BATHROOM REMODEL – A GOOD INVESTMENT
A mid-range bathroom remodel is a solid investment. In fact, Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report shows that an average bath remodel will recoup about 62% of those costs when it’s time to sell your home...the BONUS is that you get to enjoy the new bathroom until you are ready to sell! Here are some great tips for your bathroom remodel:
Start with a plan
Before you start, decide how you will use the space, what materials and fixtures you want, and how much you’re willing to spend. You may want to spend several months working on your remodel plans. Then, plan for the remodel process to take 2-3 months. Make sure you have another bathroom to use during this time.
Keep the same footprint
Keeping the same footprint, and locating new plumbing fixtures near existing plumbing pipes, saves money. You’ll also cut down on the dust and debris that make remodeling so hard to live with. Make the most of the space you have. Glass doors on showers and tubs open up the area. A pedestal sink takes up less room than a vanity. If you miss the storage, replace a mirror with a deep medicine cabinet.
Go neutral then add a pop of color
Utilize neutral colors for permanent fixtures and surfaces, and then add some color with items that are easily changed, such as shower curtains, window treatments, towels, throw rugs, and wall colors. These relatively low-cost decorative touches provide tons of personality but are easy to redo whenever you want, and they won’t scare off any future home buyers.
Make lighting a priority
Few items make a bathroom more satisfying than lighting designed for everyday grooming. You can install lighting for a fraction of the cost of pricier amenities. Make sure to include task lighting as needed.
Maximize storage space
Bathroom storage can be a challenge. Where to keep the towels, toilet paper, and hair and body products? Here are some ways to find storage in hidden places.
Look Up: Upper wall space in a bathroom is often underused. Freestanding, multi-tiered shelf units designed to fit over toilet tanks turn unused wall area into found storage. Consider built-ins that showcase decor while hiding more unsightly items.
Between The Lines: Spaces between wall studs create attractive and useful niches for holding soaps and toiletries. Install shelves under recessed niches or above towel bars to use blank wall space.
Move Things Around: Inexpensive woven baskets set on the floor are stylish towel holders. A floor-stand coat rack could hold wet towels, bath robes, and clothes.
Clear the air
Bathroom ventilation is essential for removing excess humidity that fogs mirrors, makes bathroom floors slippery, and contributes to the growth of mildew and mold. Controlling mold and humidity is especially important for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and protecting the value of your home—mold remediation is expensive, and excess humidity can damage cabinets and painted finishes. A bathroom vent should exhaust air to the outside—not simply to the attic
Keep costs down with sweat equity
Shave labor costs by doing some work yourself. Make sure your contractor knows which projects you’ll handle, so there are no misunderstandings later. Some easy DIY projects might include: Install window and baseboard trim, paint walls and trim, install toilet, install towel bars or shelves, and install mirrors.
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