How to Plan a Bathroom Guidelines

The bathroom is usually the smallest room in the house, yet it is also one of the most important. Most people can function fine without a spare bedroom or separate dining room but can't imagine living without a bathroom. Designing a new bathroom can provide your family with updated fixtures and a newer, cleaner place to shower, bathe and prepare for the day. Planning the construction of a new bathroom accordingly is an important step in ensuring that the process goes smoothly.

Instructions

1

Check with your local building regulations to determine if you will need a permit for the remodeling or building of your new bathroom. If so, submit the appropriate paperwork and acquire your permit well before you begin any other work on the project.

2

Make a detailed floor plan of your existing bathroom or the space you will be working in. Mark doors, windows, electrical outlets and wires and existing pipes on your plan. Also, include the existing fixtures and their measurements.

3

Create a second floor plan detailing what your new bathroom will look like. Clearly mark the pieces you will be installing. For a half bath, you may only need a sink and toilet. For a full bath, your plans may also include a tub, shower stall or both. Be sure to include the placement of lighting fixtures and new pipes.

4

Examine the floor of the space that you are working on. If you are remodeling an existing bathroom, looking underneath the floor ahead of time can help you determine what you want to install. You may find a fine hardwood floor that you are willing to seal, finish and keep.

5

Select the new pieces that you would like to install in the bathroom. Check their needs as far as piping and other fixtures. Measure each item carefully and refer to your written guidelines to ensure they will fit.

6

Choose flooring, paint, tiles and mirrors for the bathroom. Measure the tiles and flooring pieces and compare with the measurements of the room to make sure you have the appropriate quantity and size.

7

Begin installation according to your written plans, but be prepared for unexpected setbacks, especially with wiring or plumbing. If you are doing the project yourself, keep the number of a professional nearby in case you need a more experienced hand.