Tag Archive for: bathroom remodel

12 Design Essentials for Your Next West Lafayette Bathroom Remodel

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According to Remodeling’s 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range bathroom remodel brings one of the highest returns on investment if and when you decide to sell the home. More importantly, for homeowners who plan to remain in their home, the National Association of Realtors Research Group gives a bathroom remodel a Joy Score of 9.3. So if you’re planning to remodel your bathroom this year, here are 12 key design elements to consider for your project.

1. Choose High-Quality Cabinetry

Bathroom Design Essentials

The bathroom is probably the most humid room in your home. A typical family of four can easily subject a single bath to two hours of steam per day. You need cabinets that can take that type of exposure. Riverside Construction often recommends Showplace Cabinetry because their choice of high-grade materials ensures you have a quality cabinet. Here are the three options when selecting cabinet material.

Solid wood–Solid wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. Over time, these changes can cause the paint to crack where the boards meet. Choose a close grain, like birch, poplar, or maple, if you want to use solid wood. It’s best for door frames, small drawers, or the cabinet face.

Plywood–Plywood is less expensive than solid wood and less prone to expansion and contraction. Choose a close-grained, hardwood variety, like birch. Plywood is an excellent choice for door panels, deep drawers, and cabinet sides and shelves.

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)—Fine for painted cabinets, MDF is made of different types of compressed wood. It’s more prone to moisture damage than the other options and requires adequate sealant.

2. Choose Countertops Carefully

When it comes to countertops, choose something aesthetically pleasing but also easy to care for. Here are the pros and cons of the three most popular options.

Natural stone, including marble and granite

Pros

  • Beautiful and elegant
  • An infinite variety of patterns and colors
  • Durable

Cons

  • Can be scratched
  • Susceptible to staining, if not sealed
  • More expensive

Quartz

Pros

  • Doesn’t require sealing or polishing
  • Stronger and less brittle than natural stone
  • Water, scratch, and stain resistant
  • Ideal for high-traffic bathrooms
  • Many styles and colors to choose from

Cons

  • Not as heat resistant as natural stone
  • Sometimes, seams show
  • More costly option

Solid Surface

Pros

  • Water and stain-resistant
  • Easy to clean and repair
  • Great for high-traffic areas
  • Can be manufactured without seams
  • Less costly (similar to entry-level granite)

Cons

  • Not heat resistant
  • Stone-look is artificial

3. Add Plenty of Storage

Who doesn’t need more storage? In the bathroom, particularly. Any way you can add storage to this already space-challenged room will improve your life. Whatever you choose to create a home for your everyday items, make sure it fits your lifestyle. For instance, to avoid countertop clutter, you need a vanity with enough drawers or cubbies to hold the things you use every day. Also, consider adding a closet for occasional use items, like spare towels, first aid supplies, or extra paper products. Here are a few clever storage ideas for your bathroom remodel:

  • Remove the lower shelves of a ladder-style bookshelf unit and place it over the commode for out-of-the-way storage, adding visual appeal.
  • Built-ins not only provide storage but also add value to your home.

4. Layer the Lighting

Remodeling is the perfect time to improve the lighting in your bathroom. A design-build remodeler can advise you on how to provide the ideal illumination for everything from up-close work to creating a relaxing spa-like atmosphere. If you don’t have a window, adding lights in the shower makes that space safer. Consider installing bright, focused light for shaving or applying makeup, soft ambient light for general use, and dimmable can lights for a long soak in the tub. To improve the space’s overall design, choose stylish fixtures, like a chandelier near the tub or brass sconces aside the vanity mirror.

5. Design for Accessibility

Planning for future use is recommended, no matter what your age. But older homeowners, in particular, may want to consider incorporating universal design elements into their bathroom remodel. Work with a local design-build remodeler to learn how to make life easier and safer for your family. In addition, older adults or those with accessibility limitations may want to consider the following design changes.

  • Zero-entry shower or walk-in tub
  • Non-slip flooring
  • Hands-free faucets and lighting
  • Grab bars and shower seating
  • Handles instead of knobs
  • Improved lighting
  • Lowered cabinets and sink for wheelchair access

6. Add a Window in the Shower

If at all possible, add a window in your shower. The greatest enemy of every bathroom is moisture. Opening a window, even if just a crack, before or after showering will draw the humid air out. If you’re concerned about privacy, choose frosted glass. It will prevent outsiders from looking in, while allowing all the natural light you need.

7. Include Proper Ventilation

Whether you have a window or not, an adequate exhaust fan is key to maintaining the health of your bathroom. A fan’s ability to remove air from the home is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The rule is you need at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom area. So, if your bathroom is 5- by 8-feet, you need an exhaust fan with a 40 CFM rating or higher. For further protection, consider installing an exhaust fan with a timer and an antibacterial violet light. When the fan turns off, the violet light comes on to stop mold and bacteria growth in the room.

8. Consider a Recessed Medicine Cabinet

Most medicine cabinets have mirrored fronts, a necessary element in every bathroom design. In addition, they provide much-needed storage space for items used regularly. Things like toothbrushes and paste, deodorant, combs, and hair gel get stashed out of sight rather than cluttering up the vanity top. Recessed medicine cabinets blend nicely into your design, rather than protruding from the wall like someone hung a box there. If you don’t already have a recessed cabinet, the construction phase of a remodel project is the perfect time to add one.

9. Include Niches for More Storage

Stop dropping bottles off the narrow tub ledge while taking a shower. Instead, include niches in your new shower design to store your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. If the bathroom accommodates several family members, include several places so everyone can have their own space for their personal care products.

10. Stay Warm with Heated Flooring

Nothing is more luxurious than a warm bathroom floor in the morning. Consider installing radiant floor heat underneath the tile if you’re replacing the flooring during your remodel project. Easy to install, electric heat floor mats link together and lay on top of the subfloor. They then connect to an electrical circuit and thermostat. And, then the floor covering goes on top. In a small space like a bathroom, you can cover the entire floor or just the areas where you stand or walk. Your design-build team can advise you on the best product to use and its perfect placement.

11. Consider Low Flow Toilets and Showerheads

Low flow toilets and showerheads can save you money on your water bill and are better for the environment. Consider these comparisons.

Fixture Type Standard Flow Low Flow
Sink Faucet 2.2 gallons per minute 1.5 gallons per minute
Toilet 1.6 gallons per flush 1.28 gallons per flush
Showerhead 2.5 gallons per minute 1.8 gallons per minute

12. Keep The Main Fixtures Neutral

Everyone remembers the pink or avocado green bathrooms of yesteryear. They were the bane of home remodelers who wanted the charm of buying an older home but craved a more neutral color palette. Don’t make the same mistake for the future owners of your home, which could be you if you plan to stay a few decades. Fads come and go. So, choose neutral options that style well with any décor for large fixtures like the tub, toilet, and sink. Save the personality for components that cost less, and require less work, to replace.

If you’re ready to get started on your bathroom remodel, Riverside Construction is prepared to serve you. Since 2008, their award-winning team has served homeowners in the Lafayette, West Lafayette, and Tippecanoe County areas. Take a look at their extensive portfolio of stunning bathroom remodels, then schedule a consultation with one of their expert design-build professionals. Not quite ready? Sign up to receive their monthly newsletter, “Designed for Life,” to stay informed on current design and remodeling trends.

What You Need to Know About Home Surface Materials

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Quartz or granite? Marble or solid surface? Selecting materials for kitchen and bathroom surfaces can be confusing. There are many materials from which to choose. Some can look almost identical to others. Yet they all have different qualities that will suit different functional and aesthetic demands. 

When choosing home surfaces during your next remodel, whether it’s kitchen countertops or bathroom worktops, it’s important to be familiar with the different material qualities prior to installation. In this article, we explore what you need to know when it comes to some of the most common surface materials. 

Butcher Block

Burcher Block

Butcher block is a heavy-duty surface made from assembled wooden slabs. It’s the only permanent surface that can be used directly as a chopping board, with a little sanding quickly removing blemishes and scratches. For some home chefs, the pleasantly worn look is a desired aesthetic and matches with country-style kitchen décor themes. 

If you’re prone to forgetting to use a chopping board, the soft wooden surface will be kind to your knives. Butcher block is susceptible to moisture damage. It’s, therefore, a good idea to oil the surface regularly to minimize swelling. When it comes to cleaning, simply wipe with soap and water. 

Laminate

Laminate Countertop

Laminate is a man-made material featuring layers of paper covered with a protective melamine resin top layer. Just underneath this resin, is a decorative print layer that is available in different styles, some of which even mimic natural stone like granite and marble. This makes it an affordable alternative to more expensive materials.

The protective resin seal means laminate is very easy to keep clean. Simple cleaning with soap and water is all that’s normally required. However, laminate is susceptible to damage, especially from knives, accidents, and abrasive cleaning materials. As repairs are difficult to make, serious damage will require a complete replacement. 

Quartz

Quartz Countertop

A Quartz countertop – also known as engineered stone – is a relatively new home surface option. While quartz countertops are a manufactured surface, the core property is quartz, a highly durable, hard, and strong natural material. 

The combination of quartz with different resins and pigments means quartz countertops are available in a wide variety of styles and colors. Its non-porous surface ensures it remains stain resistant, easy to clean, and impervious to bacteria. However, it can sustain heat damage from extra hot pots or hair tools, so it’s wise to be cautious. 

Tile

Tile Countertop

Tile has long been a popular surface option for kitchens and bathrooms. We typically picture tile forming a backsplash or floor, but it can also look tremendous as a countertop. With so many different shapes, sizes, colors, patterns, and materials from which to choose, tile offers hundreds of creative design options.

Tile is also one of the more affordable surfacing options. It’s heat resistant and it’s very easy to replace chipped or discolored tiles. That said, one of the biggest drawbacks of using tiling in the sometimes wet conditions of a kitchen or bathroom is the porous nature of the grout. Regular sealing is required but this doesn’t always prevent stains and bacteria buildup. 

Granite

Granite Countertop

Granite is a natural stone material without any added ingredients. This natural beauty is why it’s such a popular choice among homeowners throughout the United States. Often installed as a solid piece of quarried stone, granite countertops usually have few seams, providing an expansive look that’s also very easy to keep clean. 

Granite is extremely strong and resistant to scratches. It can also take a lot of heat, meaning you can safely put hot equipment directly onto the surface. One drawback is that granite is porous and so it’s important it is thoroughly sealed so as to prevent stains. 

Marble

Marble Countertop

Marble is another highly popular choice when it comes to kitchen and bathroom surfaces. With its natural grains, solid appearance, and timeless appeal, marble brings the beauty and elegant strength of nature right into the heart of the home. Marble countertops make a bold and luxurious statement and for this reason, they are at the higher end of the price scale. 

An intriguing quality of marble is that it maintains a low temperature. It always feels cold. This makes it ideal for baking. As stones go, marble is one of the softer ones, making it more vulnerable than granite to nicks and cracks. Also, avoid exposure to acidic foods like lemons as over time this can remove the polish or sealant that’s so important to prevent stains.  

Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is used in restaurant kitchens throughout the world. It’s also a great surface option for the home kitchen. Stainless steel is durable and non-porous, making it highly resistant to water, heat, stains, and just about anything else. This is why it has widespread use in commercial and industrial environments. It’s very easy to wipe clean. 

Unfortunately, stainless steel does dent and scratch relatively easily. Denting can be minimized with the correct installation techniques used by experienced professionals. Stainless steel countertops can be noisy as well when placing objects onto the surface, and for some people, the industrial look can be a little too cold and clinical. 

Solid Surface

Solid Surface Countertop

Solid Surface (also known as Corian) is the perfect mid-range countertop material for homeowners seeking a middle way when it comes to surface types. It’s a man-made synthetic material usually made from a combination of acrylic, polyester resins, and stone pigments. 

It can closely mimic naturally occurring materials such as stone, granite, and marble, making it a more affordable alternative. While not as strong as natural materials, it’s less susceptible to cracking from heavy impacts. However, it is easier to scratch and is not as heat resistant. But it’s very easy to maintain and clean. 

With so many surface materials to choose from, it’s important to get professional advice and guidance before an extensive kitchen or bathroom remodel. 

Your Design-Build Remodeling Team in Lafayette, Indiana

Riverside Construction, founded in 2008, is the go-to professional design-build team that has earned the respect and confidence of discerning homeowners in the Lafayette and West Lafayette areas. 

With an award-winning team of highly skilled and experienced professionals in a range of fields, we excel at listening to client ideas and then translating those dreams into reality. We can help you decide on a direction, provide guidance, and be with you every step of the way to ensure your dream home is achieved. 

Whether you’re transforming a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or adding an extension, let us guide your decision-making and partner with you to achieve the results you envision. 

Contact us now to schedule an initial conversation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions, listen to your ideas, soothe your worries, and work with you to finalize your plans.

6 Reasons You Should Avoid a DIY Bathroom Remodel

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The television shows make it look easy, right? If you have some experience using hand tools and you aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty, remodeling a bathroom may seem the way to go. Before you get too far in your planning, though, take a deeper dive into what’s really involved in a bathroom renovation. There are pros and cons, of course, but a bathroom’s relatively small size and apparent simplicity may make it seem enticing as a DIY project. However, the diminutive footprint of the average bathroom can make it more complicated when it comes to planning for new features and fixtures. It entails a bit more planning than you might envision, and take it from the pros; there’s usually a hidden problem just waiting to be uncovered.

Suppose your planned bathroom update involves more than just repainting the walls and installing new hardware. It might be a good idea to check with local building officials or an experienced remodeler to determine if there are permit and code requirements that you have to follow. Even if you plan to do little else, prepping the site for a new installation can also be exacting and time-consuming.

Likewise, tile work is more difficult than it might seem, regardless of the DIY videos and step-by-step instructions you can find online or view at a big box store. Here are 6 reasons to reconsider remodeling a bathroom on your own, without professional assistance:

#1 Design Guidance

Working with designers

The most important reasons to consult with a design-build professional come down to two words: professional and experienced. Because your home is your castle, it’s understandable that you want it designed for your functional needs and design aesthetics. A design-build contractor embodies these principles and can be your guide—recommending products and materials that will capture your vision, fulfill your needs and exceed your expectations.

With a wide variety of fixtures and materials available nowadays, there is an endless array of options that exist for tile, flooring, lighting, fixtures, etc. A talented designer will help you hone in on the layout and specifications that best fit your personality and lifestyle.

The functionality of your bathroom space is vital, and a designer has the knowledge and experience to improve a bathroom layout to gain both actual and visual space. Whether you want to revamp your dated master bath into a soothing at-home spa or provide a separate bathing and grooming space for growing children, a designer will work with you to make it happen. Be bold, or be subtle — it’s all up to you!

#2 Timing and Scheduling

No matter how simple your planned bathroom renovation might seem, scheduling can become complex. Materials must be chosen and ordered and deliveries scheduled. Trades must be coordinated and booked for their individual specialties. Proper supervision and site cleanup are constant needs. If you do the work yourself, you’ll have to juggle all of these tasks, and that’s a lot of balls to keep in the air at one time! You can alleviate all that angst by working with a professional contractor, especially a design-build team with the knowledge and staff to immediately address any issues and resolve them before they escalate into problems that can derail the entire job.

#3 Safety Comes First

Not all construction is dangerous, but it is all exacting; the steps to completion fall in a specific order for a reason. Understanding that principle does not always mean that a job will run smoothly. Still, it goes a long way to ensuring an accident-free workplace and the safety of all the people on or near the job site. Compliance with code and safety requirements is essential, but so is having the right training and the proper insurance to cover all unexpected contingencies. One of the prime rules of construction is that if something can go wrong, expect that it will. Cutting corners can cause accidents, lead to failure of materials and shoddy installation, and can also adversely impact your home’s value.

Avoid all of these issues by hiring a reputable contractor who is well-trained and adheres to all safety mandates; and has the proper insurance to handle anything that might occur on the job site.

#4 Avoid Costly Leaks

Leaking bathroom pipesChanging a faucet or replacing a toilet does not constitute rocket science. However, if you’ve ever done either, you know that it’s not always routine and straightforward. Many homeowners can tell stories of over-tightening a bolt and having to deal with a geyser of water or not compensating for an out-of-level vanity or a sloping floor. Avoid future plumbing problems by calling in someone whose job it is to get things right the first time.

#5 Tile Work Is Hard

Tiling Work

Unless you’re a serious creative tile hobbyist, you can be almost sure that a DIY tile job won’t reflect the quality or artistry you want for your renovated bath. Nor will it stand up to daily abuse and look fresh and pretty for years to come. It may not seem so at first, but setting tile is an art that requires patience and skill in equal measure. It is also strenuous and exacting work that must be completed quickly but allowed to cure properly to look its best. Whether it’s a tile floor, a tub surround, a full shower, or a simple, colorful backsplash, if you can visualize a design, a professional tile setter will be able to make it come alive.

#6 Trash Removal and Final Cleanup

No job is complete until the floor shines, the mirrors sparkle, and the bathroom is free of dust and debris. Don’t underestimate the volume of dust or the piles of trash and discarded materials that accumulate daily on the job site. If you do the work yourself, you will also, by necessity, become the after-hours cleanup crew. Eliminate that headache by getting an estimate from a design-build professional who will perform daily cleanup and straightening tasks. Consider it a gift to yourself!

The Advantages of a Design-Build Team

Riverside Team

Riverside Construction, founded in 2008, is the go-to professional design-build team that has earned the respect and confidence of discerning homeowners in the Lafayette and West Lafayette areas. We listen to our customers. We are attuned to contemporary design principles, modern methods, and materials, and the local aesthetic. Get started by exploring our bathroom design portfolio and then becoming familiar with how we approach every new bathroom design-build project.

We can help you decide on a direction, and we will be with you every step of the way to ensure an excellent result. Whether you are carving space for a powder room, enlarging a bath, or simply updating its decor, let us guide your decision-making and partner with you to achieve the results you envision. Contact us now to schedule an initial conversation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions, listen to your ideas and work with you to finalize your plans.

How to Renovate Your Master Bathroom into a Spa Oasis

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Luxury master bathrooms resemble expensive resort spas in many ways, but they don’t have to be extravagant. For example, you can choose between a jetted tub and an old-fashioned soaking tub, install a steam shower with a bench or a zero entry glass enclosed shower and a rain-forest spray head. There are budget-friendly options for additional storage and fog-resistant lighted mirrors. You can even integrate smart technology into your master bath—for a lighting, sound, or multimedia experience!

Your bathroom should, of course, cater to your individual needs and be compatible with your home’s current architecture and design. But it should also delight the senses, calm the spirit, and refresh the body. A bathroom renovation can make it possible for you to enjoy a personal spa retreat that is functional and pampering at the same time!

Think of it as an investment, not only in pleasure but also in value. Sophisticated spa bathrooms do not have to be overly large. Instead, they should be calming, attractive, and uncluttered. Focus on your unique preferences, and the result will be a timeless example of your personal taste. Personalize your bath as an efficient bathing and grooming center, and add the extras that will allow it to serve as a soothing retreat from the demands of a busy lifestyle.

Make no mistake: With proper planning, your remodeled master bath will perform well on both counts. Here are some design ideas to consider as you plan your spa-inspired bathroom renovation:

Add a Second Vanity

Even if there’s no need for two people to use the bathroom at the same time, there’s no question that having a personal sink, with ample countertop and storage to accommodate individual items, is a bonus for any couple sharing a bath. Much of the time, it’s possible to create room for an additional vanity without altering the footprint. However, if necessary, it is possible to gain space by relocating a closet, reconfiguring the existing floor plan, or moving a portion of a wall to steal some space from an adjoining room.

Separate the Tub and Shower

Although a tub/shower combination is functional, there is something much more appealing about having both. It’s unnecessary to incorporate a room-size steam shower and a jetted tub into your space, especially if it doesn’t fit into your budget. A modest-sized shower paired with a deep soaking tub can be every bit as appealing. With the availability of ceiling mounted flexible shower-heads and standard-size jetted tubs, it’s possible to gain an at-home spa in almost any master bathroom.

Consider Therapeutic Options

While efficiency and aesthetics are frequently cited as reasons for wanting to redo a bathroom, sometimes physical needs and health concerns are the primary reason for planning a remodel. Think not only about special needs but also about the wisdom of planning for the future. Consider adding a bench in the shower, or a full-body array of water jets to massage aches and pains and aid circulation. Hydro features are some of the best options to consider for enjoyment right now and in the future. 

Add Sensible Improvements

Investigate aging-in-place options for your bathroom remodel. Curbless showers, walk-in spa tubs, comfort-height toilets, grab bars, blade-handled faucets, and motion-activated lighting can be tastefully designed into your space without looking like a hospital room. Many of these fixtures and amenities are not only aesthetically pleasing but add comfort, security and safety to your bathroom space. 

You might also want to consider mood-altering and multi-level lighting fixtures, a panic button connected to an in-home or monitored alarm system, wider doorways, and easily accessible electrical plugs and switches. Current trends indicate that more and more homeowners want to remain in their own homes as long as possible. Incorporating these features or similar amenities in your home now, will make prolonged comfort and safety in your home easier. 

Improve the Lighting

Bathrooms with large windows or skylights (or even outdoor access) are considered the ultimate indulgence by many homeowners. Physicians and mental health specialists confirm that natural light and outdoor views have both physical and emotional benefits. If you cannot bring natural light into your existing bath, today, you can simulate that light with modern electrical fixtures. You can even incorporate changeable, mood-altering lighting into your shower, and take your pick of soft-pink, bright white, or natural golden light bulbs for fixtures. 

Like other home spaces, a bathroom will benefit from different “layers” of lighting: clear and bright for shaving and makeup needs, softer ambient lighting for overall illumination, and dimmable mood lighting that encourages relaxation.

Select Timeless Materials

Functional master bath improvements are all critical, but so are the materials and finishes you choose.

Forego the trendy, and opt instead for organic, natural materials that will stand the test of time. As an alternative, investigate newer composite materials that mimic the look of natural stone or wood but are easier to maintain. Tile may be a traditional choice for showers, but seamless shower enclosures require minimal upkeep. As an option, glass enclosures open up a small space are also easy to maintain. Whether your style tends toward rustic, modern, industrial, classic or eclectic, know that you can find vanities, tubs, faucets, flooring, and lighting that will speak to your design preferences.

Choose Colors and Accessories with Care

Bright colors and too many patterns can be distracting in a space meant to evoke calm and relaxation. Earth tones are soothing and grounding, but that doesn’t necessarily mean beige. Consider soothing greens and blues, the golden hues of wheat fields, and the misty tones of early morning skies or fading daylight at dusk as prime choices for a comforting, relaxing ambiance in your spa retreat. Keep accessories minimal — maybe just candles and a favorite painting on the wall. Add fluffy towels and your favorite personal care products in pretty containers, and your spa oasis will be complete.

How Riverside Construction Can Help

Every remodeling project begins with a plan, and evaluating your existing space. Start by prioritizing your pain points, and consider how much you can afford. Be ready to discuss what you would like to change, add, or improve. Finally, consult a design-build firm to help you consider your options, and realize your bathroom’s full potential. We invite you to schedule a conversation to explore ideas with us, Lafayette’s first choice for design-build remodeling.

In the meantime, subscribe to our newsletter to stay abreast of new ideas for the home, or browse our portfolio for design inspiration. 

7 Mistakes to Avoid In Your Bathroom Renovation

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Your bathroom is arguably one of the most important and complex spaces in your home, and like your kitchen it must capture an ideal blend of form and function. That makes a bathroom remodel particularly challenging since you need to worry about everything from layout to design, floors to ceilings, and plumbing to lighting. Mistakes are therefore as common as they can be costly, so here’re the top 7 — along with the proactive things you can do to avoid them.

#1:
Don’t Make Things Up as You Go
Do: Plan, Plan, Plan

One thing leads to another throughout a bathroom renovation, so make sure you plan your project—from must-haves and nice-to-haves to material selections, lighting, countertops, plumbing, flooring, and color. And, be sure to include present and possible future needs as well. Space is usually limited, materials need to be carefully chosen, and fixtures are connected to plumbing or electricity; so once you start it becomes difficult, costly, and sometimes impossible to change your mind. Detailed planning is also vital to ensure you don’t exceed your budget or blow past the scheduled completion date.

#2:
Don’t Be Penny Wise and Fixture Foolish
Do: Select Quality Fixtures

They say you should never save money on sushi or eye surgery — or bathroom fixtures! Sinks, faucets, shower valves, toilets, and other plumbing are available across a wide range of costs and quality. You get what you pay for and will end up paying more in the long run if you use cheap, off-brand fixtures. Good suppliers or an online retailer like Build.com are worth the added expense, money that you’ll get back through avoided damages, repairs, and replacements.

#3:
Don’t Put a Dent in the Vent
Do: Properly Vent Your Bathroom

Robust air circulation isn’t merely more pleasant, but it prevents mold and mildew. So you’ll want to ensure your bathroom fan has sufficient capacity for the size of your bathroom, is of the highest quality, and vents outside the house. Per code, venting into a wall cavity, joist opening, or attic is unacceptable. It compounds all your avoidable circulation problems at once while also putting moist air into those spaces, which can cause mold. Work with your contractor to create the ductwork necessary to properly vent foul air outside and bring fresh air back inside.

#4:
Don’t Immediately Pull the Plug on the Tub
Do: Keep the Tub

Some bathtubs take up plenty of room, and lack the flexibility and even the aesthetics of smartly designed shower stalls. But be cautious before removing the old bathtub while you think about your home resale value, which is immediately reduced if you don’t have one somewhere in your home. As an alternative, think about replacing the tub with something more modern, or if budget and space allow, go for an upgrade and install a whirlpool or jacuzzi unit that more appropriately uses the space in your bathroom. Your spouse will thank you!

#5:
Don’t Lose Steam on the Theme
Do: Choose the Design Carefully

Think about how much time you and your family spends in the bathroom, and how much that experience is influenced — for better or worse — by an efficient, comfortable, and appealing design. Keep the look consistent and pleasing, and don’t forget about the importance of layout, too. Maybe making the toilet the first thing you see isn’t the best idea, while a better idea is making sure you have enough room by the sink and tub to brush your teeth and move about.

#6:
Don’t Forget Essential Lighting
Do: Get the Light Right

Bathrooms demand excellent task lighting, essential for everything from shaving to grooming. Natural light is also easy on the eyes and refreshing during the day, so where possible supplement artificial lights with indirect sunlight. Numerous task lights — not to mention hair dryers, shavers, and electric toothbrushes — all need easily accessible and nearby electrical outlets, so ensure they’re handy and well-placed. Mood and color lighting adds a great touch.

#7:
Don’t Pile on the Tile
Do: Use Skilled Labor

Many homeowners insist on tiling the shower themselves, or hiring a contractor of questionable reputation or quality. Even small mistakes can lead to big leaks, which in turn send water into walls and floors. The resulting damage can be significant and difficult to fix, instantly negating the money saved. Similar DIY often happens with towel racks and other wall fixtures, which are not only dangerous when they’re torn down, but can take big chunks of the wall with them.

Trust Your Bathroom to a Pro

Family owned and operated, Riverside Construction is eager to responsibly and safely work with you to bring your bathroom dreams to life. Now is actually a great time to remodel, and Riverside Construction is pleased to conduct most design work remotely and effectively; we also help protect your family by conducting all work according to strict EPA lead-safe-certification regulations.

Riverside Construction is Lafayette’s top award-winning, design-build remodeling company. For 12 years we have provided loyal clients personalized and enjoyable remodeling services, delivered on time and on budget. By listening intently to your needs we provide the region’s best work: Take a look at our bathroom portfolio, and let’s schedule a free consultation!

What to Include in a Successful Aging-In-Place Bathroom Remodel

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When you first purchased your home, you may not have given much thought to how future lifestyle changes may necessitate a home remodel. As a matter of comfort and safety, it’s important to keep in mind universal design features that can accommodate everyone’s needs and/or requirements, regardless of age or ability.

Whether you build a new home or remodel your current home, incorporating universal design features may minimize injuries for you or a loved one such as slipping and falling in the bathroom and prolong the stay in your home.

Here are a few aging-in-place bathroom design elements that will provide maximum convenience and livability in your home:

Bathtub/Shower

To minimize the chance of falling when getting into the tub or shower, consider installing a new walk-in tub. Instead of climbing over the edge, you simply open the door. When closed, it’s watertight.

Homeowners who prefer to keep their conventional tub and shower in place can opt for a glass door to replace the shower curtain, which is beneficial for the added stability it provides. And since you’re doing upgrades, a flexible, hand-held shower, grab bars and a stool to sit on when bathing will make for a much safer and comfortable experience.

Cabinets

The cabinets where you store toiletries, as well as first aid supplies and medicine, should be easy for anyone to access. And if you or someone else in your family will be using a wheelchair, it’s helpful to lower the cabinets so they can still be reached from a sitting position. As people age, they often take more medications and use other health remedies, so make sure to install cabinets with ample size for better organization and easier access.

Floors

Slippery bathroom floors are particularly dangerous for people who experience difficulties with mobility, balance, or vision. While bathroom tiles are often preferred for their ease of cleaning, some can be quite slippery and hard, although, in recent years, slip resistance has improved for many tile choices. Rubber flooring is an excellent non-slip option, while Vinyl is ideal for creating a softer surface. For best results, consider adding additional thin rubber bath mats wherever water might accumulate, such as near the sink and shower/tub to help prevent falls.

Grab Bars

Whatever a person’s age, it makes sense to proceed with caution in a wet and slippery environment, especially when moving about in the bathroom. This is where grab bars can make a difference for your aging-in-place bathroom remodel. Install grab bars to assist you when you get up and down from the toilet and get in and out of the shower and/or bathtub. Adding grab bars doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice appearances, though. Unlike stark, institutional metal bars that you see installed in bathrooms at medical facilities, you can find home grab bars in a range of colors and styles to nicely compliment your bathroom design.

Lights

There are two primary considerations to keep in mind for lighting when upgrading your bathroom. Lighting must be abundant and adequate so you can see clearly, avoiding accidents; this is especially important since our eyesight tends to worsen with age. The lights must also be easy to access when it comes time to change them. Ideally, you’ll want multiple light sources, so if one bulb goes out, you’ll still have plenty of light until you change it. Another suggestion is to switch to eco-friendly LED bulbs that can last for years before burning out.

You also may want to consider adding lights powered by batteries, avoiding the hassle of rewiring the bathroom and giving you a great deal of flexibility for where you place them. Want a light right next to the toilet, or above a towel rack? No problem! Individuals with mobility issues can make the bathroom even safer by installing some motion sensors to switch lights on and off automatically when you enter and leave.

Sink

Whether you are recovering from an injury or are experiencing aches and pains such as from arthritis, it makes sense to switch out clunky, uncomfortable knobs to handles, which are much easier to manage. You can also install a foot-operated faucet, allowing hands-free control. As is the case with bathroom cabinets, you may need to lower the bathroom sink to accommodate a person sitting in a wheelchair. You can reduce the chance of injury from hot water by installing scald-prevention devices at the shower/tub and sink.

Every aspect of the bathroom should be evaluated for potential slip and fall problems. For example, choose rounded edges for the bathroom counter, to lessen the chances of injuries caused by falls.

Toilet

To make it easier to use the toilet, it’s a good idea to replace the original with a new, higher unit that is easier to sit on and stand up from. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of installing a taller seat. People with mobility issues can add a bidet, making personal hygiene all the more convenient.

Upgrading Your Home With Universal Design for Aging-in-Place

There are some important considerations to keep in mind when preparing a bathroom remodel for homeowners who want to harness the principles of universal design to accommodate issues such as disability and aging-in-place. An excellent way to start is by signing up for a free home remodeling seminar. Homeowners can stay on top of the latest design ideas by checking out our remodeling portfolio. And once you have a better idea of what you need for your bathroom remodel, you’ll want to speak with one of our expert designers. Give us a call at 765.838.1644 today.

 

What You Should Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

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Although a more closely-knit space, bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in your home. As the saying goes, “good things come in small packages.” If you are considering a bathroom remodel, an affordable, stylish and functional design can make all the difference in your long-term comfort and use of your space.

Follow these helpful tips to ensure your bathroom renovation stands the test of time:

Determine How You and Your Family Uses the Bathroom

Your bathroom is a personal space, unlike any other room in your home. You should take some time to consider how you use your bathroom first. You may be someone that uses their bathroom to quickly shower, shave, brush their teeth and go. Or, you may be like other people who consider their bathroom like an oasis—a place to relax, unwind, light candles and reinvigorate themselves.

Regardless of how you use your bathroom, be sure to get input from all members of your household that use it. How many people use the tub or shower at one time? Do you need more private space for the toilet? How are you currently using the space and will your needs change as you get older?

Perhaps your bathroom is primarily used for your children. If that is the case, you may consider keeping your bathtub, rather than replacing it with a shower. For improved, functional space, you may want to consider building a bank of cabinets for each child to store their personal items.

Is your bathroom particularly cold in the morning chilling you to the bone? You may want to consider heated flooring, or installing a modern towel warmer.

While it is important to plan for all of the functional necessities of your new bathroom, you will also want to take some time to dream big.  Have you always wanted a spa-like bathroom with rain-style showerheads, a no shower enclosure, or bench seating? Or have you coveted the idea of a separate vanity to do your hair and make-up?  Flush out your list of requirements (no pun intended), separating “nice-to-haves” from “must haves” before establishing a budget. Then, value-engineer back, making choices on what features you need and what you can afford.

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Budget Considerations

Speaking of budget, most people have no idea how much a bathroom remodel costs, and, rightly so. There are many variables that have to be considered when planning for one.  Regardless of your budget, size or style requirements, most bathroom remodels fall under these three categories:

Cosmetic Remodel

In most cases, a cosmetic remodel is going to be the most-cost effective approach.  It involves changing certain elements of the bathroom without affecting the original footprint of the space. Essentially, you are giving the bathroom a “refresh” by updating amenities like the sink, fixtures, cabinet hardware, paint, mirrors and lighting. This type of remodel can usually be done in a short amount of time and with little disruption to your life.

Remove and Replace Remodel

This is your mid-range option that requires more labor and materials. Everything in the bathroom is replaced (toilet, sink, shower, flooring, lighting, cabinets, etc.) but every component goes back exactly where it was originally—the footprint of the bathroom remains unchanged. This usually involves removing drywall down to the studs, particularly if there are signs of mold or leakage. With a Remove and Replace remodel, you will end up with a completely new bathroom with minimal disruption to any other area of your home. 

Custom Remodel

The custom remodel is where your “dream list” comes into play. The sky is the limit. You have an opportunity to build your bathroom from scratch customizing the space to meet your needs exactly, limited only by budget. A custom remodel is perfect for someone with a smaller bathroom that needs a lot more space; or a bathroom with a poor original design that is in need of a more functional or visually pleasing design. This renovation option is more time consuming and usually involves renovation in more than one room in your house to accommodate the added space.

In case you’re having a hard time deciding which remodel is right for you, a qualified design/build remodeler like Riverside Construction can guide you through this process and help you determine which option best fits your lifestyle needs and your budget. Please contact us if you think we can help.

 

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Design Style and Functionality

Aw, now the fun begins…starting the process of thinking about what you want your bathroom to look and feel like. As you consider paint colors, tile choices, vanities and fixtures, you can start with one design item that you want to feature in your bathroom and design around it; or piece several design elements together to create your final bathroom design. There are plenty of online resources, such as Pinterest and Houzz, which make this process easy, giving you a multitude of bathroom design options to explore.  

As you narrow your choices, you will not only want to consider who will use your bathroom and how, but how your newly designed bathroom flows with the rest of your home. Consistency is key. You don’t want to add a rustic, farm-style bathroom to a 1950’s-era brick ranch home, for example. Choose from fixtures that provide a variety of style, material and color choices that match the existing design of your home.

 

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Lighting is Key

Adequate lighting is important to have throughout your home, but in the bathroom it is essential. As the bathroom increasingly becomes a place to recharge and relax, lighting requires an extra thought. When it’s done right, the payoff is great. And, you can never go wrong installing sufficient and luxurious bathroom lighting. Consider these three key areas to improve lighting in your bathroom remodel:

Vanity Lighting

Top on the priority list is making sure you have the right lighting above the vanity, used for illuminating your head and face. A common mistake people make is installing recessed ceiling fixtures directly over the mirror, which cast shadows on the face. This makes daily grooming rituals, like shaving and makeup application, more difficult. Instead, vertical fixtures or sconces should be mounted on either side of the mirror to help cast an even light across the face.
Unfortunately, this is not always possible given vanity mirror size and positioning constraints. A Riverside design consultant can help you determine the best lighting placement for you.

Shower/Tub

The shower or tub is often the darkest area of the bathroom, and may require secondary task lighting. If the shower has a clear, glass door, a dedicated fixture may not be necessary. Otherwise there are plenty of moisture resistant recessed lighting options to choose from.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting serves as a substitute for natural light. You can consider a surface-mounted ceiling light, a pendant lamp or even a chandelier. Other options include “cove lighting”, which are rope lights hidden behind a molding dropped several inches below ceiling height – adding a soft glow around the room’s perimeter. Another option is adding a dimmer switch to adjust the mood in your bathroom.

 

Ventilation

Do you love taking long, hot, steamy showers? Did you know that you could be causing irreparable damage to your bathroom? Without proper ventilation, all of that humidity and moisture built-up in your bathroom creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can damage the drywall, flooring, wood framing and even your cabinets.

Thankfully, with proper ventilation, you can enjoy your hot, steamy showers and ensure your bathroom remodel lasts for many years to come. An adequate bathroom exhaust ventilation fan does just the trick. It removes excess moisture, odors and even mold spores that can lead to health problems. Before choosing a ventilation fan, make sure it is large enough to accommodate the size of your bathroom. There are also great fan options that include features like humidity sensors, automatic timers and built-in nightlights.

 

Think Long Term (Universal Design)

Once you decide to remodel your bathroom, it is important to maximize your investment by remodeling with your future in mind. Consider the principles of universal design, which is the design and composition of an environment that can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.  

Whether you are planning to live out your retirement in your home, or eventually sell it, you’ll want to consider universal design principles when remodeling your bathroom. Grab bars, wider doorways, shower seating and non-slip flooring will go a long way towards maximizing your investment.

 

Efficient Use of Space

If you’re like most homeowners, you never have enough storage space. When you’re planning a bathroom remodel, it is a perfect time to design plenty of added storage into your new cabinetry, shelving and even custom nooks.

If your bathroom footprint will remain the same, there are many creative ways to squeeze a little extra storage out of your existing space.

For example, while a pedestal sink may speak to your design sensibilities, choosing a vanity instead provides you with plenty of extra storage.  Adding niches and shelves in the shower create space for your toiletries, while keeping items off of the floor; and installing a medicine cabinet is an easy way to keep beauty supplies off of your countertop.  

For questions about remodeling a bathroom in your home, contact Riverside Construction today!

Take the first step by scheduling an in-home meeting with your very own personal design consultant.

We also schedule complimentary bathroom remodeling seminars regularly each month. Let us know your interest in attending by signing up today.

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