertake a DIY renovation. However, you don’t want to choose a contractor based solely on cost. Here are the key questions to ask your bathroom remodeling contractor:
Before seriously considering a contractor, you should get a better idea of their experience. Ask them for photos and info on completed renovations that they’ve done. They should also be willing and able to provide you with references who can attest to the quality of their work. Experience is important in ensuring that the remodel is done correctly. 
It’s important to find out if the contractor and their crew will clean up after themselves. If the current bathroom will be undergoing any sort of demolition, you want to know that you won’t be left cleaning up the mess. Ask if they’ll be hauling away the materials that are removed, such as broken tiles, fixtures, and hardware. The cost of removal for large amounts of materials may fall on you, or it may be included in the contract. Be sure to find out in advance of any demolition work.
In addition to a cost estimate, the contractor should be able to give you an estimated timeline for the project. They should be able to go through each step and explain how long it may take. One thing that you don’t want to have is the contractor begin work and then disappear for days or weeks at a time. You don’t want to be left with a bathroom in disrepair. A quality contractor will value your time and appreciate the need to complete the project within a reasonable time frame.
The warranty question is a critical one for protecting your home. Ask the contractor if they guarantee the quality of their work and if they provide a warranty as a part of their contract. This is to protect elements of a remodel like plumbing and electrical work, which can be costly to repair, if not done properly the first time. As for the materials that you select as part of the renovation, such as tiles, flooring, fixtures, etc., the contractor may be able to provide you with the information regarding manufacturer warranties. Having a warranty gives you peace of mind.
Choosing the right contractor can mean the difference between achieving the remodel results you desire or getting stuck with a failed renovation that leaves you feeling ripped off. Take the time to ask these questions, as well as any others that you may have. Do this before you sign any contracts or agree to begin a bathroom remodel. A qualified, trustworthy contractor will take pride in their reputation. They’ll offer a warranty, stick to a reasonable timeline, and will make sure that you get the finished bathroom you want.
Contact us if you would like to schedule a free in-home estimate and begin your dream bathroom remodel today.
Leaks in the bathroom are always a cause for concern for homeowners. After all, no one wants to waste water or have a small leak turn into a major, costly issue. An undetected leak can do a lot of damage over time, and even over a short period if it’s serious enough. Once you know what to look for, you can attempt to identify the problem, make the necessary repairs, and resolve the situation quickly. Here are some tips on how to detect a leak, and how to handle the situation.
If you suspect that you have a leak in the bathroom, you’ll need to find the source and see if there’s any visible water damage. One way to locate a leak is by taking a dry cloth and run it along the pipes or water lines to see if any spots come up damp. If you do locate a spot that’s wet, try to tighten pipes and connections to see if that stops it. It could be a loose joint between pipes or water lines.
Leaks in the bathtub or shower stall can occur in several different spots. Check the caulking along the tub and the wall to ensure that it’s in good condition. You will need to fully remove old caulking completely before you can fill in any spots with gaps. This should be done every few years so that you maintain a tight and secure seal between the tub and the walls.
Any time that you discover a potential problem with the fixtures or systems in your home, you’re likely to worry. It’s natural to be upset, but remaining calm is more helpful to you and your family. Take a deep breath, and remember that these things happen. Making repairs and dealing with these types of issues are a part of being a responsible homeowner.
Do your best to locate the source of the leak, shut off the water if necessary, and then determine if it seems like a repair that you can handle on your own. It could be something simple, or it could be something more serious. Once you’ve stopped the leaking by turning off the water, you can do a more thorough assessment and decide whether it warrants calling in a pro.
It’s always best to contact an expert if the issue is serious. A skilled and experienced plumber will know how to find the source of the leak, and they’ll have both the equipment and the expertise to fix the leak for good. It may mean spending money on their services, but it’s well worth it to save you money and spare you the stress in the long run. Having a pro come in to do repairs is a great way to prevent future problems, as well.
You don’t want to simply patch up a leaky spot and then have to face the issue again in a few days or weeks. Getting it fixed properly the first time is the best option. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that a professional has solved the problem and prevented costly damage.
For independent seniors, a few simple home modifications geared toward safety and comfort can make all the difference. In honor of National Bath Safety Month, we would like to tell you about improving the quality and safety of a bathroom by installing a walk-in tub. This type of tub offers many advantages over a typical bathtub or shower stall. Here’s a look at some of the benefits of a walk-in tub for seniors seeking greater safety and independence.
The walk-in design makes it much more comfortable and convenient for individuals with mobility issues to bathe safely. With a typical tub, one has to step inside of it, which can be a real challenge for many. The walk-in style has a door that can be easily opened, and a person does not need to step or lift their legs to enter. For seniors seeking more convenience in the bathroom, this type of tub is ideal. It reduces the risk of injury while seeking a relaxing bath. 
Another great benefit of a walk-in tub is the hydrotherapy it provides. This soothes the muscles and aids in stress relief. It’s a great way to relax and unwind with a bath while knowing that it’s both safe and comfortable. There are a variety of health issues with physical symptoms that can be soothed by hydrotherapy, including arthritis, diabetes, and more. A warm bath can provide both physical and emotional relief from the pain and discomfort these types of conditions cause.
For aging individuals and their loved ones, a safer environment in the home becomes an important focus. There are so many ways to make a home safe for seniors, and especially the bathroom. A walk-in tub reduces the risk of slipping or falling when entering or exiting the bath. They also come with grab bars that make moving in and out of the tub easier. Falls are common among senior citizens, and they can cause many other health issues and complications. Take the worry out of bathing with a safer bathroom. A walk-in tub is a smart, simple way to transform the bathroom and give seniors and their families peace of mind.
When seeking practical modifications to allow a senior to maintain their current level of independence and stay in their home, walk-in tubs are an affordable option. This is especially true when you consider the real value that they provide to individuals with mobility issues. It’s an affordable way to upgrade the bathroom and create a comfortable space.
Finally, walk-in tubs aren’t only beneficial and necessary for senior citizens. A walk-in tub provides all of the same benefits to the whole family. This includes households with children , and those with family members who have mobility issues, illnesses, or disabilities. For seniors who live in a home with loved ones of various ages, it still makes sense to install this type of bathtub for the enhanced safety and comfort. Everyone can benefit from the hydrotherapy that a walk-in tub can offer.
If you’re interested in converting to a walk-in tub or making other changes to your bathroom, contact us today. We can talk about your bathroom remodeling needs and discuss your options.
For seniors, the bathroom can be a potentially hazardous place in the home. In recognition of National Bath Safety Month, we’re sharing the information that you need to know about bath safety for seniors. Just a few easy modifications can transform the bathroom into a safer space for the elderly.
The National Council on Aging reports that 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 and over fall each year. These accidents can result in a variety of injuries, some of which can be fatal. Slip and fall accidents frequently occur in the bathroom, where the conditions can be slippery. The risks for seniors are real, but luckily there are effective ways to reduce them. By making some changes to create a more functional space for those with mobility and stability issues, seniors can avoid slip and fall incidents in their bathrooms.
A walk-in tub makes bathing a much simpler and safer experience. Having one professionally installed can be one of the keys to helping a senior stay in the comfort of their own home longer. Walk-in tubs are both stylish and functional. Seniors and their loved ones can have greater peace of mind after installing this type of tub.
Standing in the shower can be difficult, if not impossible for some seniors. A comfortable, durable shower seat is an ideal fix. Shower seats can be installed in an existing tub or stall, and there are also movable options, too.
Grab bars make it much easier to sit comfortably on the toilet and to enter and exit the tub and shower. They’re simple to install and provide essential support for individuals with mobility problems. Many grab bars are movable and can be easily and conveniently transferred to other areas of the room and other bathrooms. Others are mounted securely to the wall, making showering safer.
The pathway to the bathroom and the floor of the room should be kept clean and free of clutter. Consider removing small rugs and bath mats that can be trip hazards. Be sure that any rugs that are used have a secure rubber grip on the bottom to keep them in place. This prevents the rug from shifting around on tile and laminate floors.
Entering a dark bathroom is dangerous for seniors. A basic night light is ideal to keep the room illuminated in the evenings for safety. Consider using an LED light with a sensor that will automatically turn on after dusk.
A safer bathroom is easy to achieve with just a few simple modifications. For seniors planning to stay in the comfort of their own homes for years to come, installing a walk-in tub with a seat is an excellent option. Removing clutter, adding grab bars, and keeping the room well lit are all necessary and helpful. Take the steps to transform the bath into a safe room that can remain functional and provide the comfort that individuals with mobility issues need.
Contact us to start planning your safe bathroom remodel today!
Thousands of people are injured in bathroom accidents each year. Fortunately, many of these incidents are preventable if homeowners follow a few simple safety tips. January is National Bath Safety Month, and a good time for homeowners to look for tips on how to design a safe bathroom. Below are some helpful suggestions on how to prevent bathtub injuries and avoid slipping while taking a bath or shower.
Installing specific accessories can make your bathroom significantly safer than it is currently. For example, grab bars are an excellent addition to any bathroom. Many falls occur simply because there is no practical area to grab onto if you lose your balance or trip. Grab bars can be installed on the sides of the shower, at its entrance, or in both areas, depending on the design of your bathroom. Such bars also make it easier to navigate the shower overall, as they provide a place to grip when stepping in and out of the bath.
Many people have quickly entered a shower or bathtub assuming that the water is at the appropriate temperature, only to discover it is much hotter than desired. This sudden exposure to hot water may cause you to become injured by a burn or by falling if you attempt to hastily exit the shower. Therefore, make sure you have a way to control water temperature or check to make it is a desirable temperature before entering. There are devices available that monitor and control the temperature of the water and prevents it from exceeding a certain degree, so this may be an option for you if you frequently have water temperature concerns.
If your shower has doors, glass fixtures, or similar components, you should make an effort to cover sharp edges in order to avoid cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. This is an important aspect of bath safety, as clothing is not present to provide extra protection when bathing or showering. In addition to covering sharp edges in showers and baths, be sure to cover them on counters as well.
If you or other residents of your home are elderly, you should consider the addition of accessories such as a shower seat and a hand-held shower head. Such devices make it easier and safer for seniors to bathe or shower, particularly those who have balance issues or take medications that may cause dizziness or an unsteady gait.
In certain cases, it may be necessary to plan a remodeling project in order to design a safe bath for you and your loved ones. When remodeling, your contractor can create a floor plan with safety in mind. This way, you can avoid slipping, control water temperature, cover sharp edges, and have the contractor install accessories such as grab bars and seats during the bathroom remodeling process.
Although it is not always possible to completely prevent every minor accident, designing a safe bathroom is a great place to begin. Contact Columbus Bath Design to receive a free estimate and talk to a professional about making your bathroom a safer place.
After completing a bathroom remodel, the last thing that you want to do is to let it get dirty, messy, and disorganized. With regular upkeep, your beautiful bathroom will look fresh for years to come. These smart organization and cleaning tips will ensure that your new bathroom maintains a neat and tidy appearance you can be proud of. 
It’s a task that no one enjoys, but deep cleaning is essential. This includes scrubbing the shower, tub, and toilet, wiping down the sink and counter, cleaning the mirror and windows, and mopping the floor. By tackling dirt and grime before it builds up, you can maintain the look of the important details in the bathroom, like grout and fixtures. Deep cleaning keeps the space healthy and sanitary, as well as visually appealing. If you’re pressed for time or simply hate the task of cleaning, consider hiring a housekeeper. It’s an affordable and practical way to maintain the cleanliness and neatness of your entire home.
A clutter-free bathroom will help you to feel more relaxed in the space. Take a few minutes each day to cut the clutter by putting things back in their designated places. Don’t let items pile up on shelves and countertops. When a product is used up, like shampoo or toothpaste, throw it away as soon as it runs out. Put dirty clothes and linens in a hamper and transfer it to the laundry room frequently.
If your vanity has drawers, use small organizers to keep them tidy. You can find a variety of affordable options in different sizes to fit snugly in your drawers. It will also save you time from trying to find what you need when you’re getting ready, as well. Shelves can also be kept neat with simple baskets or small bins. They can serve both a decorative and functional purpose. If you have counter space, use a basket to keep extra hand towels.
If you often go through a drawer and find a product that you haven’t used in years, you aren’t alone. Many homeowners simply don’t take the time to go through drawers and cabinets to toss out old items. However, it’s a great way to stay organized. Check the labels on things like over-the-counter medicines and personal care products, and throw away anything that’s old or expired. Let go of cosmetics that you no longer use to make space for the things you do use regularly. Cabinet and drawer cleanouts are a great task to add to your spring cleaning checklist.
Keep your bathroom remodel looking brand new for years to come by following these simple cleaning tips. Start off with an organized space and take the time to clean often. By keeping up with deep-cleaning and tidying, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful bathroom that provides a relaxing respite in your home.
If you want to make the most of your master bathroom-remodeling project, keeping your new space free of clutter is essential. Nothing can take the shine off of a luxurious bathroom quicker than towels laying over shower doors and countertops cluttered with personal hygiene products. Follow these organizational bathroom tips and you will be able to enjoy your new washroom for years to come.
A bathroom remodel is a great project, adding high return investment on real estate investment too. Do not let your investment go to waste by allowing your master bathroom to become cluttered and disorganized. If you do not yet have your dream bathroom, contact Columbus Bath Design today to start planning.
Many homeowners search for bathroom cleaning tips when spring arrives. Below are some helpful suggestions to get this much used-room sparkling clean in less than an hour:
Rugs and Towels. Begin by removing all towels from the towel racks and take them to the laundry room. Even if they are your “good” towels and are not used much, they can absorb a dank smell from hanging in a moisture-rich bath. Therefore, it is wise to run them through a short wash cycle and fluff them in the dryer. Take any rugs with rubber backing and lay them in the hallway or another room where they can be vacuumed. If rugs are machine washable, follow the directions on their tags and choose the appropriate wash cycle.
Toilet Bowl. To quickly clean a toilet bowl, flush it to ensure the sides are wet and pour one cup of full strength bleach into the bowl. Brush it around the sides and under the rim and move on to the next task as you let the bleach sit for approximately ten minutes. When this time has elapsed, flush it again and you will see a gleaming bowl with no rings were signs of grime.
Cleaning Bathroom Surfaces. To clean ceramic and porcelain surfaces, as well as your sink and bathtub, stir three tablespoons of baking soda into two cups of warm water and a half cup of household ammonia. Use standard rubber gloves to wipe solution over all surfaces and rinse it off with a clean rag or sponge. This formula will make all surfaces in your bathroom shine. Using the same mixture, scrub down towel racks and any brass, chrome or brushed nickel fixtures. Wipe down mirrors with standard glass cleaner to remove fingerprints and watermarks.
Sweep the floor to clear away large pieces of dirt and then mop vigorously for several minutes with a formula appropriate for your bathroom’s floor. When the floor has dried, fetch your clean towels and rugs and put them back in their places.
Rooms such as bathrooms can be challenging to keep tidy, but by using these cleaning tips, you can always make your bathroom shine in less than an hour.
Many homeowners choose springtime to complete renovations. If you are planning a bathroom remodeling project and are looking around for some professional tips, consider the suggestions outlined below to help ensure a successful project:
Design Details. Whether your goal is a complete remodeling project or merely a facelift, focusing on design detail allows you to have a smooth, hassle-free remodeling project. Decide in advance which outdated features you want to change and shop for fixtures, lights, cabinets and color schemes to help give the room a whole new look. Browse current bathroom trends to discover the themes and styles you find most appealing, remembering that even simple things, such as mirrors, wall décor, handles and faucets can have a significant impact on the overall outcome of the renovations.
Lighting. According to tips offered by home improvement experts, lighting should always be considered part of any remodeling project. You do not want to end up with outdated light fixtures in a brand-new bathroom, as these two characteristics will clash. Plan lighting early on in the project so that you will realize if new cables must be run or if you want a complete change, such as recessed lighting.
Curved Shower Rods. Simply replacing a straight shower rod with a curved rod adds a substantial amount of space to your shower. This option also looks more luxurious than its conventional counterpart. Additionally, it attaches with screws as opposed to a tension system and therefore does not become dislodged.
Accent Tiles. Glass or mosaic can be used as accent tiles in a bathroom if you want to add a designer touch to the walls or floor. Using special tiles as borders, or even sporadically placing them on that wall to give a dull pattern a blast of character or color, are great ways to create a new look without doing extensive bathroom remodeling. Whichever tips you decide to use, it is almost certain that your newly renovated bathroom will make you happy for many years to come.
When spring arrives, many homeowners begin home-improvement projects such as bathroom remodeling. Below are some helpful tips you can use if you have such a project on your agenda this year:
Time Frame. A good place to begin with any type of Spring remodeling project is to consider the time frame during which you want the work finished. This is an important aspect, as it will help you decide which facets of the project you can realistically complete on your own, and which should be turned over to a professional.
Lighting. Never underestimate the importance of bathroom lighting, as this is both a decorative and practical consideration. For example, sconce lights surrounding a bathroom vanity provides a perfect way to acquire even lighting on your face. Low lighting is ideal for a relaxing bath, but bright light should also be available for shaving or applying cosmetics. Therefore, when remodeling your bathroom, consider adding several different types of lights for both convenience and decorative purposes.
Changing Hardware and Fixtures. Sometimes the most effective way to update a bathroom without doing major renovations is to replace all the hardware in the room such as showerheads, faucets, door pulls, and cabinet handles. Replacing fixtures of this kind can make a major impact, yet still be cost effective. Consider brushed nickel, aged bronze or stainless steel to update the look of the room.
Update Your Shower and Tub. You should also consider the value of your home when completing bathroom renovations. For example, a popular trend on today’s real estate market is larger showers with rainwater showerheads, multi-spray nozzles and glass tile. Many modern bathrooms also now feature more elaborate shelving and built-in places to sit while showering. You may even wish to consider including built-in containers in which you can preload body wash, shampoo and conditioner.
Finally, make sure you objectively analyze your own do-it-yourself skills and do not take on a bathroom remodeling project that you are not qualified to complete. Instead, consult an experienced professional who can offer tips and advice on how to get the most out of your Spring remodeling endeavors.
Contact Columbus Bath Design today to start designing your dream bathroom. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
