Renovating a Half Bath
Add value to your home without spending a lot of money with our new Picket Fence series. These do-it-yourself projects require a little elbow grease, but are easy enough for the average person to tackle (this project took one weekend). Best of all, you may be able to write-off the cost of the materials (your costs will vary based on the materials you choose) on your taxes when you sell your home. Consult a tax professional for specifics. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Demolish It
Take everything out of your bath, including the mirror, light fixture, vanity, sink, faucet, toilet, etc. Be sure to turn off the electrical circuit breaker to your bathroom before disconnecting the light fixtures and shut off the water supply to sink and toilet before disconnecting plumbing. Have a bucket ready to catch dripping water.
Next, with your pry bar and hammer, gently remove the quarter round molding from the baseboards. Try to remove the molding strips in one piece if you plan to reuse them.
For linoleum or carpet floors, use your utility knife to cut a strip in the middle of the floor so you can get a finger hold underneath, then simply pull it up. For tile or wood floors, use your pry bar and hammer.
Prep It
Set your vanity in place to see how it will fit. Hand place your mirror and lighting fixture to see where holes and other irregularities in the walls will show once your new items are installed. Mark areas that need attention with a pencil. Remove the vanity, mirror and light and use spackling compound to fill the wall imperfections.
When the spackle is dry, sand it down flush with the wall. Vacuum and wipe down all surfaces to remove the dust.
When everything is completely dry, paint the ceiling, trim and walls.
Install It
Install the flooring. Lay out the flooring before permanently installing so you can see the patterns and figure out where the best cuts can be made. Next, install your new lighting fixture (making sure the circuit breaker is turned off). Then set the vanity and sink in place, install the new faucet and connect the plumbing. If the vanity is not “free standing” or comes with a backsplash, you may need to run a bead of caulk between the vanity and wall to seal it in place.
Next, install the toilet and reconnect all plumbing. Hang your new towel bar(s)/ring and toilet paper holder and install all switch plates and outlet covers.
Add accessories like artwork or decorations and enjoy!
