There are several things to consider when planning your bathroom remodel. These factors include layout, budget, ventilation, and sanitary ware. By following these guidelines, you will be well-prepared to make a final decision. Before starting your bathroom remodel Portland, Oregon, you should have basic information and an overall layout vision. By knowing these things ahead of time, you can speed up the process and get an accurate quote. In addition, you should have your bathroom measurements and budget handy.

Layout

A bathroom is remodeled with a carefully planned floor plan. The room layout is often packed with all the elements that make up a successful bathroom remodel. However, with creative space planning, you can include luxuries in addition to functional features. Before starting the renovation process, ensure the layout meets the current code requirements. 

To design a bathroom floor plan, consider the activities you’ll perform in it. For example, do you need a space for makeup application? Is there space for a standing shower? Do you want a separate toilet area? If you use a tub, you might want to incorporate it into the floor plan, but only if you have room for it. It’s also helpful to consider your budget if you want to include it.

Budget

A bathroom remodels a significant financial investment, but there are ways to cut costs. One way is to do the work yourself, reducing costs while maintaining quality. If you don’t want to take on this project yourself, you can consider hiring a general contractor to oversee the job. These professionals will charge anywhere from 10 to 20 percent of the project’s total cost and will use that payment to pay for their overhead. In addition, they may hire subcontractors to do work for them.

Bathroom floors are often made of linoleum. It is waterproof but can be expensive (about $5 to $7 a square foot). The best way to save money on a bathroom floor is to choose a germ-resistant and hard-wearing material. Ceramic is cheaper than porcelain and costs around $1.66 to $1.6 per square foot. However, choosing a luxurious finish like marble will set you back between $16 and 18 per square foot and requires frequent repairs and maintenance.

Ventilation

While most people overlook bathroom ventilation during a remodel, it is important to consider. Excess moisture can cause mold and mildew, and poor ventilation can ruin your other remodeling projects. The right bathroom exhaust fan can minimize moisture levels and ensure proper ventilation. Talk to a bathroom remodeling contractor to find out how to get an exhaust fan that fits your bathroom’s size and style. In addition, a bathroom fan can be a relatively inexpensive addition to your remodeling project.

If you cannot install ductwork, consider hiring a design-build firm specializing in bathroom ventilation. They know the math involved in sizing the bathroom ventilation system and can recommend a fan suitable for your needs. However, ensure that bathroom vent fans are most effective when they’re located close to the source of moisture. If you can’t install a vent fan, consider using windows or pulling back the shower curtain to let fresh air into the bathroom.

Choosing Sanitary Ware

When planning a bathroom remodel, the first thing to remember is to select the right sanitary ware. Choosing the right sanitary ware can help you achieve the desired pipe positions and ensure a smooth water flow. However, it would be best if you chose sanitary ware before starting the first fix stage, as leaving this decision until the last minute can cause alterations with the renovator that are expensive. One way to avoid this problem is by choosing tile backer boards to line the bathroom walls, shower enclosure, and toilet. The tile backer boards act as insulation and are waterproof so that no leaks will occur.

Before choosing sanitary ware, you should plan your budget. Wall-mounted fittings require specialist fixings, and some require chasing out to the house plumbing. Installing a pedestal basin or close-coupled WC is cheaper. If you have limited funds, consider extending your bathroom or adding an ensuite. Adding a bathroom will mean a larger space to heat. To save on plumbing costs, consider using reclaimed fixtures.

Adding Optional Bathroom Additions

Adding an optional bathroom addition when planning a bathroom remodel can add new amenities and improve functionality. For example, heated tile floors are a luxurious touch. In addition, they’re economical, too. Before you begin the bathroom remodel, determine how much room you need. A heated floor will be cheap if it’s less than 100 square feet, but a smart shower or tub will save you money.

Most homeowners begin their bathroom remodel with inspiration from a variety of sources. It’s best to work with a professional designer with years of experience creating customized spaces to make their ideas a reality. A professional designer can guide you through the process of selecting materials, colors, and finishes to enhance your new bathroom. Adding optional bathroom additions to a bathroom can give you the highest return on investment.