Homebuilders are courting homebuyers with the latest and greatest materials and designs forcing existing home sellers to compete both on price and aesthetics. More and more homeowners are updating their homes just to keep pace. A lot of attention is given to kitchen updates, as they are the most visible and effective places to put your remodel dollar. However in these financially tight times, it may be easier to tackle the bathrooms first.
As with any remodel project there are different levels of treatment ranging from a simple paint job to a complete remodel. No matter what level, there are certain design guidelines that can be useful. I’ve provided some useful tips that focus on a bathroom makeover.
As your trusted real estate advisor, I can be helpful with any of your envisioned home projects. I can also help you understand current trends and connect you with quality service providers including contractors and suppliers.
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Bathroom Makeover Guidelines
A makeover is by far the most cost effective way to deal with an old bathroom but should only be considered if the ‘bones’ of the bathroom are in good working order. Water damage or failing systems can indicate that a full remodel is actually the most efficient and economical approach.
Step 1. Evaluate the integrity of the floors, walls, ventilation, sinks, toilets, faucets, cabinets and electrical. Rent or borrow a moisture meter to check moisture levels in shower walls, floors and areas around the toilet and under the sink. If accessible, examine the underside of the bathroom from the crawlspace. Also, look in the attic above the bathroom to see if ventilation is correct.
Step 2. Evaluate the aesthetics. If the hard surfaces; toilet, tub and sink are obsolete colors or design or if they are worn out plan on replacing or refinishing them.
Step 3. Count the cost. Make a thorough list of all materials required and cost them out at the local home store. A good rule of thumb is to double that number to get close to the real final cost. This helps account for surprises, changes and the inevitable “Ooo, I Want That!”
TIPS for cost savings and design success
- Tubs and sinks can be refinished, either professionally or using a do-it-yourself kit from the hardware store. Good prep work is the key. I do not recommend refinishing toilets; replace them with newer water saving dual-flush technology.
- Vanities can often be refinished. If the cabinet is solid, you’ll save a lot of money. Vanity doors can be remade. If you do this, consider matching the mirror frame to the doors. An inexpensive mirror with custom frame can be cheaper than designer mirrors.
- Coordinate the metal finishes of the fixtures, faucets and door hardware. Most light fixtures and other metal items can be spray painted to match.
- The light fixture you choose will be a main design element and should be carefully chosen for its impact on the overall look. Start here and you’ll save money in the end.
- Consider the use of plank vinyl flooring. This inexpensive approach offers a variety of designs that can emulate wood or even tile. The product is low cost and can often be installed right over the existing floor.
- Old laminate counters can sometimes be overlaid with tile or even solid surface stone saving the cost of removing and rebuilding the countertop.
- When planning a tile job for counters or shower walls, choose an inexpensive tile and add contrasting design elements like glass tiles to make the job look expensive. Another trick is to lay economical tiles in the ‘on point’ orientation. This is a little more work but adds the look of quality. Home centers have ‘do-it-yourself’ classes and often make special buys on commonly used tiles, so watch for sales.
- Wallpaper. Just say ‘no’.
- Bath fans can be noisy and ugly, consider new electronic ‘quiet’ fans with lights. Like light fixtures, they can be spray painted to match other hardware. To get that antiqued look, choose a deeper mocha color and use a gold metallic over spray.
Courtesy of Linnea Jones – Windermere Real Estate 425-765-2211 or Linnea@Windermere.com
