Getting Ready for Your Bathroom Remodel

The bathroom can sometimes get overlooked in home remodels. Some people don’t put a lot of thought into the layout or design, thinking the bathroom isn’t as important as a kitchen or other gathering spaces. But a comfortable bathroom is also beautiful, and you shouldn’t neglect it just because it’s not the first room you show off.

Once you’ve decided to remodel your bathroom, start doing your research to find out exactly what you want to do, and how to get it done perfectly.

The Big Picture

Step one is setting your budget. Sit down and put together a plan for what you want to spend. Start researching what you want to change structurally and what materials you want to use. The internet is great for getting you started, but calling in a contractor early can help you with this first step. You set the budget, then bring in a trusted professional to help plan your perfect bathroom, all suited to fit your financial needs.

Be sure to consider both functionality and style when putting together your plan. Think about the placement of lights and outlets, and how traffic is going to flow. Again, working with a trusted professional to help put a design together can help make sure your new bathroom is both beautiful and practical.

When you start gathering ideas, make sure you go see your materials in person. Seeing how your chosen material looks in different lighting, or seeing the texture and color up close will help make sure you know and really like what you’re buying.

Assemble Your Team

If you haven’t brought in a contractor yet, this is the time to do it. Besides speaking to them directly to see if they’re a good fit, you’ll also want to do a bit of research on them. Ask for references, and call two or three of the people on their list. Make sure previous clients were pleased with the job and the contractor’s behavior.

Also ask for proof of insurance. Whether your contractor’s employee is hurt on the job or there’s an accident with the equipment, only work with professionals who are insured. Look for coverage of:

• Accidents involving the contractor’s equipment
• Bodily injury to you
• Damage to your property during the job
• Worker’s compensation for employees hurt on your property (if your state requires it)

Finally, make sure you and your contractor sign a detailed contract specifying how long the project will take, how and when payments are to be made, and exactly what work is being done. Great contractors will be able to write one up with you, making sure your project is done professionally, and your contractor is compensated appropriately.

Your bathroom doesn’t have to be just another room. It can be as interesting and unique as the rest of your home if you take the right steps. Start gathering some ideas of what your dream bathroom looks like, then find a contractor you trust to help with find the right materials and styles for your budget. This’ll make sure your bathroom remodeling is as painless as it is exciting.

Are you ready to make your bathroom shine? Check out our planning guide to get some ideas for your bathroom remodeling project, and remember to give us a call when you’re ready to get started.