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3 pros!
Stressed about bathroom remodeling? Make it fun by planning ahead and finding the right contractor.
Some folks anticipate a bath renovation with trepidation or outright dread, but a remodeling experience should be fun — not traumatizing.
How can you ensure that your bathroom remodel will turn out right and, at the same time, be exciting and rewarding? First, do your homework.
Any worthwhile project begins with preparation. This is especially true in the case of a major remodel. If you were going on an extended hiking trip, it’d only be logical to prepare for success. You’d study up on where you’re going, figure out what gear you need and calculate what you’ll spend. The same holds true for your remodeling adventure.
Here are some questions you should answer for yourself before you ever start emptying the first cabinet.
RELATED: Tips for the Best Bathroom Remodel
1. What “look” am I trying to achieve?
Whether you want to add trendy bathroom style or create a more traditional space, answering this question is critically important. Not only does it simplify your product search, but it will also dictate, to a large extent, your costs and the sequence of construction.
In other words, when you are all done, what do you want to see? Is your look Old World, Modern, Industrial Contemporary, Victorian, Frank Lloyd Wright or Seaside Cottage? Knowing where you want to end up is the key to enjoying the finished product.
2. What will I realistically spend on this bathroom remodel?
A small budget generally dictates a smaller, more conservative remodel.
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the cost to renovate a small bathroom is approximately $16,000. A major remodel may be out of reach, at least for now. However, by working strategically you may be able to attain your goal.
3. How will you sequence the remodeling project?
If you have limited funds, a way to accomplish your goal of a dream bathroom remodel may be to sequence the project.
Decide what area of the bathroom needs immediate attention. Maybe it’s the bath and shower. Focus on that. Perhaps next year the vanity area can be given attention, and so on until the entire space has been renewed.
This can be a really wise way to proceed with your remodel, especially if funds are tight. Trying to do too much can produce unnecessary anxiety and stress. And, if you have a “look” clearly in mind, future decisions will be easier and compatible with the rest of the renovation.
4. Who's the right contractor?
Remember, the remodeling contractor you select will be your partner in the project.
Find a bathroom remodeling contractor that you enjoy working with and who strives to understand what you are trying to accomplish. You should be comfortable talking to your contractor about your concerns and your successes.
Your contractor should show you respect and be open and forthright with you as well. Don’t let the amount of the quote be the sole decision maker when choosing who to partner with in your remodel. Take your time selecting your partner.
Anticipate success
A positive attitude and a bit of flexibility can be the difference between a happy outcome and a stressful, unhappy experience.
Things change and unanticipated situations arise. You can be sure that your partner, your contractor, wants to see a successful remodel and a happy customer.
When both contractor and client work together for the common goal, success is assured.
Are you considering a bathroom remodel, but not sure where to start? Share your thoughts and concerns in the comments section!
Editor's note: This is an updated version of an article originally published on May 30, 2014.
About this Experts Contributor: Cal Doyle is president of Budget Bathrooms in Phoenix, Arizona. He has been in the residential building industry for over 40 years. In addition to being a master carpenter and cabinet maker, Doyle has worked with major national builders as a project developer, design consultant and marketing director. You can follow this contributor on Facebook.
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