Tips for Bathroom Renovations
Bathroom renovations make great home improvement projects during a down turn in the economy. They can be quick, relatively inexpensive, manageable, and make a positive impact in the overall appearance of your home. Plus, in this economy, finding great deals on parts, supplies, and labor has never been easier. Here are a few tips for renovating your bathroom when funds are limited. Tips for Bathroom Renovations
Establish your budget
Deciding how much you can afford is the first step to a successful bathroom renovation (and it may save your marriage, too!). Unsure of how to figure out how much it will cost? Check out HGTVs project remodeling estimator. Simply enter your zip code, answer some questions about your project, and get an estimate. If you won’t be swinging the hammer yourself, find a reliable contractor. Ask friends, neighbors, and relatives to recommend someone who has done quality work for them in the past. Once you think you have a reasonable estimate, add on another twenty-percent just to be safe. Home improvement projects have a way of costing more than you think they will.
Make decisions – and stick with them
You’ve ordered a new bathroom counter top and matching glazed tiles. You are excitedly anticipating the start of your bathroom renovation. But wait! Another style and color of tile caught your eye. Maybe you could just check with the salesperson to see how many are in stock . . . resist the urge! If you have already made a careful decision about the tile, move on to the next step. Making good decisions the first time and sticking with them is especially important when money has already been exchanged and plans are in the works.
Compare prices
Shop around for the best deals. Visit the large home improvement stores – like Home Depot and Lowe’s – but check smaller stores, too. You may find excellent values in unexpected places, since some small businesses are drastically slashing prices to keep afloat. You may find a discontinued box of the most perfect mermaid tiles going for clearance price or an antique tub you simply can’t do without. Look online, too. Ebay is famous for bringing buyers and sellers together, where you can purchase goods with some buyer protection.
Enjoy small improvements
With the average bathroom remodel costing thousands of dollars, a full renovation may be out of reach. Don’t despair; instead, look for small ways to add charm and functionality to your bathroom. For example, search for decorative drawer knobs, funky accent mirrors, towel racks, and shelves that you can install yourself. Wall decals are a great choice if you will not be repainting but want to make a change.
