A bathroom renovation is an exciting task. When renovating a bathroom, it’s easy to fall down the Pinterest rabbit hole and obsess over how it is going to look while forgetting the importance of functionality. A well-planned bathroom renovation will ensure the space is not only enjoyable to use, but that it shouldn’t need remodeling for some time. After all, nobody wants to renovate twice! Before jumping to choosing the latest tile or bathtub design, there are some less exciting things to consider so your project turns out just the way you dream it. Because renovating a bathroom can be overwhelming, time-consuming and costly.
We prepared a simple bathroom remodel checklist to make sure that your project stays on track and the renovation runs smoothly. Remember: A successful renovation is all about smart timing.
How much is labor for small bathroom remodel?
1. Budget
If you don’t know already you should work up an idea of how much you want to spend on your bathroom renovation. Setting a budget will help guide you as you make decisions about what to include in the remodel. Once you’ve figured out what you can spend and substracted the amount allocated to labor, you’ll have a clearer sense of what you can spend on tile, fixtures, and extras.
2. Time Frame
Contrary to what many homeowners think, a bathroom renovation takes more than a few days. It really doesn’t matter much how big the bathroom is either. The duration depends on the number of items to be replaced. You should also consider the amount of time spent on ordering and purchasing materials like tiles, fixtures, and more. Give a time allowance for the cabinets and other items that are customized. Typically, a complete 3 piece bathroom can take 1-1/2 to 3 weeks. This is a safe time line to plan for. If this is your only bathroom arrangements will need to be made for this or do the renovation over holidays.
3. Usage
It sounds obvious but you should always consider how many people will be using the bathroom and when. For instance, a double sink may be required if the bathroom’s users often get ready at the same time each day. You should also consider the age of the users too – if small children will be using it, a bath may be important.
4. Hidden problems
If you are doing a major upgrade to your bathroom consider doing a “full gut”. When done by a professional bathroom remodeling contractor with expertise you end up with a zero problems bathroom that will function flawlessly and add tremendous value to your home for many years to come. Depending on the age of your home and how well it was built the biggest hidden problem you may encounter is water damage, so look for structural deficiencies in the floor framing, not properly vented plumbing, old corroded plumbing, non-waterproof tile shower/tub surrounds, etc.
5. Measurements
There are 3 major limitations which really make size matter in bathroom renovation: the overall size of the bathroom (usually the smallest room in the house), the location of existing plumbing pipes and electrical wiring and the typical standard dimensions of bathroom fixtures. Therefore make sure you have the correct measurements and specifications when you go to the store. More frustrating than trying to shop without measurements is to end up purchasing stuff that doesn’t fit.
6. Contractor
Hiring a bathroom remodeling contractor for a conceivably DIY job? Well, yes, that is a smart thing to do given the complexity of the job and difficult operations involved (electrical, tiling, plumbing, etc.). Therefore do not overlook the advantages of hiring a contractor and save yourself a load of misery and time.
7. Storage
As with any room in the house, storage is key. Allow plenty of room to store your toiletries, bathroom scales, a rubbish bin, dirty laundry, a lockable medicine cabinet and a few spare toilet rolls. You may also want some open shelving to display your favorite things. Mirrored shaving cabinets are a great way of incorporating storage above the vanity while maximizing storage.
8. Lighting
Given the bathroom is often used for applying make-up or shaving, great lighting is crucial. Ideally, a bathroom’s lighting should be comprised of natural light paired with some clever task lighting (dimmers can be great for creating mood). Skylights are a great idea for an internal bathroom that doesn’t have windows but if you do have a window, you’ll need to decide whether to install frosted glass or leave it clear to enjoy the view.
9. Final clean
The final clean should include a thorough cleaning of all cabinetry, inside and out, ductwork, walls, floor, windows, and light fixtures. Although often overlook in the planning phase, in the case of a major renovation you may want to consider contracting a cleaning service which means additional costs that impact your budget. If you feel up to doing it yourself, you may need to add a day or two to your initial timing.
