First Steps to Take Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

We utilize the bathrooms in our homes constantly throughout an average day—from getting ready in the morning to unwinding in the evening, we enjoy these spaces the most when they are clean, fresh and offer a relaxing atmosphere. If your bathroom has started looking and feeling a bit outdated, it may be time to think about getting it remodeled!

Comfort Showers and Baths is a trusted bathroom remodeler in Upstate New York that's been completing high-quality remodels for homeowners since 1979. You may already be excited to get your bathroom remodel on the calendar, but there are a few things you'll want to do first. Below are 5 steps we suggest anyone takes before remodeling their bathroom!

1. Establish Your Budget

Bathroom remodels fluctuate greatly when it comes to price, with an average bathroom remodel typically costing anywhere between $6,000 and $18,000 depending on several different factors, such as:

  • Materials Installed
  • Scope of Project
  • Layout Changes
  • Local Market Trends
  • Water Damage Repairs

Because prices of bathroom remodels can vary so significantly, we recommend establishing a budget as your first task. Ask yourself what you are comfortable investing during your project, considering that 10—20% of your total budget should be set aside for unexpected issues that may arise, such as addressing mold found after ripping out your old tub or shower.

2. Identify Greatest Priorities

If you're interested in a bathroom remodel, it's important to ask yourself what all needs updating. Is your current bathtub or shower starting to leak, or does the entire space appear lackluster and outdated? Upscale remodels featuring extensive layout changes and customized finishes won't see as high of a return on investment as a mid-range project that focuses on straightforward, necessary alterations and cost-efficient materials, so this decision will be different for every homeowner—do you prioritize a budget-friendly yet effective approach, or are you interested in a floor-to-ceiling remodel personalized to you?

3. Gather Ideas and Inspiration

The more research you do into material and style options, the more satisfied you're likely to be with the outcome of your bathroom remodel! Before you get started, it's important to look for inspiration and define what you want out of your new shower or bathtub. Consider the size of your bathroom and how much space you're working with, the existing color scheme or aesthetic, and the type of functionality you want and deserve out of your remodel going forward!

4. Obtain Necessary Permits

Depending on where you live, your local municipality may have restrictions in place around home renovations, which means you may have to look into obtaining any necessary permits. Typically, local governments require permits when bathroom remodels involve more complex steps such as:

  • Structural Changes
  • Altering Plumbing Lines
  • Installing Electrical Systems

Check your municipality's website or stop in at your city hall to find out if you need to fill out any paperwork or obtain any permits before getting started.

5. Contact Multiple Contractors

If you are enlisting professional help for your bathroom remodel, our final suggestion before scheduling the project is to speak with multiple contractors in your area. This ensures you're getting the best price possible, and that you find a team that understands what you want done and can complete your entire project to your specifications and personal preferences.

Comfort Showers and Baths offers our customers a price match guarantee, so they know for certain they're getting the most cost-efficient service when they work with us. That doesn't mean we cut corners, though—all of our products come from trusted brands and are manufactured locally in Upstate New York, providing homeowners with an impressive performance and beautiful aesthetic for decades to come. Get in touch with Comfort Showers and Baths today for a free, no-obligation estimate on our bathroom remodeling services, and learn more about all that we can offer, including one-day remodels!