Bathroom Remodeling – Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan

Bathroom remodeling is easy, right? Move everything out that’s movable; replace tub, toilet, and vanity; Lay tile in place of soiled carpeting; and paint the walls. Nothing to bathroom remodeling.

Bathroom remodeling is not that simple, however. Contractors agree that of all the projects they tackle, bathroom remodeling is the least liked.

That’s why it is so important to plan the work before you begin. Then work closely with your plan throughout the bathroom remodeling project.

Bathroom Remodeling Plan

Bathroom remodeling should always begin with a complete plan. Avoid the temptation of beginning before the plan is complete, as you may cause more problems than you care to imagine. Prepare a notebook in which you will keep all parts of your bathroom remodeling plan. Then, by hand or with computer, detail every part of the work.

Here are a few ideas on how you might draw up a bathroom remodeling plan.

* Current Floor Plan: Begin with a floor plan of your bathroom as it is now. Measure dimensions carefully and note them on the floor plan. Note existing pipes and electrical connections. This part of your bathroom remodeling plan can be simplified by using computer software such as Plan 3D. We review Plan 3D on this website. To read that review, click here or on the blue Plan 3D tab at the top of this page. To visit Plan 3D right now, click here.

* New Floor Plan: The next step in bathroom remodeling is to draw up a new floor plan of the way you want your bathroom to look. Use the same computer software, or graph paper, to show the changes. Remember that relocating fixtures will often require costly changes in plumbing or electrical wiring. Work carefully, and make your plan clear.

* Codes: Once you know exactly what you want from your bathroom remodeling project, check local codes. In the U.S., these are available from the Department of Building and Safety. Pay special attention to clearances needed around tub, shower, and toilet. Make necessary changes on your new floor plan.

* Materials: List all materials needed for your bathroom remodeling work. Beside each, list an estimated cost. Take your bathroom remodeling planner to a local home building store and ask trained personnel for assistance in this phase. Determine how much money you will place in the budget for this project, and stick to it.

* Contractor: If your bathroom remodeling project will include tasks for which you are untrained, include in your planner a list of possible contractors. Call several and get estimates. Ask for references, and call them.

* Permits: Obtain necessary building permits for your bathroom remodeling project. Never begin without these. If you have a contractor for part of the work, be sure he or she obtains all necessary permits.

Once you have created a bathroom remodeling planner, use it. Refer to it often so that you will move through your project smoothly, and within budget.