If you have never renovated a bathroom before, you might be wondering if you can do it yourself. There are some important things to consider before beginning your own renovation: time, tools, and costs. If you are not sure about any of the above, you can always call in a professional or hire a team. You will also need to coordinate all of the work and hire the necessary tradespeople. Listed below are the essential steps for a successful DIY bathroom renovation.
Costs
A do-it-yourself bathroom renovation can save you up to half the cost of hiring a experts. For example, you can choose reclaimed materials to create a unique design, or you can ask home improvement stores to take returns and offer them at a discount. In addition, you can purchase items used in other projects at home improvement stores to save money on materials. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, homeowners in the U.S. will spend $32 billion on bathroom renovations in 2021.
Time
Before tackling your own DIY bathroom renovation, it’s important to understand what’s involved in the process. The scope of the work will determine the amount of time you’ll need to finish the project. A simple cosmetic remodel will involve painting walls, adding a mirror, and replacing the showerhead. However, if you plan to completely redo your bathroom, you’ll need a experts who’s familiar with wiring and drywall. This may also require you to hire a plumber to hook up a drain and prep the floor.
Safety
Although doing your own bathroom renovations is a doable project for most homeowners, it is important to follow certain safety precautions to avoid injury and potential damage to your property. For example, you should be sure to shut off the power source before starting any work, and install a rag over the drain line to keep sewer gas from entering your home. You can also find many helpful videos online that will guide you through the renovation process.
Tools
If you’re planning to perform a DIY bathroom renovation project, you’ll need some tools. Before starting, mark all pipes and electrical wiring. Purchase a wet-dry Shop-Vac to clean up any water spills, and consider purchasing a cordless drill to free up extension cords. Power tools can be rented at most home improvement stores, or you can borrow them from a friend who is handy.
Permits
While some projects that involve making structural changes to the bathroom don’t require a permit, others do. If you are moving the sink or making changes to the walls, you may require a permit. If you are expanding your bathroom by tearing out a closet, you might also need a permit if you’re adding a skylight. Check with your local building department for specific information about your area’s permit requirements.
Disadvantages
When doing a bathroom renovation, it’s best to plan ahead and buy all the materials in advance. Otherwise, you may miss some tile or a large fixture. This can waste a lot of time and materials. It’s also best to consult a professional when dealing with plumbing issues. If you can’t find the necessary materials yourself, you can hire a plumber to do the work for you.