If you are thinking of remodeling your basement, adding a bathroom might be exactly what you need. It increases convenience, boosts home value, and improves functionality. But it also comes with its challenges, It might be costly, and could take space that is needed. Fear not, Michael and son Remodeling has a total of 42 years in basement remodeling in Northern, VA, Maryland, and Washington, DC. We've got you covered!
Below is a list of things you will need to keep in mind:
1- Obtaining the essential permits: As a licensed contractor, Michael and Son Remodeling will help you every step of the way. These permits are critical to ensure your new bathroom is up to the local building and safety codes, ultimately adding to your property's resale value.
2- Visualize your bathroom: There are multiple bathroom options for your basement. Start by knowing which one you need. Do you want a full bathroom? A three-quarter bath? Or a powder room? Your decision will be mainly affected by the available space and how you plan to use the bathroom.
3- Measure twice, cut once: Measure the proposed bathroom area accurately. Consider factors like sufficient headroom, space for doors to swing open, and room for fixtures.
4- Location of Drains: When planning the bathroom layout, keep in mind the existing plumbing and where your drains are you want the bathroom to be in that area to minimize demolition.
5-Floor drain line: The slope must be correct to ensure waste flows out without any backflow. We highly recommend hiring a professional to make sure that everything is in place and not suffer from repair costs in the future. (sched estimate button )
6- Wall construction: Also known as 'roughing in'. It’s crucial as it involves mapping out your space according to your design and putting up a frame for your walls.
7- Vertical drains, and ventilation pipes: When it comes to vertical drains, they need to be connected to your basement bathroom's plumbing fixtures that are connected to your home's existing sewer system. As for ventilation Pipes, these pipes connect to your fixtures' drain lines and lead straight up through the roof of your home.
8-HVAC: Your basement bathroom's HVAC needs will be divided into heating and ventilation.
- Heating: Basements can be cold, and without proper heating, your new bathroom may feel chilly. Adding heating vents that connect to your home's existing heating system is an option. The number and placement of these vents will depend on the size of your bathroom.
-Ventilation: Basements have limited natural ventilation, making mechanical ventilation a must. An exhaust fan is an excellent addition to your bathroom's ventilation. The fan should vent to the outdoors to ensure moisture is expelled from your home.
9- Running water supply lines: Everything revolves around material when it comes to water pipes. You have several material choices, including copper, PEX, and CPVC pipes. The pipe size will depend on the fixtures you’re planning to install.
10-Electrical Wiring: You need to make sure that your bathroom is set for lighting fixtures, outlets, and an exhaust fan.
11- Choosing the right flooring: Flooring for basement bathrooms should be moisture-resistant and easy to clean. Options include ceramic tile or vinyl flooring. If necessary, install a subfloor to provide a barrier against the cold concrete underneath.( flooring blog link)
12- Fixtures: Now that the basics are sorted, it's time for your fixtures. Vanity, toilet, shower or tub, and other accessories like towel bars and toilet paper holders. The final steps to bring your vision to life involve installing trim around the doors, windows, and baseboards, followed by painting the walls in the color scheme you've chosen.
Adding a bathroom to your basement might seem to be a sizable project, but the convenience and increased home value make it a worthwhile investment. Remember, don't hesitate to call us for any steps that seem too daunting. Get your free estimate now! After all, building your dream home should be more exciting than stressful. Enjoy your renovating journey!