Updating your bathroom can put new life into your home, but not everyone has the time, experience or budget to do a full renovation. So why not give it just a little “refresher?”
If your tub and tiles are in good shape, you can refresh your bathroom without too much effort, and there’s no need for permits if you don’t actually move your toilet, sink or change the wiring. Here are some tips to give your bathroom a facelift….
Handrails and Towel Racks. A simple change like changing out your handrails and towel racks can make a huge difference. You might even consider heated towel racks (although you may need an electrician’s help with installation, if they’re hard wired instead of plug-ins).
Lighting. Updating your lighting can absolutely transform the look and feel of your bathroom. There are lots of different styles to choose from at your local hardware outlet. If you are using existing electrical you should be fine with DIY, but always check local codes before trying that route. And always remember the number one rule in bathrooms: electrical and water don’t mix, so don’t but any new fixtures near a water source.
Vanity and Storage. Changing out your sink and fixtures for new can completely change your bathroom space. And a new vanity, even a small one, can add much needed storage. A floating shelves or cabinet above the toilet also add storage space. And take a look at your tired old medicine cabinet while you’re at it. Take measurements, pull out the old one, and replace it with something lighter and brighter.
Toilet. You might think this is an expensive fix, but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of low-flow or dual-flush toilets available that don’t cost a mint. If you’re an experienced DIY’er, you could do it yourself, but if you’re at all concerned, hire a plumber to do the quick replacement, and you’ve got a brand new water- (and money-) saving fixture.
Caulking. Scrape, remove, clean and replace old, broken, or missing caulking with a fresh new application. Make sure you buy mold- or mildew-resistant caulking, so you don’t have issues down the road.
Add a Splash of Color. A different coat of glossy paint, or just replacing your fraying bath mats, towels or spotty old shower curtain can drastically update the look of your bathroom, and give you a whole new color palette to work with. Consider changing out the artwork, or adding some if there’s none, while you’re at it.
If you’re going to DIY, Do Your Homework. Watch videos and learn as much as you can before taking on a renovation project. Check out your toolbox and make sure you have everything you need to do the job right. Take all the necessary safety precautions, like turning off the water and/or the electricity, before changing out fixtures. And if there’s any question, at all, call a professional and let them do it. Be safe, have fun, and do it right, and you’ll have a brand new bathroom in no time!
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Photo Credit: Clara Doti / Shutterstock.com