A lot goes into a bathroom remodel, and unless you are a contractor or have done this before yourself, all the nitty-gritty details, processes, and options may seem like a foreign language.
It’s worth asking potential contractors for a visual gallery of their previous work. Also, determine what percent of their business is dedicated to bathroom remodeling services.
Experience
The best place to start your search for a bathroom remodeler is through personal referrals and the local chapters of national trade organizations. Be sure to interview several candidates, compare prices and options carefully, and always get a detailed contract with clearly defined items, including project costs, completion dates, and warranty information.
Framing involves cutting and nailing wood pieces to create bathroom walls, ceilings, and floors. This job is for professionals with extensive experience who use precise tools to prevent leaks and ensure the structural integrity of your home. Remodeling projects often involve changing electrical wiring or replacing plumbing, so you should hire licensed bathroom remodelers.
Portfolio
Bathroom remodels are labor-intensive projects, and skilled craftspeople do not come cheap. Look for contractors who use a design process that includes working with you on the details to make your dream vision a reality.
A reputable contractor will also provide you with a quote that includes materials (though this is not required). Choose a contractor who distributes products in their showrooms to get these items at a discount compared to the retail prices of big box stores.
Then, you can plan with materials and stay on budget. This planning stage is critical because poor planning is the leading cause of cost overruns in bath remodels. Adding the extras like a spa-like shower or a statement-making bathtub to your plan early will help you keep the project on track.
Reviews
A top bathroom remodeler will have an excellent reputation. You can locate a contractor by asking for referrals, researching local reviews, or looking up recommendations online. It is also important to compare prices and options from different contractors. A quality contractor will clearly describe all work and approximate start and completion dates.
If you’re doing a complete remodel, choose a company experienced in ground-up remodeling. This bathroom remodel involves removing walls to enlarge the space and restructuring plumbing and electrical lines. It can also involve installing new fixtures like tubs, showers, toilets, and sinks.
Lighting and ventilation are other vital considerations. Look for a remodeler to install windows that let in natural light and help with air circulation.
License
An excellent bathroom remodeler can work with a homeowner to create a project timeline that fits their schedule. They should also be able to provide a list of all materials needed to complete the job.
Many homeowners are surprised to find that remodeling jobs require permits in most areas. A good Happy Valley, Oregon contractor will be familiar with the requirements in your city and state for permitting and will handle this step of the process.
The contractor should be licensed and insured, whether a simple shower replacement or a complete bath remodel. Requesting copies of the worker’s license and insurance before starting any work is essential. Getting this information upfront can help avoid misunderstandings and unexpected problems later in the renovation.
Insurance
Unless you’re a professional bathroom remodeler or a homeowner who has done it a few times, the nitty-gritty process, options, and details can sound like a foreign language. It’s essential to lay out all the guidelines with contractors and get everything in writing so everyone is on the same page.
One thing that can happen during a renovation is unexpected issues, which can increase the cost of your project. It’s smart to leave a 10 percent cushion in your budget for anything that might come up. In addition, you’ll want to verify that the contractor has general liability and workers’ compensation insurance if something goes wrong during your bathroom remodel. This includes injuries to workers or damage to your property. It would be best to consider temporarily increasing your homeowners’ policy during the renovation to cover liability costs.
