Renovating a bathroom can be an overwhelming task. Chances are that you’ll know what I’m talking about if you’ve even undertaken a project like this before. Planning the layout, buying the necessary fixtures and fittings, deciding on a budget and finding a competent contractor…it’s all hard work, right?
Well, not anymore! The secret to a successful renovation project is all about smart timing and careful planning. Below you’ll find a complete guide to bathroom renovation that is primarily based around both of these principles.
Six Months Out
Look for Inspiration.
Six months before the project is due to start, you should already be looking for sources of inspiration for your new bathroom. Root through magazines and catalogues and tear out any pages that catch your eye. Utilize the Internet to research various different bathroom styles and designs.
Ask around for recommendations.
While it’s not necessary to actually hire a contractor at this stage, it’s definitely a good time to start asking around for recommendations from family, friends, neighbors and hardware stores. This will save you a lot of time and effort closer to the start date as you’ll already be equipped with a list of possible contractors.
Three Months Out
Finalize your budget.
Once you have a rough estimate of the money you have to spend, it’s only then that you get a clearer sense of what the possibilities for the project are. Always deduct the cost of labor before you go allocating money for a new toilet or shower door.
Purchase some fixtures and fittings.
While some orders can be fulfilled within a few days, it’s always a good idea to play it safe and order your fixtures and fittings in plenty of time. You want to be sure that you have everything on time so that the project can run on schedule.
The main fixtures like the bath and the toilet will most likely be at the top of your list, but don’t forget to order the smaller fittings like the barrier pipe and rubber washers for the taps.
Hire a contractor.
With just three months to go until the project gets underway, it’s now a good idea to hire a licensed contractor or contractors. It is pretty easy to find a Long Beach plumber, electrician, and so on and so forth. Let them take a look at your plans, as they will be able to pinpoint any problems that may be present. Review estimates and create a timeline that will state a start-date and the expected finish-date
One Month Out
Prep for the arrival of the contractor.
It’s now time to clear out all the medicine cabinets and the bathroom closets so they’re free of your personal belongings. You should also go shopping for the paint and the accessories that you’ll need to complete the look of your new bathroom.
During the Renovation
Keep up to date on the progress that’s being made.
Inspecting the contractors work while it’s ongoing will ensure that the job is being completed to your specifications. If you do see anything amiss, don’t let it go unnoticed and inform the contractor straight away so that it can be rectified.
On Completion
Celebrate your new stylish bathroom by throwing down your new bath mats, unpacking all of your toiletries and running the hot water from your new taps for a nice relaxing bubble bath in your brand new bath.
