Bathroom Remodel Guide
Did you know that the average individual spends about 182 total hours a year in the bathroom? If you’re going to spend that much time in your bathroom, it should probably be a well-appointed space, which is why bathrooms are one of the most frequently remodeled spaces in our homes.
Improving your loo includes a lot of decision points, though. You’ll need to consider fixtures, flooring, counters, storage, lighting, available space, and even more—plus, don’t forget the finishing touches like trim and mouldings!
Today’s post seeks to answer some common questions and give a few insights that can help make your remodel a success.
How much will it cost to remodel my bathroom?
Not surprisingly, bathroom renovation costs will vary greatly depending on the size of your space and the materials you select. The national average cost is $12,000 to $15,000. If you’re living in the San Francisco or San Jose areas (our service area here at The Moulding Company), the average remodel is $13,000 based on ImproveNet.com data.
A small bathroom or guest bathroom encompassing 40-50 square feet could cost as little as $9,000. Jump to a master bathroom with 120 square feet or more, and costs can soar to $35,000.
How long does it take to remodel a bathroom?
This again depends on the size of your space, but can also vary based on contractor availability, material availability, and whether you plan to do some or all of the work yourself (which typically takes longer if you’re learning as you go). Most contractors and interior designers indicate timeframes as short as three weeks and as long as seven weeks. It’s important to note that these estimates don’t involve a planning phase—you’ll typically want to have your layout, design, and materials (down to accessories like crown moulding and even window casings) chosen well ahead of beginning construction activities.
Design considerations
Maybe you already know precisely how you want your renovated bathroom to look. But often, it doesn’t hurt to get some bathroom design ideas from various resources including Pinterest, magazines, friends, and even professionals who can help you accessorize your way to a look you’ll love. Here are a few big points to work out before you get to work.
Establish your color theme
Start by looking at the color schemes in your house to establish a baseline and coordinate your overall palette. You may want to consider using a color wheel to gain a better understanding of how colors can work together effectively.
Once you’ve decided on potential schemes, it pays to get samples and paint the walls in spots so that you can see how colors not only work together but how they appear during different times of day in different kinds of lighting.
How big is your space?
We may sound like a broken record on the point of space, but let’s face it—you can have a beautiful master bathroom idea, but if space is lacking, it just won’t work. Understand your dimensions and quirks of your space (curved walls, lots of windows, etc.) so that you can determine what’s going to fit and what isn’t. The size of your space may dictate whether you can have a separate shower and bath, or whether they’ll need to be combined. In smaller bathrooms, you may have to forgo a two-sink, custom vanity for a compact pedestal sink, for instance.
Choose the right flooring
When selecting a floor, you’ll want to consider the styling as well as its durability and how easy it is to clean. Selections include porcelain or ceramic tile, vinyl, stone, engineered wood, and laminate. Each has its pluses and minuses. You’ll want to consider how much moisture it will be subject to and how much traffic it will get. The pros suggest that it’s often best to stay away from carpeting and solid hardwood owing to moisture concerns in a bathroom, but you may disagree.
Think about mouldings and detailing
Subtle choices can make a major difference in your outcome, especially when it comes to details and ornamentation. These are a few of our favorite ideas:
- Consider using a chair rail or wainscoting to add visual interest in the bathroom.
- Shiplap can bring some old world charm to your bathroom ceiling or walls.
- Window and door casings can help frame a nice view from your bathroom.
- Don’t forget about closet materials to help you create an organized linen closet.
Choose the best fixtures
Shower/Bath: Some of your decisions will involve whether you want your shower and tub combined or separate. No matter which you choose, you’ll want to look at all of your options for faucets and water control. There are also various shower heads, including low-flow, fixed, and handheld—each with different shapes and sizes as well as multiple functions and spray patterns. Lastly, you’ll want to consider the fixture finish, as you can select from chrome, pewter, stainless steel and more—gold tones and brass have recently been making a comeback, as well.
Toilet: There used to be a time when a toilet was just a toilet. Not anymore. Toilets now have comfort features, interactivity, water conservation features, and some can even glow in the dark! Plus they come in different shapes and heights, as well as wall mounting or free-standing. Start by understanding your space and the associated décor. You’ll also want to consider your budget, as toilets with advanced features can cost upwards of $7,000.
Don’t forget counters and other small storage
How much counter space you can get again relates to the amount of space available in your bathroom. Suffice it to say, most folks lean toward the more counter space, the better, particularly where a master bathroom is concerned. If you’re remodeling a guest bathroom, a simple pedestal sink may do the trick. They’re a space saver that’s relatively inexpensive and easy to install, though you will sacrifice storage beneath the sink, as pedestals are freestanding instead of fit into a traditional vanity.
Beyond a linen closet, you’ll likely need space to store cleaning products, personal care items, and other essentials, like extra toilet paper. Smaller spaces will often require hanging cabinets, while larger areas will allow for more built-in options with custom cabinetry and shelving.
Like the idea of a vanity? Their design is quite flexible today. Freestanding models are popular, though they can also be wall mounted (these are perfect for more contemporary remodels). Corner vanities are great for small bathrooms or guest bathrooms where there may be size restrictions. With all mounting options, you want to decide whether to purchase a stock item or create a custom look. Where custom is concerned, shop around for flat stock options or talk to a professional.
Remodeling Your Bathroom? Check in with The Moulding Company!
So there you have it. Some great bathroom design ideas. And we’d love to help you create a space you absolutely love in your California home!
Give us a call or stop by our showrooms in Santa Clara, Millbrae, and Concord. Your dream bath is waiting!