Towel background. VERY shallow DOF.Who doesn’t love the idea of a fresh new bathroom to enjoy that morning shower in each and every day? Or picturing a sleek powder room that you can proudly guide your guests to? These days most homeowners are thinking twice before calling a contractor to do these costly jobs. If you are considering tackling the project yourself, here are some tips to get you started on the right track to a beautiful new bathroom at a fraction of the cost.
  1. Carefully assess your financial situation, then set a budget. Be generous with your estimates as it is always better to set a high budget and finish with leftover cash, than to have a tiny budget that forces you to spend more than you’ve allowed yourself.
  2. Carefully measure your bathroom. The importance of this step cannot be underestimated. Digital measuring tools are worth their weight in gold.
  3. Make a list or sketch of your renovation plan. This will include a new tub/shower, sink, fixtures, etc.
  4. Decide upon wallpaper, paint and tile. Have an alternate plan in case your first idea does not work.
  5. Take your plans to your home improvement store. Compare prices at more than one store. Make detailed notes and keep them together in a file so that you can get the lowest price possible. You may even discover some items at the store that cost less and you like more than what you had originally planned upon.
  6. Take home any paint, tile or wallpaper samples. View them at different times of day in your bathroom. Certain colors that look soothing by day, can look garish by night due to lighting.
  7. When you have assessed all of the above, does it fit into your budget? If so, go ahead and purchase everything you need to avoid multiple trips to the store.
  8. When finished, pat yourself on the back for a job well done!
For more information go to the Do It Yourself Website.