Bathroom Remodel Lexington KY adds functional value to your home and helps you enjoy your space. It can also enhance the room’s appearance and increase its property value.
Before starting your renovation, decide whether to rework the layout or replace existing elements. This will help you determine the budget for your project.
A bathroom remodel involves much more than replacing vanity cabinets or counters. It also includes moving plumbing pipes, changing the space’s layout, and installing new fixtures. This is a big project that should be done by professionals who know how to handle complex tasks.
Before you do any work, it’s important to decide what you want from your bathroom. Whether you want to update the color scheme, add more storage, or install a walk-in shower, make sure to plan out your goals before hiring a contractor. This will save both time and money. It’s also a good idea to pick out products that you like so that you can show them to your contractor when they ask what type of materials you would like to use.
Having all the major components lined up against one wall is a great way to maximize your space and reduce construction costs. This is especially useful in small bathrooms where there may not be room for a separate tub and shower.
This bathroom layout features a window in an alcove where a soaking tub can be installed as the room’s focal point. The space has enough capacity for two vanities and a separate shower, making it ideal for a master bathroom.
If you aren’t able to fit in a tub but still want to have a luxurious feel, consider adding a built-in bench. This will give you a cozy spot to relax while getting ready in the morning.
Materials
When it comes to bathroom materials, you’ll want something that will stand up well to humidity and daily use. Choosing durable materials that are also visually appealing will ensure your bathroom looks great and lasts a long time.
Tile is a popular choice for bathroom floors, walls, and countertops. Glazed porcelain tile is a popular option due to its suitability for wet environments and low porosity. It’s easy to keep clean, and it can be purchased in a range of colors, textures, and patterns. If you’re looking for a more unique look, try natural stone tile such as granite, marble, and travertine. These tiles are nonporous and resist stains, but they do require periodic sealing to maintain their appearance.
Other options include concrete, which is cost-effective and visually appealing, especially if you choose polished concrete. It is sturdy and comfortable to walk on, and it can be finished with a variety of surface treatments and stains. Wood is another beautiful choice, but it is susceptible to moisture-related issues like rotting and warping. For these reasons, it’s important to ask your bathroom remodelers about special wood treatments and stains that can prevent these problems.
If you prefer the feel of wood but don’t want to deal with maintenance issues, consider engineered wood. This type of material is less expensive than solid wood, but it still provides a warm and natural feel to your bathroom. You may also consider using solid surface or engineered quartz countertops in your bathroom. These are more durable than other countertop materials and will stand up to the water and chemicals that are commonly used in bathrooms. They are also less porous than natural stones, so they won’t stain as easily.
Plumbing
When you’re ready to move on from demolition and wall framing, it’s time for plumbing. This is a major portion of any bathroom remodel, and it can take several days to a week or more depending on the size of your bath, the plumbing fixtures you choose, and the complexity of the installation. This phase may include relocating existing plumbing lines or adding new ones, as well as running water supply and venting systems for the shower, tub, toilet, and vanity.
If you’re considering a replacement-level remodel that doesn’t change the layout of your bathroom, expect this project to be much quicker. This type of remodel is typically completed within one to two weeks if you have the new materials in stock and aren’t ordering anything custom.
Once your contractor has finished with the plumbing and electrical work, it’s time to install the drywall and floors. Drywall is a crucial component of any bathroom, as it provides insulation and soundproofing and hides any imperfections in the walls. Before finishing the drywall, however, it’s important to waterproof the surface to protect against moisture that can lead to mold and water damage in the future.
After the drywall is up, it’s time to install the tub, shower, and cabinets. This is a large part of any remodeling project, and it can take a few days to a week or more to complete, especially if tilework is involved. Once the cabinets are in, it’s time to install the fixtures and accessories, which can also add a few days or a week to the overall project. This includes items like mirrors, soap dishes, towel racks, and more. Be sure to consider your bathroom’s lighting, fan, and other accessories before selecting them so you can choose options that fit with your space and style aesthetic.
Electrical
The electrical work in a bathroom is complex and crucial for the safety of the space. Strict electrical codes are in place to protect against potential hazards, including electrocution. For example, GFCI outlets must be used in wet areas to automatically cut off the power when it detects a ground fault. An experienced electrician can help ensure that your remodel is up to code and that the wiring is safe and sufficient.
Electrical upgrades can be an effective way to improve the functionality of your bathroom. Adding lighting, for instance, helps you navigate the space at night or during early mornings. Likewise, installing an exhaust fan can help eliminate moisture and smells that can contribute to mold growth.
An experienced contractor can also install new outlets and switches and rewire your bathroom to accommodate these features. A good rule of thumb is to have enough outlets for each fixture in your bathroom. This can include lighting, a hairdryer, toothbrushes, curling irons, and other appliances. The electrical system will need a dedicated circuit with a GFCI outlet and a vent to ensure adequate power for these devices.
Other electrical improvements that can be done in the bathroom include:
- Adding an additional light switch.
- Replacing old lighting with LED fixtures.
- Making sure all outlets are properly grounded.
These steps will ensure that your bathroom has adequate lighting, is safe for use, and meets local electrical standards. In addition, an electrician can help you determine the power capacity of your bathroom and recommend any upgrades that might be necessary to meet these requirements.
Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked in the bathroom remodel. It should be at the top of your list, however, as poor lighting creates an uninviting ambiance and can be difficult to work in. Layering ambient, task and accent lighting is the best way to get the most out of your space. Dimmers make it easy to alternate between bright light for cleaning and gentler levels to create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere.
Lighting fixtures are available in many shapes, sizes, and finishes, so it is important to spend time researching your options. Use a Pinterest board or other digital tools to keep track of your favorite styles and designs, as well as the fixtures you plan to install. This will help prevent costly design mistakes and ensure your new bathroom is cohesive in both style and function.
When selecting fixtures, it is recommended to choose neutral options that will not date quickly. This will avoid limiting your future options for upgrades, and will make it easier to sell your home when the time comes.
It is also important to select fixtures that are compatible with your existing plumbing layout and water lines. Otherwise, you may need to add additional plumbing and incur associated costs. It is also wise to choose a contractor with experience in remodeling bathrooms and who can provide proof of insurance and liability coverage.
Depending on the scope of your project, it could take weeks to a few months to complete your bathroom remodel. During this time, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the work involved and your expectations for completion. This will help to prevent unexpected cost overruns and minimize disruptions to your daily routine.