Saturday, August 2, 2008

Simple Bathroom Remodeling

Bathrooms are used by all guests and can be a major influence or distraction when a house is on the market. Giving the bathroom at least the appearance of being updated ad1C84ds good value to your home and makes you feel better.

Here are some simple tips and changes you can make:

1. Get the wallpaper out of there! Usually, wallpaper makes a bathroom look smaller and, if it is "dated," it has to go. Use good quality paint and put up a border - great new look for minimum cost!

2. An old bathtub is a killer! If it is still operational but grungy and chipped, consider a re-glazing. Hire a professional to do this, because it is difficult. Re-glazing is much less expensive than a whole new tub. And, if you buy a new faucet unit, you immediately give the impression of a brand new unit.

3. Improve by getting a new vanity. If you have a large bathroom with a storage closet, try a pedestal sink - there are terrific choices out there with great new materials and phenomenal faucet units. Cracked, "dated," stained sinks are really "turn-offs" to prospective buyers. If your bathroom is cramped, don't add to it with any new furniture or storage pieces on the floor. How about the space above your toilet? Chances are it's a bare wall. Instead of getting a cheap unit that strides the toilet, go to a warehouse outlet and get a nice cabinet to mount to the wall. Between that and a vanity, there is no reason for any of your toilet articles to be cluttering the sink or toilet tops.

4. Get some new towel rods! There are great styles at any discount store, and the difference will be amazing.

5. Some decorating hints: You know those fluffy little rugs that go around the base of the toilet? Dump them! Not only are they disgusting (think about what you may be putting your feet on), they are totally dated. Get a small circular or rectangular throw rug and wear slippers if your feet get cold on the floor! When exploring shower curtains, don't go "cheap." A classy, well-made curtain is a good investment. Pictures are good in bathrooms so long as they do not crowd the space. Find light, airy ones without bathroom themes. Nice landscapes and other outdoor scenes will "enlarge" your space.

6. A word about Flooring in the bathroom: Ceramic tile bathroom floors are quite nice and easily cleaned, provided you have sealed the grout, this is very important in bathrooms. If your room is small, do not use the 12" square tiles - they are too big. Use 9" or even 6" tiles - they will give the room a larger look. Vinyl's are fine to, but get a good quality. Wood laminates work well in bathrooms, so long as everyone understands that any standing water must be mopped up - leaving it on the floor will cause warping and damage. Plus, if you should have an overflow problem, you must understand that water can seep under the flooring and create problem underneath.

If you shop discount warehouses and are willing to put in a little of your own muscle, these are quick, easy, and inexpensive "fixes."

For more home decorating ideas take a look at these tips on decorating ideas for toddler rooms and how to get the most out of your space

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