Bathroom Ideas - Choosing Mirrors, Faucets And Vanity Cabinets For Your Bathroom

The first step to take in your remodeling process is planning. This should include details of the layout and relevant measurements. This is important to ensure that your new fixtures will fit into place as planned.

On with a tight budget, using the plumbing layout you already have may be most practical. However, if redoing the plumbing will allow for more useable space, it might be worth considering even though it could prove to be quite costly.


Bathroom Vanity Cabinets

Replacing the vanity is a very simple and cost effective way of updating your bathroom. You may choose from a number of unique styles: from traditional styles that add character to your remodeled bathroom to the more contemporary styles with chrome faucets, drawers and flat panel doors.

List all the things you will need to store: cleaning products, small appliances (curling irons, hairdryers, etc.), grooming, dental care, cosmetics, etc. Once you know your storage needs, take all the necessary measurements precisely before purchasing a vanity. In the case of pre-built vanities: measure the maximum space allowed, then choose your vanity carefully, ensuring that it is just a few inches or so smaller. Vanity measurements usually include countertop measurements as well; this is usually the largest area of the entire cabinet. Ensure that you have correct measurements as it can be quite difficult or even impossible to make modifications if you a solid stone top, such as marble or granite.

Faucets

Faucet prices vary widely with quality. As such, choosing the cheapest faucet may not be the best option. Faucet prices may also be affected by the finish (i.e. oil rubbed bronze has been shown to be the most expensive, whereas chrome is least expensive). One other consideration in choosing a faucet is whether or not it has ceramic disk valves. Faucets that come with these valves have longer life cycles and are therefore your best option.

Mirrors

In purchasing a mirror for your vanity it is imperative that you consider both the size and style. Your mirrors must be large enough and positioned properly in relation to the light source in order to provide a good refection. Furthermore, the finish and style should also complement the overall design.

Flooring

Your floor material should be moisture resistant with an easy to clean hard surface and enough texture to prevent slipping when wet. Current options include wood, concrete and tile. Heated flooring is one great factor to consider should you decide to replace the flooring in your bathroom since this is the best room for it.

Lighting

In completing the layout for your remodeled bathroom lighting is the most crucial component to consider. Important considerations include:
• Does the bathroom have natural light? Adding skylights or windows can be very costly.
• Vanity lights: usually fixed in a setting of two or four bulbs, these are usually placed above the mirror.
• Ceiling lights: recessed can lights are probably the most efficient and cost effective light source. The addition of pendant lights or a chandelier can add to the elegance of your design. Vanity lights are also commonly used to complement ceiling lights.
• Decorative lighting: sconce lights are prime examples and are typically installed along the sides of the mirror.