Why remodel a bathroom?
Remodeling a bathroom is very much like renovating a kitchen, as the bathroom is a key part of the home. Old homes have bathrooms rarely larger than 5 feet by 8 feet. Investing in older homes can be tricky if it is grade 2 listed or it has tricky or awkward spaces. Lower ceilings and beams may result in bespoke showering areas at reduced widths and a more compact bathroom suite. The reason people choose to remodel a bathroom is largely due to the fact it will increase the resale value of the property. If the location of the bathroom is the same this will help the process as pipework etc will already be in situ to work with. Any radical changes to the layout will have to be considered carefully if it involves any large structural changes.
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The cost of a bathroom remodel
Remodeling a bathroom can be costly and one of the more expensive projects you will ever do. This largely depends on the amount of work you wish to carry out and the budget in which you work too. A complete bathroom remodel project will cost around the same as a small car, if not more depending on personal preferences. If money is an issue you can always update the bathroom with new faucets and accessories to update a traditional design. Hiring a contractor for larger design projects can increase the overall cost, so take this into consideration. The best steps when finding a reliable plumber/contractor is too listen to friends and family’s recommendations. Always ask for samples of there work so you can see their workmanship.
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First Step – Clean and Unclutter
Before anything the best option is to have a good sort through the bathroom. Clean the bathroom and rid yourself of any clutter and tired elements of the bathroom design. This will give you a clear definition in your mind of what you want to achieve. Consider the best storage solutions in the bathroom especially if you have plenty of toiletries and a small space.
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Energy Efficiency
Traditional homes which have not been modernised in any way are not as energy efficient as newer builds. A bathroom remodeling project enables you to add all those energy efficient measures like lighting, windows and ventilation fans. Larger bathroom projects may result in opening walls which will give the opportunity to add insulation and air sealing materials which will benefit the whole house. Bathroom suites that offer pop up wastes and water saving features will create a more eco-friendly bathroom design.
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Research the options
If it is a large remodeling project consulting with professionals may help you to realise the bathrooms full potential and how you can maximize the available space. The internet is a valuable tool so use it to gain design ideas and prices.
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WDBathrooms
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July 7, 2010
D.I.Y Bathroom remodeling in older homes
June 26, 2010
Bathroom Basins
Many bathroom suites offer matching toilets and basins so the design can tie in together. Sometimes people wish to replace the basin but not the whole suite, this is a simple task once you know what to look for. Measurements are important to double check before installation, even if you have an existing sink the same size, especially when ordering from a different manufacturer.
Counter sinks with vanity units are extremely popular giving you the advantage of valuable storage. Manufacturers such as Twyford bathrooms offer consumers the opportunity to purchase a combined unit from their exquisite bathroom suite ranges. Bold lines and square edges are popular choices with basins such as the Rak Ceramics Mistral Range creating a statement to an otherwise traditional bathroom setting. Manufactures of minimalist basin designs such as Aquaplus specialise in producing unique ceramic basins, which can be slightly more costly than a standard basin.
Semi-pedestals were introduced to the market in order to save space in en suite and smaller bathroom sizes. Full pedestals can look amazing so long as the bathroom is large enough, as bulky designs can sometimes appear a little intrusive. The trend in today’s modern bathroom is too have a mono basin tap rather than two traditional basin taps. The plumbing components will have to be purchased separately so take into the consideration both the basin and plumbing supplies you will need. The final step is too search online and select a basin right for your requirements and within your budget.
