Bathroom Reno Budget Planning, Step by Step

Careful planning is the key to a successful bathroom remodel. Before you begin any work in the bathroom, create a budget, a floor plan, a list of supplies & a timetable. Let's break it down by subject.


First, create a budget. 
Understand before anything, that a complete bathroom reno will cost anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000 if done properly (depending upon fixture & hardware choices). If you plan to re-locate the bathroom, this will add 20 to 30% to the overall finished cost and will increase in direct proportion to the distance you are moving it. Also bear in mind that once the original bathroom is removed, that area will need to be repaired as well.

Determine how much money you can comfortably spend, subtract 20% for emergencies and this will be your budget. Get written estimates for any budget item over $300 as well as for any work that will be done by the professionals, and always include electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and drywall installation costs in your budget.

Your budget will be your guide in the choices of fixtures & accessories you will be able to choose for your project. If your budget is on the low end, you will probably be unable to fit a custom ceramic multi-head shower into it.

Second, design a floor plan. 
Ask yourself, will you be working with the existing space or will you be adding or knocking down walls? If so, check to make sure you will not disturb the electrical wiring or plumbing. 

Next, measure the amount of space you have and draw a floor plan. In drawing the plan, first put in all the items that are fixed. For example, if the toilet needs to be in a certain spot because of plumbing or space limitations, it is a fixed item. Fixed items can be moved if necessary, however there will be a direct effect on the budget.

Experiment with how you like your floor plan, using different arrangements, with different types of cabinetry, fixtures, or even wall locations. You might try pocket doors to save space, corner sinks, floating sinks, pedestal sinks, L-shaped vanities and alcoves also save space. In addition, corner showers conserve space, and clear glass in showers or large mirrors create the illusion of even more space. Also, you may want to add a window or skylight to let in light.

Third, make a list. 
Make a list of all the building materials you'll need and make sure they will be available when you need them. Check on the availability of sinks, flooring, wall tile, countertops, lighting, medicine cabinets, showers, bath tubs, cabinets and cabinet handles, toilets, extra storage, taps, toilet paper holders, paint or wallpaper, chairs, as well as tools you may need buy.

Once you have all the items from step 2 included in your list, add all the materials and tools you'll need to install them (lumber, drywall, tiles, etc.). Once you have your list complete, start adding prices for each item, remembering to get written estimates for ALL items over $300. 

Fourth, create a timetable. 
Talk to experts or salespeople at home improvement stores to help plan how much time you'll need for each item on your list. If you're hiring a contractor, such as Lakeside, work with them/us to design a timetable you all can follow.

Add the time required to your list, and you'll be able to plot the time on a calendar along with delivery times required and the funds needed for each delivery. 

Plan your project according to the time you will have available. Put in a new toilet and sink one weekend, for example, and paint another. You don't have to do it all at once, so plan sensibly. Above all, be flexible and allow time for unexpected emergencies.

Hopefully, all will proceed as planned and your project will finish on time & on budget with your contingency fund of 20% being left over when you finish......it could happen!
When planning any home renovation project, especially in an older home, always remember Murphy's Law rules! If something can go wrong during the project.....it usually will, plan accordingly!

Lakeside Interiors specializes in renovating existing bathrooms as well as kitchens and basements so, if you aren't looking for a "full contact" DIY experience, get together with us and we'll make your dream bathroom a reality for you!

We are now available on facebook as well as on linkedin. Like us on facebook and follow us on linkedin!

While you're on the site, feel free to download the FREE E-book there to help you with your bathroom renovation plan, more books are in the planning stages, but I started with bathrooms.

Get all the latest tips and articles delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our free newsletter. 

If you have any questions you'd like answered or you would like to see an article on a particular subject, feel free to ask in a comment window or contact us directly.

If you would like advice concerning your summer project or you would like a cost estimate for a project you are considering, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Lakeside Interiors dedicates a portion of its profits to the community we work in by using our skills to assist the elderly or disabled free of charge. If you know of someone in your area who could use our assistance, please let us know. 

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor & Barrie Ontario

705-881-4456 in Barrie or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

226-946-9651 in Windsor or,

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com

To receive this blog in your inbox,

Insert your email address at the

top of this page.

To receive our FREE weekly,

"Home Maintenance Tips" 

newsletter click here.

Designing Your Kitchen to Reflect Your Needs

In order to design your new kitchen, you first need to sit down and decide two things........ 

1. You will need to know how much room you have to put your kitchen in.  
2. You'll also need to know what you want to be able to do in your kitchen!

If you're looking for a lot of food preparation area, for example, you'll want a different kitchen design than somebody who is trying to find space to fit lots of food and cooking utensil storage.


Once you've decided on the basic layout for your kitchen, then you'll need to think of what appliances you're going to put in there.  You'll need to make sure that there is enough room in your kitchen for the refrigerator and oven – and probably a dishwasher as well.  Therefore, once you have a general idea of where you want to put your appliances, you should decide exactly which models will be put in and get the exact measurements from the distributor.

Remember to take into consideration the "work Triangle", using a triangle to plot the best location for your appliances in the room. You don't want to be taking lots of extra steps to the fridge, every time you need something for the dish you're preparing.

Then, once you have the measurements for those appliances, you'll be able to decide how to finalize the rest of your kitchen design, adding cabinets etc. to fill the spaces between appliances.  

Some things that you should consider regarding the design of your new kitchen are how difficult it will be to install or repair the appliances that you have in your kitchen.  If you make it difficult to reach the back of your refrigerator, you'll have a hard time getting back there if it ever needs to be repaired.

Additionally, you should avoid having gaps between counters in areas where you will be cooking or washing dishes often.  The reason for this is that gaps allow food or water to get down into hard to reach places – which means that when you finally do get to that part of the floor, it will be even messier than you would have expected and may even be an invitation to unwanted pests.

You will next want to consider what activities you will need included in your design, will you be having dinner for a family of four, or will a breakfast bar for two suffice for your family? Will you need office space for a computer or space for a T.V. included in the design? Now is the time to consider these things, not the day after the cabinets are installed.
There are two main things that you should think about using while you're designing your kitchen.  The first is always a good step – that's just using a pencil and paper to draw out what you want to put in there.  However, if you don't trust your artistic skills, you can also find online programs that will help you make a great kitchen design.

If you'd rather have help in designing your kitchen and implementing your plan, feel free to contact us here at Lakeside Interiors and we'll be happy to assist you and even give you a computer rendering of what your kitchen will look like when it's completed.

Lakeside Interiors specializes in renovating existing kitchens as well as bathrooms and basements so, if you aren't looking for a "full contact" DIY experience, get together with us and we'll make your dream kitchen a reality for you!

We are now available on facebook as well as on linkedin. Like us on facebook and follow us on linkedin!

While you're on the site, feel free to download the FREE E-book there to help you with your bathroom renovation plan, more books are in the planning stages, but I started with bathrooms.

Get all the latest Home Maintenance tips and articles delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our free newsletter. 

If you have any questions you'd like answered or you would like to see an article on a particular subject, feel free to ask in a comment window or contact us directly.

If you would like advice concerning your summer project or you would like a cost estimate for a project you are considering, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Lakeside Interiors dedicates a portion of its profits to the community we work in by using our skills to assist the elderly or disabled free of charge. If you know of someone in your area who could use our assistance, please let us know. 

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor & Barrie Ontario

705-881-4456 in Barrie or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

226-946-9651 in Windsor or,

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com

To receive this blog in your inbox,

Insert your email address at the

top of this page.

To receive our FREE weekly,

"Home Maintenance Tips" 

newsletter click here.

Bathroom Renovation Makeovers, the Project of Choice in Windsor & Barrie

Whether your motivation is to enhance your usage experience or to enhance your home's resale value,  a bathroom remodel project is one of the best investments a homeowner can make. In terms of maximizing the benefits, few can argue that renovating your bathroom will offer the most bang for the buck in terms of payback when it comes time to sell while allowing you the extra comfort and enjoyment while you are still in your home.

Much like a kitchen, the bathroom tends to be one area where potential home buyers have strong emotions. A functional and stylish bathroom can literally make or break the deal when you put your home on the market. But resale potential is not the primary reason to consider your bathroom renovation. Sure we all would like as much money as we can get, but why not enjoy your home to the fullest while you are still in it? Plus, with the economy in a down trend, more and more people are choosing to spruce up their existing homes instead of moving to a new home. You can save a lot of money by remaining in your home and simply improving it instead of moving. For the long-term, that decision makes a lot of sense financially.

Your renovation project can be as simple or elaborate as you desire. It is amazing what a new mirror and a new coat of paint can do for a bathroom. If your budget and energy allows, you can get really ambitious and knock out walls, install a new tub or shower, add new cabinets, and a number of other things. The only limit to your project will be budget and imagination.

Before you begin any project, you need to plan carefully. the last thing you want to do is begin a bathroom renovation that renders it useless for weeks because you didn't realize the impact of changes you made or because you ran out of funds before you finished. The best way to avoid these types of planning mistakes is to use the services of a professional contractor. A professional will know the process, know the right subcontractors, and be able to steer you towards a successful completion. If your project is relatively small, then you can probably do it yourself without any help. But when pipes need to be moved or electrical outlets need to be moved, unless you really know what you are doing, do not attempt these types of tasks by yourself. Always leave these types of jobs to the professionals.

A bathroom renovation can make a big difference in your enjoyment of your home while adding potential resale value. If you don't have the bathroom of your dreams already, look into an upgrade. Whether you want a major facelift or just new counters and lights, you will be happy you did. And the older and more worn your current bathroom is, the more you will probably enjoy your new one. The best part is that there are many options available regardless of your budget, just get creative and enjoy the experience.

Lakeside Interiors specializes in renovating existing bathrooms as well as kitchens and basements so, if you aren't looking for a "full contact" DIY experience, get together with us and we'll make your dream bathroom a reality for you!


We are now available on facebook as well as on linkedin. Like us on facebook and follow us on linkedin!

While you're on the site, feel free to download the FREE E-book there to help you with your bathroom renovation plan, more books are in the planning stages, but I started with bathrooms.

Get all the latest tips and articles delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our free newsletter. 

If you have any questions you'd like answered or you would like to see an article on a particular subject, feel free to ask in a comment window or contact us directly.


If you would like advice concerning your summer project or you would like a cost estimate for a project you are considering, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Lakeside Interiors dedicates a portion of its profits to the community we work in by using our skills to assist the elderly or underpriviledged free of charge. If you know of someone in your area who could use our assistance, please let us know. 

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor & Barrie Ontario

705-881-4456 in Barrie or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

226-946-9651 in Windsor or,

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com

To receive this blog in your inbox,

Insert your email address at the

top of this page.

To receive our FREE newsletter click here.

Kitchen Renovations That Add Value to Your Home

The average Canadian moves several times in his or life. If you are renovating a home that you know you will not live in for the rest of your life, every decision you make regarding the renovation can make or lose you money. The room that sells a home more than any other room in the house is the kitchen, so this is the place to renovate if you‘re going to renovate anything. In this article you’ll learn how to choose the materials to renovate your home with the most profit in mind.

You can’t go wrong by improving an outdated or nonfunctional set of appliances, but you can go wrong by over improving your home compared to others in your neighborhood. You lose money improving your home when you add expensive features that may make you happy, but are not what the average homeowner in your neighbourhood is looking for. For example, if you live in an average home in an average neighborhood with homes priced around $200,000, and you choose to add a $60,000 gourmet cook's addition, you will certainly lose money on the renovation. On the other hand, if you choose to spend just $5,000 improving what you have, you will almost certainly make money on the renovation.

When renovating your home choose materials that are typical of homes in your price range. For example, when you bought your home, did most of the homes have expensive custom built cabinets and granite countertops? Or did they have standard cabinets and Formica countertops? If you are not sure, visit your neighbors or neighborhood open houses to see what most kitchens in the area look like. By using materials that are too expensive for your neighbourhood, thinking it will “add value”, you lose money because the added value does not make up for price of the renovation or improvement. On the flip side, by adding in materials that are too cheap for an area, you hurt yourself twice again. You end up not adding value, and you can even end up detracting value because the new homeowner feels like that have to pull out a renovated kitchen to make it of the same quality as others in the neighborhood. The bottom line is, if you are planning on moving in the next few years, do your homework before you renovate to make sure you’re not over or under spending.

Another tip when planning on renovating your home to sell is to work with what you have. For instance, if you have nice solid wood cabinets, finished with an outdated color and hardware, consider refinishing the cabinets, changing the hardware and improving the countertops. You will end up saving thousands of dollars that stay in your pocket, plus if the cabinets are in good shape, you might even make the same amount as if you completely replaced them. If you have a neutral color ceramic tile that isn’t your favorite color but looks good with your new refinished cabinets, consider keeping it. You’ll never recoup the expense of pulling up the tile and laying a new floor. Its always better to improve what you have in a kitchen to make it up to par for the neighborhood than to completely replace something.

Its good practice to consider resale value when improving your home, especially in the kitchen where the stakes are higher because renovations cost more and can add a ton of value or very little value. With a little research and proper planning, your newly renovated room can add value to your life while you live in it, and value to your home when you move.

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor & Barrie Ontario

705-881-4456 in Barrie or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

226-946-9651 in Windsor or,

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com

To receive this blog in your inbox,

Insert your email address at the

top of this page.

To receive our FREE newsletter click here.

A Wet Basement May NOT Actually Be Leaking in Windsor

The basement is the heart of many a home. Most of the air that we breathe comes from this part of the house. If the air is humid, dank and dirty then this might have a negative effect on the health of people living in the home. Water damage is a major problem in many homes because it gets into the basement and begins to cause a range of troubles. In order to prevent this from occurring it might be a good idea to install a vapor barrier.

What most people might not realize is the fact that vapor can sink into the walls of your basement and cause water damage on the inside. As the vapor begins to condense inside the house, the room becomes humid and this air spreads throughout the rest of the house. If you have concrete basement walls then you might be at a loss as to what else need to be done to keep the water our. A vapor barrier is the answer.

A vapor barrier is attached to the foundation of the basement and it keeps the moisture from sinking through the walls and into the basement itself. It's important to note that the vapour barrier must ALWAYS be installed on the warm side of the basement insulation and will not function properly unless the insulation is present. 

Less moisture equals less humidity and this means a whole range of advantages. Not only will water damage be less of a concern but you will also be able to prevent mold from forming in your home. Mold usually thrives in dark, moist places and a basement is a prime suspect for harboring it. With a vapor barrier you can keep the air in your basement dry and prevent moisture from causing a variety of troubles in your home. 

It's important to take note of the reasons for the high humidity in your basement. If the moisture is coming from another source then it might not help to simply keep the moisture from outside the home out. If the moisture is coming from inside the home then you will need to sort that problem out before you can gain some relief. 

There are a range of other advantages that come with installing a vapor barrier and this is perhaps why it is so popular. The item itself is usually quite durable, so it won't have to be replaced very often but it also has the ability to keep bugs and other creepy crawlies out of the basement. These creatures are perhaps one of the main reasons that many people do not want to venture down into their own basements, and this is one way to ensure that you are not one of them. 

Water damage can end up costing you more than money; it can end up costing you the health of your family, which is why it is such an important concern. The best way to combat it is to find measures that work and a vapor barrier is one of them. This is a simple solution that any good contractor will be able to implement in your home for you. Contact us at Lakeside and we will be happy to advise you on the best options for your home.

We are now available on facebook as well as on linkedin. Like us on facebook and follow us on linkedin!

While you're on the site, feel free to download the FREE E-book there to help you with your bathroom renovation plan, more books are in the planning stages, but I started with bathrooms.

Get all the latest tips and articles delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our free newsletter. 

If you have any questions you'd like answered or you would like to see an article on a particular subject, there are comment windows for you as well as a form for you to fill out to send a message directly to my personal inbox.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback you may have, especially any ideas you may have concerning future articles you would like to see.

If you would like advice concerning your summer project or you would like a cost estimate for a project you are considering, please dont hesitate to contact us.

Lakeside Interiors dedicates a portion of its profits to the community we work in by using our skills to assist the elderly or underpriviledged free of charge. If you know of someone in your area who could use our assistance, please let us know. 
 

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor & Barrie Ontario

705-881-4456 in Barrie or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

226-946-9651 in Windsor or,

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com

Bathroom Design Ideas to Reflect Your Personal Style in Windsor

Today, people want different things from a bathroom. While a number of bathroom design ideas can inspire functional and stylish spaces, finding ideas for a bathroom that suits an individual's specific lifestyle is more challenging. One person may simply want to update a functional bathroom with a new look. Another may want to create a luxurious home spa. When it comes to creating the perfect bathroom, it's all about personal preferences. 

Designed for Speed

Many people long for a bathroom makeover that will help them get up in the morning and get them out the door on time. A bathroom design that makes the room operate more efficiently isn't just about speed, however, but about creating an invigorating atmosphere as well. A bare-bones space that lacks any decorative style can leave spirits deflated. When designing a highly functional bathroom, the right combination of color, materials and lines will add a sense of energy to the room. 
lines lend a feeling of energizing movement to the space. Chrome finishes 
Colors on the cool side can make the room feel more expansive. Sleek not only add sparkle, but catch the eye, creating dynamic visual interest. Among all the bathroom design ideas for a bathroom designed for speed, however, nothing adds more energy than a fixture on the cutting edge of technology. Technology is intrinsically linked with an active, modern lifestyle. Whether it's a shower with multi-faucets, a wall-mounted toilet or a sink faucet with a motion detector, a single high-tech amenity invigorates a bathroom's style.

Designed for Pampering

For many people, an ideal bathroom is one that provides a relaxing escape from the stress of everyday life. Ensuring physical and emotional comfort is the key to creating a bathroom that helps the owner unwind at the end of a busy day. It's as important to provide proper light, temperature and ventilation as it is to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. When a person's idea of an indulgent spa experience is a soothing steam shower, an efficient ventilation system becomes all the more important. When the bathroom design includes a luxury bathtub, amenities like heated flooring and ambient lighting coax bathers to linger and relax. 

A warm, minimal color palette and organic materials like wood, stone and bamboo help create an inviting environment. Natural colors, textures, materials and finishes enrich the look of a bathroom designed for relaxation without add too much visual clutter. The right proportion is important, too. Large, square bathroom tiles are visually less distracting than smaller tile work. Perhaps surprisingly, an asymmetrical design is generally more soothing. Too much symmetry can feel rigid or commercial.

While function is the main priority for some people and style the priority for others, setting clear design goals is always essential for a satisfactory result. The best interior designers always address the preferences of those that will inhabit the space. No matter what the personal preference, an abundance of bathroom design ideas ensures the right design for each person that uses this utilitarian room.

We are now available on facebook as well as on linkedin. Like us on facebook and follow us on linkedin!

While you're on the site, feel free to download the FREE E-book there to help you with your bathroom renovation plan, more books are in the planning stages, but I started with bathrooms.

Get all the latest tips and articles delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our free newsletter. 

If you have any questions you'd like answered or you would like to see an article on a particular subject, there are comment windows for you as well as a form for you to fill out to send a message directly to my personal inbox.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback you may have, especially any ideas you may have concerning future articles you would like to see.

If you would like advice concerning your summer project or you would like a cost estimate for a project you are considering, please dont hesitate to contact us.

Lakeside Interiors dedicates a portion of its profits to the community we work in by using our skills to assist the elderly or underpriviledged free of charge. If you know of someone in your area who could use our assistance, please let us know. 
 

This article was published by:
Keith McGorlick,
Author, Blogger,
Home Improvement Expert &
President of, Lakeside Interiors
Windsor, Kitchener & Barrie Ontario
In Windsor, call 226-946-9651 or,
lakesidewindsor@gmail.com
lakesidebarrie@gmail.com
lakesidekitchener@gmail.com

5 Ideas to Transform Your Basement in Windsor

If your basement has become the home's default storage room, what you need are some basement remodeling ideas.  Fortunately, we're here to help. Every day many homeowners try to think of ways they can transform their boring basements into something new. The first thing you must do as a homeowner is throw away any preconceived notion that a basement is just a dark, cool place to use as storage. Think of it as extra space with the potential to become something amazing. 

There are many ideas for transforming your basement depending on the needs and wants of your family. Some of these ideas include:

Game Room: Turn your basement into a space that the whole family will love. A great game room will first need some fun colors for the walls to give the room some extra life. This room will be all about fun and will need to look like a happy exciting place. This type of remodel will need the most comfortable furniture you can find that will also be durable. How about a refrigerator? A pool table, foosball table, video games, and pinball machines are the most popular types of entertainment. Include a bar area and you won't be able to drive away your guests. This idea will bring the family and friends together and be a positive experience for everyone.

Guest Room: Decorating a guest room or in-law suite is a great way to utilize your finished basement.  It adds extra space as well as provides an area for out of town family and guests to relax while visiting your home. This type of room should be filled with tranquil, comfortable furnishings.  It should provide all of the conveniences of a home away from home. It should also provide a place for your guests to retreat after a long day.

Gym or Workout Room: This is ideal for those who would like a dedicated room for exercise equipment without losing the space in their home. It is amazing to know that when you want to work out you don’t have to get in the car or leave the comforts of your own home.  A place to exercise in your home will pay for itself in more ways than just the value of your home; it will pay in added years to your life.  For the health-conscious, this just might be the greatest of the basement remodeling ideas. 

Office or Study Area: Turning your basement into a home office is a great way to provide a quiet, tucked away workspace in your home. A basement turned home office provides a perfect “work away from work” space when you need to be at home or just need a change of scenery.

Children Play Room: If you have a house with small children, a play room might be the perfect remodel for your basement. Because a basement often provides a blank canvas with which to work, a play room could easily be made with any style and any budget depending on the needs of your family. This is the perfect time to get more creative with paint-polka dots or stripes on the walls, hiring someone to paint a mural, etc. Bean bag chairs for reading, or small tables for tea parties will provide hours of entertainment for years to come. 

There are many basement remodeling ideas besides these, there are also many basement finishing ideas and basement ceiling ideas.  The key is to consider what would benefit the entire household--and go with that.

This article was published by:

Keith McGorlick,

Author, Blogger,

Home Improvement Expert &

President of, Lakeside Interiors

Windsor, Kitchener & Barrie Ontario

226-787-5835 or,

lakesidebarrie@gmail.com

lakesidekitchener@gmail.com

lakesidewindsor@gmail.com