One of the best returns on your investment is replacing old pipes in a bath or shower. This project is especially easy for DIYers.

A bathroom renovation focuses on updating or refreshing the existing space without altering the layout or making significant structural changes. It may include surface updates and cosmetic changes like repainting or installing new fixtures. Contact Lawrenceville Plumber now!

Often a home’s second-most used room, bathrooms are popular places where homeowners feel free to add personal flair. Whether you’re looking to refresh your bathroom with new paint and fixtures or are planning a full-scale gut renovation, there are several important considerations to make before you begin.

First, it’s important to decide how much you want to invest in your remodel and set a budget for yourself. This will help you narrow down the scope of your project so that you’re not tempted to add more and end up overextending yourself or overspending on materials.

Next, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your space by taking measurements and creating a floor plan. This will help you visualize how your changes will be implemented and ensure that the room is sized properly. It’s also a great way to identify any potential challenges with your renovation and address them early on in the process.

Another critical aspect of the planning phase is to research contractors. Finding a contractor with the right experience and expertise will ensure that your renovation is done correctly and complies with local building codes. Be sure to ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors, check out online reviews, and visit contractors’ websites. Once you’ve found a contractor, be sure to discuss the scope of your project with them in detail so that they understand exactly what you’re hoping to accomplish.

Before your renovation begins, it’s a good idea to mark out the location of electrical wiring and plumbing pipes in the room. This will help you avoid accidentally damaging them when tearing down walls or moving existing fixtures. It’s also a good idea to keep a wet-dry shop vac on hand in case of any unexpected water or sewage leaks.

If you’re replacing your windows during your renovation, it’s a good idea to choose ones that will match the style of the rest of your house. This will ensure that your newly renovated bathroom feels like it belongs in your home and doesn’t stand out as an odd addition.

Design

The design phase of a bathroom renovation is where your dream begins to take shape. In this stage, you will work with a contractor to finalize your project details and set a budget. Your contractor will also prepare the necessary construction drawings and documents. This is the time to make changes to your vision if needed, but be mindful of modifying anything that might increase the overall cost of the project.

This is also the time to choose materials, colors, and finishes. It is important to keep in mind that your choices will have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your new bathroom. You will want to select a material that not only fits your style preferences, but will stand the test of time in terms of durability and maintenance requirements. Your contractor can help you navigate this process by providing material samples and examples to inspire you.

When this phase is complete, the next step is to install your selected fixtures and finishes. This includes items like bathtubs, showers, toilets, vanities, sinks, and cabinets. It can also include flooring, lighting fixtures, and decorative elements. The installation of these items can typically be completed in 3-5 weeks.

During this phase, it is also a good idea to update any existing plumbing and electrical wiring. This may involve shutting off the water and removing existing fixtures, as well as adding new wiring for items like vanity lights and heated floors. It is crucial that you have a licensed, experienced contractor handle the demolition and electrical work to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

After the demolition and electrical work is done, it is time to frame the walls and add any required structural support for new features like a shower stall or tub. Your contractor will then install the plumbing and electrical systems according to code. This is an important step because these systems will dictate how water and electricity flow throughout your bathroom.

Once the framing and plumbing are installed, you can start installing the finishing touches like cabinets, countertops, tiles, and paint. This is also the time to consider any additional accessories and upgrades that you might want to implement, like a new towel rack or shelving. Be sure to include these items in your budget and prioritize them based on both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Build

The build phase of your renovation is when your vision takes shape. Depending on your materials and scope of work, this phase can last from 5-12 weeks. During this time, your contractor will be your single point-person, troubleshooter, and expert, so it’s important to find the right fit for you.

This is the stage where your new bathroom will begin to take shape. If you are redoing your entire bathroom, this will involve the installation of new drywall, vanity, plumbing fixtures, and accessories. You’ll also install new windows and replace or update flooring as needed. It’s a good idea to have a design in mind before beginning construction, especially if you’re working with a designer. This helps keep you on track with your timeline and budget while ensuring your new bathroom fits seamlessly with the rest of your home.

You’ll also be selecting and purchasing your materials at this time, which can impact the overall cost of your project. If you’re looking to save money, consider choosing a stock vanity, various low-cost tile options, and lower-end fixtures. However, if you’re looking to invest in your space, choose high-quality materials and brands for a long-lasting, beautiful bathroom.

Another way to cut costs is by using the existing trim from your old bathroom in your new remodel. If you’re not moving your shower, tub, or sink, this can help keep your remodeling costs down by avoiding the cost of running new supply and drain lines.

One of the most exciting — and often most costly — aspects of a bathroom remodel is the installation of new shower or tub, or a tub conversion. In some cases, it may be necessary to move your existing plumbing, so you’ll need to hire a licensed plumber for this portion of your project.

The final step in the building process is to add any finishing touches that you’d like to include. Adding decorative elements, such as wall art or framed family photos, can instantly change the look and feel of your bathroom for a minimal investment. Similarly, upgrading your standard builder-grade interior doors to new ones with custom moldings can make a dramatic impact on your bathroom’s final appearance.

Finish

Once the construction phase is complete, it’s time to move on to the finishing details. This is where the bathroom begins to take shape, and the design plans truly come to life.

This step includes any necessary plumbing and electrical work, as well as carpentry and drywall/insulation. If you’re planning to move any fixtures or utilities, it’s important to consult a structural engineer or contractor to ensure the existing framing is up to code and can support the new loads. Upgrading plumbing and electrical systems is also often required, as they may not be able to accommodate the new layout without some reconfiguration.

In addition to relocating pipes, this phase is also the best opportunity to replace old fixtures and add new ones. Some homeowners choose to upgrade the toilet, showerhead, sink, and/or tub to more energy efficient models for improved efficiency and comfort. Incorporating modern technology like digital faucets and smart showers is another popular way to improve comfort and convenience.

Flooring and tile are also an important consideration. For durability and safety, choose materials that can withstand moisture and humidity, such as porcelain or ceramic tiles. If you want to create a more cozy, spa-like feel, consider heated floors or textured tiles for added slip resistance.

Finally, it’s important to properly waterproof all areas of the new bathroom, particularly where walls meet floors and around bathtubs, showers, and sink backsplashes. This prevents moisture penetration that can cause mold growth and structural damage over time. This is a good time to double-check all sealant and caulking as well.

While the finishing touches might seem like a minor part of the project, they can make a huge difference in how the bathroom looks and feels. For example, a fresh coat of paint can instantly brighten and freshen up the room. Incorporating wall art or handcrafted items like framed family photos is another simple yet impactful way to personalize the space and tie together the final look.

Choosing the right remodeling company can make all the difference in the success of your bathroom remodel. Commonwealth Contractors is committed to innovation and transparency, ensuring that homeowners are informed at every step of the process and enjoy a beautiful, functional space they can be proud of.