Expanding your home’s functionality and convenience by adding another bathroom is a smart investment, especially in a state like Illinois. Adding another bathroom to your house can be a valuable and convenient upgrade that doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re aiming to increase your home’s value or simply enhance your family’s comfort, adding a new bathroom can make a significant difference. However, the planning of this renovation project might seem daunting, both in terms of cost and complexity. But worry not! With careful planning and strategic execution, adding a bathroom can be manageable as well as cost-effective. Read on to know the tips for adding another bathroom to your Illinois house.
Top 11 Tips for Adding Another Bathroom to Your Illinois House
1. Determine Location:
The first step is to decide where you want the new bathroom. Consider utilizing unused space like the area under the stairs. Optimal placement might be adjacent to the existing plumbing area will directly reduce costs. So, before diving into any construction work, plan out the layout and design of your new bathroom. Consider factors such as available space, plumbing access, and proximity to existing water lines. Additionally, think about the size and style of fixtures to ensure they complement your home’s aesthetic.
2. Maximize Natural Lighting:
Incorporating natural light into your new bathroom can make it feel more spacious and inviting. Try to use windows strategically to maximize sunlight while ensuring privacy. You can also use simple fixtures paired with energy-saving LED bulbs that provide bright light without adding much to your electric bill. Skylights or light tubes are excellent alternatives for bathrooms without exterior walls.
3. DIY vs. Professional Help:
Assess your skills and the scope of the project realistically. Plumbing and electrical work, are best left to professionals. So, don’t try to do it by yourself as it can cause hazardous accidents. Hiring licensed home remodeling contractors in Illinois for these critical tasks ensures safety and compliance with building codes. Wherever possible, take on tasks you can manage yourself, such as demolition, painting, or tiling. This hands-on approach will save on labor costs, which can be a significant part of the overall expense.
4. Opt for Cost-Effective Materials:
You don’t have to break the bank to achieve a stylish and functional bathroom. Explore budget-friendly options for tiles, countertops, and fixtures without compromising on quality. Look for gently used fixtures and materials at salvage yards, online marketplaces, or local selling pages. Reusing materials not only cuts costs but also adds style to your new bathroom.
5. Plan for Future Needs:
When designing your new bathroom, consider your family’s evolving needs and lifestyle. Incorporate features such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and a curbless shower for accessibility and safety, especially if aging in place is a consideration.
6. Prefabricated Units:
Using prefabricated shower stalls or vanity units can save money and simplify the installation process in comparison to custom-built options. The modular units come with pre-installed fixtures and can be quickly assembled onsite. Not only do they save time and other labor costs, but they also offer flexibility in design and customization.
7. Upgrade Plumbing Wisely:
If plumbing work is required, consult professionals for quotes and advice on how to execute the job efficiently. Sometimes running new lines can be done alongside existing ones for savings in time and labor.
8. Utilize Your Existing Space:
If space is limited, look for underutilized areas within your home that can be repurposed for the new bathroom. Closets, the area under stairs, or even a corner of a large room can be transformed into functional bathroom spaces with clever design and efficient use of fixtures. You can also consider space-saving solutions like wall-mounted sinks or toilets, shallow vanities, or corner showers which will add functionality without overcrowding your space.
9. Focus on Ventilation:
Proper ventilation is crucial in order to prevent mold and mildew growth in your new bathroom. Install a high-quality exhaust fan to remove excess moisture and odors effectively. Consider a fan with a built-in humidity sensor for automatic operation and energy efficiency.
10. Choose Water-Efficient Fixtures:
Not only do water-efficient fixtures help conserve precious resources, but they also reduce utility bills over time. Opt for low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to minimize water consumption without sacrificing performance.
11. Accessorize Wisely:
Enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your new bathroom with thoughtful accessories such as mirrors, lighting fixtures, and decorative accents that can add personality and charm to the bath space. Install ample storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets, or towel racks to keep the space organized and clutter-free.
Conclusion:
Remember that each house in Illinois is unique in its own way, so these tips should be tailored to fit your specific situation and budget constraints. Even with limited funds, you can achieve your goal of adding another bathroom to house through thoughtful planning and hard work. By following these tips and staying mindful of your budget and goals, adding another bathroom to your Illinois home can be a rewarding and relatively hassle-free experience. From increasing your home value to enhancing daily comfort, consulting with bathroom remodeling experts for efficient plumbing upgrades, utilizing space-saving fixtures, and adhering to local codes are essential. Not just that but timing the project during off-peak seasons can further reduce costs. So, tailor these strategies to your home and budget for an economical and stylish addition.