If you have an old, outdated bathroom or are looking to improve the resale value of your home, a remodel is an option.

Remodels are larger than makeovers and include layout changes like a tub-to-shower conversion. Contact Richmond VA Bathroom Remodel now!

Solidifying your plan with your contractor is a good way to control costs. This will help you avoid surprises and redos.

Layout

When you remodel a bathroom, you must balance function with design. A layout plan must meet code requirements and fit your personal preferences, but it’s also important to consider how the space will be used. Will you need room for multiple people to brush their teeth during the morning rush? Will guests use the bathroom? Will you need to bathe a child or a pet? Your answers will help you determine the best floor plan for your remodel.

There are many bathroom floor plans to choose from, but they usually fall into one of these 15 basic types. These general designs are efficient and up-to-code, but you can adjust them to suit your specific needs and tastes.

A narrow floor plan with a toilet, shower, and sink lined up against one wall is an efficient choice for small bathrooms. It saves space and reduces construction costs because the plumbing doesn’t have to be moved. This layout also works well for guest bathrooms since it prevents the toilet from being visible from the doorway.

Another option is to have a large vanity with a double sink and plenty of counter space. This is great for a master bathroom, but it can be a challenge in smaller homes. The vanity isn’t a good place for a tub, but if you have enough space, a freestanding tub can add an element of luxury to your bathroom.

Some people like to have a tub and separate shower, especially in small bathrooms. The advantage of this layout is that it allows you to keep a vanity with a lot of counter space and still have room for a tub, which may be more practical for family bathrooms than a shower stall.

Other homeowners prefer to have a single vanity with lots of counter space and a soaking tub in the corner. This makes for a spacious and modern bathroom, but it’s not ideal if you have multiple people using the space at once. The sinks can easily be crowded, and the tub will be difficult to get into and out of.

Lighting

A well-designed bathroom isn’t complete without proper lighting. This essential component of any bathroom remodel affects everything from grooming to creating a serene mood and can turn your drab bath into a beautifully lit sanctuary. A bathroom remodeling expert from Bath&Shower Pros will consider color, style, safety and function when recommending light fixtures for your space.

There are many options to choose from, ranging from recessed or pendant lights to vanity or mirror lights to LED strip lighting. It is important to determine the amount of light, also known as lumens, you want in your space and to consider the size and layout of the room when selecting a fixture. Whether you want a bright, cheerful space or something a bit more mellow, choosing the right bulb and adding a dimmer switch will help achieve your desired look.

Layering your lighting in the bathroom is a great way to create depth and dimension. Start by installing overhead lights for overall illumination and then add task lighting in the form of sconces or vanity lights to minimize shadows and make grooming tasks easier. Finally, add accent lighting to highlight decorative elements or architectural features in the bathroom. A well-designed bathroom will incorporate all three types of lighting harmoniously to create a room that feels homey and unique to your taste.

Lastly, don’t forget the accessories! Shower caddies, heated towel racks, robe hooks, shelves and toothbrush holders are just a few of the many bathroom accessories that can be added to enhance your space. A good way to keep your budget in check while ensuring that every must-have has been considered is by purchasing a bathroom accessory range that bundles all the components together at a lower price.

Once you’ve settled on a layout, picked out your favorite fixtures and wrapped your head around the safety and material considerations, you can focus on the finishing touches that will give your bathroom that Instagrammable look. Remember to consider the colors and materials used in other parts of your home when selecting your bathroom finishes to maintain visual consistency. Additionally, be sure to remove or cover any valuables and/or fragile items in the vicinity of your remodel so they do not get disturbed by dust and debris.

Materials

When remodeling a bathroom, the materials used are vital to creating an aesthetic that is both functional and luxurious. Since the room is often heavily used, it requires durable surfaces that will stand up to daily wear and tear. It’s important to select a selection of materials that will reflect your style, save you time and money and add value to your home.

One of the most common elements to consider in a bathroom remodel is tile. Glazed porcelain tiles are a popular choice due to their perfect fit for wet environments and low porosity that makes them resistant to water damage. Other materials that are becoming increasingly popular in the industry include travertine, quartz and marble, all of which can be found in various patterns and colors to match any design theme.

Other essential materials to consider are shower walls and tub surrounds, vanity cabinets, toilets and sinks. There are many different options available for each, including wall-mounted and vessel sinks, deep under-mounted and classic pedestal styles, as well as shower doors in glass, acrylic or solid-surface finishes. Faucets come in a variety of styles and heights, with some homeowners opting for digital faucets that can help conserve water, customize temperature and more.

When it comes to flooring, vinyl and laminates are a cost-effective option for those who want to modernize their bathroom. However, these materials aren’t as long-lasting as hardwood or stone. Some homeowners may also prefer to use natural wood or stone for the floor, a material that can be refinished when necessary and will add warmth and character to the space.

Once the demolition process is complete, it’s important to have the right tools for cleaning up the site before beginning construction. A wet-dry shop vacuum is an excellent tool for removing any leftover debris and water that may have accumulated during the removal process. It’s also recommended that you keep a list of the locations of plumbing pipes and electrical wiring to avoid accidentally damaging them. The last thing you want to deal with during a bathroom remodel is expensive plumbing or electrical repairs.

Safety

Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in the home. In fact, thousands of people suffer falls in the washroom each year, which can be particularly harmful for older individuals with balance issues or those taking medications that affect blood pressure or dizziness.

The good news is that safety measures can be easily incorporated during your bathroom remodel. Incorporating a few key features in your renovation can help ensure the safety of all family members, regardless of age or mobility needs.

Spacious layouts make movement in the bathroom easier, and are especially important if you ever plan on having wheelchair access for older adults or individuals with limited mobility. Adding smart storage solutions to your layout is another way to maximize space and enhance functionality. For example, grab bars can double as decorative bathroom accessories like towel racks or shampoo shelves, blending into the design while offering support when needed.

Lighting is also important, especially since many accidents in the bathroom occur due to low visibility. Installing recessed fixtures around the mirror is one simple way to improve overall illumination in your bathroom, and a dimmer switch allows you to set just the right mood.

Consider non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of slips and falls in your bathroom. Tile with a dynamic coefficient of friction above 0.42 is an ideal choice, and there are plenty of other options available as well. Slip-resistant rugs are an additional option, and can be a stylish complement to your bathroom as well.

It’s important to remember that while the bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas in the home, it can also be a room of luxury and comfort if you take the time to consider all your options. By prioritizing safety and convenience in your remodel, you can help prevent future accidents, keep your loved ones safe, and ensure that the bathroom is a welcoming space for all family members. Then, when the time comes to sell your home, you’ll know that your investments in the bathroom will pay off for years to come.