Saturday, February 9, 2013

Top 5 Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

Many begin the process of remodeling their bathroom. It is quite common to see homeowners taking this particular project into their own hands. Why? Remodeling the bathroom is a relatively easy task. As long as the individual knows exactly what they want to do, the steps required to do it, and has the time to do it, it is often much better to proceed with bathroom remodeling projects from a "do-it-yourself" angle than to hire an outsider to come in and do it. However, it is important to know that there are mistakes that can be made. Here, you will be introduced to the top 5 bathroom remodeling mistakes that you should avoid.
1. The first mistake that many individuals end up making when it comes to bathroom remodeling is that they fail to obtain necessary permits. This may not make a lot of since if you are simply laying new tile, or adding a new coat of paint on the bathroom walls. However, if you are making major renovations to the bathroom, such as installing new plumbing fixtures, rearranging the components of your bathroom, or physically increasing the size of the room, it is imperative that you consider the importance of obtaining the appropriate permits. This may send a sharp sense of dread through you, but permits are created to protect you and others. You acquire these when you want to perform work, and in certain stages, your work is evaluated. It is evaluated for the purpose of safety. If the work is deemed "unsafe", the inspector will outline what needs to be done to make it safe, and will come back for another inspection.
2. The second mistake stems from the fact that many individuals do not prepare for the job in the appropriate manner. This means that they do not properly prepare the room for the work that they are attempting to do, and they fail to acquire the proper supplies and tools that are necessary for the endeavor. If you are remodeling this room, it is important that you know exactly what you want to do, and how you want to do it. You should then ensure that you gather the right supplies that are needed. Once this has been completed, you should gather all of the necessary tools that will be required to complete the job. Not doing this can cause unnecessary delay, and can put you in some pretty uncomfortable positions. For example, if you are planning on converting your copper pipes to PVC pipes, and you rip apart the old pipe, but do not have an adequate amount of PVC pipe, you may find yourself out of water and necessary plumbing for a while.
3. The third bathroom remodeling mistake that is often made is when the wrong type of products are purchased in order to save money. For example, there are certain types of paints that hold up better in the bathroom than other types of paints. This is because of the moisture that is often experienced in this room. Just as there are certain types of paints that are more appropriate than others, there are certain types of wall and floor materials that are more appropriate to use in a bathroom than other rooms. It is important to take a little time and research what products are best suited for this room prior to purchasing them.
4. The next bathroom remodeling mistake that is commonly made is the failure to take the steps to properly protect yourself while performing the different tasks in the remodeling project. This means that you should wear protective eye wear and protection on the ears when it is necessary. Hard hats and face masks may also be appropriate depending on what type of work is being performed. In addition to this, it is very important that you NEVER work alone. If an accident does occur, it is best to have someone with you to ensure that you get the help that you need quickly.
5. The next mistake that is made is when an individual "believes" that they can perform a task easily and then they discover that it is beyond their expertise. It is the person that does not admit that they are in over their head that finds that they are actually in over their head. You should research all jobs prior to doing them and ensure that you have the required assistance when it is needed. Otherwise, your entire project could fall through - in more ways that one!


Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Dee

Selecting a Contractor

When you're ready to remodel, making sure you've selected the right contractor for you is the most important factor in the whole process. Here are some of the critical points in that decision: Be Clear Make sure you're clear on what you want to do. Define the project in writing with as much detail as you can. That way you can let your prospective contractors know exactly what you have in mind, and get accurate bids.

Do Research

Select your contractors from solid sources: referrals from friends and coworkers, trusted local media, and from reputable internet media. You can and should go online (Google) for the type of remodel you want done, and contact those contractors yourself. Their websites will almost always give you more than enough information for you to decide whether to call them for further conversation. t

Be Careful

Be very careful of door-to-door contacts – "We're working down the street and have excess material, and can give you a good deal..." High pressure tactics should be a red flag, as should the contractor who asks for a very large deposit before beginning work.

Choose a Licensed Contractor

Be sure that the contractor(s) you're talking to have all the necessary licenses, bonds and insurance – Contractors State License Board will tell whether your contractor is licensed, and he/she should be able to show you proof of insurance and local permits.

Get References

You'll want references from recent clients who've done work similar to your project.

Get a Written Contract

Make sure that all the project specification, work schedules and payment terms are written in the contract. Anything but the simplest work should include drawings of the proposed work. Your contractor should be able to explain not only what will be done in terms you understand, but the sequence of events, and the time it will take from start to finish.

Get a Warranty

A reputable contractor will provide a written warranty that defines what is covered, as well as any manufacturers' warrantees for appliances, fixtures and equipment.
Remember, you need to be comfortable with your selection, and feel sure that the contractor can meet the expectations he's set. You'll be happier during construction and happier with your new bath when it's done.


Source: Scott Davis in Remodelling Tips

A Guide To Bathroom Remodeling

There is a reason why many Hollywood actors keep their awards in their bathrooms -- all their guests will visit that room at some point, so why not put the trophies were everyone will see them? But even if you haven't won any Academy Awards, your guests will be still checking out you bathroom. A well-done bathroom remodeling can impress your guests and boost the value of your home.

Bathroom remodeling can be as simple as new paint and fixtures, or it can be a total renovation and expansion. If you want to begin bathroom remodeling, the first thing you should do is assess your current bathroom.

Think about these questions to make sure you get the most out of your project:

How many people will be using the bathroom?If a family shares one bathroom it may be a good idea to have a separate area for the toilet and shower so that someone can be showering while another person uses the mirror and vanity.

What is the bathroom's current condition?Attacking grimy tile with bleach or industrial tile cleaning solution, polishing the fixtures, and adding brighter lights can put the sparkle back in your bathroom and cost lest than a renovation. But if the bathroom is out-of-date, falling apart or just boring, consider more intense changes.

How much money do you have for the renovation?

Before you begin, think of how much money you can realistically afford. No remodeling project should put you in debt. Once you have a budget, take a trip to your local hardware store to check out prices. Comparison shop and start looking for deals before you start your renovation project. You don't need to buy everything at once; you can easily wait for store sales to buy the tools you need and store them.

How much work can you do one your own?

If this is your first bathroom remodeling project, go easy on yourself. You will need to use this room, so make sure you don't get yourself into trouble. If your bathroom needs new wiring, plumbing, or even tile, don't be afraid to ask for professional help. Just make sure you account for it in your budget.

How much space do you have?

If you can knock down walls, be sure to plan ahead. Pocket doors and a shower, not a bathtub, are easy ways of conserving space.

How long will you be using the bathroom?

If you are remodeling to help sell your house, or might be selling soon, it may be best to stick with simple, conservative changes. Make things work and look clean, but don't add your dream whirlpool tub. These questions address some of the most basic points of bathroom remodeling. Plan ahead, budget, watch for deals, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Remember, bathroom modeling should be fun, and the results are all for your enjoyment. Make the most of it.


Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough

Choosing a Bath Designer

A homeowner embarking on bathroom design project may find themselves quickly overwhelmed with the choices. How to choose the best style? Is this product right for the space? How to maximize the area for the best use? Even the savviest homeowner can quickly come to the conclusion that they need help. This is where hiring bathroom designer becomes the first choice to be made.

Why Use Bathroom Designer?

There are many benefits to using bathroom designer. For a complete renovation bath designers can help with space planning to maximize a small space. They will also have knowledge and relationships with showrooms and vendors, leading homeowners to the products that will suit them best. Bath designers often have knowledge of local plumbing and building codes, as well as guidelines for maximizing use of the space. There are also designers who specialize in green building and universal design, for homeowners with special concerns.

How do Bath Designers and an Interior Designers Differ?

A bathroom designer is someone who specializes in these spaces. An interior decorator has a more diffuse knowledge of what is going to look good in the home, while a bath designer will have a specialized knowledge of the space, the layout, even basic plumbing and building codes. Sinks, toilets, cabinets and hardware can all take specialized knowledge that a bath designer can provide.

Choosing the Bath Designer

The first step to choosing a bathroom designer is to check out their certification and experience. Are they affiliated with the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), or its equivalent? What certification levels have they passed? What courses have they taken? The designer should be current with their certifications, and up to date on current design theories and trends.

Ask to see examples of recent work, as well as recommendations from customers. Make sure that their style matches the design envisioned, and that they have a large body of work, as well as satisfied customers.

Find out what showrooms and contractors they have relationships with, and take a look at the products and services offered. Find out if the designer will accompany homeowners to select product, or merely point them in a direction to take. If the choices on offer do not line up with the desired style, or are too few in number, move on.

Above all, be sure that this is a person that listens to the concerns of the homeowner, and is someone that meshes well with them, personality wise. This is someone that will be involved in every step of the design process, which can be lengthy, so be sure to feel comfortable with them.

Whether using bathroom design firm or simply utilizing a designer to offer advice and guidelines, the process of bathroom remodel should go much smoother with their help. Engage the services of bathroom designer today and get started on a beautiful new home.


Source: http://interiordecorating.suite101.com/article.cfm/choosing_a_kitchen_or_bath_designer

What Would a New Bathroom Remodel Mean to Your Home?

Is your bathroom dull and boring? Do you get excited to wake up and go ahead there, or do you fall in with eyes half sealed and go through the motions?
Your bathrooms is a sanctuary, but for many, this room just dreary and in need of a makeover. If you are less then enthused when you enter your bathroom, then it might be time to start coming up with some bathroom remodeling tips.
When it comes to bathroom remodeling ideas, there are many homeowners who second guess themselves. If you are in that position, it is advised that you take the time to familiarize yourself with some of the most common indicators that your bathroom remodeling ideas make sense. If any of the symptoms, which will be mentioned below, seem alto familiar then it may be occasion that you start thinking about remodeling your bathrooms.
One of the most obvious signs that you need to remodel your bathroom was mentioned above. That sign is unhappiness. Whether you are unhappy with the overall appearance of your home or just the bathroom, applying some of your bathroom remodeling concepts may be able to offer you assistance. If you undertake make the decision to remodel your bathrooms, you will find that you have a number of different options. You could easily remodel a small portion of your bathroom, such as your bathrooms toilet or sink, however you could also change everything close to. In fact, the choices that you will have are only one of the many benefits to remodeling your bathroom; you have the complete freedom for you to implement what ever bathroom remodeling concepts you may have.
In addition to just not liking the way that your bathroom looks, there's also a chance that it may be dangerous or in poor condition. Whether or not you have developed a mould problem or if your bathroom is actually falling apart, you may not only want to think about remodeling your bathroom, but you may actually need to. Since bathroom is often considered one of the most used rooms in a home, there is a good chance that you, as well as other people who lives in your home, uses it multiple times a day. Reduce bathroom floor tiles, mildew, and other bathroom problems are unable to only look unattractive, but they can also be dangerous. Therefore, if your bathroom can be considered unsafe, you might think about having your bathroom renovated.
Another driver of making your bathroom remodeling ideas a reality can be if you are looking to sell your home. Within almost all cases, implementing your bathroom remodeling ideas project increase the overall value of a home, particularly bathroom was previously in bad condition. Although you are not needed to remodel your bathroom before you sell this, it may be a good idea. For more information on whether or not a bathroom remodeling ideas project can easily increase the profits that you will see when selling your home, you may want to speak to a real estate agent. You will find in which in some cases it is worth it to remodel your bathroom before marketing, but others times it's not.
Once you realize that you are serious regarding implementing your bathroom remodeling concepts project, you may want to invest in a few off the shelf bathroom design software. Most bathroom design software applications are inexpensive and will assist by producing a professional list of bathroom remodeling plans which you can give a loan officer should you dicide to finance the project. Most bathroom design computer software also will generate and accurate list of bathroom remodeling costs. One closing advantage of equipping yourself using bathroom design software is that most come with a lot of bathroom remodeling pictures which could help you decide the particulars of your project.
The above mentioned bathroom remodeling signs are just a few of the many that occur. In all honestly, it does not really matter whether you need to complete your bathroom remodeling ideas or not, all that matters is if you want to. If you wish to make your bathroom remodeling ideas a reality, go right ahead; there are a fairly large number of advantages to doing so.


Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/what-would-a-new-bathroom-remodel-mean-to-your-4063527.html

Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathroom remodeling is one of the best ways of increasing the value and marketability of your home and is always a wise investment, in addition to adding a great deal to the overall asthetic and beauty of your living space. There are many options available for modernizing and updating the bathroom, from complete redesign to adding modest improvments. The EZProBaths design and construction team can create a space for you that is functional, modernized and includes special features that will enhance the beauty of your home and not only meet, but exceed all of your expectations. There are many ways that you can add beauty and value with bathroom renovations. From classic, sleek, euro-modern; to relaxing and rejuvinating spa; to restful oasis, to peaceful sanctuary, EZProBaths can help bring your imagination to life. Here are a few elements to consider:

Bath and Shower: Bath and shower elements come in an variety of designs that can provide either a major design element or serve as a background oasis. From free-standing bath and/or shower options to combined bath/shower designs, wonderful options exist to create the look and feel you desire.

Today's manufacturers offer glass designs in an array of colors, textures, clarities, and artful etching and other designs; natural materials such as lava, boulders, stone fragments, marble and granite; tile in an endless array of colors and textures; metals and other structural hardware in a range of options; fixtures for shower, bath, and steam in beautiful chromes, natural bamboo, antiques, to euro-modern, that provide a gentle mist, a rain-like spray, a deep targeted massage, a steamroom, a bubbling jet spa, or simply a wonderfully scented soak; and, bathtubs and shower surrounds in many beautiful styles and configurations.
Wall Tile: Replace outdated wall tile with beautiful glazed ceramic tiling that comes in a host of designs, colors, textures and sizes to highlight your overall design. Wall tile can be used in many ways from major bathroom design elements to decorative accent lines. Functionally, tile can be used to prevent mold and mildew and to prevent damage to walls from moisture and steam and from fixtures such as faucets, showers, and sinks.
Floor tile: Floor tile is perhaps one of the most visible and noticed major elements in your bathroom design and is available in an endles arrays of colors, patterns and textures. Light beautiful colors can create the illusion of much more space, deeply saturated color can add depth and dimension or a major accent in your color palatte. Mid-range colors can blend other color and design elements together. Floor tile can absorb or reflect light and blend together or offset other textural and color elements to reflect your taste and preferences to create a beautiful whole.
Vanity: Your vanity should be as beautiful as it is functional. Today's modern designs provide an opportunity for your imagination to come to life with "free-floating" designs that do not touch the floor; classically beautiful woods in deep, rich hues; artsy, whimsical, acrylics and other materials; and, earth and eco-friendly options in any design configuration you can dream up.

Countertops are also available in many classical, modern and avant-guarde materials, colors and textures, from beautiful granites, natural rock pebbles, and an array of unique artfsy designs that will add to your overall design concept.
Faucets and Bathroom Hardware: One of the easiest ways to update your bathroom is to replace outdated faucets and hardware with new, beautiful, modern fixtures that come in a range of styles, colors, shapes and materials. From brushed metals in bronzes and sepia tones, to chromes and bright metals in any color of the rainbow, natural bamboo or stone materials, to vintage Victorian designs, bathroom fixtures have come a long way from a basic faucet to a unique accent to your overall design concept or as an inexpensive way to provide an instant "facelife" to your bathroom space.
Toilet: Consider replacing your worn and outdated water closet with a new, eco-friendly water-saving toilet that will save you money, contributed to the preserving our natural resources, and will function well for years to come. Today's toilets come in a variety of designs and colors to enhance or blend in with your bathroom design.
Lighting: Both natural and installed lighting elements add to the overall ambiance in your bathroom space as well as proving functionality. In addition to moisture-resistant essential lighting, accent and spot lighting can highlight design elements, add softness and warmth, enrich colors, provide essential functional usage, and blend with natural outdoor light to create a beautiful look and feel to the bathroom space. Modern lighting designs are limited only by your imagination and are available in colors, materials, textures and designs that will add a wonderful element to blend with or accent the space.
Windows: Natural light is not just a luxury, its a necessity! Heathy minds and souls wake each day when they are exposed to natural light! Your choice in bathroom windows is of the utmost importance, dual pane windows keep you warm and draft free while you soak in that new tub, and various types of obscure glass, such and Rain, Glue Chip and Narrow Reed by Millguard Windows, give you the privacy you need while in the most intimate of rooms in your home.
Environmental Consciousness: Consider going green, EZProBaths is happy to provide our customers with luxury as well as eco-friendly options when remodeling, considering a soaking tub with recirculating heater, reducing your water usage and heating bills for those of us who know and understand the benefits of a good long warm soak. Wether you're looking to wind down from a long day in the office or on the playing field nothing relaxes the body and mind like a long languid soak in hot water but no matter your reason, adding a Jacuzzi or HydroSystems tub during your remodel is sure to pay off not only in peace of mind and body, but in your pocket book as well.. Heated Floor: Before you lay those floor tiles, consider heated floor as part of your bathroom remodeling project. Your whole family will appreciate them, and when it comes time to sell your home, heated bathroom floors will be an enormous selling point.
From Classic, to Modern, Victorian, Spa, Oasis, or Sanctuary, EZProBaths can help you bring your imagination to life. Whether you want a quick upgrade to a full redesign, see our gallery for ideas and inspiration on the many ways you can add value to your investment and enhance the beauty of your environment.


Source: http://www.remodelworks.com/remodeling-tips/76-san-diego-bathroom-remodeling-ideas.html

Bathroom Remodeling Tips - Top Mistakes to Avoid

While planning a bathroom remodel, it's very important that you start with a plan and follow it very precisely. After all, it's going to take some planning and some time. You want to make sure your remodel turns out beautifully. However, the task can be a little overwhelming at times. If you're interested in helpful information that can help you as you plan and carry out your bathroom remodel, more than likely you've read many on what you are supposed to do. Well, here are some important bathroom remodeling tips on mistakes that you need to avoid so you are sure the remodel turns out the way you want it to.

Tip #1- Have a Plan Don't Wing It

Many people seem to think that remodeling a bathroom is going to be easy. Nothing is as easy as it first might seem. There are many things to consider and just winging it is not going to cut it. You'll have to make sure that the fixture you choose fit, that the plumbing is done right, and you need to come up with a good layout for the bathroom. This is not something that you can do on the fly. Take the time to actually plan out your bathroom remodel for the best results. This way you don't end up having to go back and do things over again.

Tip #2 - Don't Buy Without Research and Comparison Shopping

Another mistake that you need to avoid is purchasing without doing research or doing some comparison shopping. After all, you don't want to just purchase the first things you see when you are shopping for your bathroom. One of the best bathroom remodeling tips that you can keep in mind is to spend time considering various options and looking for a great deal. Take the time to get online to look at bathroom furnishings that are available. It makes it easy to shop and compare various options that you have. You'll also want to spend some time looking for the best possible price. Comparison shop at various websites and stores to see where you can get the best deal on the products that you want for your bathroom remodel. This way you get what you want and you still save money too.

Tip #3 - Don't Do it Yourself if You're Not Skilled

If you are not skilled in the area of plumbing or remodeling, then don't try it yourself. You'll end up costing yourself a whole lot more money if you try doing this when you don't have the skills that you need. Home improvement and bathroom remodeling projects involve more than just changing out some old fixtures. Often plumbing is going to be required, and unless you really know what you are doing, you are better off to leave this work to a professional. While there are simple remodeling tasks that you can probably take care of on your own, if you are not sure how to do it and you don't have the needed skills, don't try doing it yourself. The money you spend on a contractor will be worth it and will save you time and agony.

Tip #4 - Don't Start Without Figuring Out Your Budget

Make sure you have a firm budget before you start any bathroom remodeling job. Many people make this mistake and end up spending far more than they wanted to on the project. It's better to first sit down and figure out how much money you have to spend on the remodeling project. Then you can work with supplies and fixtures that fit into your budget. You don't want to end up breaking the bank when remodeling your bathroom, so make sure you have a budget in mind before you start.

Tip #5 - Don't Hire Just Any Contractor

Last of all, when it comes to bathroom remodeling tips, another important mistake you need to avoid is hiring just any contractor. Need a contractor, then pick the best one you can find. Don't hire the first person that you meet. You need to make sure that the contractor is qualified to do the job that you need done. It's also important that you check to make sure that they are insured and licensed. Take the time to find out more about a contractor and check out his record and experience before deciding to make the hire.