Beginning Steps to Bathroom Remodeling
Posted by Todd Ellebruch on Thu, Aug 06, 2009 @ 08:58 AM
Remodeling a bathroom can be an expensive endeavor, regardless of the size. Typically, it is the second most expensive room in the home following the kitchen. The benefit to this expense is that your return on the investment is approximately eighty-five percent, meaning if your spend ten thousand dollars; you will boost your home value by eight thousand five hundred dollars!
The first thing you have to allocate is a budget. After you have decided the amount you want to spend, make a list of what you would like to change in the bathroom. Are you doing an aesthetic upgrade or a structural change? Is your list realistic to your budget? Look through magazines, visit local home improvement stores, even check on the internet to help find ideas for your updates. Sometimes the smallest changes make a huge impact. Changing the paint color, shower curtain, sanding and refinishing the cabinets, and even just new towels can transform your old bathroom into a sparkling spa!
Utilize your personal skills; you may be able to do some or all of the remodeling yourself. If you need to hire a contractor, be sure to research several in your area, and look at previous remodels they have completed if possible. Have the contractor provide a detailed estimate showing the materials cost and the labor separate. This will help you determine if the materials may be able to be purchased at a store other than the one used by the contractor for a lesser amount. If electrical or plumbing alterations or upgrades will be completed, confirm to see if any building codes need to be met, or any permits are required.
Now that you have the ground work completed you are ready to begin your bathroom remodeling project. Keep your project on track by using your budget and the list you made for what you want to accomplish. Never hesitate to ask your contractor questions, remember he is working for you.