Bathroom Renovation & Bathroom Remodeling: Roadmap to Success

No matter the reasons for starting a bathroom renovation or full-scale bathroom remodeling, we’re here to help you ensure that this process is a more positive experience.

It is important to define the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel. Although the terms are often used interchangeably (even by contractors), they are not the same thing. A bathroom renovation involves updating bathroom fixtures but keeping the same layout. When the same layout is kept, overall costs are reduced. A bathroom remodel involves fixture renovation plus additional construction as the overall layout of the bathroom changes. When the location of any bathroom plumbing fixture changes, it becomes a major project that will likely involve a general contractor and other professional help. A remodeling will affect all electrical and plumbing components, including the water supply.

Create a Plan and Set Goals

The most important thing to do when considering bathroom remodel ideas is to develop a detailed action plan with defined scope of work. Bathroom remodels are one of the more complex and expensive home improvement efforts. If a more limited scope of work is the most realistic option, then a bathroom renovation is the best course of action.  When considering a more extensive effort, it’s possible for a bathroom remodel to involve plumbing work, electrical work, ventilation work, surface material work, paint, and spatial concerns. Not all bathroom remodels will involve all those elements, but it would be common for the work to involve at least 2 of those aforementioned areas.

Once the goals of the remodel have been defined, developing a budget becomes essential. The budget allotted for this project will determine what work can progress and how the work will progress. If these plans are not fully fleshed out prior to starting the remodel project, there’s a lot of potential for this project to be a negative experience. Planning will ensure that there are fewer bumps in the road on the way to the bathroom of your dreams.

Think About the Bathroom’s Purpose

When considering the end goals of the bathroom renovation or bathroom remodel, it is most important to consider function over form. A primary or frequently used bathroom will have a much different use pattern than a guest bathroom of a larger home. Primary bathrooms are used daily, and they are important to one’s overall quality of life. A good bathroom space is a part of positive mental health, as it can be a place to relax, unwind, and prepare for the day in the outside world. If a bathroom does not provide a good experience for all the functions of a bathroom, it can affect mood. For example, if the primary bathroom is the bathroom being remodeled in the bathroom remodel effort, it is likely that more than one person uses the bathroom daily. There could be a use for a double vanity and more than one bathroom sink. Without these features, getting ready for the forthcoming day could be delayed or inconvenienced.

Always Consider Looks

Once function has been addressed, then it would be best to consider how the bathroom will look. When selecting the stylistic elements, it is best to consider a visual appearance that matches homeowner taste and can have a long shelf life of looking good. While all styles will eventually look outdated, some styles have a gentler aging curve and can be considered aesthetically pleasing for a longer time. Issues to consider include the bathroom floor, the bathroom countertops, the shower walls/doors, bathtub, and the finish of the bathroom sink.

For more information on buying a home with bathrooms that delight you, contact a Sunflower Bank Mortgage professional. We’re here to help you purchase the home of your dreams.