10 Best Bathroom Remodel of 2019 – consumersadvocate.org

Bathroom remodels can range from small, easy-to-tackle changes, to extensive demolition and rebuilding, involving various areas of expertise, including construction, electrical, plumbing, and lighting. There are many reasons to undertake a bathroom remodel. An outdated color scheme, old hardware or plumbing fixtures, a lack of laundry facilities, or the simple factthat the room doesn't fit the needs of the people using it can all be good ones. Another could be that the home is being readied for sale. It's become commonplace to read or hearthat bathroom remodels typically offer a reasonably good return on investment in terms of increasing theresale value of a property. While this is true to a certain extent, this type of project can also involve a considerable investment of both time and money, and should not be undertaken lightly.

The average cost of a bathroom remodel can be around $10,000, but extensive refurbishingor demos can stretch a budget to as much as$25,000 or more. Of course, there are a multitude of different options for homeowners, and the final cost will largely depend on the style and budget. When considering a bathroom remodel, think how much you're willing to spend, both in terms of moneyand time. Then it's always helpful to make a list of the uses the bathroom is put to. Think about who spends time in there, and how. If it's meant to accommodate twoadults rushing to get ready for work every morning, maybe a vanity with a double sink isa good idea. If children also use the bathroom regularly, perhaps there should be accommodations made for them.

Due to budgetary concerns, many people decide to take the DIY route for their remodel, when the changes aren't extensive. For instance, changing the layout of the space will probably include replacing the electrical wiring in the walls, adding more flooring, and possibly even changing the plumbing.If the project doesn't involve specialized skills such as plumbing, electric rewiring, or complicated installations; and provided that the homeowner has previous experience, then this can be an excellent choice. However, it's important to be aware of one's own limitations when planning a DIY remodel, as mistakes can end up costing considerably more money than having hired a contractor in the first place.

We found that homeowners usually have different choices when picking a contractor. They can visit a marketplace website and input their information in order to get matched with contractors in their area, which can be a good choice for people who are unsure about which contractor to go to, as it automatically puts them in touch with at least three to five different local companies. Consumers get the opportunity to look at reviews and compare competing quotes. However, they should be aware that many of these websites receive compensation for making companies more visible. It's important, therefore, to make sure to do some thorough research into each of the contractors they are matched with. Another option, of course, is contacting contractors directly and asking for quotes. While this is always an option, it may take longer, as consumers must do their research on their own. In this case, it's a good idea to ask for recommendations from friends, family, co-workers, or neighbors who have had work done recently. Realtors are generally also useful resources for finding contractors. Finally, consumers may have a specific product or brandin mind for their remodel. Many manufacturers offer installation and remodeling services, at reasonable prices and with comprehensive guarantees.

Homeowners who decide to use a contractor for their remodel should remember to ask questions, set realistic expectations, and provide a clear idea of the available budget. Just as for a haircut, taking reference pictures, paint chips, and links to design ideas on the webcan help offer a better idea of a general aesthetic. The more information thecontractor has ahead of time, the higher the likelihood that the homeowner will be happy with the end results. A good contractor should always provide a detailed quote, explaining the different costs for both materials and labor, as well as any warranties or guarantees for their labor. Some of the fixtures involved in remodeling a bathroom, no matter itssize, include faucets, showers or baths (or a conversion from one to the other), flooring, countertops, vanities, lighting, laundry area, and cabinets. Individual products usually carry their own warranties, so it's important to have all this information on hand as well when evaluating competing quotes.

No remodel is without some possible problem areas regarding functionality. This should be at the forefront of every remodel, considering when different elements should be close together and when they can be spaced farther apart. Just because a plumbing fixture can physically fit within the space, doesn't mean that it will be comfortable. Function also pertains to choosing the correct materials. These should be able to stand up to boththe harsher chemicals routinelyused to clean bathrooms, as well as to the high levels of moisture and heat these rooms can be subjected to, especially when there's a lack of proper ventilation. Another common mistake is not including enough storage space, especially with consideration to the number of people who will be using the space. Finally, leaving lighting considerations to the last minute is more usual than one would think, despite being essential to many bathroom activities. Waiting until the end of the remodel to address lighting can lead to undesirable dark patches.

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10 Best Bathroom Remodel of 2019 - consumersadvocate.org