Renovating Your Bathroom for the Long Haul

More often these days, bathroom renovations must include elements to support the comfort and enjoyment of all members of the family, both now and in the future. A recent article featured by “Houzz” indicated that 2/3 of homeowners factor accessibility and special needs into bathroom projects.  There is much more consideration given to “aging in place”.  Convenience and safety have become key components of most renovations.  

There are many useful features to contemplate for any bathroom renovation, particularly if you plan to stay in your home for the long haul.  Although it is easy to get overwhelmed with the myriads of options available, our team at We Do Bathrooms are experts. We will guide you and prioritize the best features for your specific bathroom renovation.  Let’s touch on a few key considerations for your project, assuming you plan to call your current home, “home” for years to come. 

Many clients are replacing bathtubs with larger, more convenient walk-in showers.  This is particularly popular and recommended in homes where there is more than one bathtub.  A low curb or curb-less shower certainly makes accessibility easier.  The We Do Bathroom team will use the Schluter/Kerdi system of waterproofing, allowing shower curbs to be adjusted to almost any practical size, shape or height. This will be discussed and determined at the design stage of your renovation project.  A built-in shower bench and built-in niche for shampoos and beauty products will offer both functionality and convenience. These can be easily integrated into most shower renovations.  When choosing a bathtub, ensure that you can easily get in and out, without losing your balance. Installing a handheld bath and shower wand as well as a separate fixed shower head is extremely useful.  Not only do they allow the user the ability to sit or stand in any position while hosing down or washing hair, but they help make cleaning your bathtub or shower an absolute breeze!

Grab bars are essential safety items that offer support and stability in any bathroom.  They come in various lengths and styles and can be easily affixed to most wall surfaces, although it is imperative that they are securely installed. It may be wise to consider installing a grab bar in or near your shower or bathtub, close to your toilet area or in any location that may reduce the risk of slipping or assist mobility.  Grab bars come in many stylish, modern finishes that will match your other fixtures and easily blend into your bathroom decor.       

Non-slip flooring is crucial. Many tiles come in both a naturally honed finish which is less slippery and slightly textured so more suitable for floors, as well as a polished finish, more suited to wall surfaces. Of course, tiles are available in a wide range of sizes and a multitude of colors and designs.  For the base of the shower, smaller tiles are definitely the best choice for safety.  Although they inevitably have more grout area, this provides excellent traction for bare feet to prevent slipping!  Our team will be pleased to discuss tile options with you to coordinate a bathroom that is both beautiful and functional. 

Heated floors in the bathroom offer a wonderful luxurious experience, eliminating cold areas on tile or stone floors.  They also are a practical feature as we age, as they dry water quickly, reducing mold, mildew and the possibility of slipping on wet flooring. There is virtually no exposure to hot surfaces.  Some clients feel the cost of heating the bathroom floor is offset by the reduced need for heat in the bathroom.  

If possible, a custom vanity is well worth considering for your renovation. It will be constructed specifically for your bathroom to optimize space, convenience, and esthetics.  A slightly higher vanity (36” including top) offers the ability to create a handy lower drawer suitable for extra toilet paper, towels or toiletries.  If you are a shorter person, the height can be sized accordingly.  We Do Bathrooms include custom vanities in all our renovation proposals.  Created by skilled local craftsmen, all of our cabinetry is constructed of 5/8” plywood with soft close hinges on maple doors and drawers.  A variety of door profile styles is available to select and they will be painted or stained to your choosing. We will create cabinetry and other storage options that will work perfectly for your personal needs.  Medicine cabinets though sometimes considered “old school”, offer excellent storage for medications and toiletries.  Modern options can include lighting options and convenient, stylish features.  

Installing a “comfort height” toilet (typically 2-3" higher than a standard toilet) can reduce stress on our bodies (knees, hips, backs) while sitting or standing.  There are even various options for the style of toilet seat, to meet your personal preferences and needs. In some instances, installing a wall hung toilet is a great option as they are easy to clean and can be set at various heights.  Bidets or more cost effective washlets have gained popularity with many older people and can usually be installed if an electrical outlet is available nearby.  Many toilet models offer a sleek, modern styling that makes cleaning easier.  The American Standard Studio series two-piece toilet is very popular choice with many of our clients for this reason. Visiting a product show room will give you a great overview of product options available to suit your preferences. 

Adequate lighting in the bathroom is imperative for safety and convenience. Consider “layers” of lighting, such as vanity lighting, strategically located LED pot lights, under vanity lighting and in-shower lighting.  It is important to be able to easily see wet or slippery surfaces. Consider installing a dimmer switch to aid at night.  Using LED bulbs and having the correct wattage is both practical and a cost saver.  Consider the height and usefulness of your switches and plugs.  Remember, your renovation choices must work for both your present and future needs! 

As you can see, there is much to consider for your dream bathroom!  Whatever your bathroom renovation plans include, we will offer our thoughtful expertise regarding the best product choices to meet your expectations and help keep within your budget.  We look forward to working with you!