When you put thousands of dollars into a bathroom remodel, you justifiably expect high-quality results that will drastically improve your bathroom’s function and aesthetic appeal. However, many people are shocked when unexpected issues arise during or after the remodel.
Avoid unpleasant surprises, sub-par results, and remodel mistakes by learning from those who have already been there. Below, read seven essential truths about bathroom remodeling you need to know before beginning your next project:
1. It’s Easy to Miscommunicate
Can you imagine your shock if you decided on a white subway tile, but came home to discover your contractor had installed square green tile? Perhaps the green tile had been on your list of considerations, but your final decision was the subway tile. You thought you had made your choice clear, only to find out that it wasn’t.
Unfortunately, miscommunications are not uncommon, especially during the demolition stage. Make sure you clearly label items that you don’t want to have removed. In addition, go over your final plans in writing carefully. If you’re doing any patterned tile, for example, provide an image of how the final design should look.
Taking these extra steps may be a bit more work, but you’ll be glad you did it! There’s nothing quite so awful as ripping out newly completed work just to correct someone’s mistake. Instead, communicate and then confirm that your communication has been received and acknowledged.
2. All Materials Must Be Carefully Checked
To avoid delays, check materials as they come in or as your contractor brings them in. That way, you can notice incorrect orders right away and get them fixed or replaced. Some key areas to notice are the finish of fixtures, tile size and color, grout or caulking colors, and paint colors.
3. The Timeline Can Change Drastically
Work out a timeline with your remodeling team in writing. The construction business is notorious for delays, but clear communication about the timeline can help both you and your contractor stick to clear goals.
Also keep in mind that unexpected problems are sometimes revealed during the early stages of a remodel. For example, the contractor might discover a damaged floor under the old tile, rotting drywall, or plumbing issues that should be resolved before continuing with the project.
4. Moving Plumbing Fixtures Can Be Costly
It’s often very expensive to move your toilet or shower to a new location in your bathroom. So, before you make tentative floor plans, talk with your contractor about the additional costs this may involve.
5. Details Count
Remember the details when you’re making your bathroom remodel plans! It’s easy to forget about essential needs, such as accessible outlets by the vanity and incorporating space for hooks or towel racks. In addition, the time for adding recessed storage nooks is during the early stages of a remodel. So, don’t forget to think about these details in advance so that the final results will give you the ease of use you’ve always wanted.
6. You Need to Think About the Grout
Before you request white grout, think about how much it will bother you if it gets dirty. Darker colors are much easier to clean, although they can stand out more against a light tile. So, think about your grout options carefully because, in the end, it will affect your weekly cleaning routine and the overall aesthetic quite a bit.
7. You Must Expect the Unexpected
During a bathroom remodel project, you’ll find out there are a multitude of ways for things to go sideways. For example, if you want to add a vintage clawfoot tub, your contractor will need to make sure the floors are strong enough to support the weight. Or, does your bathroom have an air vent to which a fan can be connected? For every choice you make, there will be a list of things you’ll need to take into consideration to avoid being caught by surprise.
A good way to prevent unexpected issues is to start with the big picture plan and then drill down on each area of the bathroom remodel. This will help you avoid committing to any part of the plan which could become problematic.
Ultimately, your bathroom remodeling experience will be best if you work with an experienced contractor who also offers great customer service. They know all about these above issues and work hard to ensure the outcomes meet client expectations. In addition, they’ll walk you through all of the considerations and details so that your new bathroom is absolutely perfect.
Armed with the knowledge of these little-known bathroom remodel facts, you can approach contractors and the entire project with confidence.