Milwaukee Bathroom Remodel can add value to your home. It can also be a great way to revive worn materials and keep the family safe from mold and mildew.
Choose a reputable remodeling professional with the right credentials, reputation, and appealing portfolio of finished projects. This pro should have the proper licensing and insurance, too.
While the cost of materials is one aspect that will always skew your remodel budget, there are several places where you can save. For example, choosing a simpler tile or countertop can help you keep the overall cost down. Also, consider shopping at sales or purchasing items in bulk to get a better deal. Additionally, hiring a contractor can save you money by negotiating with vendors or buying materials in larger quantities.
Regardless of the size of your bathroom, NKBA recommends that you budget between 5 and 10 percent of your home’s value for a remodeling project. This is a reasonable amount, especially if you plan on selling your home in the future.
A bath remodel is a complex project that involves plumbing and electrical work. This means that you are likely to run into unexpected costs. It is best to have a contingency fund that will cover these costs, so you don’t overspend.
There is a lot of plumbing and electrical in any bathroom, so the costs will add up quickly. However, there are ways to reduce the costs of a renovation by scheduling tasks in a specific sequence. For instance, it is a good idea to remodel the ceiling first, then install the wall tiles, and finally the floors. This will help you save time and avoid mistakes that can result in expensive repairs later on.
Another way to keep your remodel costs under control is by doing some of the work yourself. If you have the necessary skills, this can save you a significant amount of money. However, it is important to remember that this type of project requires specialized knowledge and can be dangerous. Therefore, it is best to leave the structural and plumbing work to professionals.
Another great way to cut costs is by hiring a general contractor to manage the renovation and find subcontractors for specialized jobs. In addition to saving on labor, this will also ensure that the job is done properly and on schedule. It is recommended to meet with at least three contractors before hiring one. Be sure to ask for a detailed contract that lists every product and its cost.
The design phase is one of the most important parts of any remodel. It helps homeowners set a budget and get a clear vision for what the finished project will look like. It’s also a great time to make a bathroom wish list and prioritize features based on needs and budget. If you’re not sure where to start, consider consulting a professional designer. They can help you create a space that will be both functional and beautiful.
The first step in the design process is deciding on a style and color scheme. This will dictate many of the other choices, including cabinetry and tile selections. Some homeowners opt for a bold, statement-making design, while others prefer a more traditional style that boosts resale value.
A bathroom remodel is a big job, and it requires a team of professionals to complete the project. The best option is to hire a licensed contractor who will have the professional contacts and experience to handle plumbing and electrical work. They can also ensure the correct permits are obtained and help homeowners navigate any red tape or inspections required by their homeowner’s association.
Once the designs are finalized, it’s time to begin construction. This part of the process can be tricky, as many contractors and subcontractors have busy schedules. Be sure to plan ahead and ask your contractor about his or her ideal timeframe for completion of the remodel. It’s also a good idea to keep in mind that your water will likely be turned off for the duration of the project, which can add to the overall timeline and expense.
Another crucial element of the design process is selecting materials that will withstand moisture and maintain their appearance. Unlike kitchens, bathrooms are subject to more moisture than other areas of the home, so it’s important to choose durable flooring and fixtures that will stand up to repeated use. Many homeowners opt for ceramic or porcelain tile because of its durability and beauty, while others may choose linoleum, vinyl sheet flooring or other waterproof options.
Many homeowners are replacing their tubs with showers to cut down on maintenance costs. In this case, it’s important to choose a shower base or basin that fits the existing tub and is the right size for the new room layout. Leaking, cracked tubs and showers aren’t just unsightly, but they can lead to water damage and mold issues throughout the house.
The bathroom remodel is a large investment and it’s important for homeowners to get the right people in place to ensure that the project will be completed on time, within budget and with the desired results. Homeowners should make a list of potential contractors and then begin interviewing them. They should ask each contractor to provide examples of previous bathroom projects that match the project in question. In addition, they should also ask for a written estimate of the costs and timeline for the project.
While it may be tempting to hire the first contractor that comes along, taking your time will allow you to compare quotes and find the best one for your needs. During the interview process, homeowners should also ask each contractor for references from previous clients and contact those references to learn more about the quality of the work and the contractor’s professionalism.
During the interview, homeowners should also ask each contractor about their insurance coverage. It is essential that they have workers’ compensation, general liability and professional liability coverage in place. In addition, they should be licensed with the appropriate regulatory body in their city. Reputable contractors will be happy to provide this information during the initial consultation.
It’s also a good idea for homeowners to ask contractors about their experience with local building codes and permits. These are important considerations, especially if the project involves changing load-bearing walls or altering plumbing, electrical and/or gas lines. Finally, homeowners should also inquire whether the contractors they are considering have a permit bond, which is required for any construction project that changes the structural integrity of a dwelling.
During the interview process, homeowners should also consider whether they want to remodel the entire bathroom or just do some minor updates. Remodeling the entire bathroom can add value to a home, but it’s important for homeowners to understand the difference between remodeling and renovating. The latter is less expensive and typically consists of cosmetic changes like repainting, installing new fixtures or a vanity update. It isn’t as costly as a complete renovation, but it can still have a significant impact on the overall appearance of a bathroom and by extension, the home.
The materials that will be used in a bathroom remodel can greatly impact the overall look and functionality of the space. It’s important to choose stylish, long-lasting materials that will stand up well to humidity and heavy use. For example, ceramic tile and natural stone are excellent options for floors and countertops. They’re easy to clean and come in a wide variety of colors and styles that can fit any aesthetic. Other durable bathroom materials include engineered quartz and solid surface vanities. These are all less expensive than marble or granite but still offer a premium look.
Flooring is another major component of a bathroom remodel and there are many choices available. Vinyl and ceramic tiles are budget-friendly, offering a wide range of colors and patterns that can complement any design. Porcelain tiles are a step up in price, but provide durability and water-resistance. They can also mimic the look of wood or stone, making them a luxurious option for any bathroom.
If you’re looking for something unique, consider crushed glass as a countertop material. This is a new trend in bathroom design and it offers an organic, one-of-a-kind appearance. It’s also eco-friendly and made from recycled materials.
Cabinetry and vanity tops are another high-end feature that can add a lot of visual interest to the space. Custom cabinets are more costly than stock pieces, but they’re well worth the investment. Quality vanities are another major expense and can quickly add up to a large amount of money.
Depending on the scope of your remodel, there may be additional materials you’ll need to purchase. Cement board is recommended for walls behind showers, tub surrounds and sinks, while standard or moisture-resistant drywall is suitable for ceilings and dry walls. You’ll also need flooring and other decorative items like paint and wallpaper.
Before you begin the actual remodel, it’s important to gather all the tools and equipment you’ll need. Besides standard tools like pliers, hammers, tape measures and screwdrivers, you’ll also need some specialty tools for demolition. A wet-dry shop vac is especially useful, as it can quickly remove any water or debris that may spill during the process.
