A bathroom remodel can be one of the bigger projects in the home. You’ll want to make sure that you spend your time and money wisely. A good plan is key to a good remodeling experience. Here’s what you need to know: 
Create a Floor Plan
Your first step is to measure the space and sketch out a rough floor plan. Remember to note where plumbing fixtures and electrical outlets are. These can be moved, but it will increase the remodel’s time and expense.
While we’re at it, don’t just assume that everything is square. Verify with your tape measure. If you have an oddly shaped space, you may need to budget for custom built cabinets or a custom cut vanity.
If you want a big item like a jacuzzi bathtub, measure if it will fit through the doorway. Otherwise, your renovation may require creating a new doorway.
Now is a good time to pick out paint chips, tile samples, and the like. Hold the paint chips up to the wall in the bathroom. The colors you picked may look different in the light there instead of under the store’s unforgiving fluorescent bulbs.
Need inspiration? You can browse online galleries, visit showrooms, and search on social media. Share the images you like with your bath design service. They can help bring your vision to life.
Budget for Money and Time
Unexpected expenses can strike during any remodel. However, starting out with a budget can help keep things on the rails. You’ll want to consider both time and money expenses during this project.
Do some research or get quotes for common remodel expenses like:
- removing old flooring
- purchasing and installing new flooring
- painting
- installing new cabinets
- changing out the fixtures and hardware
- installing bathroom vanities
- purchasing towels, shower curtains, etc.
- installing lighting
- removal of debris and hazardous materials
- certain luxury items like radiant flooring involve multiple additional expenses, from wiring to sealing
Be sure to factor in ‘hidden’ expenses. These include sales taxes, delivery fees, and costs for a home inspection if required in your area.
One final trick is to take your budget and add ten percent. This gives you a nice cushion toward any unexpected expenses that may pop up.
Next, get an idea of your time budget for this remodel. These projects can take anywhere from one day to several weeks. The exact timeline depends on the scale of the project, the condition of the house, and the experience levels of the people you hire.
Keep in mind that if you do a full bathroom remodel, you or your contractor needs to coordinate the schedules of many different professionals. For instance, the electrician can only come in after the old walls are torn down, but before new walls get put up. You’ll need to factor this into your timeline.
Installation isn’t the only significant item in your time plan. If you’re having an exotic stone countertop cut to a custom size, this takes time to be crafted and transported. The same holds true for items like radiant floors and custom cabinetry.
You may also need to budget a few days before the bathroom’s fully usable. For instance, it can take a while during colder months for paint and sealants to fully dry.
Creative Ways to Save
There are a number of ways for a creative homeowner to trim their budget and stretch their dollars.
First, think about what needs to be replaced in the bathroom and what can stay if it’s refreshed. If your cabinetry’s in good condition, just getting a new vanity top put in can transport the look of the room. Meanwhile, shabby or out-of-fashion cabinets can get new life when you repaint them, replace the hardware, or put in new doors.
Depending on your personal style, you may be able to buy some unique and budget-friendly pieces in estate sales, antique stores, and so on. Extended families who are decluttering might pass on functional staples like shelving that tucks into the corner. Also, keep a sharp eye out for sales at local furniture or building supply stores.
If you’re planning a bigger job, get several quotes. If one number is significantly higher or lower than anyone else’s, there may be a good reason why. Investigate now to save down the line.
Plan of Attack
You’ve got a floor plan and a budget. Now it’s time to put those pieces together.
What’s your contingency plan while the bathroom’s out of operation?
Will you stay somewhere else during the renovations?
Are you going to remodel another room at the same time? For instance, do you want the bedroom re-done to coordinate with the bathroom?
When’s the right time for this remodel to happen?
Consider the weather and season. Remember that paint may dry slower when it’s cold. Big jobs may not be possible at all during the winter. If you’re short on time, see if your remodeling service offers accelerated or one-day schedules.
Ready to Get Started?
Columbus Bath Design takes the guesswork out of bathroom remodels. Our friendly and professional staff have over 20 years’ experience with projects of any size. Give us a call or fill out our website form for a free estimate.
