When remodeling a master bathroom, most homeowners know what they want.
As someone who works in the high-end kitchen and bathroom fixtures industry, I hear many clients emphasize how they want to have their own retreat. They are willing to put up with the inconvenience and expense to achieve the dream of coming home, going into their rooms and going to the bathroom so they can go in and say to themselves (and possibly their loved ones) “ahh, it’s finally our time.” to relax.”

Unfortunately, at some point in the remodeling process, Murphy’s Law hits, and somehow many people forget why they started the project.

Much of this can be avoided with realistic planning. Many people see a picture in a magazine, visit a resort, see a TV show showing how a family remodeled their bathroom and the process went smoothly and seemed to be over in 30 minutes, less if they were looking at an article written in some way. of publication. The actual remodel is not the same!

First, decide on a budget. Then double or even triple it. Seriously, otherwise there will be more than the average tense moments. Now, for fun, daydream about what your fantasy bathroom would look like. Do you want an indoor steam shower? To the sauna? Whirlpool or Airbath, for one or two bathers? On the practical side, don’t buy your plumbing “because it’s pretty.” Spend a little more and get quality. The last thing you want is to brag about how you spent “only $300.00” on 2 sink faucets, a shower set, and a roman tub and then a year from now discover that those valves and cartridges are now leaking behind your walls and causing water damage and mold. You can put chintz on the towel rails and toilet paper holders, but always buy the best you can afford at the plumbing, you’ll be glad you did!

Be sure to hire a contractor who has the same agenda as you. There is nothing worse than hiring someone whose ideas are the opposite of yours and only has your pocketbook in mind.
The same with hiring a plumber, especially the plumber. Someone who is so old school that they think “those fancy manufacturers will only cause trouble” usually doesn’t want to take the time to get the plumbing right. Face the facts: quality plumbing usually takes more work to put on the walls than the items you get off the shelf at your local home improvement store.

In fact, a customer’s plumber messed up his plumbing trying to hook up his high-end trim to an off-the-shelf valve “because he really likes the quality of the other valve”! This move ended in a lawsuit. If a plumber ever tries to talk you into using “my good valve” and attaching his trim, fire him and keep him away from anything. This move is bound to cause major water damage, fast!

If you hire an interior designer, the same is true. Make sure you hire someone who wants you to enjoy the result of the bath. Remember: you will live with the final results, not with them. If you like modern and want a spa, don’t hire someone whose specialty is traditional and think that all you need is the basics.

Another major mistake homeowners make when beginning a remodel is misjudging the time element. This is also due to extreme “30 minute” makeover shows and ads. Quality takes time. Depending on how much remodeling you are doing, you should estimate that a master bathroom will take anywhere from 2-6 months. Cabinets and countertops take time to create. Flooring and plumbing must be done in stages. Some items may take up to 3 months to arrive. Be prepared for the inconvenience of having to share the facilities with other family members for an extended period of time. Whatever you do, don’t decide to start demolition in mid-October and think the “new” bathroom will be ready to go by Thanksgiving; it’s just not going to happen.

There are many ways to create the bathroom of your dreams. With realistic planning and professional assistance, this particular dream can come true.