The Ultimate Bath Store : Process Not Products, Bathroom Renovation and What to Consider

Welcome to June everyone! It's the month where most New Englanders can safely count on temperate weather (rain notwithstanding the temps should remain above freezing now!). While many people and almost every store are focusing on outdoor products, here at The Ultimate Bath Store we remain happily ensconced in the waterworks happening inside! If you've been thinking about a bathroom renovation, now is a good time to start the process. Unlike kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations are shorter (not always easier due to plumbing) but as with any renovation, steps must be taken and plans put into action. This week's blog goes into detail about the things you should consider when planning and then implementing a renovation.

We much prefer this bathroom:

Okay, so we still like to dream big....

So here are some of the important considerations you need to consider when beginning a bathroom renovation:

So far, in 2016, the 'average' cost of a bathroom renovation was in the $9k range. Most homeowners spend between $5,647 and $12,957. Of course these costs could be higher or lower depending on your choice of products; for example, buying and installing a new bathtub can cost as little as $400 or go way up to $20,000 depending on your choice of tub (and boy do we have some spectacular tubs!)

Take a look at Kallista's inspiration gallery for some ideas:

Once you've figured out your budget; remember that unforeseen elements can always come up, so we recommend you add 30% to your 'lowest' estimate, just in case.

Like your budget, time has a way of expanding (or contracting) due to forces that we cannot always control. If you've got a contractor who is acting as your general contractor (meaning he/she is overseeing all of the subcontractors, like the tile installer or electrician), the least amount of time a renovation might take is a week, but consider that rare. The average amount is more often 20-30 days. That's right, it could take a month to do a complete renovation. Some things just cannot be rushed. Products have to be shipped and installed, wiring has to happen, especially if you are moving things around or installing more downlights. Tiling of walls and floors does not happen in one day. Think of your installers as artisans, shouldn't they be taking their time? We think so!

Oh, we hate to break it to you, but if you live in an older home, there might be all sorts of problems hiding in your walls. We are not trying to frighten you, we're not talking about ghosts. Well maybe the ghosts of a bad wiring job, or sloppy plastering and caulking and poor ventilation. Do it right the first time and your renovation will last much longer! A hidden flaw does two things; slows the renovation and possibly adds costs. Again, working with an experienced contractor will make anything that arises a minor bump instead of an emergency situation.

You've probably heard the phrase, "measure twice, cut once," right? This is the golden rule of renovation. If you are working with a showroom, please PLEASE make sure you have the measurements of your bathroom with you at all times. And for good measure, if you can, have your contractor take the measurements as well to double check yours. This way when you come into our showroom and start looking at vanities and shower enclosures or tubs you will know exactly how much room you have. Want a double vanity? You don't want one delivered to your home only to find out that it's way too wide. Unlike sofas which can be cut in two and put back together, a vanity (with marble top for example) is fixed.

At this point, if you are reading this and thinking, 'we should speak to professionals', we agree! A seasoned bathroom designer can save you thousands in mistakes. Thousands. That's all we are saying. That and the fact that we have such people in our showrooms. We say so right here: Our staff features industry experts with extensive design and product knowledge and they are available to work with you as a resource in making your vision a reality! Carry on and keep reading!

Thinking that you can DIY? Have you watched any HGTV shows? Sure it's fun to get the sawzall and do the demolition but when it comes to plumbing and electrical wiring, we prefer to leave that to the professionals. Really. Once again, here is where we 'strongly recommend' that you (a) ask us before you ask your brother-in-law, or (b) ask someone you know who has just finished a renovation and IS HAPPY with their contractor. Referrals are important, and nothing against your brother-in-law but....'nuff said.

The NKBA website is a treasure trove of information about what it takes to be a professional bathroom (or kitchen) designer, and it's a great place to start to gather information. But again - this is what we do for a living -- so please feel free to come in and just talk to us. We are here to help!