Simple Bathroom Remodeling Solutions For Contractors

Here's a list of problems that contractors run into when designing, planning, and remodeling bathrooms. These bathroom remodeling solutions listed below, often create problems for homeowners as well as contractors. Some of these problems have created contract disputes and could have been solved if the contractor or a homeowner was informed properly.

1. Problems with Old Galvanized Water Pipes: This is one of the biggest problems with older homes. Metal rusts and water running through these metal pipes will speed this process up, considerably. The problem arises when the galvanized water supply pipes cannot be taken apart or unthreaded, to add new plumbing fixtures or pipes, during the bathroom remodel.

Solution to the Problem: Experie nce contractors should inform their clients, about problems like this and what they propose to do, if they run into a situation where the galvanized water pipes are badly damaged. There will usually be extra work, which leads to extra money and this could create a problem between the contractor and a homeowner.

2. Problems with cast-iron drainpipes: these pipes often rust or become separated at the joints, creating water leaks and even areas for tree roots to enter the drainage system. These tree roots of course will cause the drainpipes to clog and eventually will have to be cleared in order for the drainage system to work properly.

Solution to the problem: informed the home owner of problems with cast-iron plumbing. If the contractor explains to the homeowner, any problems that could arise and a solution, you will find the process of bathroom remodeling a little less stressful. This stress can be eliminated or the contractor and a homeowner with a little preparation.

If you're a remodeling contractor, it wouldn't be a bad idea to make out a list of potential problems for the homeowner. List as many of the problems as you can think of, that you have ran into in the past or have heard other contractors and homeowners talking about. These lists can be given to your clients when you sign the contract.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors.

Factors That Will Affect Your Bathroom Remodeling Estimates

Many persons today are considering the option of remodeling their bathroom for a more luxurious feel. However, having an idea of how much this will cost can be extremely helpful in assisting persons to set a budget and plan how and when the remodeling will take place. One of the places that persons tend to go to get an idea of the cost is the internet and remodeling magazines. In most cases these will only give you the average cost which you may find to be different from the actual estimate. As a result, you need to at least have an idea of the various factors that can affect your estimate and how the average cost is calculated.

The average bathroom remodeling estimate found in magazines and on the internet is normally calculated in three groups namely, the average, upscale or custom and economy group.

• The Economy class refers to a remodeling that does not require installing or moving plumbing fixtures. Hence it is a reflection of the homeowner trying to achieve the remodeling of their bathroom at the lowest cost possible and hence this option also assumes the use of materials of a low quality.

• The Average refers to remodeling with the help of a contractor and use materials of standard quality. This figure will take into consideration buying new plumbing fixtures but not necessarily moving anything.

• The Upscale or Custom estimate takes into consideration the use of materials of a high quality, the purchasing of new plumbing fixtures and specialty items as well as a contractor.

Most times these categories of estimates are mentioned yearly in remodeling magazines, however there are factors which can cause the estimates you receive from contractors to be different such as

• The time of year that you plan to do your remodeling can affect your cost by as much as 15% during the slower periods of the year like around Thanksgiving.

• The amount of work that you plan to contribute to the project, like whether you plan to do the designs on your own or use the services of an architect or bathroom remodeling contractor, or whether you plan to do things like painting and so on. All these will mean that there is less for the contractor to do and hence can have a great impact of the price you pay to remodel.

• Where you are located can also affect the cost, as the cost of materials and labour varies from region to region, and can cause a difference of as much as 20%.

If you so desire you can use the average cost to get a basic idea of your remodeling project. However to get a more detailed and accurate estimate, it is best to take advantage of the many free estimates that are available on line. These estimates will take into consideration, your location, the amount of work you want don, the design you have in mind, the amount of work the contractor will have to do and the timeframe in which you would like this to be completed.

Bathroom Remodeling - Wheelchair Accessible

Being confined to a wheelchair doesn't mean the end of the world. While it may alter the way in which you interact, there are ways to adapt in order to ensure your daily tasks are easily accomplished. When it comes to bathroom access in the home, some layouts can prove rather tough to navigate. With smaller doors, a cluttered interior, and generally unwelcoming features, the bathroom can pose quite a few issues to those who are wheelchair bound. In this article, we will outline a few ideas to incorporate within a bathroom remodeling project to make life just a little less stressful.

Step 1 - To start, you will want to replace your door with one that meets the specifications outlined in the Americans With Disabilities Act. The space a wheelchair requires to enter a doorway is generally 36 inches wide. Additionally, you will want to install the door in a way so that it swings outward.

Step 2 - The bathroom should have a minimum of 60 inches of space in the center area to afford the occupant maneuverability. A structure remodel may be required in order to move the wall to the appropriate position. Get in touch with a home builder in order to determine the more efficient means of enlarging the area during the process.

Step 3 - A roll-through shower should be installed which provides the occupant the ability to move to a shower chair. These showers are found through plumbing supply stores. Another option includes building a custom shower, built to the specifications required.

Step 4 - For bathroom remodeling, the toilet height should be raise for easy access from the wheelchair. Bars must be installed on the sides of the toilet to enable swift and easy transfer with the arms. Otherwise, a lift can be installed beside the toilet, provided enough room is available.

Step 5 - Sinks should be mounted in a way in which they are easily accessible to wheelchair occupants. Mirrors should also be adjusted accordingly. Under sink storage space should be made accessible as well.

Be sure to find yourself a reputable professional to help with the bathroom remodeling process. Due to the extent of the conversion, the job may prove too much for the novice DIY handyman. Evaluate various contractors in your area and check for pricing, and various services. Finding someone who is experienced enough to complete the entire project can work to save you time and money, and is worth the effort to find.