Monday, March 29, 2010

Remodel A 1970s Small Basement Bathroom

Changing the color scheme will give this bath a boost.


The colors and fixtures of a 1970s bathroom may negatively impact market appeal of a home. If the bathroom hasn't had upgrades, potential buyers may assume other areas of the home need upgrades. To make needed changes, invest in fixing any plumbing problems, but use colors and materials that are contemporary. Review home design books and remodeling magazines to understand current trends in bath remodeling.


Instructions








1. Look for room to expand if the room is small. You might acquire room from nearby storage space or a family room to make the bathroom approximately 5 by 8 feet. It's relatively easy to include all main fixtures, which include a toilet, sink and bathtub, in this square footage. If you want to install a jetted tub or double-sink vanity, the new bath will need to measure 8 by 10 feet or larger.


2. Figure out a layout using graph paper. Try various placements of fixtures, but try to keep the plumbing footprint the same -- especially for the toilet drain. This will make the remodel much easier than trying to change everything around. Create a basic plan by using exact dimensions for the fixtures you will install.


3. Plumbing problems need correction. Be sure to thoroughly check any problems with leaking or deteriorated pipes or drains. Look at any floor issues that need repairs, too. Don't install fixtures or flooring without carefully fine-tuning any issues. It's difficult to remove building materials to correct structural or plumbing problems within bath space.


4. New wiring and lighting are important. Get rid of any old light fixtures, and replace outdated outlets. Route new wiring to accommodate a new light fixture over the sink or recessed lighting. Be sure to upgrade the house breaker box as well.


5. Revamp the look of the room's walls and ceiling. New paint colors are important for drywall, but add some wall tile or beadboard if you like. Wainscoting is doable in a bathroom using chair rail rim, or you can create the wainscoting effect with tile work on the bottom of the walls and drywall on the top half. Draw everything on paper using colored pencils to see how colors and fixtures will work together.


6. New fixtures and cabinetry should fit the room to scale. Use a small pedestal sink, for example, if space is tight. Avoid using a vanity that is too large for a small space. Keep a balanced look for a bathtub, bath-shower combo or tiled shower, for example, in proportion to the sink space and toilet.


7. Don't seat the toilet until you finish the floor surfaces. Give the room an upscale look with marble floor tile, for example. You will need to use a wax ring seal to seat the toilet over the finished flooring.

Tags: colors fixtures, fixtures will, plumbing problems, seat toilet, will need