If you’ve been thinking about renovating your bathroom, you’ve probably thought about whether you should hire a professional or do it yourself. Doing it yourself means that you can save a considerable amount of money, but you’ll also need to be sure that you’re taking the necessary steps to protect your health and safety.
Precautions for a good bathroom
If you’re planning a DIY bathroom remodel, there are several precautions to take. You want to be sure you’re not making the most common mistakes. And it’s a good idea to get a professional’s opinion if you’re having difficulty with a particular task.
The best way to start is by researching your options. It’s important to understand that there’s a wide variety of products on the market. Choosing the wrong one could end up costing you a lot of money.
While there are no guarantees, doing it yourself can lower your costs in the long run. After all, you probably already have a number of tools lying around your home.
DIY vs professional remodeling
When remodeling your bathroom, you have two options. Either you can take on the task yourself or hire a professional. Whether you go the DIY route or choose a pro, it’s important to consider all your options. It’s easy to get distracted while on the job, and if you’re not careful, you could end up with a subpar remodel.
While it’s possible to do it yourself, it’s often best to let a pro do it for you. Unlike a do-it-yourselfer, a professional will have access to the tools and materials you need. They also have the connections and resources necessary to deliver a bathroom that’s flawless in every way.
CPVC (plastic) lines supply the bathroom with hot and cold water
Plastic pipe is usually made from chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC). This material is resistant to high temperature, which is why it’s often used for hot and cold water lines. But, it also comes with some disadvantages.
The cost is another factor to consider. CPVC costs a little more than PVC, but it has better properties, such as heat resistance, and is safer for water applications.
While both pipes are durable, PVC is easier to work with. It is also more resistant to acidic or alkaline water, which can erode copper over time.
Plumbing fixtures should only be completed by licensed tradespeople
If you’re planning a big bathroom remodel, the cost can add up pretty quickly. Whether you’re replacing your faucet, changing out your toilet, or building a bathroom suite, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the most for your money.
One of the best ways to do that is to get a professional to handle the plumbing and electrical. While you can tackle some of these jobs yourself, you’ll need to enlist the help of a qualified expert to ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible. In addition to the typical labor and material costs, you may also have to consider the cost of your electricity. Luckily, most of the big name building supply stores have partnered with local contractors to deliver the goods.
Refinishing a bathtub is cheaper than getting a new one
If you want to renovate your bathroom, but can’t afford a brand new tub, refinishing your bathtub is a great option. It’s a relatively inexpensive project, and it can give your tub a fresh look and extend its life by 10 to 15 years.
Refinishing is also an environmentally-friendly option. A new coating on your bathtub can help prevent mold and mildew from developing.
Tub refinishing can also add value to your home. You can have a vintage cast-iron clawfoot tub refinished to bring back its original look, or you can use a special urethane glaze to create a new look that mimics the look of a porcelain finish.
Mirror framing kits can transform the look and feel of the bathroom
One of the most inexpensive and fastest ways to add style to your bathroom is with a bathroom mirror frame kit. Most are made to measure, and are easy to assemble without removing the existing mirror. You can even install one in just under an hour.
There are a plethora of different types of mirror framing kits to choose from. Some include plastic clips that hold the mirror in place, while others are built for more permanent installation.
The best ones can be custom-made, and feature designs that are engraved into the material. These are also often accompanied by corner guides to help you align the frame properly.
Time is a crucial factor
A lot of factors go into deciding how long a bathroom renovation will take. From the labor to the materials, there are a lot of moving parts. It’s important to plan and budget for a bathroom renovation project.
The amount of work that needs to be done depends on the size of the space. For instance, a small bathroom will require less labor, while a larger bathroom requires a more thorough renovation.
Intricate renovations will require extra days. This may include moving fixtures, installing a new sink or bathtub, or replacing plumbing. If you’re planning on making large changes, consider hiring a professional for a faster and less stressful experience.