The Difference Between Renovation and Remodeling a Bathroom
Homeowners can renovate their bathroom for a wide variety of reasons. Some projects, like removing mold, aren’t a matter of preference but a necessary health concern.
Other projects are cosmetic and can be conducted DIY-style if the homeowner has the time, energy, and patience. However, some renovations, such as converting tubs into showers or installing new tile, are best left to professionals.
Update the Walls and Flooring
Many homeowners and contractors use the terms “renovation” and “remodel” interchangeably, but there is a difference. Understanding the difference can help homeowners align their expectations with the project scope and budget.
Cosmetic updates, like a new coat of paint and updating the bathroom vanity hardware, are simple to perform and less costly than a remodel. Often, a homeowner can manage these updates themselves or with the help of an expert.
More extensive remodeling projects, such as converting a tub into a shower or adding a second sink, require significant construction and should be left to professionals. This is particularly true for projects that change the layout of a bathroom or require changes to plumbing, electrical or structural components. These types of remodeling projects also typically require a building permit. These permits can be expensive, but obtaining and displaying them ensures that the renovation meets minimum standards of safety. This can save homeowners money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes down the road.
Replace the Fixtures
A new coat of paint or a simple vanity switch is often enough to turn any bathroom into a clean, updated space. This type of renovation is a more DIY-friendly option for homeowners and usually results in a lower price tag.
For a larger change, you may opt to replace the tub and shower with a new basin or walk-in shower. Keep in mind that you should choose a style and design that complements the decor of your home for the best resale value.
Adding tile is another cost-effective option that can brighten any bathroom and create a custom look. However, you should consider labor costs and if your renovation requires a permit, as this will add to the total project cost. Homeowners can also save money on labor by doing some of the prep work themselves, like removing old fixtures or prepping surfaces. But this must be done safely to avoid any health hazards or additional costs down the line.
Remove Mold
Mold and mildew are not only unsightly, but they also cause health problems. They release microscopic spores that can cause allergies, runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. The spores can also be harmful to people with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Bathrooms are a prime place for the growth of mold and mildew. The humidity levels in a bathroom are often above fifty percent, making it ideal for these fungi to grow.
To prevent mold and mildew, it is important to keep the air in the bathroom dry. This can be done by ensuring that any leaks are repaired immediately, keeping fabric in the bathroom such as towels and bathmats away from the walls and ceiling and allowing these fabrics to dry properly after each use.
It is a good idea to bleach any non-porous surfaces in the bathroom such as tiles and fixtures with a mixture of one part bleach and ten parts water. The bleach will kill any lingering mold and mildew and leave the surface ready for new paint or another covering.
Add Lighting
When remodeling a bathroom, the lighting is just as important as the walls and flooring. Homeowners can upgrade their light fixtures to add a chic focal point above the bathtub or vanity. They can also add recessed can lighting to provide sufficient task lighting for grooming tasks. This can help create a bright and clean look for the bathroom, which is ideal for a relaxing and spa-like environment.
In addition to the traditional ceiling lights, homeowners can also add a skylight or sun tube. These flexible tubes funnel natural sunlight into a bathroom at a fraction of the cost of a new window.
Other types of lighting include accent lighting, which can highlight decorative features and set a mood. Mood lighting can range from calming blues behind quartz vanities to energizing purples for a morning pick-me-up shower. It can even be used as a night light for a child’s bathroom to prevent accidents. For more complex changes, such as converting tubs into showers or adding grab bars in the shower, it is best to leave the work to a professional.
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