A bathroom remodel is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase the value of your home. You use your bathroom every day, so it can also go a long way toward improving the quality of your life and satisfaction of your home. Planning a bathroom remodel may sound overwhelming and you may not even know where to start. Here are a few tips to start the planning process and help you create your dream bathroom within your budget.
HOW TO PLAN FOR YOUR BATHROOM REMODEL
The key feature in any bathroom remodel is the bathing options. Although the stylish hardware and elegant detailing may be the most exciting parts to daydream about, they aren’t necessarily the first aspects you should consider with your new shower. Before thinking about all those finishing touches, you’ll want to make sure that you’ve chosen the right foundation.
To do that, first take some time to think over the following questions with your partner or other loved ones:
- How many bathrooms do we have in total?
- What are our other bathing features like?
- Will this shower be shared among many people?
- How old are the users, and do they need assistance bathing?
- Do we plan to live in this house for a long time? Or will we be selling soon?
- What is our budget range?
- How much shower maintenance do we want to commit to?
With answers to these questions in hand, you’ll be ready to narrow down the perfect shower for you—one that offers both form and function over the long term!
SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE CHANGES
Achieving your desired look doesn’t have to require a total bathroom remodel. Hiring a professional to focus on the bathing area is a smart way to completely transform the look of your space quickly and affordably. Other changes, such as painting and adding accessories, can be completed by you at minimal cost.
While the look of stone is the best way to get the natural look you want, you don’t have to splurge for genuine stone. Top Tier Kitchens and Baths offers wall surrounds in beautiful, natural stone patterns that are fabricated from durable, affordable acrylic.
Of course, your bathroom remodel needs to be functional as well as stylish. Top Tier Kitchens and Baths offers a host of optional accessories such as shower foot rests and shelves. Accessibility features, such as an attached bench seat or grab bars, can also be added.
OUR TOP SHOWER REMODELING RECOMMENDATIONS
What would you like to accomplish with your bathroom remodel? When choosing your shower, you can easily pick
and choose the different upgrades that you want for a more affordable and
tailored remodel. In this section, we are going to look at a few of the most popular upgrades and how they can benefit your home.
The Best Shower to…Save Space
Don’t have much room to spare? Then nothing beats a neo-angle shower!
Often called a “corner shower,” neo-angle showers sit in the corner of the bathroom and use the existing bathroom walls as part of the shower enclosure. Beyond saving space, the clever design of neo-angle showers often saves money on materials and installation labor, too.
The Best Shower to…Age in Place
If you’re planning to live in your current home permanently or if you have older loved ones already living with you, you’ll probably get the best return on your investment by choosing a handicap accessible walk-in shower. These showers are built with:
- Barrier-Free Entry
- Easy-to-Reach Faucet Controls
- Handheld Shower Wand
- ADA-Compliant Grab Bars
- Slip-Resistant Flooring
- Optional Built-in/Portable Shower Seating
With no threshold to step over, this type of senior-friendly shower installation makes it easy for those in wheelchairs and walkers to bathe independently. They also give off an open, airy feel that makes bathrooms feel larger and more contemporary.
The Best Shower to…Share
If your new shower will be shared between your children or other family members, you might want to consider a versatile tub-shower combo. By combining both features into one, a bathtub-shower combo will provide the most flexibility for all users. Younger children can get help in the bath, while older kids, teens, and adults can choose between a relaxing bath or a quick shower.
The Best Shower to…Relax and Unwind
If attaining a spa-like atmosphere is a major goal of your shower remodel, then any of the above-mentioned designs could work for you! Just invest in some luxurious shower accessories to give your regular shower installation that high-end ambiance you seek.
Take your shower remodel to that next level with a variety of customized accessories and fixtures, such as:
- Custom-Styled Shower Walls
- Beautiful Glass Shower Doors
- Rain-Style Shower Heads
- Multiple Shower Heads and Faucets
- Built-in Shelving
SHOWER REMODEL MATERIAL OPTIONS
If you’re planning to transform your bathroom through shower remodeling, then you’re probably looking for ways to add style and luxury while sticking to your budget. With the right shower surround, you can get the look and function you want without spending a fortune. Below, we’ll outline some of the most popular options for shower walls.
ACRYLIC WALLS: A TOP CHOICE FOR STYLE AND AFFORDABILITY
Offering incredible value, acrylic walls are increasingly popular among homeowners who want to save big on shower remodeling. We admit the word “acrylic” doesn’t always have the most luxurious ring to it, but today’s acrylic can be formulated to mimic the textures and looks of other, more classic materials. That means you can choose a style that fits your aesthetic ideals without sacrificing the amazing benefits that acrylic offers, including superb durability, easy maintenance, and incredible longevity.
Plus, acrylic walls tend to be on the more economical side compared to other materials, making them ideal for all budgets. And installation is a breeze compared to stone or tile walls, so you don’t have to put up with major delays and disruptions.
FIBERGLASS WALLS: COST-EFFECTIVE AND EASY TO MAINTAIN
A budget-friendly, easy-to-maintain option, fiberglass walls continue to garner the attention of homeowners looking for the most value. They are not as durable as acrylic walls, they will do the job for those who want quick results without spending a fortune. Fiberglass walls have no seams, so they’re not subject to as much mold and mildew as you’ll find in a shower wall that has grout.
CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN TILES: HIGH-END LOOKS AND RESISTANCE TO STAINING
Love the look of tile when you enter a bathroom? It’s true that ceramic and porcelain tiles can give a space a certain unmatched elegance. Though not typically considered a budget option, tile can be affordable if you stick to ceramic. Both ceramic and porcelain will hold up for the long haul. Both materials also offer a watertight seal. The use of grout does mean you’ll have to keep an eye out for mold and discoloration, two things that are inevitable with time.
STONE TILES: NATURE-INSPIRED LUXURY AND UNIQUENESS
Stone tiles incorporate the splendid textures and colors found in nature, making your space feel like a soothing natural oasis. However, there is a price to be paid for that comforting experience. Stone tiles are not cheap and do require quite a bit of costly maintenance, including regular reapplication of sealing. Plus, depending on the type of stone you choose, your shower wall may scratch or stain easily.
GLASS TILES: SLEEK STYLES THAT WITHSTAND TOUGH TREATMENT
Glass tiles have grown in popularity over the years. They’re easy to clean and quite durable, and their reflective nature can add depth and spaciousness to your bathroom. Like other tile types, glass tiles are more costly to install, as there’s quite a bit of cutting and fitting involved. But many homeowners would say it’s worth the effort.
Learn More about Bathroom Remodel Options and Get a Free Project Estimate
We at Top Tier Kitchens & Baths set a high standard for outstanding customer service, high-quality shower remodeling products, and impeccable installation.
For all your shower replacement and remodel needs, you can trust us to complete the job with expertise and dedication to excellence. If you’re looking for ways to increase the accessibility of your bathroom, the professionals at Top Tier Kitchens and Baths can help! We’d love to help you create a safer, more accessible space.
Submit a quote request on our website or give us a call at (417) 887-1100 to schedule a free, in-home consultation with one of our designers. We look forward to serving you!
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