Careful planning is the key to a successful bathroom remodeling project. Before beginning any bathroom work, create an estimate, floor plan, supply list, schedule, and important legal considerations. Let’s break it down by topic.
First, create a budget. Determine how much money you can comfortably spend, and save about 20 percent for emergencies. Get estimates for the job you need from professionals, and always include electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, and drywall installation costs in your budget.
Second, design a floor plan. Ask yourself, will you work with the existing space or add or tear down walls? Be sure not to disturb electrical wiring, plumbing, or zoning regulations. Next, measure the amount of space you have and draw a floor plan. When drawing the plan, first place all the elements that are fixed. For example, if the toilet has to be in one place because of the plumbing, it’s a fixture. Experiment with how you like your floor plan, using different arrangements, with different types of cabinets, shelves, or even walls. You can try pocket doors to save space and corner sinks, floating sinks or pedestal sinks to save even more space. L-shaped vanities and nooks also save space. In addition, corner showers save space and the transparent glass in the showers creates the illusion of even more space. You may want to add windows or mirrors to let in light.
Third, make a list of the supplies you’ll need and make sure they’re available when you need them. Some typical supplies include sinks, flooring, tile, countertops, lighting, medicine cabinets, showers, bathtubs, cabinets and cabinet handles, toilets, extra storage, faucets, toilet paper holders, paint or wallpaper, chairs, fixtures (such as storage and/or artwork), as well as the tools you have or can buy.
Fourth, create a schedule. Talk to experts or people at home improvement stores to plan how long you’ll need. If you’re hiring contractors, work with them to come up with a schedule that everyone can follow.
Plan projects according to the time you have available. Put in a new toilet and sink on a weekend, for example, and paint another. You don’t have to do it all at once, so plan wisely. Do not paint the walls or install woodwork until you have repaired the ironwork; you don’t want to damage the work you’ve already done. Above all, be flexible and allow time for unforeseen events or even emergencies.
Fifth, be aware of legal considerations. Obtain and post a building permit, pay any necessary fees, make sure you, your contractor, and any workers have insurance coverage, and keep children and animals away from the construction area.
By following these checklists, your bathroom remodeling plans will be a snap.