The bathroom remodels that add the most value to your home are based on a combination of functional and aesthetic upgrades. Before you get started, be sure the contractor you hire is licensed and insured.
A full renovation includes layout changes and a change of footprint, which may require moving walls. These projects also typically include wiring and plumbing alterations. Contact Bathroom Remodel Lexington KY now!
A new bathroom layout can resolve long-standing challenges and allow for more effective use of space. It’s also an ideal time to consider innovative features that can enhance the appearance of a room, such as free-standing soaking tubs, large vanities with miles of counter space or luxurious walk-in showers.
A full bathroom remodel includes a complete overhaul of the existing layout of a room. This involves dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical, generally taking the room down to its studs and subfloor. This level of change typically requires a building permit and professional installation.
The decision to remodel or renovate is largely a personal one and depends on your financial situation, preferences and goals for your home. If you are a homeowner who plans to sell your house in the future, remodeling may be more advantageous as it adds value and can increase your home’s sale price.
However, you should keep in mind that not everyone is ready to sell their house right away. If you are staying in your home for a while, then you can make smaller improvements that will update the look of your bathroom without significantly impacting its layout or cost. For example, you might repaint your vanity or install a new shower curtain to refresh the look of the room. You can even upgrade your fixtures to high-end models or change out the lighting to give your bathroom a fresh, updated feel. Regardless of the size of your project, it is always wise to consult with a licensed plumber early on to provide layout insights and assistance with the installation process. This will save you money and ensure that your bathroom is designed to work as intended.
Storage
There are a number of ways that you can improve storage capacity during a bathroom remodel. From changing up your cabinetry to incorporating smart technology, these upgrades can give you more space for towels, beauty supplies and toilet paper.
Even small changes can increase your storage options, such as adding hooks to the back of a door or installing a hanging basket on a wall for hair-styling tools like a blow dryer, curling iron and brush. A mix of open and closed storage can give you the best of both worlds, with items out in plain sight and easily accessible while still allowing for some concealment when not in use.
Another option is a pull-out compartment that houses items like personal care products and makeup. These units can save valuable counter space while ensuring that everything is easy to find and out of the way when not in use. A DIY version, such as this one from Darkroom & Dearly, is simple to build and costs very little.
During a remodel, you can also add a lot of functionality with new lighting. For example, a dimmer switch can set the mood while letting you see better when applying makeup or shaving. You can also add recessed fixtures around your mirror for improved vanity lighting and more natural light in the shower.
Ultimately, the decision between remodeling and renovating your bathroom comes down to budget, how long you plan to stay in your home and whether you can handle some of the labor yourself. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends that you leave any plumbing or electrical work to professionals, as these upgrades can significantly affect the cost of your project.
Countertops
Countertops can make or break a bathroom design. A freshly minted surface cleanses the space and sets the tone for the rest of the design. When shopping for new countertops, it’s important to consider how long you want them to last and whether a stain or crack would be an issue. You should also factor in fabrication and installation costs. Those are typically not baked into the price of a material, which can add 10 percent or more to your total cost.
Laminate is a common choice for budget-friendly countertops. It comes in multiple finishes and colors and can mimic the appearance of more expensive materials. However, it can easily burn from hot curling irons and is vulnerable to water damage and stains.
Porcelain slab countertops are another popular option for homeowners seeking the beauty of natural stone without the downsides. These counters are crafted from high-quality clay and often designed to look like granite or other premium materials. Like granite, they’re durable and can resist heat, but they’re softer than other options. They require more frequent resealing to keep them stain-free.
Quartz is another durable countertop option with the look of natural stone and is highly heat-resistant. It’s more costly than other options and requires a bit more maintenance, as it must be sealed on a regular basis.
Tile counters are a classic and affordable choice for bathroom remodeling. They’re available in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles and can coordinate with a wide range of fixtures and decor. Tiles are durable but can chip and stain from heavy use and may need resealing to maintain their shine. They’re also susceptible to water damage and are not as easy to clean as other counters.
Fixtures
The fixtures you choose will have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. From toilets and tubs to sinks and showers, there are a wide variety of options available for your home. Before you dive into the selection, it’s important to establish what style and theme you are aiming for. Do you want a sleek and modern look, or are you drawn to a more traditional and classic design? Once you have decided on the design theme, the selection process becomes easier.
Besides selecting the right color, finish and material, consider the needs of your family when making your fixture choices. For example, if you have small children or elderly family members who will be using the bathroom, it may be helpful to consider grab bars and other safety features that can help them navigate the space more easily. You should also consider the water-efficiency of your fixtures. For example, choosing low-flow faucets and toilets can reduce your family’s water usage and save you money on utility bills.
While consistency is key, don’t be afraid to mix and match styles and finishes to add visual interest to the space. For example, you can incorporate brushed nickel or chrome faucets into a space with polished marble countertops or travertine flooring. It’s also a good idea to consider your fixtures’ warranty and quality before making a purchase. For instance, look for options that have a tarnish-resistant coating and are backed by a manufacturer with a solid reputation. You’ll also want to make sure that your fixtures are rated by an environmental certification agency such as WaterSense. This ensures that they are using as little water as possible and don’t leak or drip.
Lighting
There are many different options when it comes to lighting your bathroom. Your contractor can recommend the right fixtures based on your desired style and function. You can also find lights that are energy efficient and durable, which will help save you money in the long run.
Ambient light is typically provided by ceiling lights that brighten the entire space to create a safe and functional area. Task lighting can be added in the form of recessed lights for vanity areas or sconces over mirrors. Accent lighting is a great way to highlight a decorative tile pattern or a built-in cabinet or to add more warmth and visual interest to your space.
If your existing bathroom is looking worn and outdated, it’s probably time for a remodel. New fixtures, updated tile and paint can make your bathroom look new again. Your contractor will use quality products that are easy to clean and water-resistant.
In some cases, your contractor may recommend a full renovation to bring your bathroom up to code and improve functionality. This will involve tearing out walls, rerouting plumbing lines and possibly rewiring the electrical. Adding a new toilet, moving the sink, converting the tub into a shower or enlarging the shower are examples of layout changes. Adding a vanity and increasing storage are examples of style changes.
Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to get a permit from your local building department. Changing the layout, reconfiguring plumbing lines and changing electrical switches or receptacles all require a permit. If you are remodeling an older home, it’s especially important to check for and remove lead paint, which can cause permanent brain, nervous system, organ and developmental damage in young children.