Enjoy the look of a new bathroom with easy, cost-effective updates
Bathroom renovations are second only to kitchen renovations on the list of the top remodeling projects to increase home value. The popularity of bathroom renovations and their ability to transform a space has left many homeowners wondering if there are any easy and affordable ways to change the look of their bathrooms.
While “easy” is a relative term, there are ways homeowners willing to make certain concessions can keep the work and cost of a bathroom renovation to a minimum.
• Resurface when possible. When possible, covering up what you have in the bathroom is much less expensive and less labor-intensive than tearing out existing fixtures and floors and replacing them anew. Resurfacing can extend to refinishing bathtubs to installing shower liners. Homeowners who have unsightly walls or wallpaper that they’re just not ready to remove may consider using wainscoting to cover a portion of the room, or even tiling entire walls.
It is important to note that resurfacing and covering up items in the bathroom should only be reserved for cosmetic fixes. If something needs to be replaced because it is damaged or covered in mildew, covering it up is only hiding the problem and asking for more work in the long run.
• Scale back on materials. One way to save money on a bathroom renovation project is to choose less expensive materials. For example, you may not need to install travertine or marble flooring in a space where a less expensive option, like vinyl, is adequate. Advancements in vinyl flooring have enabled this affordable material to mimic the look of more expensive materials at a fraction of the cost.
If you’re replacing or adding tile on walls and shower enclosures, many domestically produced tiles rival the looks of more expensive imported alternatives. You may also be able to save more by buying
tile in bulk and using the remainder in other applications around the house.
• Just paint it. Do not underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint for any room in the house, including the bathroom.
Dark, small spaces can be made to look more expansive with lighter colors. On the flip side, cavernous bathrooms that look empty may prove more inviting with darker hues. Pick a paint that is designed for bathroom application so it will inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
• Update the hardware. A new faucet or new cabinet pulls can make the room look new and fresh without breaking the bank. Be sure to match finishes throughout the bathroom so everything will be cohesive.
When shopping for a new shower head, choose a model that also conserves water. This way you will be making cosmetic and energy-saving renovations at the same time.
• Do the work yourself. Handling labor yourself instead of hiring workers can considerably reduce the cost of bathroom remodels. It is possible to buy fully assembled bathroom vanities and install them yourself. Even installing a new toilet is relatively easy with the help of a friend.
There are a number of ways to make bathroom renovations a bit easier and more affordable. Even small changes can give the space an entirely different look and feel, which can make the room more enjoyable and help improve a home’s resale value in the process.