Before embarking on a bathroom remodel, you should take a moment to make sure you’re truly ready for the experience. There may be some last-minute decisions to be made, or unexpected hiccups and hassles along the way. The best way to enjoy a smooth process is to be as prepared as possible before starting your bathroom remodel.
Getting Accurate Price Estimates:
Shady contractors love handing out wonderfully low price estimates that don’t mean a thing. Be sure that accurate prices are being given, including all materials, labor, subcontractor work, permits, etc.
Resale Impact:
If selling your home is potentially in the future, you’ll want to not only understand how much the project is going to cost, but also keep in mind how much of that money can be recouped in terms of added resale value. That funky pink tiling might not be appealing to the next owner, but building in an extra shower to turn it into a full bathroom sure could be!
Understanding How Those Prices are Divvied Up:
It’s crucial to keep in mind where all of your money is going. For a bathroom remodel, there can be substantial plumbing considerations, along with new flooring, tiling, cabinets, lighting, the bathtub and shower, and so forth. For instance, if that gorgeous claw foot bathtub is the main priority, other additions may need to be scaled back to accommodate it.
What’s the Purpose of the Bathroom Remodel?
Along those same lines, keep in mind the true purpose of the project. What is the number one goal? If cost wasn’t an issue, which key features make up the dream bathroom in your home? Which specific add-ons will provide enough personal happiness to justify the extra cost? Helping your remodeling contractor in Wichita understand your goals is key to the success of any remodeling project.
Be Ready for the Unseen:
How old is the home, and has the bathroom ever undergone any work before? With all of that plumbing lurking beneath walls and floors, there could be unseen problems that need to be fixed. Areas could need repaired, like old pipes, or hidden areas of mold and decay that thankfully were found before they became even worse. In the long run, it’s a good thing they’re exposed, but in the short-term, it’s added cost and time.
The Remodeling Process:
Especially when remodeling primary bathrooms, it’s crucial to understand how long the experience is going to take. It can be disruptive to your daily routine. Some people prefer to skip town for a couple of days, letting the contractors work long hours, and coming back to a finished project. Others are fine with an in-process remodel for a week or two. Discuss all the details with your remodeling contractor and make the best decision for your family.
Of course, any bathroom remodel is going to be easier, less stressful, and ultimately more successful when a high quality, reputable remodeler is hired to complete the job. Be sure to find the right contractor for all upcoming remodeling projects and the most important step will already be completed.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published July, 2016 and was updated May, 2022 for accuracy.