In the Design Studio: Tips for Remodeling Your Bathroom

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This is a sponsored post by Anna Gibson, owner of AKG Design Studio and an award-winning, certified kitchen and bathroom designer. AKG Design Studio is a boutique design firm specializing in kitchen, bathroom designs and cabinetry sales. Contact her at 571-989-2541 or [email protected], and check out her work on HouzzPinterestTwitter and Facebook.

Since older tile tends to crack and water damage brings mold and flooding, most homeowners remodel bathrooms as the first project in the house.

Some people enjoy the DIY approach and will task themselves with a weekend(s) remolding project. Some will go for the pros. Whichever path you choose, here are a few things to consider.

Know what a bathroom remodel costs. Like any other project, before you begin, it’s important to put your expectations into perspective when it comes to how much money you’re willing to invest. The size of your bathroom, the quality of materials and any changes in layout can affect the cost of a remodel. Many people mistakenly underestimate cost because of the size of the space. Items like tile (and you will need lots of it) and fixtures can bring the prices up into the thousands.

Bathroom layout Knowing a few bathroom planning guidelines, like the size of a typical bathtub and how much space is needed for a toilet, will help you plan your remodel more efficiently.

Trying to fit too big of a vanity will not only leave you no space to move but will also be against code. When it comes to bathrooms, remember less is more. Leave enough space to move around safely.

Renovate for the future. Not only do you want your bathroom to look timeless, but also age with you and the people in the house. There is no point investing in a low vanity for a kid’s bathroom (unless you have a day care center in your home).

Bathroom remodelKids out grow those faster than you think. A small stepstool will do the trick meanwhile.

Think about how long will you stay in the house or even possible injuries; can you still use your tub or shower? Think about adding a seat or a curb less shower for easier access.

Are you going to use it? In our last survey, we asked “Which Luxury Shower Feature Would You Choose in Your Remodel?” Our results: No. 1 Steam shower, while body sprays and rain shower heads tied at No. 2.

Before investing in some of these items that can be very costly, think about many times a year will you really use it? I often remind customers that they are not renovating their homes for a future buyer, but rather for themselves. If you will use the jetted tub at least once a week, then your return on investment will be worthwhile, but if you are planning to use those body jets once a year, better invest the money elsewhere.

The hidden problems. We all want our bathroom to look fab, but we get to that point  where we need to uncover what lies beneath. One of the biggest problems with a cover up remodel is, well you cover it up!

Bathroom remodel Water can create a world of problems that can go unseen for years, until it’s too late and your shower is in the dining room.

It is extremely important to remove and open all drywall and subfloor and check all plumbing for leaks and mold before you cover up again.

If your subfloor has water damage, your brand new tile will crack very fast. Consider adding more insulation on exterior walls, replacing copper pipes and checking all pipes for cracks before closing floors and walls.

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