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4 Ways to Save on a Bathroom Remodel
With Spring finally here many homeowners are ready to take Spring Cleaning into full swing. Many even go one step further and take advantage of the nice weather to begin remodel projects on their homes. One room often done on a budget is the bathroom. Typically, because the bathroom is one of the smallest rooms in a house, it is the least expensive to update. That being said you can save even more if you are smart about your bathroom upgrade. Here’s just a few tips to get your gears turning.
Luxury Surfaces, Budget Prices
It’s very popular with bathrooms to go a bit extravagant on countertops by going granite. The investment isn’t as large as you might think since most bathroom counters are relatively small. That being said you can still save significantly on granite countertops. Neutral colors tend to be more popular because they blend with anything, but they are also more expensive. Being open to a larger variety of colors could save you money on less popular hues. Another viable option is buying seconds; that is slabs with imperfections. Typically the more visible the imperfections, the bigger the discount. If the imperfection is around where the sink and fixtures will be installed, GO FOR IT! You won’t see the imperfections anyway. If you want to go the hot and trending “Shabby Chic” route, find an old used dresser and repurpose it as a sink pedestal. These are manufactured in this style as well and go for thousands of dollars retail. Spend a fraction of that and a bit of time and effort and you will have a real bargain on your hands.
Think Before You Paint
If you are constrained by budget, repainting your bathroom will be the most cost effective solution in most cases. The new color will give your bathroom a refreshed look but there are some things to consider. Your bathroom will have the least area of space to paint, but you have a lot of things to paint carefully AROUND. Fixtures, tubs, mirrors and toilets can be very tedious to work around. You will also want to buy high-quality satin finish paint due to the humidity and inconsistent temperature in a bathroom. The ceiling should also be coated with special bathroom paint that is resistant to mold growth.
Frame That Mirror, Don’t Buy New
Believe it or not, large bathroom mirrors that are high quality and give a solid reflection can get expensive. Sure you can go and buy that large mirror glass on the cheap, but look at the reflection, look at the silver coating on the back, is it thick is it well distributed? Just like there is a difference in photo lens glass, the same goes for mirrors. Unless you want to step out of your shower and do your hair in a funhouse mirror reflection, don’t go replacing your high-quality mirror just because it’s dated.
Reframing old mirrors is one of the hottest trends in home improvement. Mirror Frame companies like Mirrocle Frames will custom design and cut a beautiful frame to fit any existing mirror. You can have styles ranging from minimalist concepts such as the Mirrocle Apotele Frame, with simple lines and contemporary finishes to Luxurious, ornate models like the Akera. The installation of these frames is quick and simple and will add great value to your bathroom with minimal investment.
Update Those Old Fixtures
While replacing fixtures may not seem like it would make much difference, you would be surprised how big of an impact it makes, and with little investment. Light fixtures, faucets, and lighting can be had on the cheap from surplus stores and are as good as new. You can also be creative here and re-purpose things like old plumbing pipes and joints for things like towel racks. With a bit of time and effort, you can save a bundle.
Get Moving!
There is no better time than nice spring weather to begin a bathroom remodel. The pleasant climate allows you to work outdoors and with open windows. Keep this in mind as you don’t want to start a project like this at the peak of a Texas Summer. Contact Mirrocle Frames today if you are interested in framing your old mirror, or purchasing a new mirror with a custom cut frame.