Sometimes, You just know it is time to upgrade.
When that time comes, here are 16 ideas that you really ought to consider:
16. Opting for Indoor Plumbing is a good idea.
Grandma Guernsey says she’s tired of that stinky chamber pot always being full, and the daytime trudge through the snow interferes with her walker. It’s time to consider coming into the 20th century, even though that’s still way outdated. Wouldn’t it be nice to satisfy her dreams of a handy facility for those frequent night-time round trips? Believe me, it won’t be long before she learns that is more than just an easier place to empty her bedtime convenience bowl.
15. Consider trading out your bathtub for a shower stall.
There are so many options available now. Be wary of the least expensive options, because the stall itself will probably feel to thin, with a very “plastic” feel. There are tricks, using special bathroom insulation called “green board” to make sure there is adequate support on the floor and walls. It is really disconcerting to feel like you’re taking a shower in a large, odd-shaped water jug. The difference in price means you’ll be glad to have a well-supported shower stall. If you’re remodeling to then sell the property, opting for a lower-end shower stall will very likely reduce the desirability of your sale. That could cost you much more than the money you intended to save.
14. Access to cabinets for towels and supplies will always be appreciated.
There are good options, even if space-saving is a factor. Cabinets are great, shelves will serve the function, and more towel bars can be used to give your bathroom an innovative and serviceable look. Give us a chance to discuss your options!
13. Make sure your vent is clear and efficient
If the vent is plugged, you could end up with more moisture being trapped in your bathroom than you expect. Also, a bathroom fan can be noisy if it needs to be replaced. Your bathroom may be just fine, but it’s something to examine.
12. A fresh coat of Paint can do wonders
Your contractor or your paint dealer can advise you on bathroom paint. Is this paint mildew-resistant? Additives are often available to assist in this. Also, it’s a good idea to paint a surface that is washable. Even on walls that aren’t often washed, that water-resistance can prevent the crumbling of drywall.
11. Safety bars are definitely worthwhile: you may use them more than you think.
These aren’t just for homes that need to assist special needs anymore. A couple of bars in a shower can prevent falls; a bar to use to get up from a soak in the tub will make you glad it is there! Perhaps bathroom bars aren’t necessary yet, and there are devices that are made for temporary needs. Hip or knee surgery means that temporary need, but you don’t necessarily need to make permanent alterations.
10. Chair-height stool, or Comfort Height?
Chair-height toilets are standard height, and usually mean the toilet is 17 inches high, before adding the toilet seat. These are ideal if you have children, no tall people, and not moving through their middle-age years. Comfort height, on the other hand, is 19 inches or taller. That little bit of difference becomes very noticeable, especially once you become more accustomed to that height and then you a standard height stool. Take a look at your individual circumstance, and buy accordingly. The price difference is usually not that much.
9. Round Stool, or Elongated?
Two factors come into play: How tight is your available space, and, what are you used to? We recommend the elongated toilet where space allows. It won’t take you very long at all to be glad you made that choice.
8. To Save Space, What about a wall-hung toilet?
This is more expensive than normal installation, because the tank will be hidden inside the wall. It makes a bold, modern statement, and can be a real asset where space is at a premium.
7. Additional toilet flush options
You can get the traditional flush, flush with the flush handle on the side of the tank, old-fashioned tanks high above the stool, or old-fashioned but low. Wow, the options to fit your décor. You can also get water-saving flush for light or heavy flush need. There are touchless flushing options, and it seems like there are more innovations all the time. There are lighted bowls! Automatic seat raising and lowering! It seems to go on and on! But hey, if you’re remodeling, it’s up to you what sounds like it is something you really want, or something to avoid! In the middle of a remodel, though, it’s a good thing to find out. We’re happy to tell you about our experience and make sure you are aware of some options.
6. Flooring Options
Some types of flooring require additional sub-floor security; others are not designed to work effectively in a bathroom. There is vinyl plank, laminated plank, tile, slate, and so many more options. Again, moisture is a major issue. We’ll help you narrow options to those that will work best, and then you’ll choose what suits your taste accordingly. Just remember: not every flooring option suited for other rooms is a good idea in the bathroom.
5. New Basin and Cabinet
The bathroom sink makes a huge difference. Choosing what works best in your available space is key: if you have plenty of space, avoid that small or even minimal installation; smaller spaces might eliminate the double-sink solutions. Also, the cabinet around the sink is usually available in different sizes. Making sure you don’t impede the path of someone trying to get past you will be something you’re glad you didn’t overlook–but that is often discovered too late. Let us help you avoid that mistake!
4. Towel Rod/shelf options
Materials used for towel rods varies not only in material and appearance, but durability and strength factor in as well. There are options to use the inside of the door, but that doesn’t work in every situation. You want your bathroom to look great, but you also want it to be useful on a day-to-day basis. These aren’t as mutually exclusive as you might think! Looking at your space can reveal some great ideas. We’d be honored to be a part of your thinking.
3. Resurfacing an old tub
You know those old, claw-foot bathtubs that are really heavy, but look pretty dingy? Those can be resurfaced and very possibly make you glad you didn’t replace it after all! We’ll let you know what options are best in your situation.
2. Updating your electric access
More outlets, updated switches, and wiring checks help solve some of the daily nuisance that you might have been putting up with for years. These are the days of new and growing devices that are used in the bathroom. Charge ports for devices? Sure, we can do that. Built-in night lights, or lighted switches? No problem. Practical jokes that will send a tingle through your annoying brother-in-law’s fingers? Well, that will have to be a DIY project, but otherwise, we’ll be glad to help.
1. Lighting: dramatic upgrade on a budget
There are beautiful lighting options available, and it seems there are more coming out all the time. Direct, indirect, subtle lights or heat lamps: yes, we can help! These can be a striking addition, or the perfect accent to your overall plan. We’d love to be on board to help with this selection as well.
We’re Ready! Give us a call!
Forming the plan is the fun part, and we can help you. Once you’re ready with the plan, we’re ready to do the work! Let’s get started soon!