Whether you’re aiming to improve the home’s aesthetic for resale or just want a fresh, cozy look, bathroom remodeling is one of the best places to start. These projects can range from repainting the walls to a full-scale gut renovation, but every little tweak counts toward your desired results. It’s important to spend time on the planning stages of any remodel, especially a bathroom remodel, so that the project runs smoothly. This means gathering design ideas ahead of time and finding a contractor that’s familiar with your specific space.
One of the simplest ways to upgrade your bathroom’s appearance is to change out the vanity. It’s also the most cost-effective. There are a variety of styles and materials from which to choose, and newer laminate options mimic the appearance of marble or wood at a fraction of the cost.
Another simple, yet effective way to upgrade the look of your bathroom is by adding decorative hooks for towels and bathrobes. These can be placed on the back of the door, on the side of cabinets or on unused sections of the wall. A patterned or textured tile can add an extra element of style, and can instantly update the overall look of your bathroom.
While it’s not always possible to do this in all bathrooms, changing out the flooring can give the room a brand-new look. The most popular choice is to switch to ceramic or porcelain tiles, as they are easy to clean and resist water damage better than carpet or vinyl.
Most people are familiar with the idea of changing out a toilet or tub for a walk-in shower, but this can have a negative impact on resale value. Potential buyers may feel a shower isn’t as luxurious as a tub, and could be turned off by the high price tag. This is why it’s a good idea to keep at least one tub in the home.
Plumbing is a very important aspect of any home, and it’s no different in the bathroom. Potential buyers are attracted to well-maintained and updated plumbing fixtures. Upgrading your faucets, shower heads and toilets to low-flow models can make a huge difference in the amount of money you receive at selling time.
It’s also worth rewiring your electrical for new lighting fixtures, especially LED bulbs. This can reduce your energy costs, and will help the environment as well.
If you’re considering a full-scale remodel, it’s always wise to contact your insurance agent before beginning any work. It’s not uncommon for a major home improvement to trigger a change in your homeowners’ policy. Be sure to update the agent when you complete any significant changes, so that they’re aware of your home’s unique features and any updates. It can also be beneficial to review your coverage annually, and increase your limits as necessary. Having the right coverage will give you peace of mind, should an emergency arise while working on your bathroom remodel.