Get Your Bathroom Remodeling Project Off On The Right Foot

The words bathroom remodeling can either fill you with a sense of excitement with the thoughts of a clean, slick spa-like bathroom or fill you with dread with thoughts of a half-assembled disaster. The fact is, in almost every project, both are true. The best way to prevent a bathroom remodeling disaster is to do your due diligence and plan the project carefully before you start.

Taking the time and asking some key planning questions can define the scope of your project and give you a good idea of the end result. In this post, we take a step-by-step look at planning your bathroom remodeling project to ensure you get the dream bathroom you've been waiting for on time and on budget!

The First Step: The Level of Your Remodel

The first step for any project is to consider the big picture. There will be plenty of time to get into the details once you've decided on the scope of your project. What size and level of bathroom remodeling do you have in mind? If you don't do any other planning, this is the one idea to have firm before you start.

Bathroom remodeling can be grouped into four basic levels:

$ Surface-Level: This is the easiest option. If you're happy with the layout and size of your existing space, you might be a good candidate for a surface-level remodel. Basically, this option consists of updating and repairing your current bathroom, with little or no replacements. A surface-level remodel produces less waste, is more eco-friendly, and is far less expensive than other types.

$$ Gut and Replace: This level keeps the same layout and fixture locations, but you take the bathroom down to the studs. Next, you'll install new plumbing, wiring, lighting, vanity, flooring, and fixtures. This remodeling project will typically replace the tub, shower, flooring, and tile. A gut and replace can be partially or fully done. One or two walls may need to be removed to access the wiring and plumbing so the other walls can be left alone. This can save some money and time.

$$$ Changing the Layout: This type of project keeps the walls the same, but the fixtures are moved around. This level is more involved than the previous two because it might include tasks like moving the tub/shower or the toilet. This can be cumbersome, messy, and costly, but moving these items might be necessary. Layout changes can include plumbing changes, wiring alteration, and replacing all fixtures, tile, and flooring.

$$$$ Entirely Changing the Bathroom: This goes beyond changing the footprint, gutting the space, or moving fixtures. The largest bathroom remodels can include structural changes that can include moving or removing walls, bumping out an exterior wall, or altering the ceiling or roof.

Next Steps: Gathering Ideas

Once you've decided on the scope of work, the next step is to gather ideas for how you'd like it to look when your project is complete. Check sources online, like Pinterest and Houzz, for ideas, colors, fixtures, and specific features like custom cabinetry or lighting.

View Our Bathroom Remodeling Portfolio

Online design suites can let you see your design ideas come to life. You can choose different colors and finishes to see how they look. Some items like faucets and fixtures should be seen in person. Visit specialty stores or your local home improvement store to see what is available. Take pictures and gather paint chips, tile, and flooring samples.

Keep all of your inspiration and ideas in a file. This is an excellent resource to help your contractor understand your vision. This brings us to the next step - hiring a design-build contractor.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Bathroom remodeling can be a complicated endeavor. Unless you're doing a simple surface-level remodel, it's best to hire a professional. They will have the skill and knowledge to ensure that the work is done correctly, meets local building codes, and is completed safely. Finding the best contractor for your project takes some research. Do your due diligence. Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations. Check review sites and company websites.

After narrowing down your choices, make sure to ask to see their work. Read online reviews, ask for referrals, and consult with your candidates. Ask how long they have been in business, and once you contact a contractor, track how long it takes them to get back in touch.

Share your ideas with them and see if they offer innovative suggestions to improve your vision. A good contractor will understand the costs involved in your project and will make recommendations to stretch your budget while still giving you the end result you're seeking.

Establishing a Budget

Based on the choices you've made in terms of the scope of work and the types of fixtures and finishes, your contractor can help you establish a realistic budget for your project. Your budget will include not only fixtures and features but also:

• Materials costs

• Contractors and sub-contractors

• Design and permit costs

• Inspection costs or fees

Your contractor's estimate should include all of these itemized costs. Once you've hired a contractor, your project will begin to take shape. After your contractor presents their estimate, you might need to adjust your design ideas. They can offer suggestions to help you meet your budget needs and often have innovative ways to save money, like more affordable finishing materials or fixtures.

Purchasing Products and Materials

A single item can derail your project timeline. Your contractor will work with you to solidify your bathroom design and will then begin to order the necessary materials for your project. Large items like your bathtub or custom cabinetry may need to be ordered well in advance to keep your project on time and on budget.

Once your materials are ordered, your contractor will finalize your design and pull the necessary permits. If your project includes structural changes, you may need to submit engineering plans to your local building department for review.

Bathroom Remodeling Overview

You've decided on the scope of work, gathered ideas, chosen a contractor, set a budget, and finalized your plan. Your contractor has ordered materials and applied for permits. It's time to start your project. The next steps include:

• Demolishing the old bathroom

• Adding or improving plumbing and electrical systems

• Installing the shower, standalone bathtub, or bath/shower combo

• Installing the flooring and toilet

• Installing ventilation and lighting

• Installing the vanity, counter, and any additional cabinetry

• Performing a walkthrough with you to determine a final punch list

A bathroom remodeling project can be simple or complex. Even a simple bathroom remodeling is a project with many moving parts. Working with a professional design-build contractor can help guide you through the process and deliver your project on time and on budget. A quality bathroom remodeling will not only add comfort and improve your lifestyle, it can add value to your home.

If you're considering a bathroom remodeling project, let us help you design the perfect bathroom! If you live in the Greater Madison area, speak with the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.