Remodeling Contractors

This article is the second in a set that combines ideas with bathroom remodeling pictures. The first article involved kitchens; here we are working with bathrooms. A bathroom remodel is often the next step in a homeowner’s DIY sequence. The first steps are simpler painting projects and easy hardware replacements around the house. Think: new cabinet knobs and pulls in the kitchen or new curtain rods in the living room. Stepping up to tile work and installing new fixtures or cabinetry is a logical progression. One simple improvement is to install some tile or stone for the bathroom’s floor. I recommend starting with a floor as your first tiling project, as horizontal surfaces are much easier to work on than vertical ones.

Ceramic tile installed over vinyl. Travertine marble that replaced carpeting.

Start Small

A simple flooring upgrade to a bath is a great starter project. Old floor coverings can usually be removed or covered, depending on what was previously installed (see bathroom remodel pictures above). I have completed many bath upgrades for clients who wanted to get rid of their previous flooring, from old, ugly tile and vinyl to some pretty nasty carpet. Instead of carpet, a few thick area rugs can keep your toes happy when stepping out of the shower. They can be easily replaced or cleaned as needed and will not end up as a biohazard, as most bath carpeting does.

The most intimidating part of a bathroom-flooring project for first-time DIYers is working with the toilet. Tiling around a cabinet or toilet is possible, but the recommended method is to tile the whole floor. Re-installing a toilet or cabinet is pretty straightforward with a new level and uniform surface.

Up the Ante

Now that you have mastered working with horizontal surfaces, the next skill set to acquire is setting tile on a wall. This next bathroom remodel picture showcases a bath upgrade that included tile wainscot. This project was another carpet removal project. Now, the owner can keep the bathroom clean with some simple sweeping or mopping.

Ceramic wainscot tile took the place of hard-to-maintain bathroom carpet.

Onward to Showers and Tubs

The next logical progression from this type of work is the tub or shower area. Here it gets more complex, as we have showerheads, tub spouts and other fixtures to work around (see the bathroom remodeling pictures below).

Tiling showers and tubs can be complicated, whether it's with travertine (left) or granite (right).

Embellishments

The next level of tile work incorporates special items, such as storage niches and shelves. This level of workmanship often surpasses what most DIYers want to tackle. Getting the tile layout perfectly aligned and performing some of the delicate tile cuts is sometimes better left to the professionals.

Tiling niches or shelves is a job best left to professionals.

Maybe just a cabinet install?

If you’re intimidated by tiling and grouting, a simple vanity replacement may be more your bathroom remodeling speed. Many home centers now stock ready-to-install cabinets that can be fitted with a pre-installed sink in a granite top. Just make sure to get some help when setting the granite top: It’s a lot heavier than you think!

Replacing a vanity can be very straightforward, but be careful with heavy granite.

I hope some of these bathroom remodeling pictures have inspired you for your upcoming renovation. These are just a few of the many ideas that are out there, but they do cover most of the common tasks in a basic bath remodel. Some solid groundwork and a bit of planning will make your project go smoothly. Good luck!

Check out some other bathroom remodeling ideas. Most bathroom renovations involve tile, which can be laid creatively or more traditionally. But you also have to think about the vanity, tub and toilet.

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Author Kevin Stevens moved to Colorado from Michigan in 1991. He has been a woodworker for over 30 years, and has also worked as a biotechnology engineer. Kevin now runs a remodeling business where he practices green technology and sustainability. He is currently building an off-grid cabin in New Mexico.