Why Remodel Your Bathroom?

Aside from the obvious benefit of having your bathroom look better, there are other important benefits to be gained from remodeling your bathroom.  A remodeled bathroom needs fewer repairs and may operate more efficiently.  For example, a leaky faucet or a toilet that runs constantly can increase your water bill anywhere from 10 to 25%.
There can also be health benefits from remodeling your bathroom if the current ventilation system is inadequate.  An efficient ventilation system that quickly removes moisture  can eliminate mold, mildew, and odor problems.
We can also do bathroom remodeling to suit the needs of mobility-impaired individuals or the elderly.  We can advise you on the best layout of your bathroom, install grab-bars to provide easier access to tub or toilet, install a walk-in shower, or do any number of things to make access easier.
Of course, pampering yourself is also an important consideration when remodeling your bathroom!  A newly remodeled bathroom can a lot of style to your home, and can significantly increase resale value above and beyond the amount spend on the remodeling process. 

Planning a Successful Bathroom Remodeling

First, determine how big the space will be. The overall shape and size will generally fall into one of three categories:
1.  Standard-size bath: Rectangular in shape, about 5x7 ft or 5x9 ft, up to about 7x9 ft or 8x10 ft. This will provide enough space for a sink, vanity, toilet, tub, and possibly a separate shower. This usually functions as a main bathroom or guest bathroom.
2.  Powder room: Square shape, about 15-32 square feet. There should be enough space for a sink and toilet.
3.  Master bath: Varying in shape and starting about 100 square feet. It is usually adjacent to, or opens to a master bedroom. There should be enough room for a whirlpool or soaking tub, a steam shower, separate vanities, a sitting area, storage, and large windows or skylights.
Remember, no matter what the size of your bathroom, the layout and design will determine how big or small the room feels. A modestly sized bathroom that is well configured can feel bigger than a large, but poorly planned bathroom.

There are six basic elements to consider in your bathroom remodel:

Cabinets

Sinks

Showers and Bathtubs

Toilets

Lighting

Flooring

Bathroom Cabinets

When selecting bathroom cabinets, you will first want to set a budget. Cabinets costs can account for 30-50% of a new bathroom budget. You will also need to consider your lifestyle.  Do you have any unique storage needs?  Needless to say, the cabinets will set the tone of your new bathroom, so they deserve a lot of time and attention. Choose a style and configuration that coordinates well with the architecture and interior design of the other rooms of your home.

Bathroom Sinks

Bathroom sinks come in a number of styles, such as:
Standard, white porcelain
Glass
Granite 
Corian
Ceramic freestanding basin style
If you find yourself on a tight budget, the sink is one of the simplest ways to upgrade a look. Don't forget to consider what type of faucet style you prefer. Obtaining brochures and other details will help orient your contractor to the type of sink and fixtures that suit your needs and tastes.

Showers and Bathtubs
When designing your new bathroom, the shower and/or bathtub is one of the first places you'll want to start. Which shower/bathtub you choose will make a huge impact on the overall outcome of your bathroom remodeling project.
Showers and bathtubs come in a number of shapes, sizes, and colors, such as:
  Composite 
  Fiberglass
  Cast iron
  Acrylic

Toilets
Today toilets come in a wide selection. From vintage pull-chain water closets and remote-controlled Japanese toilets, most are available in colors to match your bathroom's décor.

Lighting
When it comes to lighting your bathroom you will probably want to work with three main types: ceiling, vanity, recessed and accent lighting. Vanity and recessed lighting are lights that are mounted from above, whereas accent lighting deals with lighting mounted in areas below the counter and inside showers. Keep in mind exactly what it is you are looking for in lighting. Do you want lighting around the mirrors? Do you want a brighter bath?