For what is generally the smallest room in your home, bathroom remodeling can be a daunting and expensive task.

We want to make it even easier for you!

Avoiding these 7 common bathroom remodeling mistakes will save you time, money, and frustration.

1. Not having a plan and a vision

Hold onto your sledgehammer and spend some time on Pinterest first, or explore our most recent bathroom remodeling trends to know exactly what you want as a result of your bathroom remodel.

Hardware, fixtures, stains, and finishes should all be cohesive and pre-thought out. You should have your paints, hardware, and everything else you’ll need both cosmetic and constructive purchased and readily available before you begin your remodel.

If you go into it without a plan, you’ll end up with a worse bathroom than you started with! This is why not having a plan is one of the worst bathroom remodeling mistakes you can make.

2. Doing the whole thing yourself

Homeowners tend to stray away from “jack of all trade” contractors, and those are professional contractors!

So, acknowledge areas where you will need to hire a professional. Too many remodelers end up disappointed with their full DIY approach which yields noticeably amateur results.

If you want a clean, pristine, new bathroom, hire the pros to take care of the hard stuff.

3. Using the wrong materials

From using caulking where you need silicone to buying the cheapest sealant (or no sealant at all!), you should make sure that the materials you’re using for your bathroom remodel are up to snuff.

Cheap caulking and sealants will be ineffective and need replacing not long after you apply them, and cutting corners with your sealants is a big “no-no”.

4. Overspending

Setting a realistic budget from the get-go is a great way to control overspending.

Even then, you should allow yourself some wiggle room. However, by painting, doing your own installations, or cutting back on expensive finishes, you can drastically cut down on your spending.

It may seem obvious, but overspending is one of the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes.

5. Underspending

Bathroom remodeling can be expensive, and there are certainly areas where you can save.

By DIYing where you can, you can save a surprising amount, but it’s important to know where to splurge. Budget remodelers should be aware of the poor quality of cheap toilets, washers, and supplies like caulking and sealants.

6. Making unrealistic plans

You probably know, deep down, that you can’t squeeze that extra large, extra amazing jacuzzi into your 6×6 powder room.

Understand the space you’re working with and make your remodeling plans accordingly. Remember, you still need to be able to navigate this room and comfortable use it every day.

7. Overlooking small mistakes

Towards the end of your project, it can get very easy to overlook small details in the rush and excitement to finish.

Catch those details now, because if you ignore them they will not seem so small down the line. That glitch in the tilework will be a major eyesore, so if you catch yourself rationalizing overlooking it, stop!

If you’re not sure you’ve got what it takes to handle your own remodel, and want to avoid these bathroom remodeling mistakes at all costs, don’t hesitate to hire professionals.

At Envision Design, with a little help from our team, we can turn your grand idea into reality.

If all your kid wants to do is sit in the bathtub, or if you’re in the potty-training phase, you might as well do what you can to liven up the space.

No matter your budget or your child’s interests, we’re showing you our top 5 kid’s bathroom remodeling ideas in this post.

1. Chalk It Up

If you can’t seem to decide on a theme for your kid’s bathroom, or if there’s just a little too much in-fighting going on between siblings, we’ve got a great solution for you (you’re welcome.)

Invest in some chalk paint and use it to paint one panel of the bathroom. Not only will your kids be able to draw and practice their writing, but you’ll be able to leave them some “friendly reminders,” too.

2. Get Creative With Storage

We know your bathroom never seems to have enough storage space – why should your kid’s bathroom be any different?

Installing a few shelves on the walls will make your bathroom look more complete (nobody, not even kids, like staring at a blank space.) It will also help encourage your kids to keep those towels off the floor. Install hooks on your door to hang bathrobes, shower caps, and anything else you can think of.

3. Section Off The Toilet

Whether you have multiple children or just one, it’s important (especially with younger children) to make it clear that the shower and the toilet are two different things.

If you don’t think this matters, either you’re not a parent or you’re lying about “what an angel” your kid is.

Installing a partition between the toilet and the bathtub/shower doesn’t just teach kids about the importance of privacy, it’s also a reminder about where (and where not) to go.

4. Keep It Separate

Here’s a tip that’s just as good for your sanity as it is for your kids. If you’ve got multiple kids sharing one sink, you’ve probably had just about enough of who gets to “go first” tonight.

Installing so-called “Jack and Jill” sinks won’t just stop fights. It will also help teach your kids about how to take care of their own space. Plus, it’s a great feature your kids can still use as they get older.

5. Go For A Rubber Ducky Theme

It’s not just Bert and Ernie who love the Rubber Ducky – your kids will, too. As a bonus, it’s a design that works for both girls and boys.

Invest in a plush rubber ducky bathmat, shower curtain, and even a rubber ducky bath set!

Of course, when it’s your kid’s bathroom, we know you want to take it to the next level. Why not get creative with your tiling, and design the outline of a duck into the backsplash of your child’s sink?

Your Kid’s Bathroom Is About To Be The Envy Of Every Second Grader

Thanks to these five kid’s bathroom remodeling tips, you can get a little more creative than just adding yet another Peppa Pig sticker to your toilet seat.

Looking for a few more adult bathroom remodeling ideas? Need some design inspiration? We’re here to help!

Check out our website and blog, and feel free to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you.

What if you didn’t have to pay top-dollar for your next home improvement projects? That’s what most people do when they hire a contractor at the peak time of the year.

That’s what most people do when they hire a contractor at the peak time of the year.

Spring and summer are great for contractors, but not always great for you. This is their busy season, so they can charge more than you might be willing to pay.

Why not wait until winter for your next home improvement projects? Not only will this save you money on the project itself, but will increase the value of your home in the end (a minor kitchen remodel will earn back an estimated 83% of the spend at resale)

The Best Time for Home Improvement Projects Is Winter

This may seem counterintuitive because most people think of spring and summer as “doing things” seasons, where fall and winter are “hunkering down” seasons.

Spring and summer is when contractors fill up their calendars and roll up their sleeves to get to work.

On the flip-side, contractors are less busy and have more time to devote to you during their off season: winter.

By waiting until winter, you can schedule your home remodeling project when you’re ready rather than squeezing into their schedule.

Another bonus is that you can get city plans approved faster because there’s less competition with other projects trying to get pushed through.

There’s also the benefit of having more choices of appliances and materials that others may have scooped up in the spring.

And the biggest benefit of all is: contractor prices tend to go way down during the winter because they need work to fill their off season.

They’ll gladly take your porch or kitchen remodel for a discounted rate.

What Seasons Are Best For Other Home Improvement Projects?

There’s no law that says you have to restrict certain home improvement projects to certain seasons, but some make more sense than others.

Roofing or painting the exterior of your house in the dead of winter doesn’t make much sense, but a kitchen or bathroom remodel does.

Here are some basic guidelines for which projects are best suited for which season:

Winter

• Kitchen and bath remodel
• Decks and porches

Spring

• Window and siding replacement
• Door replacement
• Kitchen and bath remodel
• HVAC (heating and air)
• Roofing

Summer

• Window and siding replacement
• Door replacement
• Roofing

Fall

• Door replacement
• Kitchen and bath remodel
• HVAC (heating and air)
• Roofing

If You’re Considering a Kitchen Remodel This Winter, Remember a Few Basic Tips

• Opt for stainless steel appliances that will retain their value for years to come.
• Invest in attractive, well-constructed cabinets.
• Don’t over-personalize your kitchen. Not everyone has the same taste as you. This can be a big turn-off for future buyers. Keep it classy, clean, and neutral.
• Don’t spend more than your home is worth. Typically, you can spend 6-10% of your total home value to expect a return.

As you can see, being patient and waiting until winter to do your home remodeling projects can be a win-win for everyone.

You save money, time, and energy by avoiding the mad rush of spring and summer.

Let everyone else scramble for contractors and materials.

Rest easy and enjoy your summer knowing you’re going to tackle that kitchen remodel the coming January.

Are you looking for home remodeling ideas? Don’t sweat it out! Contact us and let an experienced designer do the work for you!

Everyone deserves a little luxury in their life. There’s nothing worse than a plain old boring home.

Among the best ways to up your home’s luxury is remodeling your bathroom. With all the time we spend in the loo, we ought to at least enjoy it.

The master bath specifically should get extra attention. After all, it is your home. You should reap the fruits of your labors.

To get your home looking prim and proper, we’re bringing you our 5 best master bath remodeling ideas.

Install A Walkthrough Shower

Showers are the new “in” thing with the younger crowds. Millennials just don’t have time to sit down and relax.

It makes sense. Today’s world is faced paced and always go-go-go. However, we don’t like what it’s doing to the humble shower.

We think this whole idea that showers mean speed and efficiency takes away from the luxury that quality showers afford.

Really up your master bath with a walkthrough shower that leads onto a patio or terrace.

These showers have fogged glass facing outward, and clear glass facing your home’s interior. You can casually stroll into the sunshine straight from the rain locker.

Oh, and don’t forget to install several shower heads to get that full water coverage. It’s almost like having a home spa.

Heated Tile Floors

So it doesn’t get that cold around San Diego, but that doesn’t mean your toes don’t get chilly.

Heated tile flooring in the bathroom is an excellent way to add some class while also upping your comfort.

Tile floors look great, are easy to clean, and resist water.

Throw the heating aspect into the mix, and you won’t even mind stepping into the house, as opposed to the outside world via your walkout shower.

Reinvent The Tub

Bathtubs are kind of plain.

Sure, they’re fine for the guest room. But do you really want just fine as the theme of your master bath?

Of course not. That’s why installing a jacuzzi style bathtub makes perfect sense.

These tubs come in all different shapes and sizes, and the customization options are virtually endless.

We suggest something with powerful jets to massage your back after a long day. It’s also nice to install your tub under a window.

The natural lighting makes for relaxing baths, and the fresh ocean breeze is never a bad thing.

Oh, and don’t forget to buy with enough room for two!

Prime Seating In Your Master Bath

Something we’ve never figured out is why bathrooms don’t have more seating space. Seriously, don’t your legs get tired?

Think about installing window seats around the edges of your master bath. Not only are these great nooks for tooth brushing, but reading as well.

Imagine all the times you could spend sitting in your bathroom. You can sit while brushing your teeth, putting on makeup, drawing a bath, etc.

Once you install some bathroom seating, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Full Length Mirrors

Mirrors are ubiquitous in bathrooms, though only from the shoulders up. Does the rest of our body not count!?

Consider installing full length mirrors on several walls around your bathroom. An especially useful spot is across from your new window seat.

Two full length mirrors on opposite walls also works well. This way, you can see your front and back at the same time.

If you’re looking to bring luxury to your master bath, these are the ideas for you.

Anyone serious about getting started can contact us for more information, and of course more ideas!

Having fun dreaming up ideas for your new bathroom remodeling project, but not sure what you should be prepared to budget for?

As fun as it is to shop around for inspiration for your new dream bathroom, you eventually need to crack down and figure out where the money should go for your bathroom remodel budget.

Have no idea where to start? Don’t worry, the following article discusses exactly how to set a bathroom remodel budget so you’re totally prepared when it’s go time.

1. General Guidelines for your Bathroom Remodel Budget

As a general rule of thumb, you should be spending about 5 to 10 percent of the total value of your home for your bathroom remodel budget.

If your home is worth $300,000, you should plan to spend about $15,000 to $30,000.

Experts at the National Kitchen and Bath Association say you should expect to spread your budget across the following categories:

• Design fees: 4%
• Installation: 20%
• Fixtures: 15%
• Cabinetry and hardware: 16%
• Countertops: 7%
• Lighting and ventilation: 5%
• Flooring: 9%
• Doors and windows: 4%
• Walls and ceilings: 5%
• Faucets and plumbing: 14%
• Miscellaneous: 1%

Knowing these numbers should help prevent some sticker shock when your contractor presents you with the bid sheet ( an in-depth run down of the of the remodeling project with fixed price estimates).

2. Sticker Price Doesn’t Equal Actual Price

Searching for the perfect bathroom sink but only looking at price tags?

If so, you’re making a mistake.

Why? Because you can’t forget about the associated costs- aka the costs that come with actually getting that dream sink into your bathroom.

Take marble, for example. You don’t just get to buy the pretty marble counters and call it a day. You also have to fork over money for cutting fees, edging fees, finishing fees, and delivery.

Different materials have different installation costs that can greatly affect your bathroom remodel budget, so be sure to look into these before making any big decisions.

3. Hire a Home Inspector

If you really want to prevent sticker shock, hire a home inspector to take a close look at the areas you plan to renovate.

Being aware of any hazards before the remodeling begins will help you set your bathroom remodel budget much more accurately.

4. Set Boundaries

Realizing how great your new bathroom is going to look can quickly cause you to get swept away in the whole remodeling process

If you’re not careful, you’ll soon find yourself renovating the whole house!

The pros call this “scope creep” and to prevent it, set strict boundaries from the start for exactly where you want the remodel to begin and end.

5. Consider a Little DIY to Save Money

Even if you aren’t a professional handyman, there may be some projects you’ll be comfortable going at solo to save some money. These include:

• Demolition- Once you get the go-ahead from a construction expert, you should be able to gut the space fairly easily.
• Tiling- As long as you don’t mind spending some quality time on all fours, tiling can be done with a handheld tile cutter from a home improvement store.
• Painting- If you have the patient and precise skills required for tiling, then you’ll probably be fine doing your own painting as well. Just remember to test the colors on a small area before coating completely.

Want some more info about the bathroom remodeling process? Contact us today for a free quote!

No matter the number on your paycheck, we all deserve to live in a home we can feel proud of and that speaks to our personal style!

Here, we’re sharing our best tips on how to pull off a killer bathroom remodel on a budget.

Score Some Cool Light Fixtures

Tough news: the average bathroom remodeling job costs homeowners close to $10,000.

But you don’t have to spend that much to give yours a facelift.

One way to trick people into thinking you sunk a hefty sum into your remodel? By scouring local flea markets or websites for some seriously funky light fixtures. Replace the fixture that came with your place with a bright chandelier, or adorn your vanity table with an art deco-style lamp.

Bonus tip: If you can’t afford to buy an entirely new lamp, even just switching out the shade will work.

Another surprising way to pull off a bathroom remodel on a budget? When it comes to lighting fixtures, switching out the color of your bulb will also lend an upscale vibe. Say goodbye to that harsh fluorescent and hello to soft blue lightbulbs or even light red for a sexier vibe.

Update Your Shower Curtain For A Fast Bathroom Remodel On A Budget

An easy facelift? Get rid of your ancient, mildewed shower curtain and liner.

For an ultra-sleek look, you may even want to go for a cloth option. If you can’t afford to fully tile or wallpaper your bathroom, your shower curtain is a great option for a bathroom remodel on a budget because it allows you to get a little fun with patterns!

Think: if I could choose a wallpaper for my bathroom, what would it be? Then, apply that choice to your shower curtain!

Recaulk and Replaster

You’d be surprised what fixing those pesky flecks of paint, plaster, and cracks in the wall can do to upgrade the look of your bathroom.

The average caulking job should last for five years, but if yours isn’t quite up to snuff, don’t be intimidated by taking on the project.

It’s super-simple and crazy satisfying, and you watch the mounds of dirt disappear before your eyes.

Switch Out Doorknobs and Cabinet Handles

Doing a bathroom remodel on a budget is a lot like upgrading an outfit for a night out: you don’t throw away the clothes you start with, you just add on a few cool pieces to take it to the next level!

If you love your vanity and bathroom drawers but want to make a change, consider switching out the pull handles for a shinier option that matches your new color scheme and theme.

Same goes for your door handles, as well as for your faucet handles!

You’re All Set!

We’d love to see how you incorporated our ideas for a bathroom remodel on a budget into your own homes.

Send us some photos, tag us on social media, or drop by for a visit! As always, keep checking back with our blog for more awesome home renovation ideas.