Having a plan can help make the process of remodeling a bathroom easier. It is easier to get started on a full remodel or smaller updates when you know exactly what you want to add and change.
While each bathroom remodel is unique, there are a few key details to consider, such as functionality, budget, and style. So, in this bathroom remodeling checklist, we will go over every such aspect. It will help you stay organized throughout the project.
The Importance of Remodeling Your Bathroom
When planning a bathroom remodeling project, it’s crucial to consider the significance of the renovation and its impact on your overall goals and needs. Here’s why remodeling a bathroom is important:
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Safety
After using your small bathroom for a while, you will notice that things like showerheads can fall on you while you bathe. This could be very dangerous and hurt you. You should make sure that the different parts of your bathroom are regularly checked to avoid these issues.
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More Functionality
Changing circumstances in life often lead to changes in bathroom requirements. Remodeling might make it possible to fit your bathroom to your lifestyle.
For example, you will need a bathtub when you have younger children. Until then, the shower will do. However, as people age, the bath no longer functions. They only use the shower because a bathtub is difficult to enter and exit. Similarly, two sinks outperform a single small one.
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Increased Home Value
The bathroom, despite its small size, is one of the most important rooms in the house. A house with a renovated bathroom gains value. Old, squished, or unsafe bathrooms might turn potential buyers off. On the other hand, a clean, modern bathroom is what draws them in.
Bathroom Remodeling Checklist: Plan, Budget, and Design
Now that you know why renovation is important, we have put together a full bathroom renovation checklist. It will help you change your bathroom. So, without any further talk, let’s go into the checklist:
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Set Goals and Priorities
Before starting your bathroom makeover, plan and envision the end result. Research material costs thoroughly since prices vary based on quality.
Your choices in materials and the extent of changes can significantly affect the budget, potentially costing thousands. Contractor selection impacts final expenses, too. Always discuss contract details and ask if discounts are available for essential items like tiles or fixtures.
Consider the size of your bathroom to decide between minor updates and a complete luxury remodel. If renovation is on your mind, drafting an updated floor plan early is wise.
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Understand the Overall Cost
The overall cost is generally comprised of labor costs, material costs, and some unforeseen costs.
Labor forms a significant part of the overall expenses. Hence, deciding early on what you want and your budget is key. You have to hire general contractors. You might think of your bathroom renovation as a Do It Yourself (DIY) project, but the process is often complicated. The general contractors, in turn, might bring in specialists like electricians and plumbers for specific tasks, which are costly but necessary.
Regarding material costs, consulting with your contractor on material purchases can save money and ensure quality. They know where to get the best deals on essentials such as insulation or drywall.
Budget allocation should vary by component according to recommendations from experts from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). Here’s their general suggestion:
| Aspect | Budget Allocation |
| Labor | 20% |
| Cabinetry and hardware | 16% |
| Fixtures | 15% |
| Faucets and plumbing | 14% |
| Floor tiles | 9% |
| Countertops | 7% |
| Walls and ceilings | 5% |
| Lighting and ventilation | 5% |
| Design | 4% |
| Doors and windows | 4% |
| Other | 1% |
Usually, plumbing or electrical surprises, along with mold problems because of humidity, are what cause budgets to go over the edge. Budgeting an extra 20% for these unplanned problems will help you stay within your limits and avoid stress while remodeling.
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Choose Style and Materials
Keep your personal style and the style of your home in mind when you update a main room like a bathroom. Answer the following questions first for convenience:
- Would a more modern look work in some of your rooms?
- Do you want the farmhouse style to permeate every room?
Before you go shopping for new bathroom items, look for ideas online or make a mood board with pictures of the styles you like. This will help you decide between a cottage and a modern one.
Many times, style and materials go hand in hand. The materials you select will also have an impact on your remodel’s schedule and budget. For example, marble and granite won’t cost the same.
Once you have decided on a style and material, start ordering as soon as possible. Longer lead times for certain tiles, products, and supplies may impact your remodel timeline.
Bathroom Components and Materials Checklist
Now, it is time to get into the final details, such as components and materials. Here are some key bathroom components and materials to consider:
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Wall and Flooring
Your bathroom’s walls and floors define the space. The materials you choose affect its feel, offering options in texture, finish, color, and style. For selections:
- Pick water-resistant products like paint or porcelain tiles to prevent mold from steaming.
- Easy-clean choices such as tiles keep maintenance simple.
- Use durable, slip-resistant flooring to ensure safety. Avoid hardwood or glossy tiles. They’re slippery when they’re wet.
For safety, you should always look at a material’s slip rating. Tiles with a slip rating of P4 or P5 are safer in wet areas.
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Vanities and Sinks
Adding or replacing a vanity updates your bathroom while also adding storage. A new vanity transforms the look of the room, incorporating new styles through hardware and design. For help choosing size or style, try a vanity configurator.
For sinks, consider extra features like touchless faucets and soft-close doors. Remember that how the space is used affects the choices you make. For example, the type and size of the sink depend on whether the bathroom is for guests or yourself.
Finally, when changing vanities, do not forget about small details like P-traps, valves, and drains. Add them to your checklist.
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Shower or Tub
Choosing between a shower, tub, or both depends on your space, budget, and family size. Here are some necessary considerations:
- Tubs are great for kids and cheaper. Showers save space and suit aging needs.
- Your style influences the choice. For example, a clawfoot tub is more glam, while a standing shower is more modern.
- Don’t forget water-saving fixtures to lower bills.
- Decide if you need custom shower doors or standard ones, which are quicker to get.
- Pick showerheads that match functionality with style.
- Fans and drains are other important things that you should not forget.
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Ventilation and Lighting
Mildew and mold grow in damp places. Water can also damage surfaces and finishes. Hence, make sure your bathroom has enough airflow.
You should also make sure that your bathroom has enough light. Put up a ceiling light to provide general lighting. You might still want to add lights near the vanity and task lighting in the shower, depending on how your bathroom is set up.
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Storage Solutions
Bathrooms with little to no storage for linens, towels, and toiletries are very annoying. More space is very important.
Think about how much space you really need in the bathroom. Afterwards, choose from adding storage solutions, like replacing a tiny vanity with a big one or adding a medicine cabinet.
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Toilets
It is hard to believe, but the toilet may not be the first thing that comes to mind when designing your new bathroom. But it is the most used thing in the room. Hence, when it is time to remodel, it should be given a lot of thought. Consider these things:
- Consider the room you have.
- Think about how important flushing technology is to you.
- Choose between getting a traditional two-piece toilet or a newer, smaller one-piece toilet.
- Decide whether you need a two-in-one toilet or if there is room for a toilet and a bidet.
- Find out if extras like heated toilet seats and toilets that kill germs are right for you.
Conclusion
Renovating your bathroom can enhance the safety of that most used space in your home. Besides, it can also add to the functionality and property value. If you have a checklist while renovating your bathroom, things will be pretty easy to keep track of. However, the checklist needs to have all the necessary aspects.
There are some crucial points, like the budget, deadlines, and materials, that must be on your checklist. But before any other consideration, put what you actually want at the top of that list.
As we have discussed earlier, contractor selection is pivotal for a successful bathroom renovation. With Case Design/Remodeling Halifax, you can get the expert design, project management, and contractor management all in one. Contact us today to renovate your bathroom.
