Bathroom
The bathroom is another key area and a strong selling point of any home. It presents an excellent opportunity to apply creative design ideas and create a beautiful, high-end look—without overspending. As mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to source bathroom items and materials at the lowest possible cost. This can be achieved by shopping during sales or sourcing materials online through platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Amazon.
To modernize your bathroom, look for designer-style yet affordable sinks, tubs, sliding glass doors, and cabinets. Prioritize buying these items at discounted prices either online or during in-store promotions. The secret to rehabbing homes on a budget and flipping them for a profit lies in learning how to source materials inexpensively and storing them in advance. This gives you the flexibility to wait for the best deals rather than buying in a hurry, which allows you to get the items you want at the price you’re willing to pay. Mastering this skill is what truly saves money.
If you plan to be in the home rehab or flipping business long-term, consider buying property in a rural, low-tax area where you can place metal storage containers to hold construction materials, appliances, and supplies. By sourcing materials online or from local marketplaces, you can often pay as little as half the price of retail, significantly boosting your profit margins.
To rehab a bathroom on a budget, start with a basic tub and consider using ceramic tile around the tub, in the shower area, and halfway up the bathroom walls. A glossy tile is often recommended for its sleek, clean look, but ultimately, you should use whichever ceramic tile you can find at the best price.
It’s helpful to have pre-designed color schemes or templates prepared for various tile colors. That way, whenever you find discounted tile, you already know how to coordinate it with paint, fixtures, and accents. This planning allows you to create a high-end, elegant look at a fraction of the cost.
The real trick is in the tile colors—choosing and matching the right shades can drastically elevate the appearance of the bathroom without spending a lot. By mastering this budget-friendly design approach, you can achieve a luxurious look while staying well within your renovation budget.
Bathroom highlights—for example, if you go with a light brown tile, it would be good to add some gold or dark brown highlights. You always want to go with contrasting colors. Or you can make the wall tiles white or marble and the floor black, gray, or a mix of black and gray. It all depends on your artistic palette. If marble-looking tile seems too expensive, look for off-whites or tiles with gray lines patterned in, and you could buy only a few boxes of marble-looking tile to give it a marble effect but at a low cost. The key is knowing how to match tiles.
All tiles are always on sale and can be purchased cheaply. Buy them on sale and store them away in metal containers until the time of use. It is by mixing and adding these very affordable but strategically selected items together that you can create a magnificent designer effect at super low costs. You want to source high-end or exotic-looking items online or find them on sale cheaply. But truth be told, if you can buy any materials that beat store prices, you are winning in the rehab game.
If you can find a tub for $200, a nice vanity sink on sale or online for $150, a toilet (usually around $100), ceramic tile and grout for $200, a fancy high-end faucet on Amazon for $100, and a sliding glass door for $300, your total material cost comes to approximately $1,350. This price may vary slightly, either higher or lower, but not by much.
The bathroom rehab can be completed within three days with a skilled carpenter and plumber at $250 per day, and a laborer/helper at $160 per day. This amounts to $1,230 in labor costs.
So, the total cost for a brand-new, elegantly high-end looking bathroom should be approximately $1,350 for materials and $1,230 for labor—totaling around $2,500.
Or, let’s say you offer the carpenter and his helper $1,000 each for the week—they likely won’t turn that down. You can further entice them with the opportunity to complete a second bathroom for the same cost to you. Just remember, you want to hire highly skilled handymen or carpenters, not expensive high-end contractors. This is how you save and make money in real estate.
I’ve completed full bathroom rehabs, including fully gutting the interior and installing a new tub, sink, and toilet. This example is meant to give you a rough estimate of the time and cost involved. Depending on how you negotiate the deal, the duration and expenses may vary slightly.
This is the kind of real estate insight you won’t hear from most people. Always remember—when you’re preparing a house for sale, the materials don’t have to be high-end or expensive. They just need to look brand new.
QUICK TIPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR BATHROOM
The key to longevity in your bathroom is ensuring that everything is properly sealed, especially when it comes to caulking and grouting. It’s a good idea for homeowners to learn how to do this process themselves, as it allows for ongoing maintenance and helps ensure that all areas are water-sealed. Proper sealing prevents water from getting behind the walls, where it can damage wood, tile, and sheetrock and lead to mold issues—problems that are easily avoidable with proper sealing.
Be sure that the sink and the base of the toilet also have watertight seals. Additionally, consider placing a small piece of leftover 3-inch copper pipe into the top of the toilet tank. Copper has excellent antibacterial properties, and this simple step can provide long-term protection by naturally keeping the toilet water more hygienic.
It’s also advisable to purchase a small ozone generator online for around $50. Ozone can be used to sanitize your bathroom by killing off viruses and bacteria (be sure to research proper and safe usage of ozone). You can even ozonate water to use for cleaning and mopping. These methods are non-toxic, inexpensive, and can last a lifetime—saving you a significant amount on cleaning products.
Overview
Deep cleaning your bathroom ensures a fresh and hygienic space, essential for maintaining a pleasant and functional environment. Start by descaling the showerhead with white vinegar and cleaning shower curtains or doors using a vinegar and baking soda paste. Refresh grout by scrubbing it with bleach, and clean countertops, walls, and ceilings with an all-purpose cleaner or steam. For a sparkling toilet, use baking soda and a pumice stone, and keep the sink clean with either vinegar or baking soda. Regularly sanitize hand towels, degerm the bathroom vent, and clean your bathroom cleaning tools to prevent bacterial buildup.
Maintaining your bathroom involves consistent upkeep to prevent issues and preserve cleanliness. Daily tasks include wiping down sinks and mirrors, regularly cleaning grout, and staying organized to reduce the risk of mildew. Establish a cleaning routine, prepare your tools in advance, and efficiently tackle trash, clutter, and various surfaces. For plumbing maintenance, run hot water weekly, check faucets for leaks, use drain strainers, and remove mineral deposits from showerheads. Avoid flushing non-flushable items to prevent clogs and damage, ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of your bathroom fixtures.
Maintaining your bathroom involves consistent upkeep to prevent issues and preserve cleanliness. Daily tasks include wiping down sinks and mirrors, regularly cleaning grout, and staying organized to reduce the risk of mildew. Establish a cleaning routine, prepare your tools in advance, and efficiently tackle trash, clutter, and various surfaces. For plumbing maintenance, run hot water weekly, check faucets for leaks, use drain strainers, and remove mineral deposits from showerheads. Avoid flushing non-flushable items to prevent clogs and damage, ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of your bathroom fixtures.
Tips for Deep Clean Your Bathroom
Deep cleaning your bathroom ensures a hygienic and inviting space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle the task effectively:
Descale the Shower Head
- Place white vinegar in a plastic bag, then fasten the bag around the showerhead and leave it overnight.
- Remove the bag in the morning and run water to rinse off any residue.
- Machine wash plastic curtains with detergent and towels to remove soap scum and mildew.
- For shower doors, make a paste of vinegar and baking soda, apply it, scrub, and rinse thoroughly.
Refresh Dingy Grout
- Scrub grout with bleach using a grout brush to remove discoloration. Be sure to ventilate the area well.
- Spray surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner and allow steam to build up by running hot water in the shower.
- After 20 minutes, wipe down all surfaces with a clean cloth. Use a dry microfiber mop for hard-to-reach spots.
- Pour baking soda into the bowl, let it sit, then scrub and flush. Use a damp pumice stone for stubborn stains.
- Consider using a small, light-duty electric pressure washer for hard-to-reach areas.
- Pour white vinegar or baking soda down the drain, then flush with hot water.
- Disinfect faucet handles with disposable wipes or washcloths, and floss around the faucet base for a thorough clean.
- Use the sanitizing setting on your washing machine or bleach the towels. Replace every three to four days.
- Turn off the power, remove the cover, and soak it in warm, soapy water.
- Use a vacuum and a paintbrush to remove dust and debris from the fan and vent. Replace the cover once dry.
- Clean the toilet brush after each use by pouring bleach over the bristles and rinsing with clean water.
- Wash mop heads, sponges, and other cleaning tools regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Bathroom Maintenance Made Easy
Maintaining your bathroom is essential for ensuring a clean and functional home. Without regular upkeep, you risk plumbing issues and the development of mildew or mold. While deep cleaning is recommended on a weekly basis, incorporating simple daily or every-other-day tasks can help maintain cleanliness and prevent future problems. Here are some easy tips to help keep your bathroom looking pristine with minimal effort:
- Although not the most enjoyable task, cleaning your toilet is essential. Try pouring Coca-Cola around the rim and letting it sit for four hours before scrubbing and flushing. Alternatively, use traditional cleaning agents and a toilet brush for a thorough clean.
- A quick daily wipe of your sink and mirrors can keep your bathroom looking fresh. Dispose of hair using toilet paper and use a microfiber cloth to remove toothpaste spatters.
- Grout maintenance is vital to prevent staining and water damage. Wipe and spray grout after baths or showers—ideally every other day—to keep it clean and free from buildup.
- Keep your bathroom clutter-free for easy access to essentials. Use baskets or boxes to organize cleaning supplies, towels, and toiletries, reducing the risk of mildew and maintaining a calm, tidy space.
- Dedicate time each week to deep cleaning to ensure your bathroom remains neat and presentable. Consistent maintenance minimizes the need for heavy scrubbing and helps preserve your bathroom’s overall cleanliness.
Efficient Bathroom Cleaning Tips and Tricks
- Before you begin cleaning, gather all your supplies and keep them organized in a designated basket. This makes it easier to find everything you need and saves time during the cleaning process.
- Start by emptying the garbage can and removing any clutter or empty containers from the bathroom. Take a moment to reorganize toiletries and supplies to ensure everything is in its proper place.
- Spray cleaner on the shower walls and let it sit while you wipe down the sink. Use a shower scrubber to easily reach high spots and corners. Consider installing a showerhead with a sprayer for more efficient cleaning.
- Use a Scotch-Brite Disposable Toilet Scrubber for quick and effective toilet cleaning—the built-in cleaner makes the task easier. Don’t forget to clean the outside of the toilet and thoroughly scrub the base.
- Spray window cleaner on the mirror and wipe it with a lint-free cloth for a streak-free shine.
- Remove bathroom rugs and mats, and launder them as needed. Be sure to sweep the floor thoroughly, paying special attention to corners where hair and dust tend to accumulate.
- Once the floor is clean, return fresh towels and floor mats to their designated places. This adds a final touch of freshness to your sparkling bathroom.
Efficient Bathroom Cleaning Tips and Tricks
- Before you begin cleaning, gather all your supplies and organize them in a designated basket. This makes it easy to find everything you need and saves time during the cleaning process.
- Start by emptying the garbage can and removing any clutter or empty containers from the bathroom. Take a moment to reorganize toiletries and supplies to ensure everything is in its proper place.
- Spray cleaner on the shower walls and let it sit while you wipe down the sink. Use a shower scrubber to easily reach high spots and corners. Consider installing a showerhead with a sprayer for more efficient cleaning.
- Use a Scotch-Brite Disposable Toilet Scrubber for quick and effective toilet cleaning—the built-in cleaner makes the task effortless. Don’t forget to clean the outside of the toilet and scrub the base thoroughly.
- Spray window cleaner on the mirror and wipe it down with a lint-free cloth for a streak-free shine.
- Remove bathroom rugs and mats and launder them as needed. Be sure to sweep the floor thoroughly, paying extra attention to corners where hair and dust tend to collect.
- Once the floor is clean, return fresh towels and floor mats to their designated places. This final touch adds to the freshness of your sparkling bathroom.
Simple Bathroom Plumbing Maintenance Tips
- Prevent clogs by running hot water down your drains at least once a week. This helps clear out hair and other impurities that may be accumulating and potentially causing blockages.
- Check your faucets regularly for leaks or signs of damage. Identifying issues early can help prevent more serious plumbing problems later on.
- Place strainers in your shower and tub drains to catch solid materials like hair, preventing them from clogging your pipes.
- To prevent mineral buildup in your showerhead, soak it in vinegar overnight. Fill a plastic bag with vinegar, attach it to the showerhead with a twist tie, and leave it overnight. The next day, remove the bag and wipe away the mineral deposits with a clean cloth.
- Avoid flushing hygiene items like cotton balls, makeup pads, and diapers down the toilet. These can cause clogs and damage your plumbing. Only flush toilet paper to prevent blockages and keep your toilet functioning properly.
Common Maintenance Issues in the Bathroom and Their Solutions
- Problem: Blocked Toilets Dealing with a toilet that refuses to flush can be undeniably frustrating. While we won’t delve into the specifics of why this happens, there are methods to prevent this situation.
- Solution: To minimize the chances of bathroom items falling into the toilet, it’s advisable to keep shelves containing bottles and creams away from the toilet area. Although it may not be pleasant, using the old rubber glove technique can sometimes clear a blockage. However, if the blockage is substantial, do not attempt to push it further down. Contact Churchford, and we’ll assist in resolving the issue.
- Problem: Blocked Waste Pipes Blockages in the bath, shower, or sink pipes can be quite annoying. If you’re standing in the shower and the water pools instead of draining, it’s a clear indication of a problem. These blockages are typically caused by dirt, hair, shampoo, and conditioner, often found deep within the pipes.
- Solution: One of the simplest solutions is to use a plunger or soda crystals to clear the blockage. Avoid using a plunger on concealed pipes, as it may dislodge them, potentially causing flooding and extensive water damage. If you encounter a pipe blockage you can’t handle, consider reaching out to Churchford Property Care for assistance.
- Problem: Leaks Neglecting even a minor leak could result in expensive repairs. Moisture damage can affect walls, floors, and paint. If you notice a leak or mold on your bathroom ceiling or floor, it needs to be addressed promptly.
- Solution: Start by using a rag to wipe the affected area. If the leak is coming from the ceiling, place a bucket underneath to catch the drips. This will buy you some time before you need to seek help from a professional.
- Problem: Dripping Taps One of the most irritating bathroom problems is a dripping tap. The constant noise can be exasperating.
- Solution: When unsure about fixing a leaking tap, it’s better to seek professional help rather than attempting a DIY fix that may cause further damage. Different tools are required depending on the type of tap. Refer to this article for a comprehensive guide on repairing a leaking tap on your own. Or, if you’re in Exeter, contact us, and we’ll handle it for you.
- Problem: A Sputtering Showerhead After a long day, it’s refreshing to step into the shower and relax. It can be frustrating if your showerhead only produces a light rainfall. If your showerhead is spraying water in different directions due to limescale buildup, it’s important to fix it before it worsens.
- Solution: The issue is usually caused by limescale accumulation. To fix this, detach the showerhead from the hose by unscrewing it and soak it in white vinegar. The duration of soaking depends on the severity of the buildup, so monitor it. After soaking, rinse the showerhead and reattach it before running it for a while.
- Problem: Broken Toilet Handles The toilet handle plays a crucial role in the operation of the tank. It’s essential to address this issue promptly. It’s truly inconvenient to visit someone’s home and discover that the toilet isn’t flushing properly due to a broken handle. Don’t let this issue occur in your own home.
- Solution: Some homeowners may need to replace a toilet handle, and there are methods to do it yourself. However, it can be challenging, so you may want to hire a professional plumber for assistance. If you’re in Exeter and need a toilet handle replacement, contact Churchford!
- Problem: General Limescale Limescale can quickly accumulate in areas with heavy water flow, and since the bathroom tends to have the most moisture, it’s essential to recognize and remove limescale buildup for optimal water flow and a cleaner appearance.
- Solution: Vinegar and lemon juice are effective natural agents for tackling limescale. To remove limescale around your taps, soak a tea towel in vinegar and wrap it around the tap. For bathroom taps and showerheads, lemon juice is an excellent descaling agent!
