chicago bathroom renovation guide

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most exciting home renovation projects you can undertake. It’s a chance to turn your outdated bathroom into a beautiful and functional space that you’ll enjoy using every day. A bathroom remodel is an important investment for any homeowner looking to improve the value of their property, enhance the functionality of their home, and create a more relaxing and comfortable living space. However, with so many bathroom remodeling companies in Chicago, it can be overwhelming to know where to start and what to look for when selecting a remodeling contractor. In this article, we will explore what a customer needs to know about bathroom remodeling to make informed decisions that result in a successful and satisfying remodeling project.

Remodeling or renovating your bathroom can be a major undertaking that requires careful planning and execution to achieve the desired outcome. Whether you are looking to create a more functional space, update the style and design of your bathroom, or increase the value of your home, there are many factors to consider when embarking on a bathroom remodeling project. A well-designed bathroom not only enhances your daily routine but also increases the value of your property. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best design and materials for your bathroom renovation project. 

One effective way to ensure that your project runs smoothly and meets your goals is to work with a design build firm. That’s where we come in! Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through every step of the remodeling process. We understand that every homeowner has different needs and preferences. That’s why we offer a wide range of options that can be customized to meet your specific requirements. Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or just want to update a few features, we’ve got you covered.

We understand that remodeling can be a significant investment, which is why we offer competitive pricing and value engineering to ensure we plan a project that fits your desired budget. We believe that everyone deserves to have their dream bathroom, and we’re committed to making that a reality for our clients.

However, before you start your bathroom remodeling project, there are some things you need to know:

Determine Your Remodeling Goals and Budget

Before starting your bathroom remodeling project, it’s essential to determine what your goals and budget are. It’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your bathroom remodel. Do you want to create a spa-like atmosphere with luxurious fixtures and finishes, or are you looking for a more functional space that meets the needs of your family? 

Your goals should take into account the size and layout of your bathroom, your lifestyle, and your aesthetic preferences. Do you want a more spacious bathroom, more storage space, a better shower or bathtub, or a more modern look? Is updating the fixtures and replacing tiles, a want, need, or an expectation? Your budget should also be realistic and reflective of the scope of work you’re looking to undertake. Your budget should include materials, labor, permits, and any unexpected costs that may arise. Be sure to set aside a contingency budget for unforeseen expenses that may arise during the project. 

By defining your goals and priorities, you can work with a professional bathroom remodeling contractor to create a design plan that meets your specific needs and budget.

Research and Select a Reputable Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Once you have determined your remodeling goals and budget, the next step is to research and select a reputable bathroom remodeling contractor. A reputable contractor will have a proven track record of successful bathroom remodeling projects, excellent customer reviews, and a portfolio of completed work.

A reputable contractor should be licensed, insured, and registered with the city or state. It’s also essential to ask for references from past clients and to check their online reviews and ratings. A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with a list of satisfied clients who can vouch for their workmanship, professionalism, and communication skills.

The type of bathroom remodeling contractor will also differ depending on your needs. If you need architectural plans or an interior designer, you’ll not only have to manage your contractor but also the architect and designer and ensure all parties are working together smoothly. A design build firm is a one-stop-shop that handles all aspects of the remodeling process, from design to construction. This removes the risk of something going wrong and having to take responsibility yourself since you’re in charge of the project, hiring, and managing everyone. A Design-Build firm takes on full responsibility for your project from beginning to end. When choosing a design build firm, look for a reputable company with experience in bathroom remodeling. Read reviews, check their credentials, and ask for references from past clients.

Plan and Design Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

The next step in the bathroom remodeling process is to plan and design your project. A reputable contractor will work with you to understand your remodeling goals, budget, and design preferences.. They will help you select the best materials, fixtures, and finishes that meet your needs and fit your budget.

First you’ll need to plan out the space and function of the bathroom to get an idea of your rough labor costs. Then it’s time to consider the materials and finishes you want to use in your bathroom remodeling project. High-quality materials, such as porcelain or natural stone tiles, can add elegance and durability to your space which might be important to you. If sustainability is your goal, using environmentally-friendly materials, such as low-flow faucets and showerheads, can help reduce your water consumption and lower your utility bills. Not only is this good for the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. Or maybe your priorities are solely around cost and fitting as much as you can into a strict budget. Your contractor and design team need to be able to work with your (realistic) expectations and help you select the material and labor tasks to achieve your goals.

 A well-designed vanity and bathroom fixtures can also improve the overall functionality and look of your bathroom. 

During the planning and design phase, it’s essential to consider the layout of your bathroom, the size and shape of your fixtures, and the lighting and ventilation requirements. Your contractor should help you create a detailed plan and have access to 3D rendering of your new bathroom design (which comes at an additional cost.)

One of the key benefits of working with a design build firm is that they offer design services in-house. This means that the same team that handles the construction of your project will also be responsible for the design. Collaborating with the design team allows you to create a plan that meets your goals, style, and budget. The design team will help procure your architectural plans if required.

Obtain Permits and Approvals

Before starting your bathroom remodeling project, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from the Chicago Building Department or your local municipality’s building department. As of May 2023, it’s approximately 51-93 days to receive a permit. However there are quite a few things we can do with an Easy Permit, which is usually processed same day. A reputable contractor will handle this process for you, ensuring that all necessary permits are obtained, and all work is performed to code.

Permits and approvals are required to ensure that your bathroom remodeling project is safe, meets building codes and standards, and does not pose a risk to your health or safety. Failure to obtain permits and approvals can result in fines, penalties, and costly delays.

Once the design is finalized, the design build firm will handle all aspects of the construction process. They will create a detailed project schedule, obtain any necessary permits, and coordinate with subcontractors. They will also handle all aspects of the construction, from demolition to finishing touches.

Prepare for Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

Before starting your bathroom remodeling project, you’ll need to prepare your home for the construction work. This may include removing furniture, clearing out the bathroom, and protecting adjacent rooms from dust and debris. 

Your contractor should provide you with a detailed project schedule, outlining the timeline of the project and the construction process. They should also communicate with you regularly to keep you informed of progress and any unforeseen issues that may arise. Schedules can change very quickly. Sometimes a discovery is made behind the walls, sometimes scheduling inspections with the city could be delayed, and many other unforeseen issues could arise. 

Throughout the construction process, the design build firm will keep you informed of progress and any changes to the plan. They will also be available to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. This level of communication and collaboration ensures that the project stays on track and meets your goals.

Enjoy Your Newly Remodeled Bathroom

Once the construction is complete, the design build firm will ensure that everything is finished to your satisfaction. They will also provide any necessary warranties, product specifications or guarantees. Enjoy your newly remodeled bathroom and the added value that it brings to your home.

In conclusion, bathroom remodeling can be a challenging process, but working with a design build firm can make it easier and more enjoyable. By collaborating with the design team and having all aspects of the construction handled by one team, you can achieve your remodeling goals and create a bathroom that you will love for years to come.

Click here to learn more about our Bathroom Remodeling services.

Or if you’re ready to start a project, fill out our form to set up a time for a construction estimate.