A Shower Remodel is a project that can take on several forms and require multiple contractors and various permits in most jurisdictions. In Seattle the regulations for a Shower Remodel are not nearly as complex as they are in other cities or states. A general contractor may be required to submit a building permit before beginning work, but will then be responsible for constructing the interior of the bathroom, as well as any plumbing piping, electrical work, tilework, countertops, and any other components that would be considered necessary by the homeowner. The contractor will also need to file the proper paperwork with the city to complete the remodel. This paperwork alone can stretch into several hundred pages and is not typically easy to do alone, so most homeowners seeking a Seattle Shower Remodel in WA hires a contracting specialist to handle the job for them.
Even though a majority of bathroom remodel projects are fairly straightforward, some do require more detailed work than others. For example, there are certain shower fixtures that must be mounted to the wall in order to have their water lines run through them. These include showerheads, soap dishes, and glass doors. While installing glass doors requires no plumbing knowledge, it does require a knowledge of how to properly install ceramic or glass doors – which many homeowners lack.
Tile is the most common material used in bathroom showers. Tile is the easiest way to build a shower enclosure, since it can be cut to fit the precise measurements of the opening. However, the tile is prone to leaking – a problem that plumbers are well-trained to avoid. So, if the shower is to be installed indoors, the option of using non-porous tile is often an easy one. However, if the shower is to be placed outdoors, a little more thought needs to be given to the type of tile to be used. Since tiles are prone to rotting, grout should also be considered.
The cost of a bathroom remodel largely depends on how much of the project will be completed by a remodeling contractor and how much will be completed by the homeowner. In general, contractors take on more complicated projects, such as those requiring specialized fixtures, while homeowners do the basics. Depending on the degree of the renovation, the contractor may hire out additional labor to pay for the extra steps involved. For instance, tile installations are best left to skilled experts, since DIY efforts may prove futile.
If the bathroom design calls for the replacement of several existing fixtures, such as cabinets, vanities, and tiles, then choosing the right fixtures becomes essential. It’s best to choose fixtures that match the general style of the bathroom, as well as coordinating with the shower remodel. For example, a modern bathroom will usually feature clean lines, so contemporary cabinet styles will usually not be the best choice for a shower. On the other hand, if the bathroom is modern with a lot of stainless steel or chrome pieces, then a copper sink may be the ideal choice. If you’re redesigning an antique bathtub, for example, it’s probably best to stick with porcelain or glass fixtures, as these are very durable and won’t require too many costly repairs.
Completing a bathroom shower remodel may include replacing old units with new ones. If the shower is being added onto a brand new vanity, then it’s best to choose only the best fixtures. Although older units may still be in perfect shape, new fixtures often come with better warranties and longer warranties. Furthermore, some plumbing companies offer free installation, so if there’s no need to hire a plumber, the installation fee could be saved.