If you’ve signed on for a brand new bathroom remodel project, you’ve got a lot ahead of you. From picking out new tiles and flooring to installing brand new appliances, remodeling a bathroom is no joke. It can be easy for homeowners to become overwhelmed before they even begin. However, with the right approach, truly top-notch organization, and some help from Richmond Bathroom Remodeling, giving your bathroom a new look doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you know what you want, finding a jumping-off point might not seem like a challenge. However, if you’re new to remodeling and eager to do things the right way, it could be helpful to spend some time getting all your priorities in order. From budgeting to finding the right design, there are tons of different elements to consider before you break ground on your new bathroom. If you’re ready to get started, here are some tips for making the first move.
Create a Budget
If you’ve ever done any kind of home improvement project before, you’ll already know that going into it blind, without a budget or financial constraints of any kind, can quickly escalate into madness, especially if you’re trying to do everything yourself. Whether you’re hiring a contractor for the job or taking everything on a DIY basis, you’ll need perimeters as to what you’re willing to spend on each piece of the renovation. For instance, even if you have a ballpark figure in mind, you might eventually be faced with a plumbing problem or unforeseen issue that ends up making your original figure impossible to work with. Having a budget set up doesn’t mean you can’t still be flexible. However, if you know what kind of price range you’re shooting for, you’ll be less likely to make costly, spur-of-the-moment decisions during your remodel.
Figure Out the Timeline
When it comes to bathrooms, you want to know exactly where you stand, especially if you live in a home that only has one or two. Many times, a bathroom remodel means that you’ll need to actually pack up and move out until the project is finished, so having a solid grasp on the project’s timeline will help you plan accordingly and save money by booking everything way in advance. Before you set a timeline, either for yourself or for a contractor, you should also have a sense of how long similar projects typically take. Don’t ask for anything unrealistic, but don’t let it go on forever, either. You should be working with your contractor to keep on top of how long things are expected to take. Communicating with your contractor every step of the way will help you plan around your renovation project and keep an eye on your budget.
Assess Your Space’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Now that you have the logistics taken care of, it’s time to think about your bathroom from a design standpoint. What is it that you actually want to change, and is it doable? What does your space allow? Do you want all-new appliances and a drastic rearranging of your shower, toilet, and sink? Do you just want to spruce things up with a new look? Do you want the latest, state-of-the-art models? Or do you just want to take care of a problem that’s been bugging you forever? Whatever it is you want, your contractor can make it happen as long as you’re clear about what you’re looking for. If you want your bathroom to feel more spacious, be clear about that. If you really want your plumbing torn up and rearranged, be sure to have this conversation early on in the game. Don’t be unclear about your goals for the project, otherwise, you risk being dissatisfied and over budget in the pursuit of something you’re not even sure you wanted to begin with.
Hire Your Contractor
After you’ve planned out what you want, it’s time to find and hire a contractor who can pull your vision together, on time and under budget. Whether you go with a friend’s recommendation or search online for the perfect candidate, you’ll want to make sure to be thorough during interviews and ask questions that are specific to your space. Ask about your requirements to find out whether or not they’re realistic. Don’t just go with the lower quote, either. Ask for references and examples of previous work. You’ll want to hire someone who’s great with plumbing work and has a proven track record, rather than a contractor who specializes in another area of home improvement. Once you’ve found the right person for the job, you’re ready to get started.
