Renovation projects can be time-consuming and stressful, especially DIY projects. You need to do a lot of planning, budgeting, research, and so on. However, it doesn’t mean it has to be the same each time. With the proper preparations and mindset, you can avoid most of the headaches a remodel can cause. And if you want to start your remodeling project with the bathroom, you are in luck. To help you start on the right foot, we put together a list of tips you can use for a successful DIY bathroom remodel. Continue reading to learn how to plan and complete a fantastic bathroom makeover.

1. First things first, make a plan and a budget.

If you want to make your remodeling project a success, begin by making a plan. That plan must cover all project details, from the color palette to the necessary plumbing repairs. You should also consider ways to make your bathroom more efficient and functional for your requirements. For instance, ask yourself if you need more shelves, storage space, or a better bathtub. If the answer to any of these questions is yes, write it down in your plan to better prepare for the next step, making a budget. 

When you figure out how much remodeling your bathroom needs, decide on a budget. If you are having trouble estimating the costs, research the prices via the internet. Alternatively, you can visit the local DIY stores and look at the prices or ask friends or family members that have more experience. Once you know how much your project will cost you, stick to those costs.

2. Buy the necessary materials.

It’s always better to have all the materials you need for the remodel ready on time. And, even if it requires making a financial effort, it will all be worthwhile. First, your bathroom remodel is a home improvement project that will pay for itself in time. Bathroom renovations provide a high return on investment, particularly if you want to sell your home. Second, you avoid delays in your renovation due to not having what you need when you need it. Sometimes, ordering materials can take time and may require preorders. So, if you do your homework on time, you will save time and money. Ordering the materials in larger quantities can bring discounts compared to buying them in smaller amounts. 

3. Refresh the walls.

Now that you have all you need for your project, you can get to work. And one of the first things you should do is to refresh the walls. The walls in your bathroom are the ones that set the tone of the room. As a result, if the paint is flaking, the wallpaper is crusty, or there are cracked tiles, it’s time to replace them. Paint the walls in a fresh light color using water-resistant paint. Or, put up some contemporary wallpaper that will bring the room to life. As for the tiles, you can replace the broken ones or change them with more modern ones. You can use darker colors for the tiles to create contrast and make the space feel bigger. 

4. Use the mirror to enlarge the space.

Every bathroom has at least one mirror in it. In most cases, you will see it hanging above the sink. The mirror, however, is not often used to its true potential. You can use a mirror to maximize the space in the bathroom by reflecting more light into it. Of course, in some cases, you need to exchange the existing mirror for a better, larger one. If that is your case, ensure that when you’re packing a bathroom mirror while renovating, you pack it with care before you store it. Pay special attention to this process, as it is essential to have the mirror wrapped and sealed during shipping. 

Once the old mirror is out, bring in the new one and make sure to install it correctly. It needs to be perfectly centered above the sink and have a light fixture installed above it. That way, it will reflect the light and create the illusion of a bigger space.

5. Install new flooring.

One of the best tips we can give you for a successful DIY bathroom remodel is to change the flooring. New floors can make the bathroom look completely new and modern. However, be careful with what flooring materials you choose to use. Although there are many options, not all are perfect for the bathroom floor if you have kids or the elderly around the house. As a result, look for materials that are water-resistant and non-slip.

6. Update the fixtures, hardware, and ventilation.

Sometimes, making your bathroom look more modern is as easy as changing a faucet. And that is because changing a faucet is precisely what your bathroom could use. The plumbing fixtures and hardware are essential details that can completely change the look of your bathroom. Not to mention that they are also responsible for how you interact with the space. As a result, if you want to make your new bathroom a place you will enjoy, upgrade all the fixtures and hardware. In addition, make sure to upgrade the ventilation too. Good ventilation will keep your bathroom looking and smelling fresh and will keep mold away. 

7. Change the bathtub.

If you don’t use the bathtub regularly, maybe there is no point in keeping it. There are options available that help you create extra space in your bathroom. Alternatively, these options might be handy if someone in the house requires assistance getting in and out of the tub. One example is the walk-in shower. It needs no effort to enter, there is no risk of slipping or falling, and it saves a lot of space in your bathroom. As a result, a walk-in shower is a convenient and safer option than a tub.

Final thoughts

There are many ways to update and remodel a bathroom, but the key is to choose wisely. However, if you follow our tips, you may be able to complete a successful DIY bathroom remodel without putting too much strain on yourself. Just make sure to plan, and from there on, everything is much easier.