A remodeling project is a major undertaking that affects multiple areas of your home. While some projects can be DIY, structural changes and the installation of new appliances and fixtures require a licensed professional for safety and code compliance.
Once permits have been obtained, demolition can begin and the framing phase begins. This is when walls are constructed and plumbing and electrical installations take place behind the walls. Click the https://remodelmybathroomsanjose.com/ to know more.
One of the most critical aspects of any bathroom remodeling project is space planning. Even if you’re sticking with a tub and shower combo, there are strict code requirements for the placement and size of each fixture. To keep your project budget-friendly, try to avoid moving any existing plumbing pipes and fixtures.
If you’re putting a new bathroom in an existing home, it’s wise to keep load-bearing walls and plumbing pipes intact as much as possible. Altering these elements is expensive and invasive, and can drive up the price of your project.
On the other hand, if your bathroom layout is a total overhaul, you’ll probably need to move some things around. Relocating fixtures like the toilet, shower, sink, and tub can be a significant undertaking and significantly increase your renovation budget.
In this master bath, designers positioned a large double vanity and a separate shower on opposite sides of the room for a spa-like feel and maximized floor space. The long vanity countertop and window offer plenty of storage, and a freestanding soaking tub provides an eye-catching focal point. The use of a pocket door instead of conventional swinging doors also reclaims space lost to door swing.
Plumbing
If you’re adding a new sink or tub, your contractor will need to install the necessary plumbing. This may involve rerouting and reconfiguring existing pipes, which can be costly. The contractor will also need to get a permit if they’re installing any new piping or fixtures.
Layout changes are a bit more involved than a full remodel, but not as extensive as a gut renovation. They still involve changing the footprint of the bathroom, which can mean dropping walls or altering the entire structure of the room. It usually requires rerouting plumbing and electrical wiring as well.
During the remodeling process, your contractors will install the toilet and bathtub or shower, vanity, and other fixtures. They will also install any cabinets and trim. It’s a good idea to cover or move any furniture in the vicinity of the remodel, as dust and debris can easily travel throughout your home. Lastly, your contractors will upgrade your electrical and run any junction boxes needed for your remodel. This includes adding GFCI outlets, which are important in the bathroom because they protect against shock and are safer for wet environments. They’ll also make sure that all of your switches are easily accessible and appropriately sized.
Electrical
Electrical fixtures and components like lighting fixtures, outlets, and switches are essential to the function and aesthetics of your bathroom. They also play a big role in ensuring safety. They must be properly installed and meet electrical codes to prevent fire hazards and electrocution accidents.
Electrical wiring should be done by a qualified professional. It’s a job that requires expertise, especially in moisture-prone environments like bathrooms. A DIY job can lead to faulty wiring and open splices that can be dangerous.
Bathrooms need enough outlets to power appliances like hair dryers and electric shavers. They must also be GFCI-protected to prevent shock hazards in case of water leaks. Outlets are usually placed within 3 feet of sinks and countertops.
Ventilation fans need dedicated circuits and must be rated for wet conditions. They help control mold growth and remove excess moisture.
Consider rewiring during the remodel. If your house’s original wiring was done in the 1970s, it may not comply with today’s safety standards. A licensed electrician can evaluate your electrical system and recommend upgrades. They can even install a new fuse box to handle increased demands from appliances and other upgrades. A professional can advise on a dedicated circuit, GFCI protection, and proper wiring for various bathroom upgrades.
Flooring
There are a few different flooring and carpeting options for your bathroom. Some of these options may require more work to install than others, and the choice will depend on what is most important to you in your bathroom.
A new floor can change the look of your bathroom, and it is often a focal point in a design. The materials used in the floor are also a factor in how long it will last and how easy it is to clean.
Tile floors are popular because they come in a variety of colors and designs to match your aesthetic. However, they can be cold and hard to stand on, especially with wet feet. Some people choose to add a heated floor or a slip-resistant texture to make tile more comfortable.
Vinyl and laminate floors are affordable and durable. Some of these floors can look like hardwood or stone, and they are easy to maintain.
Cabinets
Proper bathroom storage is an essential part of a functional design, keeping your space organized and making it easy to keep supplies on hand. From makeup and linens to cleaning products, bath cabinets are one of the most important aspects of your bathroom’s layout.
Cabinets come in a variety of materials and finishes. For budget bathroom remodels, standard cabinets typically include particleboard, plywood or medium-density fiberboard frames with solid wood doors and drawer faces. They’re a good option for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality or functionality.
Custom cabinets are a great option for more sophisticated bathroom remodeling projects. During the installation process, a professional takes careful measurements and creates a customized design plan, before skilled craftsmen bring your vision to life. They’re available in a wide range of styles, materials and finishes to match your style and personality.
Hardware can make a big difference in the look of your cabinets. Choose knobs and pulls that coordinate with your faucet, vanity or showerhead for a cohesive aesthetic.
Fixtures
The bathroom fixtures and fittings you choose are the elements that will make your bathroom really come together. Choose faucets that strike a balance between functionality and style, and consider installing a smart shower or a recessed electric fireplace to evoke the vibe you’re after.
When selecting the materials for your vanity and shower, think about how they’ll age over time. Trendy designs may look out-of-date in a few years, so it’s best to go with classic choices that won’t clash with any future design changes you plan on making.
Storage is another important consideration. If you find yourself cramming towels under your sink or piling toiletries on the countertops, consider adding built-in shelving or a linen closet. And if you’re planning to replace your tub with a stand-up shower, be sure to upgrade your water lines to accommodate the new fixture—a project that can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your remodel costs. Consider upgrading to WaterSense-qualified showerheads and body sprays, which will save both water and energy. Also, consider resizing your existing plumbing lines from half-inch to three-quarters inch, as these upgrades will allow you to use more water-efficient fixtures. Also, they’ll give your bathroom a more polished and spacious look.
Lighting
While you can’t make your bathroom look like a five-star hotel room without a professional designer, a well-designed space will have ambient, task and accent lighting. Ambient lighting softens the room, task lighting makes bathing and grooming easier, and accent lights draw attention to decorative elements.
You can create more storage space in a small bathroom by adding a closet, installing an armoire or even simply reorganizing your shelving and drawers. If you need to install new storage, consider wood cabinets that can stand up to moisture, or a wall-hanging fabric shower basket that’s easy to wipe clean.
When you’re replacing a bath fan, opt for one with a built-in light to save on electrical costs. Some fans are also equipped with a night light for use at night, while others include humidity sensors to prevent condensation buildup and turn on automatically as needed.
If you’re looking to add or move outlets during your remodel, consult a professional electrician to ensure the work is done safely and correctly. For safety, be sure to wear rubber gloves when touching any drywall and always use materials intended for wet or damp locations. The drywall will need to be primed and painted before flooring is installed, and baseboards should be added as the final touch.