Bathroom remodels are one of the most popular and beneficial home improvement projects. The bathroom is a heavily used room that can easily become outdated, damaged, or unsuitable for a family’s needs over time. Remodeling a bathroom provides an opportunity to increase home value, improve functionality and aesthetics, and upgrade to more energy-efficient and durable materials.
In places with extreme weather, like Connecticut, bathroom remodels become even more important. Connecticut experiences cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers, with temperatures ranging from 21°F to 84°F. Old plumbing fixtures and tile grout are prone to damage and mold growth in these conditions. According to Home Advisor, the bathroom remodel cost in Connecticut ranges from $14,000 to $25,000. This investment can provide many benefits that boost quality of life and home value.
Benefits of Hiring Local Contractors for Your Bathroom Remodel
It is highly recommended to hire local contractors rather than trying to DIY a bathroom remodel. Bathroom remodels require expertise in plumbing, tiling, carpentry, lighting, ventilation, and more. Licensed local contractors have experience adhering to local building codes and designing bathrooms suitable for the climate. For instance, Connecticut’s humid climate can exacerbate mold and mildew problems, making the skills of Connecticut bathroom remodeling experts particularly invaluable. They also have established relationships with other contractors to handle any specialized work. This can prevent costly mistakes or injuries from DIY bathroom remodels.
Local contractors are familiar with the best materials and design trends for bathrooms in your area. They know reputable suppliers to source quality fixtures and materials at reasonable prices. Local contractors are also more accountable since they operate directly in your community. Check reviews and talk to neighbors to find the most reliable bathroom remodelers near you.
Top 6 Benefits of a Bathroom Remodel
Increased Relaxation and Enjoyment
A bathroom remodel allows you to transform your bath into a relaxing, spa-like retreat. Upgrades like soaking tubs, luxury shower heads, and heated floors turn bathing into a rejuvenating experience. You can also add touches like wall-mounted TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and dimmable lighting for the ultimate bathing indulgence.
During a bathroom remodel, consider converting your existing bathtub into a soaking tub for a spa-like feel. Install features like jets, bubble bath dispensers, and aromatherapy systems. Upgrade to a high-end shower head with adjustable settings and a rainfall feature. Heated floors keep your feet warm on cold mornings.
Small touches make a difference too. Add a wall-mounted TV to catch up on shows while soaking in the tub. Install Bluetooth speakers in the ceiling to listen to music. Swap outdated lighting for dimmable fixtures to set the mood. The right upgrades transform an ordinary bathroom into a relaxing oasis.
Improved Aesthetics
Along with fixtures, proper layout, lighting, tile, cabinets, and colors are key for bathroom aesthetics. A remodel lets you implement the latest trends, like neutral tones and clean-lined cabinets, for a beautiful new look. Upgrading worn-out surfaces and outdated styles makes the room much more pleasant to spend time in.
During a bathroom remodel, analyze the current layout and color scheme to identify changes for visual appeal. Evaluate which surfaces are worn or dated. Replace old tile, linoleum, or laminate with new water-resistant flooring. Paint the walls a tranquil hue like light blue or sage green.
Also, focus on cabinetry and fixtures. Install clean-lined frameless cabinets for a modern look. Choose a natural stone countertop. Update lighting fixtures to sleek, minimalist styles. Select easy-to-clean porcelain, glass, or metal surfaces. Keep the color palette neutral and textures simple for a soothing spa-like atmosphere.
More Spacious and Comfortable Room
Strategic changes like moving plumbing fixtures or removing bathtub enclosures can open up space in small bathrooms. Reconfiguring storage, adjusting layouts, and choosing space-saving sinks and toilets also maximize usable square footage. The room will feel much less cramped and cluttered.
During a bathroom remodel, evaluate the existing layout to identify opportunities to free up space. If you have a separate tub and shower, consider removing the tub for a larger walk-in shower. Install corner sinks or pedestal sinks to save space versus under-mount sinks. Replace a bulky vanity with a narrow floating vanity.
Also, optimize vertical storage space. Add taller cabinets that reach the ceiling. Install shelving above the toilet. Consider recessing plumbing into the walls. Replace a large soaking tub with a compact rectangular model. Adjusting fixtures and utilizing all available space makes even a small bathroom feel open and comfortable.
Increased Safety
Improving lighting, installing grab bars and non-slip tile, and removing trip hazards are great ways to reduce falls and injuries. Walk-in showers are safer than climbing over a tub. Lever-style faucets and doors are easier for children and seniors to use as well.
During a bathroom remodel, evaluate safety risks like slippery floors, poor lighting, and climb-in showers. Install grab bars near toilets and inside showers for stability. Replace glossy tile with textured, non-slip ceramic tile. Add a night light that automatically turns on in the dark.
Consider converting a bathtub to a curbless and doorless walk-in shower for easy, safe access. Replace knob faucets with lever handles that are easier to grasp. Install toilets and sinks at a comfortable height for children and wheelchair users. Improving safety reduces the risk of falls and injuries for all family members.
Improved Energy Efficiency
New water-efficient toilets, faucets, and showerheads drastically reduce water usage and bills. Updated ventilation improves moisture control. Swapping out lighting for LEDs cuts electricity costs. Insulating walls and adding weatherstripping to windows help prevent heat loss.
Install a low-flow toilet that uses 1.28 gallons per flush instead of older models that use 3.5 gallons per flush. Upgrade to WaterSense-labeled faucets and showerheads that use at least 20% less water. Proper ventilation, like exhaust fans, reduces humidity and moisture damage.
Switch out all lighting for LED bulbs that use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer. Insulate exterior walls to prevent heat loss through cracks or thin walls. Add weatherstripping around windows to reduce drafts. Small upgrades make bathrooms more water- and energy-efficient.
Customization for Lifestyle Needs
A remodel lets you fully customize the space to suit your family. Specialized bathtubs and showers accommodate young children or people with mobility issues. More cabinets provide storage for toiletries and linens. Under-sink vanities maximize space in powder rooms.
Families with young kids may want a bathtub with safety features like slip-resistant texture and grab bars. For aging adults, install a walk-in or roll-in shower with a fold-down seat and adjustable shower head. Expand storage with drawer organizers, built-in shelves, and matching cabinets.
Conclusion
Remodeling your outdated or dysfunctional bathroom pays off both now and in the long run. You can create a beautiful, relaxing space tailored to your needs that adds value and appeal to your home. Hiring local contractors ensures an efficient, high-quality remodel suited to your climate and lifestyle. With careful planning and design, a bathroom remodel provides countless benefits that make it one of the wisest home investments.
