If you’ve been longing to get rid of old bathroom fixtures for a fresh, spa-like finish, a full bathroom renovation may seem like an exciting project. Think about it. No more cracked tiles, leaky faucets, or dim lighting; just a clean, modern space designed to make your daily routine feel effortless.
However, if you don’t have the right plan, this exciting project can quickly turn into a nightmare due to delays, overspending, and even the stress of it all.
But where should you begin?
A successful renovation starts with more than just a good design—it starts with clear planning and the right mindset.
Let’s explore the key steps to take before swinging that sledgehammer and why starting right makes all the difference.
1. Start With the Shower
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when you’re considering a full bathroom renovation is how you’re going to upgrade your shower. A stylish, functional shower sets the tone for the whole space, and that’s where bathroom shower panels come in.
Shower panels are new-generation wall body systems that take the place of traditional tile or fiberglass enclosures. They are made of high-quality materials such as acrylic, laminate, or PVC. They are beautiful to look at, effortless to use, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance, and they can have built-in amenities such as storage shelves, body jets, or rainfall showerheads.
But why begin here?
Your shower is usually the centerpiece of the bathroom. Deciding on your shower setup early helps you plan things like plumbing routes, tile choices, and even how much you’ll need to budget.
Shower panels also work well in small bathrooms or busy households because they take less time to install and are easier to clean than tile walls.
2. Get Clear on Your Why
Before you start picking out tiles and budgeting for shower panels, take some time to understand your reasons for the renovation.
Do you have plumbing issues you’d like to fix? Are you looking to increase your home’s resale value? Or do you simply want to create a more relaxing and functional space for yourself?
Knowing your ‘why’ makes it easier to figure out what matters most when the choices start piling up. For example, if you’re planning to sell in the next year or two, neutral tones and simple, modern finishes like matte black fixtures or subway tiles can appeal to more buyers. However, if you’re just looking to make the space more appealing and cozy for yourself, you can opt for personalized finishes or luxe upgrades like a deep soaking tub or heated floors.
3. Set a Realistic Budget
The last thing you need is to run out of funds before you’re done with the renovation. For this reason, it’s crucial to understand the cost implications and set a realistic budget before you begin.
According to Forbes Home, the average bathroom remodel costs around $10,000 in the U.S., with labor taking up about 40-65% of that. To avoid financial surprises, start by determining your maximum spend. Then break down costs into categories like labor, materials, plumbing, lighting, and unexpected expenses (always leave a 10-15% cushion for those).
Decide early if you’ll DIY or hire a pro. While doing it yourself might save money, tasks like plumbing or wiring are usually best left to the experts.
4. Assess the Current Bathroom Layout
Now comes the practical part. It’s important to ensure you know the current layout you’re working with to avoid surprises that may end up inflating your costs. It’s best to keep things like toilets, sinks, and showers in the same spot if you want to keep the costs reasonable, since moving them can be quite the investment in terms of time and costs.
However, you might find that the layout is insufficient during this stage. You may not have sufficient space, there might be weird corners and other things you’d prefer to have differently in the new setup. Note these down and start looking for better upgrades that will elevate your space. Otherwise, you may forget something and have to renovate again–you definitely don’t want it to get to that.
5. Gather Inspiration
Now here comes the fun part. Once you’ve set a budget and you’re clear on what needs to change in your current layout, it’s time to seek inspiration and define your style. There are a lot of ways to go about this. You can scroll through Pinterest, flip through magazines, or seek inspiration from live projects on Instagram. The goal is to gather images that spark your interest.
Use these images to create a mood board that will guide your design styles. Ensure there’s cohesion in your choice of textures, colors, lighting, cabinetry styles, and materials. Doing so also makes your interior designer’s job easier and keeps you on track when making decisions.
However, keep in mind that while looks matter, so does how everything works day to day. The marble countertops and rainfall showerhead may seem to die for, but are they within your budget, and can they hold up with your lifestyle?
6. Obtain The Necessary Permits
You may require renovation permits depending on where you live and the extent of the renovation, especially if the project involves structural changes or modifying plumbing or electrical systems.
While it may be tempting to skip this step to save on costs, don’t fall into the temptation. Doing so may lead to hefty fines down the road or make it challenging to resell your home if you decide to. Therefore, take the time to check with your local building department or contractor to find out what you’re required to do before you begin the renovation.
Wrapping Up
If you weren’t sure where to start, now you’ve got a solid game plan. From setting your goals and budget to choosing fixtures and hiring the right pros, each step builds on the last. Whether you’ve got your eye on sleek shower panels or a cozy farmhouse vanity, focus on the essentials first, then layer in the style.
Also read: The Rise of Bay State Refinishing Boston Amidst the Home Renovation Boom
