6 Great Tips For A Successful Bathroom Renovation

Are you thinking of giving your bathroom a fresh new look? From installing new fixtures to changing up the layout, a successful bathroom renovation can transform this important space into an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation.

However, without proper planning and execution, it can quickly turn into a stressful and costly experience. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with six expert tips that will ensure your bathroom renovation is both stunning and stress-free.

Read on and let’s discuss this further.

1. Plan and Budget

The first step to any successful bathroom renovation is to create a detailed plan and budget. This will help you determine the scope of the project and set realistic expectations.

Start by taking measurements of your existing bathroom and creating a floor plan. Then, research the cost of materials and labor in your area. Based on this information, create a budget that includes a 10-20% contingency for unexpected costs.

Once you have a detailed plan and budget, it’s time to start shopping for materials and scheduling contractor appointments. Be sure to take your time with these decisions to ensure you are happy with the final results.

2. Hire a Professional

If you’re planning a bathroom renovation, one of the best things you can do is hire a professional. A professional contractor will be able to help you with all aspects of your renovation, from planning and design to execution and completion.

Make sure they are licensed and insured. Bathroom pros from Bradley Building Solutions LLC recommend that licensed and insured services should be carefully considered. This will protect you in case of any accidents or damages that occur during the renovation.

Don’t forget to get multiple quotes. This will help you compare prices and find the best value for your project. Check out online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations. This will give you an idea of what to expect from the contractor.

Give them a clear vision for your project. Before meeting with contractors, have an idea of what you want your bathroom to look like. This will make it easier for them to understand your vision and give you accurate quotes.

3. Choose Quality Materials

If you’re planning a bathroom renovation, one of the most important things to consider is the materials you’ll use. After all, the quality of your materials will have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your new bathroom.

So, what should you look for in quality bathroom materials? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Durability

Bathrooms see a lot of use, so it’s important to choose materials that can stand up to daily wear and tear. Look for materials that are moisture-resistant and easy to clean.

Aesthetics

Of course, you want your bathroom to look great! When choosing materials, think about how they’ll contribute to the overall design of your space. Consider both function and form when making your selections.

Budget

Keep in mind that quality materials come at a cost. be sure to factor this into your budget when planning your renovation. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to choose quality materials that will help make your bathroom renovation a success!

4. Maximize Storage

A great tip for a successful bathroom renovation is to maximize storage. This is particularly important if the bathroom doesn’t have much space. Aim to use all available wall space to create tall, vertical cabinets and shelves to make use of the extra height and keep all your bathroom essentials neatly tucked away.

If you have more floor space, opt for either a chest of drawers with a built-in mirror or a sleek and stylish cupboard. To make the most of any corner space, install open shelves in the corner and store additional towels, toiletries, and decorative items there.

Finally, make sure all storage is clutter-free and organized – labeled baskets, rails, and compartments can help keep items organized and easily accessible. By incorporating plenty of storage into your renovation project, you can have a bathroom that not only looks great but is also very functional.

5. Incorporate Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of any room, and the bathroom is no exception. There are a few different ways to incorporate lighting into your bathroom renovation. One option is to add recessed lighting in the ceiling.

This type of lighting is perfect for providing ambient light and can be used to highlight certain features in the room, such as artwork or mirrors. Another option is to install pendant lights or sconces around the perimeter of the room.

These types of lights are great for task lighting, such as applying makeup or shaving. Be sure to add a dimmer switch so that you can adjust the light level to suit your needs.

6. Consider Energy Efficiency

When planning your bathroom renovation, one of the first things you should consider is energy efficiency. There are several ways to make your bathroom more energy efficient, and doing so can save you money on your utility bills and help to protect the environment.

Install Low-Flow Fixtures

One way to make your bathroom more energy efficient is to install low-flow fixtures. Low-flow showerheads, for example, use less water than traditional showerheads, which can save you money on your water bill. Low-flow toilets also use less water than traditional toilets, and some models even offer dual flush options that allow you to choose between a full flush and a partial flush depending on your needs.

Install Electric Tankless Water Heater

Another way to increase energy efficiency in your bathroom is to install an electric tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so you only use energy when you need hot water. This can save you money on your energy bills, as well as provide an endless supply of hot water for your family.

Make Use Of Solar Power

Finally, consider adding solar power to your home as part of your bathroom renovation. Solar power can be used to heat water for showers and baths, and it can also be used to power lights and other appliances in your bathroom. Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy that can help you save money on your utility bills while also doing your part to protect the environment.

Renovating your bathroom can be a fun, exciting process, and following these tips can make it run more smoothly. From hiring a contractor to choosing materials, each step is essential for completing a successful bathroom makeover.

Your vision can become a reality if you take the right steps. Get started on your bathroom remodeling project today!

8 Tips For Small Bathrooms in Washington DC

8 Tips For Small Bathrooms in Washington DC

Are you struggling with a small bathroom in the Washington, DC area?

It’s a common problem. Many homes in the DC area were built in an era where bathrooms were an afterthought. So many people are living frustrated in their cramped bathrooms. But, you don’t have to continue the struggle. There are many things you can do to make your small bathroom feel larger and less cramped.

Here are 8 tips to help you survive your small bathroom:

  • Switch to a pedestal sink or a wall mounted sink over a small vanity. Without those bulky cabinets taking up room, the bathroom will feel larger and more open. And if you choose the wall mounted sink with a small vanity, you will have some much-needed storage space.
  • Add a medicine cabinet for storage. You don’t have to sacrifice storage space in your small bathroom. A medicine cabinet adds storage without making the bathroom appear smaller.
  • Add a toilet topper cabinet. Again, adding cabinets on your walls will add storage space without making your bathroom feel smaller.
  • Add a double towel bar. This will double your room for hanging towels without taking up more space.
  • Install a curved shower rod. This will give you a little extra elbow room in the shower, if the space is cramped.
  • Use light colors. When choosing tile or paint, pick light colors. It will make the room feel larger and more open. Dark colors can make a small room feel even smaller.
  • Add recessed lighting. In addition to your wall sconces or vanity light, adding more lighting will make the space feel larger, especially if your bathroom doesn’t have a window.
  • Consider expanding. If your budget and space allow for it, consider opening up a wall to increase the size of your bathroom. Expanding the size of your bathroom is something both you and future owners of the house will enjoy.

Also Read : Is Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor Giving You Accurate Pricing?

Your small bathroom doesn’t need to be a source of struggle! With these tips, you can make your bathroom appear larger without sacrificing storage space. And if you’re able to, a bathroom remodel might be just what your small bathroom needs. At Bath Plus Kitchen Remodeling, we offer full-service bathroom and kitchen remodeling in Northern Virginia, DC, and Montgomery County, MD. We can turn your small bathroom into a beautiful, spacious place that you enjoy spending your time in.

Kitchen or Bath Remodel? What Will Add More Resale Value?

Kitchen or Bath Remodel? What Will Add More Resale Value?

It’s important to consider your return on investment, or ROI, when looking into remodeling your home. And many people ask whether a bathroom or kitchen remodel will get them more resale value for their home. The answer isn’t so straight forward. There are a few considerations to make, as every home is not the same.

How to decide whether a kitchen or bathroom remodel will add more resale value to your home:

Is one non-functional? If your bathroom has leaky tiles or your kitchen has electrical issues, these things can show up in an inspection. It’s beneficial to tackle these projects first, so you don’t end up having to pay for it later on down the line.

Your ROI depends on if it’s a mid-range or upscale remodeling project. Mid-range kitchen projects usually return 80% of the cost during resale, while upscale projects return around 69%. Mid-range bathroom projects return 74% of the cost and upscale projects return 63%.

While you’re not getting 100% or more you will see less time on the market and you’ll avoid low-ball offers from buyers.

Also Read : 8 Tips For Small Bathrooms in Washington DC

However, not every remodel will recoup these percentages. It’s important to follow a few important tips to make sure you get the most out of your remodeling project.

  • Avoid half measures. Buyers can tell when you’ve only added some simple cosmetic updates, and many times they end up ripping them out anyway. If you want to really increase your ROI, make sure that you are using quality products that have a long lifespan.
  • Look at the project as a whole. If your cabinets are dated or falling apart replacing the counters while keeping the cabinets are not going to do the trick. Experienced designers will be able to tell you how to best improve the space and increase your resale value.
  • Take the long-term approach. If you’re planning on selling in 5 years, don’t wait to start remodeling. You can start now and remodel the kitchen and a bathroom or two by spreading out the projects over the next 5 years. It will increase your ROI even more if you are able to remodel more than one space.
  • Focus on making it turnkey. If you are in a neighborhood that attracts young families, this is especially important. The appeal of a turnkey home can greatly increase your resale value in these neighborhoods.

A quality bathroom or kitchen remodel can really do a lot for your home’s value. When you sit down with your remodeling company, ask them about your ROI. They should be able to tell you what you can expect to get back from your remodel. And if you’re still looking for a bathroom or kitchen remodeling company, check out Bath Plus Kitchen Remodeling. We are a full-service remodeling company, serving Northern Virginia. Review our projects and customer testimonials to get a feel for the quality work we do. We can help you get the best resale value on your home with a bath and kitchen remodel. Give us a call today for a free estimate.

Also Read : How to measure your kitchen for a remodel

Metal Strips Versus Bullnose Tiles – How To Finishing Tile Edges

Metal Strips Versus Bullnose Tiles – How To Finishing Tile Edges

What Are Metal Strips?

Metal strips are a transition piece.  For example, you’ll see metal strips where tile meets drywall, at the corners of a shower curb, and around niches.

The purpose of metal strips are to protect you from unfinished tile edges.  Likewise, exposed tile edges are unsightly.  Most importantly,  they make for a modern, and clean appearance.

Want help designing your bath or kitchen?  Contact us today for a design consultation.  Our design team is available to work with you virtually.

You have two options when selecting the shape of your metal strip: the L-shape and a rounded edge.  The former is referred to as a jolly edge and latter a rondec.

Consider the design aesthetic of your kitchen or bath to decide the shape.  Go for the L-shape if you want a crisp, contemporary look.  On the other hand for a traditional feel to your space a rounded edge is best.

In addition, metal strips come in many different finishes.   Certainly consider the color  of your faucets, fittings,  and accessories before buying.

Also Read: Painted Vs Stained Cabinets What’s Best For Your Kitchen Cabinets?

What Are Bullnose Tiles?

Bullnose tiles have one or two sides with a finished and rounded edge.   Bullnose tiles are great for a smooth transition.  Consequently, if you’re after a decorative look consider a chair rail instead of bullnose tiles.   Similarly, a pencil liner adds more interest than bullnose.

In short, pencil liners, bullnose, and metal strips are all interchangeable for most applications.  Meanwhile consider design, your budget and availability of the materials when  deciding which material to use.

How To Decide Between Metal Strips and Bullnose:

Metal Strips

  • Metal strips are the affordable option.
  • They readily available in popular finishes.
  • You must know the thickness of your tiles before ordering.
  • Match the finish to your fittings, fixtures, and accessories.
  • As a decorative feature, install metal strips below and above an accent.
  • Outside and inside corner pieces are available to put a cap on sharp edges.

Tile Bullnose

  • Perfect for a seamless transition.
  • Purchased by the piece.
  • Range in size  from  6″ to 24″.
  • For larger tiles they might not be available.
  • Install as a base board around your bathroom.
  • If you’re doing a shower niche, decide if you’d like to bullnose inside the niche or around the outside.

Also Read: Furniture Board vs. Plywood Cabinets

Conclusion

To sum up, there are a number of factors to consider including style, availability and budget.  Metal strips are perfect for a clean, contemporary look.  On the other hand, bullnose tiles are great for transitional and traditional spaces.   Still unsure?  Send us a note about your project.  We’d love to hear from you.

Cast Iron Tubs: Reglazing vs. Replacing

Cast Iron Tubs: Reglazing vs. Replacing

How would you feel if we told you that bathing in the United States did not become popular until the late 1800s? One thought that may come to mind would be utterly disgusting! Thankfully, the trend of regular bathing and maintaining proper hygiene caught on. In the 1930s, J.L. Mott, a businessman and an innovator, produced cast iron tubs. Since his innovation, cast iron tubs maintain a steady fixture in most bathrooms in the country and globally.

Now that the history is out of the way, let us move to the real reason why you are reading this blog— to replace or to reglaze iron tubs once worn out. It all took place in Old Town Alexandria, where a homeowner decided to reglaze her cast iron tub instead of replacing, but was that a wise choice? Let’s have a look to find out!

The Dilemma

The homeowner’s cast iron tub complemented the age of the house, which was constructed in 1919. With time, the cast iron tub lost its shine, as uncovered in the bathtub were green water stains under the faucet, gritty texture and nasty dents on the outside. The cause of the condition of the bathtub was clear. The years of improper cleaning had taken a toll on it, but the technician could still breathe life into it, restoring it to its usual self.

Also Read : Metal Strips Versus Bullnose Tiles

The Restoration of the Cast Iron Tub Begins

The steps taken to give the cast iron tub a new beginning are as follows:

  • Step 1: Using a putty knife, the technician carved away the caulk caught between the walls and the tub.
  • Step 2: Next, he removed the drain cover and covered the faucets.
  • Step 3: He cleaned the bathtub to remove the grime.
  • Step 4: Using a razor blade, he scraped off soap scum, and then put an alkaline emulsifier.
  • Step 5: Using an acid-based citric cleanser, he neutralized the emulsifier.
  • Step 6: He cleaned the tub, dried it and rubbed it with denatured alcohol.
  • Step 7: He sealed the scratches and chips with fiberglass putty.
  • Step 8: He applied a coat of a bonding agent to allow the acrylic urethane enamel to hold to the porcelain surface.
  • Step 9: Using a spray gun, he put on three coats of acrylic urethane enamel, giving each coat time to dry for at ten to fifteen minutes.
  • Step 10: He smoothed out the rough patches with a 1,000-grit sanding paper and used a power buffer with a foam attachment to remove scratches.

After eight hours, the homeowner’s bathtub was ready for her to take a bath in. Reglazing the cast iron bathroom was the right choice for her after all, but is it a wise choice for you?

When Should You Replace or Reglaze Your Cast Iron Tub?

Replace your cast iron tubs for the following reasons:

  1. You have no need for a tub and prefer a shower instead.
  2. You want to replace it with a soaking, freestanding, or whirlpool bathtub.
  3. You have a personal vendetta against it and just want it out.
  4. You want a barrier free shower and want to remodel for aging in place.

Reglaze your cast iron tubs for the following reasons:

  1. You have a cast iron tub and reglazing a steel enameled tub is costly.
  2. You want to move the tub to any other location in the house.
  3. You don’t want to mess with the theme of the bathroom by changing the tub.
  4. You want to repaint the tub a different color, which you easily can with a cast iron tub.
  5. You plan to sell your house soon and reglazing it will save you money, saving you about $750, whereas replacing it would cost you anywhere from $600 to $1,500.

*Quick Tip: To find out if your cast iron tub is enameled steel, fiberglass or acrylic, knock on it and if it gives a silent thud – congratulations, you have a cast iron tub!

Also Read : 8 Tips For Small Bathrooms in Washington DC

Which is the right fit for you? Will you replace it or reglaze it? Whichever option you decide to go with, we will be there to do it for you!