Bathroom remodeling is a project that can become a bit costly, particularly if you are planning to replace your shower or bathtub. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to reduce the expense of bathroom remodeling including installing a shower replacement kit, replacing your existing shower with a new, more energy efficient model, installing a new tub, or updating your plumbing. The choice of which option to pursue depends on your individual situation, the scope of your work, budgeting, and contractor knowledge.
A shower replacement kit is essentially an all in one unit including replacement pipes, a liner, and a protective sealant. These items typically come in a single package. Some of these kits include showerheads, seats, arms, and a water control valve. There are other accessories available for bathroom remodeling that may not be included. If your bathroom remodel requires additional work, such as new flooring or walls, then additional pieces may need to be purchased separately. Shopping around to find the best deal is important when looking at all of the elements involved in bathroom remodeling.
If your bathroom remodel requires only minor repair to your tub, then a shower head, seat, and maybe a bathtub guide may be sufficient. These items may be purchased separately from the shower replacement kit. Some do not require the purchase of separate pieces, but they may be necessary to get everything installed correctly. For instance, a tub guide will allow you to better determine how much material will be required for installation of the shower replacement tub and if you should hire a professional to install it. Many do-it-yourselfers have enough knowledge to successfully install the tub without the assistance of professional bathroom remodeling company but having the materials on hand may save you some money.
Replacement of the shower or tub is another common element in a bathroom remodeling job. Often the cost of this task is part of the estimate for the entire project. The shower or tub may be one piece that requires installation of a kit or you may be able to buy the necessary parts separately. If you are replacing the tub with a new shower, then the shower head and plumbing must be purchased separately. Even if you purchase your fixtures separately, you must make sure that the plumbing and shower heads match up to prevent leaks.
One element that many do-it-yourselfers fail to consider when considering bathroom remodeling is the importance of choosing the correct shower pan. A shower pan, or shower floor, helps to eliminate the possibility of water damage and keeps the rest of the bathroom dry during use. The traditional shower pan, made out of acrylic, tile, or fiberglass, is easy to clean, but it does not provide adequate protection against slippage. If you choose fiberglass shower pan or ceramic tile option, then you will want to have it sealed by a professional to prevent water entry and cracks. Installing the right pan can be one of the more important aspects of a bathroom remodeling project.
Another common mistake seen with some do-it-yourself homeowners is installing the shower without consulting a professional. A custom shower is not just a question of measurements; it also includes the type of pipes and wiring used, the size and shape of the shower heads, and the type of fixtures needed. Although some contractors to offer ready to install kits for do-it-yourself homeowners, there are always aspects of a custom shower design that will require knowledge and experience on the part of the homeowner. While you will want to follow the instructions of your plumbing contractor, you should also let him know what type of plumbing and electrical systems you will be using in order to protect yourself and your family. With proper communication, a shower replacement contractor can help you decide whether a tub replacement or a custom shower is right for your bathroom.