So you’re getting ready to embark on an extensive bathroom remodeling project. Hopefully you’ve taken the time to sit down with a professional designer or someone who has already done this before. Why? Because remodeling your bathroom without a plan is a recipe for frustration and disappointment. A good plan includes how you want to use the space, what your future plans for the home are, and how much you can afford to spend. Staying within your budget is important because it prevents you from going down the road of expensive cost overruns. All of that said, when all of your planning is complete there are three “must haves” that should be included in the final design: 1. Bathroom Exhaust Fan The number one enemy of every bathroom is moisture. In fact, constant changes in air temperature and humidity within the bathroom make that space just as vulnerable as the exterior of your home. You need an exhaust fan to get rid of moisture quickly and effectively. When you get rid of moisture, you are doing several things. First, you are preventing mold from growing around the shower and sink areas. Second, you are prolonging the life of your paint and grout. Third, you are reducing the amount of damage suffered by draperies, molding, and decorative elements.

2. Cross-Linked Acrylic Tub In the likely event you are replacing your bathtub or shower stall, you absolutely must have a cross-linked acrylic tub. Cross-linked acrylic is different from standard acrylic in that some of the agents within the resin are linked together at the molecular level. This produces an acrylic material that is incredibly durable and nearly impermeable to cracking, chipping, etc. A cross-linked acrylic tub will be more expensive than standard acrylic or ceramic. Nevertheless, the slightly higher price is well worth the cost. You will typically get a lifetime warranty with no-questions-asked replacement from manufacturers and distributors. 3. Vanity or Linen Closet One of the worst choices a homeowner can make in regards to the bathroom is to not have easy access to linens. If you have been a guest of someone who forgets to put out linens, and they are not easily accessible, you know this can be a source of needless embarrassment and inconvenience. Guests should have access to linens either by way of the vanity inside the bathroom or a linen closet just outside. In older homes, remodeling to include a linen closet is sometimes impractical, so the vanity is the better solution. If you are going the vanity route, you should also consider a medicine cabinet built into the wall mirror. The cabinet makes toiletries and over-the-counter medications easily accessible to guests. Above and beyond these three “must haves” there is an endless number of choices you can work with for your bathroom remodel. Remember to stay on budget, make the best use of the available space, and make it fun. After all, you will be spending a significant amount of time in that room. You might as well enjoy it.