Remodeling costs can quickly escalate when you purchase items intended for the bathroom, and when the work is done by contractors. Look outside of the bathroom aisle of the local home improvement store for creative do-it-yourself remodeling ideas that are attractive and inexpensive.
Remodeling costs can quickly escalate when you purchase items intended for the bathroom, and when the work is done by contractors. Look outside of the bathroom aisle of the local home improvement store for creative do-it-yourself remodeling ideas that are attractive and inexpensive.
Paint
Never underestimate the "Wow!" power of paint. For a cheap do-it-yourself project, paint delivers the most impact for the least cost. Changing the color of the walls will change the mood of the bathroom and highlight colors in fixtures, tiles and hardware.
Fabric
Cover the walls with fabric as a cheap substitute for wallpaper. The selections are greater, and it is easier to obtain a designer look by using the same or complementing fabrics in other areas of the bathroom. Ideas for fabric include: window curtains, a valance for the shower curtain, a decorative shower curtain for use with a waterproof liner, accents on coordinating towels, and shelf liners.
Polished Rainbow Rock
Instead of paying for costly ceramic tiles for the shower, walls around the tub, or bathroom floor, substitute polished rainbow rock. Rainbow rock pebbles are the size of jelly beans and are commonly used as a surface treatment for concrete walkways and as attractive loose fill around decks. The rock is a mix of colors and is found in the landscaping department of major home improvement stores. With what you will save, you may decide to splurge on edging tiles for that designer touch.
Do all the same preparation as you would for ceramic tiles. Gently work the polished stones into the thinset mortar. When the mortar is dry, add the grout in the same manner as you would with ceramic tiles. Add a clear coat sealant for easy cleaning of the grout and to maintain a wet rock appearance.
Reglazing Kits
Freshen up dull or scratched tubs, shower walls and sinks with refinishing or reglazing kits. The do-it-yourself kits consist of an epoxy coating that you brush or spray onto surfaces. Most kits on the store shelves are in almond or white. Other colors are available if you purchase them from a major paint retailer who can mix the colors for you. The key to a professional bathroom remodeling appearance is in the preparation. Follow manufacturer directions to prepare the surfaces and don't skip any steps.
Vanities
Attractive bathroom cabinet bases start at around $200 and can run into a couple of thousand dollars, depending on whether or not the countertop and sink are included. Typically, these vanities mimic furniture, so shop thrift stores for attractive dressers and bed stands to use as a cheap bathroom vanity. Depending upon your area and the store, you should be able to find a lovely piece from $40 to $200.
You will have to shorten any center drawers to accommodate the under-sink plumbing; or choose a piece with center shelves. Use oil-based paints to create a faux marble top, or use the epoxy from a bathroom refinishing kit for a top that is waterproof and easy to clean.
