This is a big step for any householder because, in many ways, the bathroom is the most important room of all. Sure, that’s what they usually say about the kitchen, because it is often where people congregate, but the bathroom is where you go for a bit of “me time”, so it must be comfortable, well-equipped, and welcoming. But with so many things to consider, let’s break the process down into steps. Here is what you should do first.
Make a Plan
You will need a clear idea of what you’re intending to do, just in case you need to get official permission. If this bathroom is going to be an extension designed to add more space to the building, or if this is not just a private domestic project, you may need permission, and in this part of the world, that means running it past the Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services. You could call this pre-planning, but you will need to give them details.
What is the Correct Order to Remodel a Bathroom?
Even if what you are thinking of is of no interest to the authorities, planning is always essential, and in the bathroom, it’s more important than anywhere else. That’s because of the services involved and the infrastructure they create.
What is the most important resource in the bathroom? Water. And how is yours? If you’ve got old piping, that can spoil the whole thing as regards water pressure, so maybe it’s time to take a logical step into the modern world with some pristine pipes (probably some kind of high-grade plastic) bringing the water from the street to the building and then copper inside the building. A plumber will tell you what’s best in your case, and you can get that part of the puzzle attended to in advance. Taking out old pipes and putting in new ones can be a messy business, so after they are in place, you may have some restoring to do to make everything smooth and even again.
It’s the same story if you are removing old bathtubs, shower units, water heaters, and so on. Get them out, and you can see what needs to be done to restore order, as long as you have details about the size and shape of what is going to replace these things.
Don’t Forget the Electrics and the Lighting
Again, wiring is usually hidden behind walls and beneath surfaces, so get your lighting organized before you go too far. The brightness is a matter of personal taste, and there is a world of choice out there, with contemporary fittings sleeker and offering more atmospheric variations.
Fix the Walls and Floor
With all the piping, wiring, ripping out, and repairing done, you can get on with making the background look great. The fixtures and fittings may be the stars of the show, but a great-looking color scheme and some stylish tiles can make a huge difference to the finished effect. That should be done now, before you install the equipment, because it is easier to place a new unit against a finished wall than to shape tiles to fit around it. The same goes for the floor.
Now, You Can Put the Equipment in
The bathtub, shower cubicle, toilet, bidet, etc., may have been first on your list of what you imagined your bathroom looking like, but they go in towards the end of the operation. A careful planner will have used a measuring device to make sure they are going to fit and look appropriate. What looks good in a showroom might be perfect for your bathroom, or it might not. Would that huge basin in the graduated dusky blue be ideal in your setting, or would it be over the top? Maybe they’ve got one a little smaller or in a different color.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel is going to be a ballpark figure. Let’s say anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000. You can maybe squeeze it lower if you sacrifice quality, but you get what you pay for, so remember the old adage: buy cheap and buy twice. A bathroom is an investment and can be a haven for you and your family for many years.
You could push the price up past 50 if you really want to, with exotic tiles and electronic equipment that does your bidding without needing to be touched. If you have the budget and this is important to you, by all means, make the place into a palace.
Who is Going to Do the Work?
Choosing a contractor is hugely important, so apply your quality standards to this too. Browse their website or visit their showroom to see what they’re really about. Ask questions: how long will it take, can I stay at home while the work is ongoing, and is there a guarantee or warranty? You’re the customer, and this is a big deal, so get it done how you want it.
