Small Bathroom Remodel: What to Expect

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Want to know what to expect when remodeling your small bathroom? Check out our step-by-step guide to transforming the space into something you love.

Have you ever walked into your bathroom and simply felt overwhelmed? Maybe it’s because there are just so many things that need to be done—or maybe it’s because the tiny space feels like a constant challenge. Luckily, if you're ready to tackle your small bathroom remodeling project, we’ve got tons of advice right here on how to transform the space into something you love...

Decide what you want to change in your small bathroom

Before you begin the remodeling process, you’ll need to decide what you want to change in your small bathroom. If you’re ready to revamp the space entirely, then you can either start with a complete makeover or a more targeted approach.

For example, if you just want new, brighter light fixtures, you can easily change these fixtures without remodeling the entire space. You can also make smaller, more targeted changes like repainting the walls or replacing the flooring. If you’re ready to revamp specific aspects of the space, like the vanity or toilet, you can easily transform just one small part of the bathroom with a few inexpensive and simple changes.

Plan your remodeling project

Before you start any remodeling project, it’s important to take the time to plan out exactly what you want to do with your bathroom. If you don’t have a clear idea of what you want to change, then it’s far more likely that you’ll get frustrated and give up on the entire process.

To help you visualize your project, you can either draw a plan of your bathroom on paper or simply make a list of all of the items that you want to change. You can also create a to-do list of all of the little tasks that you’d like to complete. By breaking down your remodeling project into smaller tasks, you’ll be able to stay motivated and get through your project with minimal stress.

Learn the basics of remodeling a small bathroom

Before you start remodeling any space, it’s important to learn the basics of how to remodel a small bathroom and where to begin.

If you’re changing the layout of your small bathroom, you’ll need to make sure that you follow the building codes in your area. This is particularly important for your own safety, should you want to enlarge your small bathroom and you come upon a load-bearing wall for example.

After deciding whether you’d like to enlarge your small bathroom or if you’re just looking to maximize efficiency of the space, start thinking about the location of things which will require plumbing (shower, bath, sinks, toilet, etc). You may need to reroute some piping in this case.

It’s important to consider if your small bathroom is heated using registers or other obstacles which may need to be moved in the process. Perhaps you may need to move the venting van and outlets which may have some electrical implications.

Is installing tile right for you?

Installing tile in your small bathroom is an easy, low-cost way to transform the space. There are a few things to keep in mind before you get started. While installing tile is a great option for many small bathrooms, it can be expensive and time-consuming but also something that many people take on themselves. It’s also important to keep in mind that tile is heavy, so you’ll need to have a plan in place to move it around your bathroom so that it doesn’t cover up any nearby fixtures.

Installing a custom vanity or installing a larger sink can also transform a space along with new tile.

Choose your paint color

Choosing the right paint color for your small bathroom is an important first step to remodeling the space. Now, this color choice is obviously different for every homeowner, but there are a few factors that you should keep in mind when choosing the right color for your bathroom.

First, you’ll want to consider your decor. If you have a light-colored vanity or walls, consider choosing a bold color that pops against the space. Next, you’ll also want to think about how you want your new color to fit with your existing fixtures. If you have a dark vanity or walls, then brightening up the space with a lighter color may be the best option.

Get an idea of how much you need to spend on your remodel

Now that you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to change in your small bathroom and a rough idea of the overall layout, now would be a good time to get in contact with a professional contractor and plumber to get an estimate so you can start budgeting.

Install a new sink and faucet

When it comes time to install a new sink and faucet in your small bathroom, there are a few things that you’ll need to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a faucet that’s compatible with your new sink. Sinks are usually pre drilled for faucet sets. The most common differentiator is whether your faucet will have two separate knobs for hot and cold water, or if your faucet will have a mixing chamber in the valve which rotates to move from hot and cold. The latter would be compatible with sinks that are drilled with just one hole in mind for the faucet, whereas the first option would have three.

Wrapping up

While remodeling a small bathroom can be challenging, it’s important to remember that the task can be accomplished in a short amount of time. In fact, many homeowners begin the process while they’re still living in the small space! If you’re ready to tackle your small bathroom remodeling project, then you’ll need to first decide exactly what you want to change in the space.

Next, you’ll need to learn the basics of remodeling a small bathroom and plan out what you want to change in the room. Once you’ve finished these steps, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your small bathroom into something that you love.

If you are looking for a reliable contractor to help with household projects, repairs or maintenance, HireHandy can find you the perfect match.

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