Getting Started
Whether you're doing cosmetic changes or a complete remodel, carefully plan your bathroom project. You'll save time and minimize unwanted surprises.
Two factors really determine the extent of the project: available space and budget.
A "full-blown" project -- instead of changing a few items at a time -- is really the most efficient way to remodel a bathroom. But it's also messy, inconvenient and challenging.
It requires a do-it-yourselfer to do framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall; or, at least hire a plumber or electrician to do that work.
A full remodel is also a problem when there's no spare bathroom. Arranging for temporary accommodations is a big consideration.
Estimate the costs of fixtures, cabinets, pipe & fittings, lumber and finish materials. Budget the expensive materials carefully and try to use existing materials where possible.
Consider using an architectural drafting service (not mechanical drafting) to help develop your plans and create detailed, working drawings.
Design Features
 One of the hardest remodeling challenges is designing a functional, appealing bathroom in a small area.
Every remodel job is different, so it's hard to discuss specifics here, but a common solution is to borrow space from an adjoining room.
Draw a detailed floor plan to see where space can be gained. A plan may also be required by building officials, but it's a great way to formulate workable ideas, arrange fixtures, and diagram mechanical runs.
Getting waste pipes from the soil stack to fixtures (with proper flow) can be a real chore and slightly altering a fixture's location on the plan may save you a lot of work.
Features to think about:
Access: usable for an "8 to 80 year old" person, door opens inward and away from fixtures, non-skid flooring, smooth & rounded countertop and tub deck edges, grab bars for tubs, low whirlpool deck & steps.
Convenience: double-bowled vanity, separate tub & shower units, adequate natural lighting, easy-to-clean floors & fixtures, good ventilation source, partition wall for sink/toilet/tub separation.
Storage: some counter space or shelving for toiletries, towel bar/hooks, temporary laundry space, a non-shared drawer for each family member.
Building Requirements
 Bathroom plumbing and wiring must comply with local building code requirements, however small the job. Codes safeguard you and your family from health hazards and ensure that the job is done right.
Codes vary and plastic pipe may not be allowed in some areas. Upgrading wiring or adding a new electrical circuit is also regulated.
Be sure to check with your local building authority to find out what codes, permits and inspections apply to your project.
It's your responsibility to arrange for required inspections. If work isn't inspected or doesn't meet code, it may have to be ripped out, so be sure to get an inspection before enclosing the work.
WARNING: DOING WORK WITHOUT A REQUIRED PERMIT IS NOT ONLY ILLEGAL, BUT MAY ALSO INVALIDATE YOUR HOMEOWNER'S INSURANCE.
Questions To Ask Building Officials
When you visit your local building department ask the inspector these questions:
- Does the work require a permit?
- What type of plans need to be submitted?
- Am I allowed to do all the work?
- What part must be done by a licensed plumber or electrician?
- When must the work be inspected?
Common Bathroom Codes
Here are some common code requirements found throughout the country:
- Receptacles in a bathroom must be GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected.
- At least one light fixture must be permanently installed and controlled by a switch at the room's entrance.
- There must be an operating window or an approved exhaust fan.
- Toilets must have 15" of clearance on either side of the closet flange.
- Pressure-balancing mixing valves may be required for the shower.
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