Your bathroom is the sanctuary of your home, and it’s time for an upgrade! Where do you even start? First, you need a plan. A well-thought-out remodeling plan can save you time, money, and stress.
Need help planning your bathroom remodel? Let our ultimate guide provide the context you need for your next bathroom renovation.
Bathroom Remodeling Goals and Priorities
Don’t go out shopping without a purpose. You need to ask yourself a few questions before you upgrade your bathroom. Keep the following in mind:
Purpose
Why are you remodeling your bathroom? Are the finishes outdated? Do you not have enough storage? Do you need to improve the space’s accessibility as you prepare to age? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself before you start planning your project. This will help you move forward with purpose rather than shopping around blindly.
Priorities
What do you need and what would be nice to have? For example, you might need a walk-in shower for accessibility reasons while a freestanding tub is just nice. You should think about your lifestyle and how you’re going to use your bathroom. A guest bath is not as important as an ensuite attached to a master bathroom.
Think Long-Term
While your current vision is important, thinking ahead also matters. After all, you plan to live in your Los Angeles home for years to come, you should adjust your bathroom accordingly. While a custom bathroom may make sense right now. Opt for flexible features that will increase your home’s resale value and your needs as you age.
By setting goals, you can plan your bathroom remodel accordingly. You can also determine what’s important to you in the long run. We will discuss how to create a budget for your bathroom remodel next.
Determining a Budget for Your Bathroom Remodel
Knowing how much you can spend will prevent you from overspending. You can determine a budget by knowing how much everything costs ahead of time and setting enough money aside ahead of time. Think about the following:
Know the Average Costs
Depending on the scale of your bathroom remodel, the amount you spend can vary. Understand the following:
- Small Remodel: $5,000-$15,000
- Mid-Range: $15,000-$25,000
- High-End or Luxury: $25,000
Everyone’s budget is different and that’s okay. By having a set range, you can have some flexibility in how much you can spend.
Impacts on Budget
A couple aspects can influence the overall price of your bathroom remodel. First off, labor costs for plumbers, electricians and contractors can vary. This is especially true if your remodel involves structural changes and moving plumbing lines. Don’t forget about the quality of the materials and fixtures you choose.
Managing Your Budget
There are a few ways to manage your budget effectively. Before you start your project, have a 10-20% contingency fund set aside. You should also ask your contractor for itemized estimates and the scope of work required. Remember it makes more sense to spend more long-lasting essentials than cheap materials that offer short-term savings.
A good budget can make or break a bathroom renovation project. When you live in a city like LA, you want your investment to pay off in the long run. We will dive into the different features available for your bathroom remodeling project.
Choosing Smart and Stylish Upgrades for Your Bathroom
You should upgrade your bathroom your way. That’s why it’s important to choose features that will benefit you in the lon run. These features can be sorted into three different categories. Check them out below:
High-Impact Features
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of luxury, consider these features. They can elevate your bathroom to the next level. They include:
- Frameless walk-in showers or freestanding bathrooms
- Dual vanities for shared spaces
- Smart toilets, LED mirrors and dimmable lighting
Those looking for premium bathroom upgrades should go for these options. Each one can make a huge difference when it comes to upping the value of your LA home.
Storage Solutions
Prefer to go the more practical route? You’re going to need plenty of storage for your bathroom. If you need space to store your essentials, consider adding the following:
- Tall linen cabinets or recessed wall niches
- Vanity drawers with organizers
- Over-the-toilet shelving for small bathrooms
Storage is essential for any space, especially the bathroom. Some solutions are a given in most bathrooms while others are more creative. How you store your stuff is up to you.
Comfort Add-Ons
Want to turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat? Consider adding a touch of your comfort during your remodeling project. Think about adding the following:
- Heated flooring
- Built-in benches in showers
- Sort-close drawers and anti-fog mirrors
Your bathroom should be comfortable. Install these features in your bathroom to give it the extra boost it deserves.
Once you choose the features you’re after, your bathroom remodeling project can begin! Let us break down the requirements next!
Bathroom Remodel Execution
There are a couple aspects to keep in mind when it’s time to remodel your bathroom. You shouldn’t overlook them. Don’t forget to look into the following:
Understand the Remodel Timeline
When it’s time to remodel your bathroom, you have to plan your time accordingly. After all, it can be a lengthy process. On average, you can expect the following:
- Pre-Construction (design, permits, ordering materials): 2-4 weeks
- Demo and Rough-Ins: 1 week
- Installation: 2-4 weeks
- Final Walkthrough and Clean-Up: 1 week
The timeline can remodel depending on a couple aspects. Keep the size of your space and whether you’re updating an existing bathroom or installing a new one.
Hire the Right Contractor
Not all contractors are the same. The last thing you want to do is choose the wrong one. One wrong decision can lead to costly mistakes. Do the following:
- Ask for licenses, references and timelines
- Review written contracts with material lists and milestones
- Communicate clearly and ask for updates throughout the project
Your contractor should be credible and have a track record of great bathroom remodels. Take the time to shop around before making a final decision.
Don’t Forget Permits and Inspections
Permits and inspections are often legal requirements. Skipping them can get you into trouble. Note the following:
- Plumbing and electrical work require permits
- Your contractors should handle applications and schedule inspections
- Be ready for delays based on municipal approval timelines
Although these might seem like technicalities, they can’t be overlooked. You need to ensure your bathroom remodel complies with local laws and regulations.
When it’s time to remodel your LA bathroom, you need to be prepared. By being cautious, you can move your project forward with confidence.
Start Planning Your Bathroom Remodel Today!
Between your budget and features you plan to add, a lot goes into a bathroom remodel. By making cautious decisions, you can get the space you deserve without the stress. At Carpet Wagon, we remodel bathrooms throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Whether you need new flooring or a complete overhaul, we are here to help.
Ready to create the bathroom of your dreams? Contact us to book a free in-home consultation today!
