BASIC CONSIDERATIONS

Probably the greatest challenge in remodeling a bathroom is figuring out how to achieve the style and build in the features you want within the limits of what is probably the smallest room in the house. A second limiting factor is the location of existing plumbing pipes and electrical wiring. Remodeling a bathroom is relatively easy if you don't have to move them. If you make radical changes in the existing layout, you'll need to investigate whether or not you can build what you want without making structural changes.

Keep in mind that you may need a building permit, depending on the scope of your project. If so, you'll probably have to submit a detailed plan of your proposed project. Before you begin planning your new bathroom, always check with your local building department and find out what codes, specifications and requirements you'll have to meet.

There are a number of general issues you should consider before you begin designing your new bathroom. They include:

• Layout. Think about the layout in your existing bathroom and decide which are the most serious problems you want to fix. If more than one person uses the bathroom at the same time, for example, is there adequate counter space, or do you need a second sink or a shower compartment for greater privacy?
  
  Are towel racks and tissue holders located conveniently? Is there enough storage space for everyone who uses the bathroom? Do vanity doors or drawers interfere with opening and closing the bathroom door?
  
  
• Mechanical systems. From the plumber's point of view, the best bathroom layout is one that has all the rough plumbing–water supply and drain-waste-vent pipes–all in one wall. A "wet wall," as it is called, not only saves materials, but makes it a lot easier to make repairs if needed.
  
  
• Electrical outlets and switches are usually easier to move than plumbing pipes, provided there is reasonably easy access to the wiring. Likewise with heating ducts–if you can get to the duct, it usually isn't too much trouble to relocate the vent. Keep in mind, however, that any mechanical changes you make will cost extra.

  If your current layout is livable, leaving the mechanical systems as they are will mean that much more in the budget for upgraded fixtures, and may make the difference between doing the project and waiting to save more money.

  Don't neglect lighting when you redesign your bathroom. You'll need strong lighting over the mirror–a strip of eight 60-watt bulbs is not necessarily too much–but you may also want to consider pinpoint task lighting and soft ambient lights. If you plan to install a whirlpool built for two, indirect mood lighting may fit well. With incandescent lighting, you'll need at least 3-1/2 to 4 watts per square foot (e.g., 280 watts minimum in an 80-square-foot bathroom). If you use fluorescent lighting, figure 1-1/2 to 2 watts per square foot.

• Maintenance. Think about the maintenance problems you have in your existing bathroom–stained grout, mildew, soap buildup, etc. Some materials look great when they're brand new, but don't weather very well in a high-moisture location. As you choose materials, make sure they are waterproof and washable–resilient vinyl flooring, for example, a fiberglass tub surround and semi-gloss enamel paint will all wear well.
  
  
• Energy and water conservation. Your hot water heater is one of the largest energy hogs in the house, and the toilet uses more water than any other single fixture. Consider installing low-flow shower heads and insulating hot water pipes. The extra money you spend on an ultra-low-flush toilet will often come back in the first year in reduced water bills.

DETERMINING THE FINAL DESIGN

Once you have a rough idea of what fixtures you want, go to your supplier and measure them to get their outside dimensions. When you begin sketching out your new bathroom, cut out cardboard templates of each fixture to the same scale as your sketch. Lay the templates over the sketch of your existing bathroom and trace the walls and the locations of any components you know you will not move. Then begin planning your changes.

LAYOUT–Minimum clearances vary by local building codes, so you'll need to check with the building department before you design. There are four common types of bathroom layouts:

• A one-wall bathroom has the tub, sink(s) and toilet all along one wall. This layout is generally the most economical–and generally the least interesting design.
  
  
• An L-shaped bathroom usually has the vanity/sink and the toilet along one side wall, with the bathtub against the back wall. This arrangement reduces the "hallway" look, and is as cost-effective as a one-wall bathroom because the tub supply and drain lines can be located in the same wall as the other fixtures.
  
  
• A corridor bathroom typically has the bathtub along one side wall and the vanity/sink and toilet along the opposite wall.
  
  
• A U-shaped bathroom has fixtures on three walls; it generally gives the most spacious appearance, but also requires a relatively large, square room.

Begin your layout by positioning the bathtub. Make sure you have easy access, room to maneuver if you'll be bathing small children and nearby wall space for a towel rack. The bathtub is often placed against the back wall to keep it away from the bathroom door.

Next, locate the sink and vanity cabinet. Plan for at least 30" clear space in front of the sink, so there is room to bend down and get into the cabinet. If the sink is placed along a side wall near the door, make sure the door swings away from the sink–not into it.

Then locate the toilet, away from the door if possible. Most building codes require at least 20" clearance in front of the bowl. On each side, you'll probably need 18" to the nearest wall or 14" to the nearest cabinet (measured from the center of the bowl).

If you have space for extra storage, naturally you'll want to use it; the most important consideration in designing storage space is putting everything you need within easy reach. You'll certainly need some shelf space, but you can also make efficient use of space with wire racks, bins and drawers. If you use modular units, you'll be able to adjust your storage space later for changing needs.

DOING TRIM AND FINISH WORK

Use the following checklist to guide you through the preparation, design and construction process.

DESIGN PREPARATION

• Review what you like and dislike about your existing bathroom, and decide what your priorities are in your remodeling project.
  
  
• Measure your bathroom and draw a sketch to scale; if you plan to hire a professional designer, contact one.
  
  
• Contact your building department to confirm minimum clearances and any other regulations that may apply.

DESIGN

• Gather style ideas and make notes.
  
  
• Determine the major fixtures you want in your new bathroom.
  
  
• Work out a layout that meets local clearance requirements, fits your needs and makes the most efficient use of the space you have.
  
  
• Determine colors, finish materials, lighting, storage details and accessories.
  
  
• Draw a floor-plan of your proposed bathroom. You may want to have it checked by a professional designer to get any additional ideas.

CONSTRUCTION PREPARATION

• Get a building permit if you need one.
  
  
• Prepare a materials list and have it priced by your supplier or suppliers.
  
  
• Arrange your financing if necessary. Interview and select a contractor if you'll be using one.

CONSTRUCTION

• Draw up a general outline of construction procedures, then list the materials that will be needed for each phase. Talk to your supplier(s) and find out the lead times on any special order materials.
  
  
• Place special orders in advance so they will be available when you need them; allow enough extra time beyond the planned order time, so mistakes can be corrected without holding up the job.
  
  
• Arrange for a building inspector to check the job whenever necessary.

TOOL AND MATERIAL CHECKLIST

• Ruler
• Graph Paper
• Masking Tape
• Architect's Scale
• Tracing Paper
• Pencils and Eraser
• Compass
• Steel Tape Measure

Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Information in this document has been furnished by the National Retail Hardware Association (NRHA) and associated contributors. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and safety. Neither NRHA, any contributor nor the retailer can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.