Bathroom Remodel Lexington KY is a great way to improve your home’s functionality. It also adds value, if done correctly.
A renovation involves major changes like replacing a tub with a shower. It also includes a change to layout, relocating fixtures or adding new features.
Hire vetted contractors to complete your project and get building board approvals if necessary.
A bathroom remodel or renovation involves a lot of decisions and requires plenty of planning. A professional contractor can help you establish a budget and timeline for your project, and offer their opinion on any big changes you’re considering. Having a clear idea of what you want will save you time and money in the long run.
When deciding on the design for your space, consider how you use the room and what functionality it needs to accommodate. Does the bathroom need to function well for busy morning routines, family bath times, and holiday entertaining? Design your spaces to fit your lifestyle, and you’ll get years of enjoyment out of them.
Remodeling focuses on the cosmetic features of your space and can include a variety of style, layout, and functionality changes. Examples of this would be converting a bathtub into a shower, moving the toilet, or adding storage. Changes of this nature usually require a permit and co-op or condo approval.
Layout
Creating a layout for your bathroom is about balancing function with aesthetic preferences. It’s also about ensuring your renovation adheres to codes and recommendations for the sizing and spacing of fixtures, cabinets, and storage areas.
The simplest way to approach bathroom layout is to use a single-wall design, which simplifies the process and reduces plumbing costs. However, this can limit your options for the space and may not meet the needs of multiple family members using the bathroom at once.
One alternative is to combine a toilet and tub with a sink and cabinet in a smaller room. This can work well for a guest powder room or for a child’s shared bath, where privacy is an important consideration.
A more open floor plan offers more design options and can fit a bathtub or shower, a sink and cabinet, and a linen cabinet in a small footprint. This can be a great option for family bathrooms, but it should be noted that the open transition between the tub and sink cabinet can create a dead-zone for dropped items or hair/lint.
Plumbing
A complete bathroom remodel requires new plumbing lines. This is a great opportunity to update your plumbing fixtures and bring the entire system up to current code standards, especially in older homes.
During demolition, the existing bathtub and shower, toilet, sink and vanity will be removed. The flooring will also be torn up, which exposes the plumbing and electrical rough-in (a construction term referring to the initial stage of installing plumbing and electrical wiring in wall framing).
In addition to new fixtures, if your bathroom is old, the existing tile may need replacing, the drywall may need to be replaced or even just repainted, and any venting issues need to be addressed. Depending on the scope of your project, you might need to get a permit and co-op/condo board approval from the building management. Sweeten connects homeowners with vetted remodeling contractors for these projects, and can help navigate the process and ensure you’re on track for your renovation timeline.
Electrical
Electrical work is a critical component of any bathroom remodel. It involves new wiring and circuitry to ensure compliance with codes and safety. For example, GFCI outlets (ground fault circuit interrupters) are required in bathrooms to prevent electric shock. They shut off power if they sense an unsafe amount of current near water sources, such as the bathtub or shower.
Before hiring an electrician, request references and check their portfolio. It’s also important to meet with them in person to assess their communication skills, professionalism and response time.
A bathroom remodel is a great opportunity to upgrade your home’s electrical system. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of existing electrical circuits before making changes. For instance, adding new lighting or appliances could overload your circuits and cause tripping breakers or damage to wiring. It’s essential to consult with your electrician about the power capacity of each circuit to avoid any potential hazards.
Flooring
Flooring plays a major role in a bathroom remodel, and your choice can significantly impact your room’s aesthetic. Whether you want the sleek appearance of marble or a warmer, more rustic look, there are numerous options for every style and budget.
One of the more popular flooring types for bathrooms is tile, with its endless design possibilities and resale value boost. However, it can be a slippery choice and is best paired with a non-slip surface or a polyurethane finish to prevent water damage and mold.
Other bathroom flooring options include vinyl, wood, and a new product that is essentially a click-lock engineered hardwood with a waterproof core. This option is ideal for those with tighter budgets or looking for a quick install, and it resists indentations better than traditional wood floors. It’s also a good choice for those with allergies as it doesn’t produce what is called off-gassing, which is when synthetic materials release volatile organic compounds into the air over time.
Cabinets
Cabinets are one of the most important elements in a bathroom remodel. They provide valuable storage space for toiletries and other essentials, helping to keep the bathroom clean and organized.
Quality cabinets are made of durable materials that withstand the wet, humid environment of a bathroom. They are also resistant to stains and mildew, making them long-lasting. They also feature smooth-gliding drawers and adjustable shelving that can be tailored to fit your unique needs.
You can choose from a variety of cabinet styles and finishes, including beadboard, louvered, and distressed cabinets. Floating cabinets are another new trend that allows you to save space and add a personal style to the room.
Ensure that your cabinets are properly installed and sealed to prevent mold, mildew, or other moisture buildup. Make sure to regularly declutter your cabinets and use organizational solutions such as drawer organizers and shelf dividers to maintain a functional and attractive bathroom cabinet. Also, avoid overloading your cabinets as this can lead to damage or even structural failure over time.
Fixtures
The fixtures and fittings you choose to install in your bathroom dramatically impact its appearance, utility, and atmosphere. Start by assessing your everyday needs and design preferences to select functional components that align with your aesthetic goals.
Aligning a consistent style across your bathroom’s components elevates the space’s overall aesthetic, giving it a curated and intentional look. Selecting durable materials and finishes prioritizes functionality and reduces maintenance tasks, promoting a pristine appearance over time.
Shower fixtures are available in a wide variety of styles, with multiple nozzles and showerhead options to personalize the experience. Separate bathtubs and shower areas promote versatility, with the tub acting as a relaxing retreat and the shower providing a quick refresher.
Improve your bathroom’s ventilation with exhaust fans that operate quietly, use energy-efficient motors, and have built-in humidity sensors. These features eliminate excess moisture, preventing the buildup of mold and mildew.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most often overlooked aspects of bathroom design. But, it’s crucial to the overall functionality of the space. A well-designed bathroom features layers of different light fixtures that work together to create a visually appealing and welcoming retreat.
Layering includes ambient lighting, task lighting (such as sconces around a vanity), and accent lighting to highlight decorative elements like the shower tile or a unique chandelier. Using multiple types of lights helps avoid patchy lighting and shadowing.
Aim for a warm or neutral color temperature for ambient lighting to set the mood and promote relaxation. This is an important aspect to consider when choosing bulbs because cooler colors tend to feel harsh and uninviting.
Make sure your bathroom remodeling contractors include dimmers so you can adjust the level of brightness depending on how you plan to use the room. It also makes sense to invest in energy-efficient LED lights as opposed to traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. These use less energy and last longer while providing a more natural-looking, warmer glow.