One of the most popular projects that homeowners tackle is bathroom renovation. For minimal time and effort it is possible to completely transform this high-traffic room in countless ways. Plus, any remodeling or upgrades that are included help increase the value of your home.
Bathroom Remodeling Ideas
Bathroom remodeling ideas can be found in magazines, showrooms, on home improvement shows and in your local home stores. As bathroom designs and renovations become ever more popular, home improvement stores and online distributors have a growing array of options to choose from.
If you’ve visited a home design warehouse recently, you’ve probably seen the endless examples of how far your imagination can take you as you plan your renovation project.
If you plan on replacing any major components or moving where water-dependent items reside, it is wise to hire a plumber that specializes in bathroom remodeling. Do a little research, ask around and look for a plumber that will give you an accurate quote prior to starting on the project.
The main focal points of any bathroom are the bathtub/shower area and the sink. Sinks have come a long way in the last few decades. You no longer have to choose between white and off-white slabs that sit on top of a wood base.
Bathroom Sinks
Now owners can choose from a plethora of designs: pedestal sinks, glass and mosaic sinks, artisan sinks with art painted into the basin, wall-mount sinks that look like a flat slab of marble and defy gravity and even beautiful countertop vessel sinks that sit atop the cabinet or vanity for a unique and beautiful centerpiece.
Bathroom Faucets
Of course, faucets are getting more sleek and unusual to match the growing selection of bathroom sinks. Your options are nearly limitless.
Bathtubs
If you have space for a bathtub in your bathroom, prepare to be amazed at the huge selection. From your standard fiberglass tub to elegant claw-footed tubs that are reminiscent of renaissance luxuries to bathtubs with jets and massagers that turn an ordinary bath into a relaxing spa experience. Bathtubs also come in a variety of shapes and sizes to help give your bathroom a touch of personality.
As you research the options available to you for your bathroom renovation project, consider how you and your family will use the room. Does it need to be kid-friendly? Will storage be required? Is your favorite way to relax in the bathtub or do you prefer unwind in the shower? Is your aesthetic modern and sleek or more comfy and usable?
Any professional renovator can help you understand the options, how they work in your space and the cost involved in making it happen. Plus, if you are unhappy with the layout of the room, a professional bathroom plumber can work with you to determine any alternatives. Perhaps the shower can be moved or the location of the sink. Either way, you have some flexibility in placement and planning.
Eco-Friendly Bathroom Remodeling
Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures
As environmental concerns continue to grow, green plumbing ideas and renovations continue to advance and become more affordable. If you are interested in adhering to eco-friendly renovations, select low-flow faucets and shower heads as well as a low-flow, dual-flush toilet.
Popular in Europe, dual-flush toilets can save the average family of four anywhere from 1,500-3,000 gallons of water each year. Not only is that helping the environment, but it saves you money.
Insulated Pipes
Another way to help your budget along with the planet when you’re working on your bathroom renovation project is to insulate your pipes for optimal heat-retention. Less energy is required to keep the water warm as it travels from your main water heater to your shower or sink, thus saving you money.
Tankless Water Heaters
For a truly efficient and radical design, now there are tankless water heaters (or point-of-use water heaters). These water heaters reside directly at the appliance that requires the heated water. It only heats what is needed and because the water doesn’t have to travel long distances and cool along the way, you use less water and much less energy in the process.
Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating is another option for the green renovator. Though a little more involved with a higher up-front cost, this option will lead to tremendous savings in the long run. Depending on where you live, you may even qualify for a tax-credit. For some plumbing tips and basic plumbing questions, you can go to plumbingquestions.info.
Materials play a large part in determining the environmental impact of any item. You can find bathroom cabinets that are made from reclaimed wood, sinks made from recycled glass and even floor tiles composed of recycled wine corks or concrete.
Bathroom Flooring
Speaking of floors, don’t forget this oft-overlooked element of your bathroom. Though linoleum and tile are the most common floors, there are a number of inventive and extremely distinctive choices that will make a bold or distinctive statement. Consider stamped concrete, mosaic sea-glass, bamboo, recycled cork, recycled rubber, artistic tile designs, quartz and more. Just be sure that whatever you select is non-slip and appropriate for frequent exposure to significant amounts of moisture.
If all of the options are making your head spin, sit down and do a little research online or at your local home improvement center. Using pictures and floor samples can help you visualize your ideal bathroom renovation, making it easier to select the perfect elements for your room.
Bathroom Interior Design
Finally, after all of the planning, plumbing, installation and hard work is done, take time to add finishing touches that integrate the room into your home and make it yours. Art and family photos are great additions to this small room. Shelves for candles, trinkets or toiletries range from utilitarian to elegant. Even the style and shape of mirror that you choose has an impact on the final vision of the room.
After all, your bathroom is one of the most vital and used rooms in your home. It should reflect your needs and personal style as much as any other room. Anything that makes your day a little more efficient or beautiful will be a great addition to the value of your home and your daily life.