The average lifespan of your bathroom is 7-10 years. Nevertheless, remodeling can depend on other factors, such as trends, ROI, or damages. Last year’s data reports that 43% of Americans remodeled their bathroom because they no longer liked the old style, 33% said it was due to damage, and 28% wanted to increase resale value. A handful also talked about finally being able to afford it.
According to 2023 data, a bathroom remodeling can cost up to $6,600 to $16,700. However, this price range and the amount of work can vary from state to state. For example, a full bathroom remodel in California can cost $18,000 to more than $74,500. On the other hand, a major bathroom renovation in Michigan costs around $20,000 to $43,000. Additionally, the cost of living is 3% lower than the national average in Michigan.
If you live in Michigan, you can even benefit from a 2% lower utility cost. Since you’re saving money on utility, it would be best to invest in a modern and cost-effective bathroom remodel. So, before you start your renovation project, here are a few essential tips.
Install walk-in bathtubs
Walk-in bathtubs benefit older people with low mobility because they can quickly enter and exit. This is especially helpful in states like Michigan, which ranks 15th with the most senior population, with 18.2% over 65 years old. Even if you live in a city like Traverse, with a median age of 40, you should still consider getting a bathtub replacement. Traverse City has a humid continental climate which might result in the growth of mold, damaging your bathtub and other fixtures.
Trustworthy remodeling companies in Michigan, like All-Weather Seal, offer quality bathroom remodels in Traverse City, where you can get complete customer support, premium products, and professional installation services. You can also get a complimentary project quote by completing an online form to contact the team.
A walk-in bath comes in various shapes, sizes, and styles, and you can pick the best fit according to your preferences.
Add plants
Adding a touch of nature to your bathroom can help relieve the tensions of daily life. The best way you can do so is by adding some plants. Studies show that indoor plants can improve your well-being by 47%. They also purify the air by eliminating bacteria and excess moisture. For humid states like Michigan, consider the following plants that thrive in moist environments for your bathroom:
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- Boston Fern: A pet-friendly houseplant that you need to keep out of direct sunlight and water weekly
- Calathea ‘Freddie’: A striking zebra print houseplant that can make your bathroom look more exotic
- Flamingo Flower: This eye-catching bright red flower thrives happily in bright, steamy rooms
- Moth Orchids: These are some of the most accessible and appealing orchids to grow
- Air plant: If you’re looking for a beach-inspired plant, this quirky hanging plant is easily the best fit
Adding plants is the easiest way to remodel your bathroom and improve air quality. Plants don’t take up much room; you can hang them or use them to decorate your shelves. They can replace the sterile smell of your bathroom with rejuvenating fresh air.
Add special features
You can give your bathroom a luxurious touch by installing special features like heated flooring that provides a uniform heat distribution throughout the bathroom. They are 25% more energy-efficient than HVACs, which helps you save long-term heating costs. Additionally, they don’t use as much electricity as most would think, operating around the same energy as a freezer. Another feature you can add to modernize your bathroom is an audio system. If you listen to music or podcasts while in the bathroom, you can benefit from installing waterproof speakers.
Install eco-friendly upgrades
Installing eco-friendly products like touchless faucets or dual-flush toilets conserves significant amounts of water, saving the environment and money on utility bills. A dual-flush toilet can save around 67% more water than regular toilets, saving 20% more water yearly. You can choose more environmentally friendly upgrades by installing WaterSense-certified products that are more efficient than regular models. This certification means that your showerheads, faucets, and lavatories meet water-efficient standards, are free from leakage, and are 30% more efficient than typical installations.
Save space
Cluttered items on countertops create a messy and chaotic look. To counter it, you should save space by using the following strategies:
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- Wall-mounted shelves: They are a stylish storage alternative that doesn’t compromise style while providing storage
- Install a large mirror: Mirrors create the illusion of an ample space by reflecting light. The bigger the mirror, the more open your bathroom looks
- Choose sliding doors: These doors save precious wall space, which you can utilize by adding more shelves or towel holders.
A decluttered bathroom is easy to navigate and looks appealing. With the proper storage, you can keep your toiletries from getting wet or misplacing them. You can also store clean towels, extra toilet paper, or personal belongings you don’t want out in the open.
Have a good ventilation system
Without a sound ventilation system, you are constantly breathing stale air that consists of a ‘toilet plume,’ a particle of air containing fecal matter. Though breathing in these particles won’t seriously harm people with minimal exposure, you still need to protect yourself against viruses that can enter your body when you inhale your bathroom’s stale air. In states like Michigan, with a humid climate, your bathroom could also have high humidity levels. You can improve your ventilation by regularly cleaning your bathroom exhaust, using a dehumidifier, or opening the windows to let in fresh air.
Install a steam shower
A steam shower does what its name suggests-it generates steam. This shower is the perfect fixture if you like to indulge in a spa day. The steam from the shower is excellent for clearing out your pores and relaxing tense muscles. You can replace regular showers with steam and conserve water because it only requires two gallons for a twenty-minute bath. However, if you’re new to steam showers, you should only bathe for up to 10 minutes. Let your body get used to the process before you increase the time. You should also keep your body hydrated before steam showers as they promote sweating, which can potentially cause dehydration.
Conclusion
Let your creativity shine during the fun and rewarding process of bathroom remodeling. It is an excellent investment and a great way to make your home more comfortable. Indulge in small luxuries and create the bathroom of your dreams. Remember to choose updates that are aesthetically pleasing yet also functional and efficient.
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