Remodeling a bathroom can seem like a major undertaking. However, for the experienced bathroom remodeling contractor this type of project can usually be completed in budget and within a certain timeframe.
If you have never remodeled a room in your home before, you may find the process to be financially and emotionally exhausting. Know that the project is only temporary and the results are well worth the hurdles.
Remodeling a bathroom not only improves the room’s aesthetic appeal, but can also add value to your property. Prepare for your bathroom remodel by first choosing a qualified contractor.
Selecting a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
Most homeowners can change a toilet seat or a faucet on their own. However, when it comes to complete remodels, it is wise to hire an experienced bathroom remodeling contractor. A bad remodeling job can be costly to fix, especially if you end up with a leak that causes extensive water damage.
Hire bathroom remodeling contractor that is insured, licensed, and offers a guarantee on his work. Also look for certain qualifications that display the contractor’s experience, skills, and knowledge of the industry.
Qualifications to check for include:
- Length of time in the business
- Knowledge of local building codes and permits
- Number and training of employees
- Ability to juggle multiple projects at once
- Openness to communicate honestly
Bathroom remodels are the most popular type of remodel today. As so, a bathroom remodeling contractor should have plenty of bathroom project samples to show you in his portfolio. Many contractors will have their portfolio of recent work available for you to view on their website.
This portfolio should include photographs of various aspects of the remodel, from the shower and sink to the tub and lighting. Also research the company’s history. The contractor you choose should have a positive reputation in the community. They should also have a long history of successful remodeling projects.
Before hiring a contractor for your bathroom remodel, take the time to review all reviews and references. Start by asking family and friends about their experience with local bathroom remodeling contractors.
You may also want to find information about the company from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the National Kitchen & Bath Association. The contractor may also provide a list of references that you can contact about the quality of the work and the business’s ability to meet budgets and timelines. If you find that a bathroom remodeling contractor has many negative reviews or questionable references, move onto the next option on your list.
Bathroom Remodeling Project Planning
Pre-Construction Assessment
You may have big plans to remodel your bathroom but are wondering if you have the capital to do. When you hire a bathroom remodeling contractor for the job, he will develop pre-construction assessments to help you zero in on a budget.
Pre-construction assessments may include permit requirements, site surveys, timelines, and budgetary requirements. While the figures in the assessment are only estimates, they can help you determine whether or not you are financially able to complete the project according to your specified timeline, design choices, and the materials chosen.
Bathroom Remodeling Design Plans
While the design process usually only accounts for less than 5 percent of your budget, it remains one of the most important aspects of the project. Do not settle for a cookie-cutter design that does not properly reflect the size or desired style of the space. Choose a bathroom remodeling contractor who is willing to put effort into the design process to create a space that showcases your design tastes. The materials will account for the biggest chunk of the budget.
Bathroom Remodeling Timeline
When it comes to home remodels, most homeowners want to have the project completed as quickly as possible. This is especially true for bathrooms which are used often throughout the day by families and guests.
A smaller bathroom can average four to five weeks from start to finish, while larger bathrooms can take upwards of eight weeks to complete. To determine a timeline for your unique bathroom, a contractor will provide a pre-construction assessment that maps out how long each phase will take, from design to the final touches.
Bathroom Remodeling Planning
The design process usually takes place over a couple weeks. This is when you will sit down with the contractor and decide what you would like your new bathroom to look like based on the layout, materials, and overall design. Once the design plan is established, the bathroom remodeling contractor can order the materials.
Bathroom Remodeling Materials
Some materials can be purchased directly from a local home improvement store. Others may need to be custom ordered. Custom orders can take several weeks or even months to arrive. This can often cause a delay in the construction process.
Bathroom Remodeling Demolition
Demolition is a critical part of most bathroom remodel projects. It helps the bathroom remodeling contractor create a clean slate in which he can design the new space. As with most projects, the cost will depend on the size of the bathroom and what needs to be demolished.
There may be other related costs of demolition, such as permit fees and the cost of waste removal services. During the demo, the toilet, tub, sink, and other items in the bathroom will be safely detached and removed. How long it takes to demo a bathroom will depend on its size and how many people are working on it. Most professional crews can demo a bathroom completely in just a few days’ time. Once everything is removed from the bathroom and the materials are in, construction can begin.
Bathroom Remodeling Construction
The length of the construction process can range depending on the complexity of the design, but expect it to take anywhere from two weeks to three months. If you are concerned about the timeline, talk to your contractor. There may be ways to cut down on the time spent on certain phases by adjusting your expectations.
Life During Bathroom Remodeling
As one of the most frequented homes in the house, a bathroom remodel can take a direct toll on your daily life. If you have another bathroom available, it will be easier to deal with the change. However, if you do not you will need to find an alternative bathroom to use until the remodel is over. During construction, you may find that the water in the entire house is turned off. While this can be frustrating to deal with, it is a normal part of the remodel process and a temporary one.
Life After Bathroom Remodeling
Once the noise, traffic, and dust are gone, you will be left with a beautiful bathroom. Your new bathroom should reflect your personal style and possess many of the features you wanted, such as an enclosed glass shower or Jacuzzi tub.
Remember that your new bathroom is not only aesthetically pleasing to you, but will also be to new owners if you ever decide to sell. You can also enjoy a higher home value due to the remodel. To learn more about the bathroom remodel process or to get started on your own project, contact Koncept Design + Build today.
