Simple tips for remodeling your bathroom

Remodeling your bathroom takes planning and preparation. If you plan to do it yourself, take time to understand what you're getting yourself into especially if you've never remodeled your bathroom before. Here are four simple tips to keep in mind before you take on your bathroom:

1. Nail down your plan: Team up with a home architect or a contractor to go through your game plan and your remodeling goals. It's a worthwhile investment that can save you a lot of grief. Nailing down your bathroom remodeling plan will help you understand what your budget is as well as the cost and types of materials you will need.

2. Know where your plumbing lines and electricity lines are: If you mess up and break a pipe or cut a wire you were unaware of, such a repair can be costly. This knowledge is important if you are planning to install a new bathroom sink or change the lighting in your ceiling.

3. Keep it simple: If you're planning on completing the full job on your own, don't overextend yourself as well as your expectations. Simplicity is key when it comes to remodeling and the less moving parts you have to deal with, the better.

4. Plan for a bigger budget: One of the issues DIY people can run into is ultimately spending more than they originally anticipated. Have more cash on hand than you what you have planned for your budget and total costs. For example, if your total costs to remodel your bathroom is $5,000, have $7,000 on hand for any unforeseen costs. Use a spreadsheet to track all expenses.

Have you remodeled your bathroom? Share your tips in the comments below!

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