Bathroom
Addition
For homeowners and buyers alike, bathrooms are a priority. Many buyers won't
even consider a home with only one bath. But the resale payoff you'll get from
adding a bath will depend on how many baths you end up with -- a second bath
adds more resale value than a third. A half bath (toilet and sink only) is a
nice extra when located near the living room, family room, or kitchen. But
bedroom areas call for a full bath with a shower, tub, or both. |
Cost vs Value
Click here to
get the average Job cost,
Resale value and Cost recouped in a metropolitan area. |
Design Tips:
| (floor plan) |
When designing the floor plan, put the
shower, tub, and toilet in separate spaces if possible. This allows more than
one person to use the bathroom at the same time. |
| (tub/shower) |
If you have room for a large tub or shower
but not both, keep in mind that most buyers prefer a shower - as long as
there's a tub somewhere else in the house. Otherwise, consider a shower/tub
combination. |
| (space) |
If the new bath is small, add a large mirror
or window to give it a more open feeling. And choose a shower enclosure of
clear glass or plastic to keep the room from "closing in." |
| (storage) |
Build in plenty of counter and storage space,
which helps keep surface areas clutter-free. Look for potential storage areas
above the toilet, below the sink, between the shower or tub and wall. If you
have to choose between a second sink or more counter space, go for the
additional counter space. |
| (lighting) |
Poor lighting will make a windowless bath
feel like a cave. If your new bathroom is in the center of the house, with no
windows, consider adding a skylight to let in natural light. Make sure you have
plenty of illumination around the mirror. |
| (details) |
From cabinet knobs and towel bars to paint
and wallpaper, use details that match your new bath to the overall style of
your home. For example, an ultra-modern bathroom can look out of place in a
traditional home. |
| (tile) |
Use tile to add visual interest. A backsplash
of colorful or patterned tile, bordering countertops or the tub or shower, can
make a dramatic difference. |
| (fixtures) |
Exposed to bathroom moisture, some metals
tarnish more than others -- something to keep in mind when you choose your
fixtures. Also, bathrooms are damp places, so it's best to use ceramic tile,
vinyl, or laminate flooring. Carpet and wood don't wear well in a bath. |
| (appliances) |
Consider low-flow toilets and showerheads.
They're better for the environment and your water bill. |
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