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Bathroom Q&A Session
Things to consider when planning out your bathroom
Is this bathroom development for a more private space, or will it be more of a utilitarian bathroom that serves the basic needs?
Even the most basic bathroom can achieve a bright and intimate setting using colors. The importance of colors should never be minimized as it reflects the tastes of the individual, and different colors do have an impact on our general well being and mood.
Is it important to have a tub only, or shower only, or should it be a combination of both?
If this is the only bathroom in your home, it’s probably wise to have a combination tub and shower, as this would suit the needs of most people in your family as well as being of greater resale value.
Have you ever considered using a whirlpool tub?
These can be very relaxing and stimulating after a hard day's work, as well as being therapeutic for people with special medical needs.
Is there anything special we should consider while demolishing the existing bathroom?
There are several things that should be upgraded or changed when a bathroom is remodeled (explained in the questions and answers below).
Is there an exhaust fan, and what is the CFM rating?
A lot of existing housing does not have ventilation beyond a window or a door left open. If they do have fans, the exhaust fan usually has a low CFM rating. The reason for installing an exhaust fan is that it displaces volumes of unwanted moisture from bathing, as well as indoor pollution. Since there has been an emphasis on energy efficiency in both new homes as well as existing housing, it is all the more important to vent the indoor pollution to the outside. This is because better energy efficiency means there are more pollutants for a home to retain. For proper sizing of the fan, most manufacturers will display a chart on the packaging for the correct CFM rating based on the square footage of the bathroom.
What is CFM?
CFM simply means the movement of air, Cubic Feet per Minute. The higher the rating, the more air is vented outside of the building.
Does my electrical need changing?
Over the years the electrical code has changed to reflect how our lifestyle has changed to include the newer and better products and practices of today. This could be as simple as installing light switches on the inside of the bathroom for convenience rather than in the hallway as is found in some of the older bathrooms. Some of the older bathrooms have receptacles, which may not be on a ground fault breaker or plug, which is important for the use of hair dryers and other electronics found in the bathroom to prevent electrical shock.
What do we use on walls in the tub and shower area?
The finish could be one of several, but the preparation of the wall is the most important. A product called Aquaboard, which is a moisture resistant type of drywall, could be used in the tub area if there is no showering. A more obvious choice would be something that is more than just moisture resistant since most bathrooms have showers as well. There are specifically designed products for this application; Denshield for example, gives good moisture protection as well as being easily installed.
Does the plumbing have to be changed?
Although most supply and waste lines do not have to be replaced, a qualified plumber should inspect them for deterioration. There are two kinds of water supply lines that should be replaced at the first opportunity. These are the old galvanized water lines that rust from the inside out, and the poly B plastic piping, which is affected by chlorine in the water and has been known to fail prematurely. Good planning will keep the unexpected surprises to a minimum and make the project more worthwhile.
Does it pay to use the most expensive fixtures or should I use the least expensive?
Cheapest is not necessarily the best. The same could be said for the most expensive products. The best products to choose are ones that have brand recognition and are mid priced. These are the ones that will give the best value.
Do we need a plumbing permit?
The answer is maybe. Generally if you are only changing the fixtures, there is no need to apply for a permit. However, if you were to change the waste lines below grade, a permit would be required. When in doubt about required permits, contact the local building authority.