1. Use Larger Tiles
A significant percentage of bathroom remodeling projects involve upgrading the flooring from drab vinyl to handsome tiles. Some people go even farther, covering their walls with tiles as well. This change will do wonders to increase the visual appeal of your bathroom while also adding value when the time comes to sell.
Yet a tiled bathroom can also present difficulties. The issue here is not so much the tiles but rather the grout that holds the tiles in place. Grout is highly porous, meaning that it will readily absorb and retain water. To prevent mold and mildew from ruining the appearance of grout, you must be sure to apply grout sealer when your grout needs it.
Even then, you will have to be sure to clean your grout on a regular basis to prevent it from becoming a discolored eyesore. This process can be quite time-consuming. To make your grout cleaning efforts as simple as possible, opt for larger tiles rather than smaller ones. This will minimize the amount of grout, making it easier to keep your bathroom spotlessly clean.
2. Ditch Your Tub
While lots of people find a hot soak in the tub to be an appealing idea, the fact is that most people never actually take baths. Studies have found that a whopping 90% of people would rather take a shower than a bath. If you are among that 90%, you should give strong consideration to doing away with your bathtub entirely.
To begin with, a combination shower-bathtub - the set-up in most people's bathrooms - usually doesn't manage to deliver great results at either end of the spectrum. The tubs tend to be a little too small, and the showerheads are often awkwardly positioned. Worse still, shower curtains are magnets for mold and mildew growth.
Ditching your bathtub will free up a surprising amount of space in your bathroom. In its place, consider adding a walk-in shower with glass walls and a bench. This luxurious set-up will allow you to maximize the pleasure you take in showering, instead of watering it down with a tub you never really use.
3. Prioritize Water Conservation
More and more people are coming to realize that water is a precious natural resource. And as municipal conservation efforts increase, it will only become more expensive. By upgrading to water-efficient fixtures in your bathroom, you can greatly reduce your overall water consumption.
This includes not just efficient showerheads but also low-flow toilets and faucets with high-efficiency aerators. Such fixtures will save you hundreds of gallons of water a month, quickly paying themselves off as time goes on. Look for fixtures that bear the WaterSense label. This indicates that a fixture has met the highest level of efficiency standards as set out by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Remodeling your bathroom can give your home a whole new lease on life, provided you make smart design decisions. For more information on how to get the most out of your remodeling project, please
contact the experts at JO Contractors.
