The  Home for Home Improvements!

• If you are already replacing your sink cabinet you may replace the sink at the same time if you get an all-inclusive unit.
• Consider adding another sink if you have the space.  Many new vanities include a two sink option.
• You may also consider changing the countertop if the sink itself is fine.  There are many styles of laminate to choose from or you may change the template completely with a new cabinet.

• Consider updating your mirror if crackled or out of style.
• How do you use your mirror?  You may want to consider mirrors that hinge out to provide angles or depth when needed or one that offers different strengths of magnification.
• Mirrors can also be decorative items!  Mirrored sconces or tiles on the wall can help to give a dark corner light or a narrow space depth.

• You can refinish your own tub, but you will need a respirator, spray gun, sander, chemical cleaners and will need to also purchase an acrylic top coat.  The actual refinishing product can be purchased as a kit.  Keep in mind that there will be a 30-60 minute wait between about three coats of acrylic and a 24 hour set time.  Needless to say, this will be a time consuming project that will take patience, clear ventilation, patience, time, and patience.  **You may want to consider hiring a contractor for this type of work!
• Another option is inserting a bathtub or shower liner.  This is a task you can do by yourself with some careful planning and a few extra helping hands.  There are also many dealers offering liners and installation for reasonable rates.  **You may want to consider hiring a contractor for this type of work!

• Determine your budget and time. Planning ahead will prevent unforeseen expenses and  help you obtain better estimates from professionals you may need to hire for the project.
• You may need to get a building permit for some of your changes, especially if you are making major structural changes to the room.
• Consider what the bathroom is lacking such as do you have enough functional space, storage space, lighting, etc.
• Does the room have any items that need updating? This can anything from the plumbing to the sink fixtures.
• What do you envision for the space? Do you want a Zen retreat or a homey B&B feel to the room. Consider what you want the completed room to look like. Do you have anything in there that fits this idea now?  Or will it be better to start from scratch?
• How much experience do you have with remodeling. Are there some aspects of this remodel that you are confident you can complete on your own? Perhaps you don't want to install the sink but have no problem putting in the tile backsplash.  Mixing contracted work with do-it-yourself work can be a great way to save money if you have the time.
• You may want to consult with an interior designer for a major remodel project.  They could bring up considerations for the space you may not have thought about.
• What kind of  professional help will you need?  Will you need a general contractor, electrician or plumber?  Often times even a general contractor may hire out certain tasks (i.e. electrical work) under their supervision.  If you know what tasks will need to be done then you will have a better idea of who will need to be hired on to help.

• Interview several contractors and get estimates from each.  Ask questions and be bold enough to ask why estimate are different - i.e. if they are using different materials, this is good to know in advance!
• Many contractors will help obtain the necessary permits for your project.  Check and see if any you are interviewing will help with this process.  Avoid any contractors who say this or that permit, "isn't really needed."
• Check to see if the contractor will be sub-contracting certain aspects of your project such as plumbing, electrical, tiling, etc.  Find out what they expect from you in getting sub-contractors access to work site, etc.
• For even more information, please see our article How to Hire a Contractor: Working as a Team on Your Next Home Project.

• If you are removing or adding any walls this may be affected by local or state building codes.
• You may not be aware of all the aspects in your project that may need a permit.  Check with your contractor or if you are doing it alone, check with your local government for guidance.

• Adding cabinets can help you store essentials for the bathroom from towels to extra soaps and supplies.  With a major remodel you may have the opportunity to include built-in wall cabinets/closets in your new bathroom.  Otherwise, there are many styles of cabinets available.  You can get stand alone cabinets or wall cabinets that fit above a sink or toilet that provide quite a bit of extra space.
• You can also consider changing your sink cabinet.  A new design can offer a updated look and add more storage space to your bathroom.

Walls - Do you have room to expand your space?

• Taking down a wall to add space can do wonders for a small bathroom. 

• Think outside the box.  Replace a dividing wall with glass blocks to allow more light throughout the bathroom.  Insert small alcoves within the walls to add little retreats for mirrors, candles and other decorative items to make the space more inviting.  Some redesigns are using tiles on the walls as a protective "wainscoting" design.  Other designs include half walls to offer definition of space without enclosing it.  The possibilities can be endless.

• Replacing the light fixtures can help you add more soft light in your bathroom. Try to avoid glaring harsh lights as these can be very unappealing.
• Consider getting an electrician to add light switches.  Add one for soft, every day light and another for brighter, utilitarian light for applying makeup, etc.
• With the help of an electrician you can add recessed lighting, track lighting, or other design lighting updates.

• If an older window, you might consider replacing the window with a newer one.  You can add a special feature like stained or frosted glass.  Or consider built in blinds for a combo of extra privacy and easy cleaning.  You may also consider making the window larger or adding an additional window to the room.
• Consider adding a solar tube or skylight for more natural lighting in the room.

• Many fans now include overhead lights and can add a more welcoming feature to the room than the loud eye-sores of past models.
• Consider working with an electrician to get a more powerful fan with more options and better ability to clear moisture from the room.

• Installing a bath/shower door can help lighten the space of the room.  This can also help make cleaning easier and cut down on mildew or damp spots if this has been a problem.  Many times shower curtains will let condensed water sit or runoff the corners of your tub or shower. A well sealed bath/shower door can help.
• Another alternative to a shower door is using glass blocks or a tiled wall to separate the shower from the larger room.  This adds a decorative feature and more light for the room overall.

• Sink faucets can be relatively easy to change out.
• Changing the faucets in your bathtub and the showerhead can help complete a new look for you bathroom.
• If remodeling an older home, a major remodel may be a good time to consider reviewing the pipes and improving water pressure and usage.  There are many water saving devices available now that can still offer a good amount of water pressure.

• If you are already replacing your sink cabinet you may replace the sink at the same time if you get an all-inclusive unit.
• Consider adding another sink if you have the space.  Many new vanities include a two sink option.
• You may also consider changing the countertop if the sink itself is fine.  There are many styles of laminate to choose from or you may change the template completely with a new cabinet.

• Refinishing your tub is an alternative to replacing or lining it.  This process will need at least a 24 hour set time.  This should be considered if working with more than one professional as work will have to be suspended as the acrylic is applied and sets.
• Another option is inserting a bathtub or shower liner.  Many companies offer the liner and installation for a reasonable cost.

• A major remodel is a great time to get the bathtub, shower, floor and even walls all done at once.
• If you want to keep the old tiling, consider this a time to get damaged tiles replaced and grout redone.

• If you are doing a different style design you may want to consider changing some or all of your big items.
• If you are updating an older home, this would be a great time to get a more efficient toilet or better fixtures to aid with water pressure.
• This is your own spa, maybe it is time to replace that old bathtub with a jetted one!
• A custom built shower can offer a neat new design and multiple shower spray option for a more spa-like experience.