Does your bathroom make you frown and grumble every day when you take a shower? It might be time to tackle a bathroom renovation. At Columbus Bath Design, we offer complete design and installation services for the great Findlay, OH area.
Before you start ripping out your old dingy tiles, take a moment to review our top tips for creating a bathroom that will provide comfort and a relaxing retreat for many years in the future.
First, create a picture of who will make the most use of the new space. The kids won’t need an extra large vanity, but they will need a tub. Think about towel rungs positioned at a height where everyone can reach.
You won’t be able to squeeze a full bathroom under the front stairs. The average square footage for a half bath or powder room is between 16 and 20 sq. ft. A full bath typically requires about 36 to 40 sq. ft. A space in between may be able to fit in a small shower.
Plot out the location of each fixture. You need about 30 inches from the center of the toilet seat to the side of the vanity or tub. Remember to leave at least two feet in front of the toilet for space to stand up and turn around.
How is the door opening? Will it block the closet or another fixture? A sliding door can be a good option.
Is this bathroom designed as an en suite to the main bedroom? Are you always fighting over the mirror in the morning? A dual-sink vanity with a wide mirror can solve that problem. But remember to add shelves and drawers to store your toiletries, too.
Roomy walk-in showers are rapidly replacing the old shower/tub combination in many contemporary homes. If you never take long soaks on Saturday afternoons, a shower means you never have to step over the high rim of an unwanted bathtub. In an expansive bathroom, you might be able to fit a soaking tub along with the separate shower.
When upgrading a bathroom first built in 1970 or earlier, take a good look at the existing lighting plan and make upgrades. There should be an exhaust fan with a light in the shower enclosure. An overhead light with a wall switch makes it easy for everyone to see. Pendant or mirror lights help you to put on your makeup. Motion-activated under-cabinet lights provide a soft glow for midnight trips.
If at all possible, include a window or sun-tube in your bathroom plans. Natural sunlight includes ultraviolet rays that kill mold spores and help to dry out the room between visits. A window also offers a chance to bring in fresh air during the warm season.
There is no need to settle for cold ceramic or stone floors anymore. Today’s luxury vinyl plank flooring is water-resistant, easy to install, long-lasting, and is soft and warm underfoot. Better yet, it is available in a huge variety of looks including wood grain, stone look-alike, and colorful tile patterns. You can even add underfloor radiant heat with a vinyl floor.
It might be tempting to select fixtures or flooring that use the latest bold designer color, but remember that the majority of bathrooms are around for 18 years before they get a major renovation. The sink, toilet, and bath are likely to stick around for another 20 years after that. By using traditional white or off-white for the big pieces, home decor trends can come and go without demanding another bathroom renovation.
How do you brighten up the bathroom design if you ordered neutral finishes? Turn to window curtains, bath mats, towels, and countertop storage to introduce style and color. Hang a plant and a picture. Wall paint colors are also easily updated. Don’t worry, your neutral palette will not look boring or ordinary once you go shopping.
If your current bathroom floor plan actually functions well, but you are frustrated with leaking faucets, a toilet that never shuts off, and a cracked or chipped tub, a one-day bathroom renovation may be the answer to your prayers. The fixtures can be updated or replaced, a fresh floor laid, and the old tiles brightened up without ripping out the walls and the plumbing.
This approach can save you thousands and weeks, turning the imposing project into a one-day wonder.
Would you like to learn more about the benefits of a one-day bathroom renovation compared to a traditional approach? Contact us at Columbus Bath Design and discuss all the options to find the approach that best fits your timeline, budget, and expectations. We look forward to working with you.
Most bathrooms built in homes around Findlay, OH come with one or more design problems. There never seems to be a place to hang a towel, you always seem to be fighting mold, or you wish for one more sink for the morning rush.
Columbus Bath Design is here to help with 5 easy and affordable upgrades to some of the most common bathroom design problems. Some of them you can do yourself!
Poor ventilation in older bathrooms is one of the most common complaints among homeowners. Even if you have a window, it isn’t open for most of the year when you live in Ohio. Add an exhaust fan with an integrated light into your shower enclosure and have it vented outside.
The air circulation dries out the bathroom after every shower, which helps to reduce the growth of mold and mildew. You will notice that the bathroom will smell fresher for longer and there will be less mold on the shower door. Better yet, the included light chases away shadows in the bath for a brighter morning wash.
This upgrade will likely run around a few hundred dollars and takes a licensed electrician just a few hours.
Your family of four shares the main bathroom and you always have to swap out the towels each time you want to take a shower. Why did they only install one or two towel rings? Opt for a wall-mounted rack with four or five rungs arranged like a ladder. Hang it at a height where your youngest can reach their towel and Dad can get to his. There is a towel ready for everyone, and you can stop playing the shuffle game.
You don’t even have to hire a professional to install the new rack that you found at your favorite home improvement center.
Are you always stepping on each other’s toes in the morning as you fight for the sink and mirror at the same time? If you have a large vanity, it is possible to switch out the countertop and sink for a dual sink design without a major plumbing job. The drains for the dual sinks run into the single existing drain from your previous sink. Replace the small oval mirror with one that matches the width of the vanity. Problem solved.
Replacing the sinks and mirrors is a one-day job when you work with your local bathroom design center. Choose the vanity and mirror that fit your style and budget. They will slide into place in just a few hours.
For some reason, the original builders of your home installed a floating vanity and built the linen closet into the hall. Where can you store extra toiletries, towels, and toilet paper within easy reach of somebody using the bathroom?
Change out the vanity for one with drawers and doors. Add shelving over the toilet. Hang baskets next to the shower entrance. Pop an open shelf or two by the mirror or switch the mirror out for a medicine chest. Suddenly, you have a place for razors, soap, paper goods, and towels right where you need them without knocking down the walls.
These upgrades can be achieved for as little as $20 and up to $1000 depending on the quality of the storage unit that you select.
The kids grew up and have their own homes, and you never take a soak in the tub. Why do you have to step over the tub rim and still struggle not to bump your elbows on the sliding shower door every morning?
Work with the pros and have the traditional tub and shower combo replaced with a walk-in shower. The inches used for the tub sides are free to turn into a large flat floor, which means there is more room for a good scrub under the rain showerhead. You could even add a few body jets for that spa experience.
In many instances, the renovation can be accomplished in a single day. You still get to choose the wall tiles and match the faucets and spouts to your existing hardware. Your beautiful floor tiles and the rest of the bathroom stay fully intact. And the cost? Much less than demolishing walls. Your budget will thank you for the savings over traditional construction.
Are you ready to turn your bathroom design problems into solutions? Give us a ring at Columbus Bath Design and our professional team will bring our creativity and experience to the table. Together we can address the most troubling areas of your bathroom, and often do it without a full demo and at a surprisingly affordable cost. We look forward to working with you soon.
A new year has arrived and it is time to tackle your bathroom renovation. What new and exciting trends might you want to incorporate in your one-day bathroom renovation from Columbus Bath Design? Let’s check out some of the hottest options popping up across the nation.
While your smartphone uses an app to lock the front door, order groceries, and turn on the music, it now can take your bathroom design to the next level.
Intelligent technology is popping up in touchscreen mirrors, programmable bidets, and heated toilet seats. Control your entire spa experience using voice controls and your Alexa or Google Home. Ambient lighting, radiant heated floors, and even privacy film on your windows.
While you might love a few tech toys at your fingertips, the use of organic design elements helps us stay grounded and establish that inner peace we often find while soaking in some bubbles.
Choose a vanity finished in natural wood tones. Add some plants that sit on a shelf in your walk-in shower. Bamboo rugs. Natural stone surfaces. Select tiles and paint that introduce the colors of the great outdoors. A large picture window positioned by the soaking tub adds soothing scenery during your evening bath.
Today’s contemporary home decor often features sleek, straight lines in crisp shades of white and gray. However, a home that is completely devoid of trinkets, pictures, and soft splashes of color can appear sterile. Warm up your bathroom decor by introducing a few favorite pieces from your family history. An antique hair brush, a framed print of your family, Grandpa’s shaving cup, or even a vessel sink that looks like a porcelain bowl brings back some welcome life into the space.
You may want to select a vanity with carved legs and an ornate custom countertop to offset the clean lines of your walk-in shower.
While the close-coupled toilet has been keeping our homes clean and healthy for nearly two centuries, there are some trending ideas to bring your WC into the modern era.
Think about the toilet height when choosing your next unit. They can be adjusted to accommodate taller and shorter individuals for a more comfortable visit to the loo. Add a bidet and experience a fresh and clean finish. Heated toilet seats chase away the chill during midnight visits. Look for motion sensors that will close the lid and flush for you after you leave the room.
While most toilet upgrades can be pricey, consider the amount of time spent visiting the porcelain pedestal on a daily basis. It can be a rewarding investment.
One of the trending colors for 2023 is old gold. Create a modern design for your new bathroom by adding gold faucets, vanity hardware, and lighting fixtures. Look for hints of burnished metal in a quartz countertop or in floor and wall tiles. Its warm tones send relaxing vibes throughout the space while complementing the brighter colors that you choose for your linens and soft surfaces.
Look for this popular choice in your home design center. Find it on shower rings, picture frames, toiletry sets, and rugs.
Building a bathroom is a major investment and one that will support your family through every moment of their lives. This is why more homeowners are including accessible designs in their bathroom renovations. From grab bars that help you get in and out of the tub to walk-in showers with built-in seats, making a bathroom safer and easier to use benefits everyone.
Fortunately, when you seek to include accessible features during the design process, you can opt for finishes that blend in with the decor and avoid an institutional appearance. Consider a wider doorway that accommodates a person using a walker, door knobs shaped as levers, and hand-held shower heads.
Are you looking for something truly different for your private spa suite? Banish the old-fashioned look of a tub, toilet, and vanity when you explore the open concept of a wet room. Instead of shower curtains or sliding doors, the whole space is open to the shower area. Unified flooring runs from the door of the bathroom right through the shower for an open and airy feeling. There are no trip hazards when entering the shower. Add body jets and a rain shower head for an opulent bathing experience.
The singular design often features a one-color palette that includes the vanity, walls, shelving, and even the toilet.
Are you inspired? Get your updated bathroom project moving with a quick call to Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH. Our bathroom design specialists will help you craft a space that incorporates a wide selection of today’s trending styles while delivering years of comfortable service to your family.
You loved wallowing in that oversized hot tub on your vacation. How can you bring that indulgent look and feel to your own Ohio home bathroom? You can do a total gut and start from scratch. Or you can use these 10 quick tips to introduce a touch of luxury from Columbus Bath Design to save time and money.
Even if the walls in your bathroom are a calming off-white, after a few years they will gather dust and dirt. Luxury spas are always gleaming and spotlessly clean. Bring back that beautiful sheen to the bathroom with a gallon of paint and a few hours of work on the weekend.
Did you know that matching decor and symmetrical design can actually calm your nerves? Replace your random collection of rugs and towels with a fresh matching set. Opt for thick terry cloth and shag rugs into which you can sink your toes. Indulge your senses after every steaming hot shower.
Not only will a few potted plants lend vibrant and soothing energy to your bathroom, but they also rejuvenate the air. Hang a spider plant in the window, tuck a Boston fern in the corner, and pop a small succulent next to the sink. The moisture from the shower will help keep them green and growing and bring peace of mind to you.
Do you experience a sense of wonder and luxury each time you visit the museum or even city hall? Rich marble stone often graces the floors, walls, and countertops of these special buildings. You can add that same silky stone to your bathroom for the ultimate luxury experience. If a real stone is out of your budget, consider shower enclosures and tiles crafted out of porcelain or quartz that duplicate the look and feel.
Does your shower have a textured or frosted door? It is hiding the beautiful tile work you included in your walk-in shower upgrade. By replacing the old door with a beautiful frameless glass version, you visually open up the space and create a feeling of luxury and added space. Go the extra mile and match the floor tile to the materials used in the shower for a seamless look and feel.
Part of a luxury shower is the feeling of rain pattering down on your head. Switching out the old showerhead with a rain type requires a few parts, some wrenches, and elbow grease. The result is an entirely new shower experience. Add some tower jets and indulge in whole-body suds and scrub.
A little sparkle always brings a smile to your lips. Give your private bath a lift by changing out the doorknobs, drawer pulls, and even your water taps with cut crystal versions. Go all in and add a pendant light or small chandelier dripping with crystals.
When you visit the spa, don’t you always breathe deeply of familiar and soothing scents? Put a little plug-in oil diffuser on the shelf over the toilet and add a few drops of your favorite essence while you soak. Eucalyptus encourages full deep breathing. Sage clears the air and mind of lingering smells. Lemon Balm brightens the mood.
Changing out your old tub for a new soaking version may be more than you imagined, but now you can do it in just a few days. Feel the aches bubble away. Find some special together time on the weekends. Instead of settling for a shallow splash, that deep tub wraps you in warm scented water for a true luxury bath.
A heated towel rack will not change the visual appeal of your upscale bathroom, but it provides the final touch to your luxurious morning routine. These racks can either be wall or floor-mounted. Simply hit the switch before you start the shower. When you step out, your thick cotton towel will be toasty warm.
As you can see, it doesn’t take much to upgrade your tired and outdated bathroom into an opulent spa experience. If you want to change the shower, showerhead, tiles, or everything, give us a call at Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH. Together we can craft a bathroom renovation that fits your budget and timeline while increasing your joy in your home.
Yes! You are finally planning to remodel your tired bathroom. But upgrading the tub, sink, and toilet is only part of the overall design. How do you achieve that amazing bathroom decor found on all your favorite sites? With the perfect bath accessories, of course.
At Columbus Bath Design, we can not only help you retire a scratched and faded tub, but we also can help select the finishes to create the bathroom of your dreams.
When you work with us, we can craft a bath or shower that helps you keep everything organized without adding extra items. Think about how many bottles of body wash, shampoo, and conditioner you currently keep in wire baskets. Our molded shower enclosure panels can feature all the extra spots needed to hold your soap, razor, and scrubbies without fighting with ineffective suction cups.
An integrated bathroom design means taking a look at every permanent surface and item in the space. While you are changing out the bath and vanity, take a moment to look at your mirror, door knobs, and even the overhead lighting fixture. For just a few extra dollars, you can select hinges, drawer pulls, and framed mirrors that all have the same chrome, brushed metal, bronze, or ceramic finish. Changing the hardware usually takes nothing more than a screwdriver and a little time.
You are upgrading to a hinged or sliding shower door with your new bathroom. But what kind of finish should the glass feature? For a private spa experience, a clear door opens up the space and makes the whole room feel bigger. If you often share the bathroom in the morning, a frosted door will provide privacy without blocking light. Some doors offer etched detail around the edges to complement other decor choices.
If you are concerned about the safety of a family member getting in and out of the tub, you may want to grab bars for extra security. But there is no need to add the clunky and ugly ones found at the pharmacy. Safe and durable options can be added to your shower or tub which is part of its overall design. You can also choose the ones that match the hardware on your fixtures and vanity.
It might be tempting to select a mosaic tile or even bright panels as part of your one-day shower and tub upgrade. Just remember that those cheery colors might be popular now, but will look outdated after just a few years. How often have you visited a home built in the middle of the last century and marveled at its dark blue or green bathroom? By ordering neutral permanent fixtures, you leave a clean palette that can roll with the times.
Now you can add a jewel-toned rug, some fun toothbrush holders, and matching pumps for your hand soap. When you get tired of the color or design, just visit the home goods store and freshen up the bathroom with some new fabrics and knick-knacks.
Today’s contemporary decor options are oozing with large repeating patterns. When selecting curtains, a rug, or even your tile, think about the shapes of all the fixtures you chose for the new bathroom. Traditional decor often includes sculpted soft shapes like fluted pedestals and floral accents. A gray and white rug in huge white hexagons may fight with the natural flow of your more traditional choices.
Matching a square mirror with straight door pulls, crisp white tile, and repeating patterns will echo the pages of your favorite home decor site. Oval mirrors and rugs support the softer side of BoHo and its classic design.
Have you ever bought a white towel to replace one at home, only to discover that it isn’t the same white at all? The same thing can happen with bathroom finishes and fixtures. A chrome knob bought from one store may not have the same sheen as the drawer pull found in another location. For the ultimate designer finish to your newly remodeled bathroom, try to purchase all your finishes from the same supplier at the same time.
Columbus Bath Design can help you create stunning decor by helping you select all the fine details from our extensive catalogs. It also means when we are done with your upgrade, it really is complete from top to bottom.
If you live in the greater Lewis Center, OH area and need to breathe new life into your tired bathroom, give Columbus Bath Design a ring to schedule your initial consultation. From a one-day refresh to a total makeover, we offer it all.
Did you just spend another morning scowling at your bathroom? Nothing works like it should and the decor belongs to the last century. But the cost and time for a full renovation are not in the cards right now.
Columbus Bath Design offers homeowners in the Lewis Center, OH area the opportunity to rediscover why you loved your house and bathroom with affordable and fast one-day bathroom remodels. You will be stunned at what we can accomplish in less than 24 hours.
Whether the tile surround or the tub is all cracked or just scratched and old, you will never see it again with a one-day bathroom update. A custom acrylic bath slides over your existing tub. Wall panels finished in the pattern and color of your choice are attached to the old chipped tiles. We add new spouts and handles, too. The next day, you will enjoy a morning shower in a glistening bath.
How often have you leaned in to apply mascara and squinted due to the inadequate overhead light? Part of your remodel can include a new vanity mirror with LED lights in the frame. Choose from a wide selection that complements the existing fixtures or your new design. Maybe you need a mirror big enough to share. That can happen, too. Just imagine not bumping elbows while brushing your teeth.
If your old bathroom has plenty of empty space, upgrade your vanity with a one or two-sink design and an extra large surface. Now there is room to put down the hair dryer without knocking off the toothbrush holder. The new vanity can include drawers for toiletries or open shelving for your towels. Gone is that annoying pedestal with nowhere to even put a bar of soap.
How often do you stand under a hot shower and wish somebody could beat on your aching muscles for a few minutes? While we are updating the tub and tiling, it only takes an extra hour to change out your old water-saving shower head with one featuring multiple settings. Choose a fine mist, high pressure, or thumping pulses that help to work out kinks in your neck and back.
Just like the ancient tub full of scratches, your tiles have seen better days. Erase those colors and patterns straight out of the 70s and 80s with quick-install tile options. Choose tiles from Cambria and other premium suppliers that mimic the appearance of granite, marble, or soapstone for that contemporary look you desire. Imagine a space of calming gray and white featuring large blocks of trending stone tile. Gorgeous.
Is it getting harder to step over the edge of the tub? Our one-day bathroom remodel can include the removal of your old tub and replacing it with an all-new walk-in shower. Add a built-in bench and finally discover that sense of peace and safety you have been missing for years when taking a bath. In many instances, the new enclosure will give you more room to move around and feature a beautiful glass door.
Now, the best part of opting for a one-day bathroom remodel by Columbus Bath Design is that you only lose the use of your bathroom for a single day. We don’t rip apart the entire room to the studs. There is no need for a giant dumpster to block your driveway for a week. You won’t have plumbers sweating pipes in your basement. While the day of the installation can be a bit hectic, when we are done, you won’t be able to tell we were there.
Also, after you have completed the design, you will be working directly with your installation team. The same technicians that arrive in the morning will be the ones that shake your hand when we are done. We will not bring in third-party crews. You can be confident that we are fully invested in every step of the process and stand behind our work.
The next day when we are gone and your alarm goes off, discover what it is like to actually love your bathroom. Every surface gleams. The fixtures all work exactly as you expect. There is a space for every item within reach. And it is beautiful! You might even want to show it off to your friends during your next BBQ.
Is it time to get rid of old and outdated fixtures and surfaces in your bathroom? Give us a call at Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH to schedule your initial consultation. Whether you want a complete renovation or a one-day dream bathroom, we can help.
Congratulations! You are planning on the bathroom renovation of your dreams. How can you be sure you will get all the amenities you desire? At Columbus Bath Design, we recommend following these nine easy tips to create a plan that will work for you, your contractor, and the space. The result will be a spa worthy of lengthy soaks and family morning rituals.
Before you start facing the reality of square footage and affordability, let your imagination run wild. Picture the perfect bathroom oasis and write everything down. Do you dream of a jetted tub, lush hanging plants, serene candles, and acres of marble tile? Maybe you simply need an outlet by the vanity to plug in the razor. Record the little details and big ticket items.
While the final product may not be the total luxury getaway, you and your designer will have the chance to include elements on a smaller scale. The result is a bathroom that reflects your personal tastes and needs.
Next, determine the shape and dimensions allotted for the bathroom. The size will determine whether you end up with a snug three-piece or spacious four-piece bathroom. Don’t buy any fixtures before you know that it all will fit in the space.
Now you need to look at your finances. Determine your total maximum budget available for the job and then deduct 10%. This gives you the highest number you should consider for any estimates. That extra 10% is for the surprises that come with many home improvements like the need to replace wiring, structure, or even the heating ducts.
Providing your designer a hard high-end budget number means they can source materials that fit your budget and will minimize disappointments when you drool over an item that is simply not affordable.
Sit down with your designer and some paper or even a measuring and masking tape. Determine where everything will fit in the new bathroom. Think about stepping out of the tub, turning around in front of the toilet, and closing the door. This process not only decides where everything goes but also the size of each fixture. Now you won’t be shopping for a two-person shower when you only have room for a smaller enclosure.
While nearly every home in the last century featured a tub and shower combination, times are changing. Do you ever take a soak in a tub? Then why install one in your bathroom? If you always come home for a bath, perhaps you don’t need a large walk-in shower, but just a smaller one will do. The traditional tub and shower combo still works, but is it what you really want?
Anybody who has lived with a bathroom built in the early half of the last century knows the problems that come with an elegant pedestal sink. They look great, but where do you put down the tube of toothpaste or your hairbrush? Even in a smaller bathroom opt for as large a vanity as possible. If you are restricted to a pedestal design, look at where to add shelves, so you have function that supports the decor.
Where will the towels go? What about extra rolls of TP? Drawers and closets are necessary, even if you are dreaming of an open wet-room plan.
Why do the bathrooms of the 60s and 70s linger in our minds as outrageous and gaudy? Because the fixtures and tile were made in those outdated colors of deep rose, avocado green, and dark blue. The homeowners were stuck with those color schemes until they took a jackhammer to the bathroom.
You can avoid this problem by selecting fixtures, tile, and wall colors in neutral tones and materials. Even if the world suddenly falls in love with dark purple, it can be added to your new room using rugs, art, and curtains. Take down the dying color fad, and you instantly return to the decor of sanity.
Take a moment to think about your current bathing experience. Is there a light missing over the tub? Do you have shadows in front of the mirror? Today’s LED bulb technology means that you can add brilliant illumination to every corner of the design without breaking the bank. However, adding them to the renovation budget ensures a seamless installation.
Your thermostats and doorbell are connected to your smartphone. Wouldn’t you like to tell your toilet to clean itself? Today’s toilets offer more premium features than ever before. Integrate a bidet, a heated seat, air fresheners, and night lights. Everyone spends a significant amount of their life on the throne. Make it as comfortable as possible.
Finally, if the bathroom is located on an exterior wall, make sure to include a window in your new design. Sunlight provides a natural defense against mold and nasty smells, so even a high-mounted window helps to protect the health of your family. If you are lucky enough to have it overlooking a private yard, there is nothing so relaxing as soaking in scented bubbles while watching the birds at play.
Are you ready to get to work? So are we. Give us a ring at Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH, and get your bathroom renovation project started today.
Since bathrooms are one of the busiest rooms in the home, they are also the space that gets updated often. However, if you decide to tackle this job on your own, there are many ways that your bathroom design can turn out to be a big flop and a waste of money. At Columbus Bath Design we want you to succeed and offer up these common mistakes, so you end up with a design that looks and functions as expected.
Bathrooms are usually the smallest room in the house. You would think that it would only take a few hundred dollars to dress it up. However, most bathroom renovations need more than a quick coat of paint. Fixtures, plumbing, electrical, flooring, and tile all add up.
Get a complete estimate with a low and high option to create an affordable renovation plan before you start pulling down walls.
Even a tiny powder room off the living room needs some storage. Where will you keep the towels, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and your toiletries?
Look for vanities with drawers, a mirror with a hidden medicine chest, and shelving over the toilet when searching for fixtures for your project.
The traditional standard for bathroom doors is to have them open into the bathroom. The position of the sink or toilet could result in the door being unable to swing open all the way. Likewise, doors on the bottom of the vanity need space to open without bumping into your knees or the big door.
Work out a total floor design on paper or online before selecting your fixtures. If there is no room for a standard door, consider a pocket or bi-fold door to optimize space.
It can seem optimal to fit the toilet facing the vanity in a small bathroom, but leaving too little space between fixtures can cause serious problems.
Toilets need at least 15 inches from the center of the bowl to walls or other fixtures positioned to its side. At least 24 inches from the center to a wall or fixture in front of the toilet leaves just enough room for you to stand, sit, and turn around. More space is better for a more comfortable visit to the loo.
Most contemporary plumbing codes require that your shower exhaust fan will vent directly outside. Some older homes simply ran the exhaust into the attic. This can encourage the growth of mold in your attic.
Ask your bathroom contractor to include proper exhaust venting in the scope of the project. This may include cutting through your siding, installing a bulkhead, and other trim work not normally included in a quick bathroom renovation.
It looks so easy to purchase a new bathroom sink and vanity at the big box store and just twist a few connectors for a quick installation. However, if you own a home built in the 20th century, you may be faced with unusual pipe sizes, crumbling pipes, or other surprises.
Have a qualified professional inspect your existing plumbing before tackling a DIY project. Even better, avoid an unexpected flood by hiring a plumber to install all your fixtures. Sometimes paying the extra for a pro will save you big in the end.
You may have seen what looked like a hardwood floor in the fancy hotel bathroom, but it likely was a flooring material designed for use in a bathroom. Impulsively choosing hardwood or an inexpensive laminate may end with warped and swollen floorboards after a single year. You will end up paying twice for a floor engineered to last.
Explore all available options including ceramic tiles, stone, vinyl, and engineered products that look like wood. Ask about installation requirements for use in a kitchen or bath. Use a vapor barrier that further protects your investment while delivering the style and long-lasting performance you want.
There is a reason that the basic design of the toilet, tub, and sink has remained the same for more than a century–they work and rarely require repair. While a vessel sink, illuminated waterfall tap, and jetted shower all are appealing, their styling looks may not be as impressive after the fad fades away.
If you are upgrading the shared upstairs bathroom or guest bathroom, you will see a better return on your time and money by choosing more traditional finishes. Splurging on your private master spa will look after your comfort, but expect higher maintenance on those trendy toys.
You just finished a complete redo of your bathroom, and you can’t see to put on your mascara. You skipped adding the wall sconces by the mirror because you didn’t like how they looked. Now you are juggling a hand-held lit mirror and a razor to look your best in the morning.
When creating the lighting design for your bathroom, think about how you use the room. If you spend 20 minutes every day staring at your reflection, adding a ring or strip of LED lights by the mirror will make your life so much easier.
The hardware store was having a clearance sale. You grabbed the clawfoot tub and a box of mosaic tiles before you even thought about a bathroom renovation. Now you don’t have enough of the right color tiles and the tub won’t fit through the door.
Picking out the finishes for the bathroom is probably the most fun part of your project, but you need to wait! Wait until you and your kitchen designer have drawn up a complete set of plans that includes a comprehensive materials list. Now you will make one trip to the store and get the bathroom renovation done on time.
If you value your time and sanity, you can avoid any of these common errors by giving us a ring at Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH. Our expert sales and installation team members will provide the insight, guidance, and experience needed to make a custom bath renovation fast and flawless. Doing it yourself may sound like fun, but the real reward comes with a bathroom that supports you and your family for years without the drama of bad design choices.
Renovating a bathroom sounds like a smaller home improvement project. You should be able to knock that out with a quick call and be thrilled with the results, right? At Columbus Bath Design we encourage you to take a step back and give some serious thought to these eight important items before ripping out the old vanity.
Every home has a bathroom. That means it is possible to do a complete bathroom update on a limited budget. At the same time, the sky is the limit if you dream of marble floors, a wet-room design, a rain shower with Bluetooth, and a heated floor. Choose a budget you can afford, so you can focus on finishes and fixtures that won’t break the bank.
You can make your bathroom look new with a weekend renovation by Columbus Bath Design. But if you are taking the room down to the studs, you could be looking at a month without a working restroom. Make sure you have options in place to minimize your discomfort during construction. Also, be prepared for delays. Do you have a second bathroom? Can you stay with friends or relatives? Maybe it is a good time to get a membership at a local gym.
The size of the bathroom will dictate its floor plan. The toilet needs two feet clear in front of it and at least eight inches on the sides. The door should not open onto a direct line of sight with the toilet. You can replace a shower and tub combo with a walk-in shower, but adding a fourth piece to a three-piece bathroom may not be feasible. Use an online design tool to help you see exactly how everything will work, Then you can order pieces that are guaranteed to slide into place.
Are you dreaming of stone floor tiles, but the budget doesn’t have room for a complete re-do? You may be able to find significant savings by keeping older fixtures like the toilet and tub. Fashion does not significantly affect these pieces. You can update their appearance by replacing the taps and shower head. New wall tiles or a quick shower enclosure will introduce contemporary colors. Your off-white or white ceramic fixtures will suddenly take on a fresh look and last for another 10 to 20 years.
It is tempting to design a bathroom bursting with color, sparkling chandeliers, and wild patterns. But remember that these choices will likely stay with the house for a decade or longer. When it comes time to sell, you won’t want to change out the mosaic tiles and a gold sink for something that appeals to a wider audience. It is wise to select flooring, paint, off-white fixtures, and lighting with a neutral palette and traditional design. Add sparks of interest using art, shower curtains, rugs, and linens to give the bathroom your sense of style.
The bright color of blue or sparkling metallic paint that is trending on social media today will not make you smile after a few months of using your new bathroom. Your bathroom will provide the same function in twenty years whether it is in style or not. If you see something wild at the design center that encourages an impulsive decision, wait a day and come back. If you can see yourself still loving the new look long after fashions change, go for it.
Are you a few inches taller than the average person? Think about investing in a vanity mounted a couple of inches higher, so you are not slouching in order to reach the faucet. Ask about taller and shorter toilets, so your morning ablutions can be completed in total comfort. Ask your bath installer about the height of the shower head, step-over height for the tub, and the perfect position for your mirror.
Finally, take some time to get to know the people that will be creating your new bathroom. You want the new space to be your personal oasis, not just a cookie-cutter version. Like our crews at Columbus Bath Design, your contractor should verify every color, paint, tile, and fixture choice with you. They should provide a clear timeline and show you what you can expect from day one. If a potential contractor cannot clearly communicate with you, it might be wise to look for somebody else.
Now that you have a budget, created a plan, researched, and selected potential fixtures, it is time to make it all happen. Give us a call at Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH. We can create a complete custom spa or breathe new life into your powder room with a fast one-day renovation.
Do you know what parts of your Columbus area home rarely break? The bathroom fixtures. It is not uncommon to find toilets, tubs and sinks that have been serving a house for 100 years. Yes, the pipes and valves probably needed some TLC over the years, but they are still able to function for many more years.
So, if you have a vintage bathroom that works, but looks outdated, how do you freshen it up without ripping out the walls?
If your fixtures are white or beige, introducing the hottest colors in home decor can add a contemporary vibe to the room. For less than $200 you can pick up new towel sets, throw rugs, and curtains. Replace your old toothbrush holder, hand mirror, and trash can with a matching set from the department store.
Your vanity or pedestal sink is a significant focus point in a bathroom. Faucets older than 20 years can have corroded chrome or discolored handles. The sink may have chips in the porcelain.
It only takes a couple of wrenches and screwdrivers to switch out your faucet with a new one. Even the vanity or pedestal can be swapped in an afternoon with the help of your spouse or friend. Cost? As low as $50 for a faucet and $200 for a prefabbed vanity with sink and faucet at the DIY store.
You prefer the sleek and straight lines of modern home design. Your classic storage cabinet comes with beautifully crafted door pulls full of twists and turns, but it’s out of place. Most cabinet door knobs use a single screw to hold them into place. Find new ones in the kitchen design center for just a couple of dollars each. While you are at it, create a unified appearance by changing out the door hinges, curtain rods, and rings. Total project cost: $20 to $70 and an hour of your time.
Sometimes a little elbow grease will erase the cobwebs in a well-loved home. Ceramic tiles commonly used for floors, bath enclosures, and walls in older bathrooms are designed to last a literal lifetime. Over time, they can develop a dingy film out of grease, nicotine, and dirt that makes the whole room look old and dirty. Fortunately, you can restore those tiles.
One option is to hire a steam cleaning service for a few hundred dollars. Otherwise, after mopping the tiles fill a bucket with water, vinegar, and baking soda. Use scrubbing pads to remove the last of the grime from the tile. A toothbrush will get into the grout lines. You might be surprised at how white it gets after an hour of hard work.
It is likely that there are a few cracked or chipped tiles, too. A tile repair kit costs around $25. It includes filler for the holes and a coloring kit to match the tint. When the patch is dry, the sealer creates a durable finish ready for daily use.
Finally, use a tube of while silicone and run it around the edge of the tile where it meets the wallboard. That banishes any eye-catching black spaces that make the walls look uneven.
A weekend of work equity and less than $100 transformed that dark and dingy bathroom into a bright canvas ready for fresh linens and artwork.
Your tiles are clean! Now, do you see the shadows of long-lost picture frames on the walls? Bathrooms are usually pretty small. A single gallon of premium paint costs less than $50. It will take a couple of hours to roll over the faded and dingy wall color. A fresh coat of paint better reflects sunlight and lends the space a polished appearance.
Now, what about that perfectly sound but sorry-looking floor? If you have a flat surface, peel and stick vinyl floor tiles go down in an hour or two and will hide that old floral pattern put down sometime in the 90s. Today’s tiles come in a range of contemporary designs that mimic the look of wood, stone, or popular colors.
While a visit to the home improvement store can address many visual deficiencies in your bathroom, it won’t always be the best solution. If your bathroom is beyond your help, don’t hesitate to call Columbus Bath Design in Lewis Center, OH. Our one-day bath renovations completely refresh your space at a surprisingly affordable cost. Best of all, you don’t even have to break a sweat to get the gorgeous spa of your dreams. Click or call to schedule your free initial consultation and explore the possibilities!
Contact Columbus Bath Design today to start designing your dream bathroom. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
