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.