Tag: bath remodeling

bathroom remodel

How to Remodel a Bathroom on a Budget

Janet Travis

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.

bathroom remodel

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.

How to Design a Successful Kitchen Renovation

Katrina Duran

A kitchen renovation can add extra storage, a designated food pantry, or new lighting. It can also include new floor tile and countertops. For more information visit Home Remodel Contractors Tacoma.
A larger transformation involves taking down walls and possibly relocating plumbing and electrical. Unless you’re a skilled DIYer, a kitchen remodel should be left to contractors.


The kitchen is where many important family activities take place, from cooking and cleaning to eating, entertaining, chatting, and scheduling. Because the kitchen is so central to a home, it’s important that its layout works well for the family and that it’s visually appealing.
The first step in a kitchen renovation is determining what layout will work best for the space. There are many different configurations, but the most common options fall into one of four categories:
Galley kitchens, in which all cabinets and appliances line up along a single wall, are ideal for apartments and tight spaces. These kitchens often connect to other rooms, such as a dining area or family room, and offer plenty of storage.
When choosing a kitchen design, it’s also important to consider other elements beyond cabinetry and countertops, such as lighting, flooring, and backsplash tile. She also suggests using recessed lights on a dimmer switch for ambient, moody lighting after dark. And remember accent lighting, such as pendants and chandeliers. They’re a great way to add personality to your kitchen. Lastly, she always incorporates under-cabinet lighting for both task and ambiance. This helps create the “work triangle,” a comfortable working space.
If you’re upgrading appliances during your kitchen renovation, consider your options carefully. The best new fridges and ovens are designed to look as good as they function, but you don’t have to limit yourself to the most expensive models to get a premium upgrade.
High-end finishes like marble countertops and luxury kitchen cabinets increase resale value and last longer than less-expensive alternatives. Choosing durable, timeless designs allows you to adapt your kitchen for future owners’ tastes without paying for another remodel.
Besides a practical kitchen that fulfills your everyday needs, a kitchen remodel is the perfect time to include some personal touches. If you’re a wine drinker, for example, you could build a walk-in wine cellar. Or, if you’re a fan of baking, consider adding a double oven to your kitchen. But be careful not to over-customize your kitchen, as a kitchen that is too personalized may limit its appeal to buyers when you eventually decide to sell the house.
Finally, remember to add new lighting to your kitchen. Pendant lights over a bar or kitchen island, new dimmers, and even a chandelier can transform your lighting from dull to dynamic. Choose LED ceiling lights for a modern touch that saves on energy costs. Likewise, open shelving offers an easy and low-cost way to upgrade your storage while keeping everything within reach.
Cabinets are one of the biggest showstopping features in any kitchen. While updating them, consider how they can work with your other design elements. For example, if you’re going with a bold color on your countertops, consider contrasting that with an equally vibrant shade on your cabinets.
Aside from color, the material and finish of your cabinets have a huge impact on the overall design. Your kitchen renovation specialist can help you make the right decisions to suit your style.
Whether you want closed or open storage, there are many different options. Closed cabinets are great for tucking away functional must-haves, while available storage (like shelves or see-through cabinets) lets you showcase your prettiest wares.
The interior and shelf surfaces of your cabinets should be non-porous to extend their lifespan without staining or bubbling. The standard interior surface is melamine, but there are a wide variety of other options available as well.
It’s easy to get caught up in your aesthetic, but remember that a remodel should also enhance resale value. Over-customizing your kitchen can limit its appeal to a narrow range of buyers. For this reason, it’s important to find a balance between your personal preferences and what will be appreciated by the majority of potential buyers in the future.
Countertops are a major part of the kitchen and play a critical role in its function. They should be attractive durable, and provide plenty of space for food prep and cooking utensils. In addition, they should complement the cabinets and other appliances for a cohesive look. The type of countertop you choose will depend largely on your aesthetic preferences and the amount of use the counters will get.
There are many materials to consider when selecting the perfect countertops, but each has benefits and drawbacks. If you’re looking for a sleek, modern look, quartz and solid surface countertops are a great choice. Marble and granite are more traditional options that can add a touch of elegance to your home. Stainless steel counters are also an option that is heat-resistant and easy to clean. They develop a unique, appealing patina over time that can give your kitchen an antique feel.
Laminate counters are a good option for homeowners on a budget. They can resemble other, more expensive countertop materials such as granite and quartz. However, they can be susceptible to stains and scratches, especially around high-moisture areas such as the sink or dishwasher. If you opt for laminate counters, we recommend using a cutting board when preparing food and never placing hot pans directly on the surface. This will help prevent scuffs and scratches.
A kitchen floor should withstand heavy foot traffic, spills, and other everyday wear and tear. You also need the flooring to resist heat, moisture, and staining. Choose a durable material that complements your design theme and suits the look of the space.
Tile is a classic option that’s easy to clean and comes in many styles and colors. Consider ceramic or porcelain tile or natural stone tiles like marble, slate, and travertine if you’re willing to pay a premium for their durability.
Concrete flooring might sound too industrial for a homey kitchen, but it’s an affordable, low-maintenance choice that can be stained or stamped to look like tile, wood, or stone. It can also be sealed to be almost entirely waterproof (although mats are still recommended near the sink or dishwasher).
Hardwood floors are a popular choice, but this material needs to be carefully treated and maintained to resist moisture damage. A more practical alternative is engineered hardwood, composed to resist warping due to moisture and can be laminated to make it easier to maintain.
Bamboo is another sustainable option for the kitchen, and it can be arranged in a classic parquet pattern to create a stylish effect. It’s available as individual blocks or in engineered planks that snap together. Cork is a relatively new flooring material, and it’s eco-friendly with a soft feel underfoot that absorbs sound.
The lighting in your kitchen can make or break the overall look and feel of the room. It’s important to understand how you and your family use the kitchen before deciding what lighting fixtures and bulbs to install.
Whether doing an entire kitchen renovation or just swapping out countertop appliances and painting the cabinets, lighting is one of the most impactful upgrades to make your kitchen more beautiful and functional. Using the right light will set the tone and provide an inviting space for gathering, cooking, and eating.
General lighting in a kitchen is usually accomplished by installing standard ceiling fixtures such as recessed lights that sit inside shallow openings in the ceiling or flush-mount or semi-flush-mount fixtures that are affixed to the ceiling with a small gap between the fixture and the ceiling. Decorative pendant lights are also a great option for adding general lighting to your kitchen, as they can work double-duty as both ambient and task lighting.
For specific lighting over a counter or other workspace, it is recommended that you use lighting strips and recessed lights that have high CRI (color rendering index) ratings. This ensures that the light illuminates objects accurately and makes them look their best, especially when slicing vegetables or mixing up cocktails. You want your food to be as delicious as possible.