In a world of DIY home renovation projects, it can be easy to get started on an extensive bathroom remodeling project without taking the time to plan ahead. After all, the bathroom is a relatively small room compared with the rest of the house. With so little to work with, planning the project out might seem like a waste of time. However, getting organized ahead of time will save you money, stress and energy as you progress. And having a plan means you’re less likely to forget crucial steps in the renovation process. If you’re planning to remodel your bathroom, then read on to learn about the best ways to get started and stay focused.
Sizing Up the Place
Remodeling projects should always begin with a detailed summation of the size of the space. You can’t go forward without knowing how much room you’ve got to work with and how much room you can steal from other sources. For example, your bathroom might connect with empty wall space, or it might border a wall that contains crucial electrical wiring. Before you plan out what to do with your space, you need to make sure you have the room to do it.
You may not need a professional to help you remodel your bathroom, but you will need a professional contractor to evaluate the project if you plan to extend your space at all. Regardless of your prowess as a DIY home renovator, you probably don’t have the same expertise when it comes to understanding complex wiring and structural systems. Speaking with a professional now will help you avoid expensive mistakes later.
Steps in the Right Direction
Once you’ve established the space limitations, it’s time to start planning your remodeling project. The easiest way to begin is by listing the necessary steps. Doing so will help you stay focused as the project progresses.
Step 1: Establish a budget. Be firm, but allow yourself some leeway in case of emergencies.
Step 2: Create a scaled picture of the final project including dimensions, sizes, fixtures and necessary details.
Step 3: Choose your materials, fixtures, equipment and other necessary items both for completing the project and for furnishing the bathroom.
You can always add or eliminate steps, but start with the basics so that you know you’ve planned appropriately. You may not be able to expect everything that happens during a remodeling project; unforeseen complications and unexpected expenses may throw you off momentarily. But having an established plan and following it in order will help reduce your stress and allow you to see the bigger picture.
Professional Advice
Just as you spoke with a contractor regarding electrical wiring and structural issues, you’ll want to seek advice from someone with experience on where to begin. You don’t have to hire a costly home renovator, but you should ask for help from friends who have done similar projects. You can also browse hundreds of online videos for specific renovation aspects along with books containing useful information.
However, nothing trumps experience, and you may need advice, especially when you get stuck. While you might be able to renovate your bathroom using online tutorials, you could benefit from some expert advice before you begin. Many professionals don’t charge the same rate for advice as they would for actual construction. Consult some local contractors for their tips and tricks before beginning a remodel.
Extras and Special Features
After you’ve planned for the basics and consulted with a contractor, you can add in extra features to really upgrade your bathroom. Universal elements such as handlebars in the shower and comfort-height toilets add immediate convenience and future value. Whether you plan to resell the home or retire in it comfortably, adding in extra universal features will help you in the long run.
Alissa Young works as a writer and a part time blogger. Her subjects are mainly about home and home improvement and in this article, she is giving us tips on how to remodel your bathroom.
