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Where Do I Begin

Making plans to remodel your bathroom can be complicated since there are many parts to this project. You want to create a stylish bathroom, while making sure it meets your everyday needs and provides a relaxing environment.

Here are some tips and questions to think about:

Assess your current bathroom and its condition

• Think about what can be kept and what needs to be replaced.

• If your bathroom is outdated, you may want to give it a more modern look.

• Check to see if there are any broken fixtures that need to be replaced.

Consider your practical needs

• How many people will be using the bathroom?

• Will multiple people be using it at the same time?

• Do you need separate toilet and shower areas?

• Will you be creating a smaller bathroom or a master bathroom?

Create a budget

• Since bathroom remodeling can range anywhere from new paint and fixtures to an entire renovation, decide how much money you are willing to spend.

• Set a realistic budget

Think about the purpose for remodeling your bathroom

• If you are remodeling your bathroom to increase your home’s resale value, you may want to stick with more simple renovations. For example, don’t add your dream whirlpool.

• If you are remodeling for your own use, add your personal style to make the bathroom fit your taste and needs.

Do your research

• Think carefully about the changes you want to make and don’t rush the project.

• Since there are limitless options in flooring, fixtures, countertops, etc., be prepared to do your homework and make a lot of decisions.

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Types of Bathrooms

Since the bathrooms in your home will vary in size, purpose and users, it is important to know which type of bathroom you are creating when planning your project. Here are three basic types of bathrooms and some features for each:

Remodeling a Master Bathroom:

• Allows for luxury and custom designs.

• Should have generous countertop space.

• Available room for a bigger tub and shower.

• Should be a calm and quiet retreat.

Remodeling a Family Bathroom:

• Should fit the needs of all people who use the bathroom (parents, teens, toddlers, etc.)

• Materials should be durable and easy to maintain and clean.

• Needs adequate storage, try to be creative if you have limited space.

• Choose decorative accessories that are also functional.

Remodeling a Guest Bathroom:

• Create a welcoming atmosphere, while keeping it basic and practical.

• Choose easy maintenance materials.

• Skip adding luxurious items such as a huge bathtub, steam shower, etc.

• Have minimal storage, but enough room for the basics like towels, toilet paper, etc.

• Add little details to show your style such as decorative soap or fragrant candles.

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Maximizing Your Bathroom Space

As bathrooms have always been one of the smallest rooms in a home, it is important to know how to maximize these spaces to fit your needs. Whether you are remodeling a master or guest bathroom, the key is to figure out how much storage space is required. Also keep in mind that there are some creative ways to make your bathroom appear larger and keep the space clutter-free.

Here are some tips to follow:

• Paint walls with a light color to give the room an open feel. You can paint clouds on the ceiling for extra emphasis.

• If you decide to use wallpaper, choose small patterns instead of big designs that may overwhelm your bathroom.

• Play with light fixtures to maximize your bathroom’s space.

• Incorporate a skylight or bay window to make the room appear larger.

• Place bathroom mirrors opposite of each other if possible. This will give the illusion that the room is larger. A full-length mirror can also help achieve this look.

• Choose shiny, reflective surfaces for cabinets, countertops, vanities, etc.

• Maximize space by placing storage cabinets in unused vertical spaces. This will draw the eye upward.

• Don’t clutter the bathroom with too many accessories. This will make the room seem cramped and small.

• Consider using a hall closet if you need extra storage space for bathroom products.

• Be creative with your shelving to maximize storage space. For example, use a corner shelf to store smaller objects with easy access.

• Use open space on your bathroom walls to mount cabinetry.

• Place hooks on the back of the door for towels and robes.

• Get rid of empty shampoo or lotion bottles, and keep items that are seldom used in a cabinet or closet.

• Organize your drawers by categories such as makeup and hair products.

• Keep travel items stored away.

•  If you no longer need an item, get rid of it!

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Bathroom Countertops

Bathroom countertops are a main part of your bathroom, aesthetically and practically. Bathroom countertops are subject to harm from water, toothpaste, shaving cream, hot curling irons, makeup, and much more. Luckily, you can find countertops that are both beautiful and durable. Countertop material and color options are endless, so make sure to take your time and choose what is best for your bathroom remodel.

Here are a few of the most popular bathroom countertop materials:

Natural Stone

• Options include -- granite, marble, soapstone, and limestone.

• Granite is the strongest and most commonly used stone in bathrooms.

• Available in a wide variety of shades and finishes.

• Can be expensive, but cost depends on color and finished stone’s origin.

• Must be sealed periodically because it is porous.

• Stone is better used in low traffic areas.

Solid Surface:

• Allows for integral sinks.

• Easy to clean.

• Available in countless colors.

• Is seamless, stain resistant and scratches are easily buffed out.

• Can be harmed by curling irons or other hot appliances.

Laminate:

• One of the most affordable materials.

• Comes in a variety of colors and designs.

• Requires little maintenance but can be damaged by curling irons or other hot appliances.

Corian:

• Offered in a large variety of colors.

• Can be used for inlays, back splashes and inline sinks.

• Nonporous, stain proof, heat and scratch resistant.

• Finishes include matte/satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss.

• Easily cleaned with soapy water.

Ceramic Tile:

• Heat proof and scratch resistant.

• Long-lasting and durable.

• Relatively inexpensive.

• Offered in a wide variety of colors and textures.

• Can be cut into several different shapes.

Engineered Stone:

• Available in a wide variety of colors.

• Durable and requires little maintenance.

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Sinks & Faucets

Sinks:

• Decide if you want your sink to be part of the vanity or freestanding. Freestanding sinks do not have cabinets.

• You can choose from a range of colors, patterns, depths and designs.

• Will children or adults be using the sink? For children, you can add a footstool at the base of the sink.

• Choose a material that is resistant to water damage (see section on “Bathroom Countertops”). Some common sink materials include stone, marble and stainless steel.

Faucets:

• Choose faucets that match the decor of your bathroom.

• Your faucet materials should be resistant to water damage such as rust.

• Not all sinks can accommodate every type of faucet, so make sure to choose a sink and faucet that work together.

• You can choose a single piece faucet which connects the hot and cold water outlets.

• You can choose a split set faucet which has separate outlets for hot and cold water.

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Showers & Bathtubs

There are many choices when it comes to bathtubs and showers today. You have options when it comes to size, shape, material, color, etc. You must also consider the budget and amount of space you are working with. Bathtubs take up more room than showers but offer a more relaxing experience. If you have the room, there are several types of baths on the market to fit your lifestyle. You can pick a bath for one person or multiple people. You can also add jets for a spa like feel.

Maybe you aren’t a bath person and prefer a shower instead. Or maybe you have limited space in your bathroom and don’t have the space for a bathtub. Either way, showers come in many types and can be relaxing just like bathtubs. There are several types of showerheads to fit your preferences in water pressure. You can even find showers for your home bathroom that mimic steam rooms typically found in spas.

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Bathroom Vanities

Bathroom vanities can often serve as the centerpiece of your bathroom, so choose something to fit your taste and needs. Traditional vanities often have a sink as well as a cabinet underneath. A mirror is also usually placed above the vanity.

Since your bathroom vanity is a high traffic area, make sure to choose a material that can endure everyday wear and tear. Vanity material should be easy to clean and maintain, and should match the style of the rest of your bathroom. When choosing a material for your vanity, follow the same information you used with choosing your countertop materials. You can choose natural stone for a classic look, or stainless steel for a modern one.

Vanities tend to get very cluttered with objects such as razors, shaving creams, bottles of lotion, toothbrushes, etc. You may want to add extra shelving next to your vanity to store these items.

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Bathroom Mirrors

In choosing mirrors for your bathroom, try matching them to your vanity and lighting fixtures. For example, have the mirror frame material match the vanity. Here are some simple tips to consider when choosing mirrors for your bathroom:

• Your bathroom mirror should not be bigger than the vanity it hangs over.

• If there are multiple people sharing the bathroom, place the mirrors where each person will be standing.

• By hanging a light over your bathroom mirror, you will increase the amount of light in the bathroom.

• For an old fashioned look, use a round mirror combined with an arch.

• Use multiple mirrors to make your bathroom appear larger.

• Make sure you have adequate lighting around your mirrors so that they are practical for your needs.

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Bathroom Lighting

When choosing the type and location of lighting, think about the layout of your bathroom. There might be a certain place you want to accent or you may want extra brightness around mirrors. You should also consider lighting that can be switched from dim to bright, so you can match your mood when getting ready for work or taking a relaxing bath. Although unique and extravagant lighting may be right for you, these lighting options tend to overpower smaller bathrooms.

Advance Remodeling has done hundreds of bathroom remodeling jobs in Maryland to make bathrooms more lively and functional. From flooring - including quarry tile, ceramic tile, and linoleum - to lighting, fixtures and cabinetry, Advance Remodeling can make your bathroom remodeling vision a reality.

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Advance Remodeling can provide financing for your bathroom remodeling project in Baltimore, too. You can apply for financing regardless of your credit history, and finally have the new bathroom you've been wanting!

Contact Advance Remodeling today for your free bathroom remodeling Baltimore City or Baltimore County estimate at 410-532-5400, or click here to send us an e-mail request.