Thinking about remodeling your St. Louis bathroom? As tempting as doing small jobs here and there might be, it may not be the most cost-effective, or time-efficient approach. Instead, you should consider gutting your bathroom to its studs. A complete remodel of your St. Louis bathroom may seem like a costly endeavor upfront. However, it will increase the value of your property, and save you from the cumulative costs of multiple small jobs. Here are some benefits of remodeling your bathroom down to the studs.
What Does Remodeling A Bathroom “To the Studs” Mean?
Gutting your bathroom to the studs means stripping your existing bathroom down to its bare bones. This process exposes the wood framing, or “studs,” that make up your bathroom walls.
Your down-to-the-studs remodel means updating prominent features, including:
- Cabinets
- Drywall
- Electrical Systems
- Fixtures
- Insulation
- Plumbing
- Tiling
Prior to upgrading, your gutted bathroom will leave you with a blank canvas of exposed beams and unfinished flooring, free to customize to your liking.
It becomes a complete overhaul of the bathroom, allowing for radical changes in layout, plumbing and electrical configurations, and overall design!
Benefits of Gutting Your St. Louis Bathroom
Embarking on a bathroom remodel in your St. Louis home can be a transformative experience, especially when you decide to go all-in, down to the studs. While it may seem daunting, the benefits of a “down to the studs” remodel are immense, ranging from increased home value to enhanced functionality and aesthetics. Let’s look at the benefits of a full-scale bathroom revamp in your St. Louis residence.
Pinpoint Structural Damage
A complete bathroom remodel can be a valuable opportunity to uncover hidden issues that may not be visible on the surface, but could cause significant problems in the future.
For instance, bathrooms are naturally prone to water damage due to their function. Over time, leaks, spills, and condensation can lead to water seeping into the walls, floors, or cabinetry, leading to structural damage or mold growth. During a full remodel, professionals can identify these issues and ensure any water-damaged materials are removed and replaced, preventing further deterioration and potential health hazards from mold.
Moisture can also lead to rotten sub-flooring, which can be dangerous to structural stability. In a down-to-the-studs remodel, the entire floor is typically ripped out, revealing any rot or decay. This allows for the replacement of the damaged sections, ensuring the safety and longevity of your new bathroom.
Lastly, termites can cause severe structural damage to your home, often undetected until it’s too late. During a comprehensive remodel, licensed St. Louis contractors will expose the studs, allowing them to spot any signs of termite infestation early on.
More Cost and Time Effective Than A Bunch of Little Jobs
Undertaking a full, to-the-studs bathroom remodel, rather than piecemeal upgrades might seem counterproductive. However, it can actually save time, money, and stress in the long run.
When you remodel your bathroom all at once, you can coordinate all aspects of the project simultaneously. This means that plumbing, electrical, and construction work can be planned and executed in a logical and efficient order, avoiding duplication of effort or unnecessary delays.
For instance, if you decide to replace your tub after having already finished the walls, you may have to damage, and then repair the new walls to accommodate the tub.
Doing everything at once can also lead to cost savings. Contractors often offer better pricing for larger projects because they can schedule their labor more efficiently. Plus, you’ll only need to pay for one set of delivery and disposal fees.
Lastly, a comprehensive remodel allows for design consistency. You can choose fixtures, tiles, and colors that complement each other from the start, creating a cohesive look and feel with gradual upgrades, you run the risk of patchwork of styles, as design trends change over time.
Only Real Convenient Time to Move Plumbing Around
Let’s face it; it never seems like a convenient time to do plumbing work. A complete remodel is the perfect chance to move your fixtures and plumbing to create a floor plan that works for you!
Also, older homes with outdated plumbing may not meet current standards, or function efficiently. Outdated pipes can be prone to leaks, corrosion, and blockages, leading to water damage, or poor water pressure. A complete remodel gives you the chance to upgrade to modern, durable plumbing systems, improving functionality, and potentially saving you from costly repairs down the line.
Gives You A Blank Canvas for Creating Your Dream Bathroom
With a down-to-the-studs remodel, you can fully customize the space to fit your personal style and needs. It’s also an opportunity to incorporate the latest bathroom trends and innovations. By taking out walls and flooring, you can change the layout, spacing, lighting, and more. It gives you a chance to add large soaking tubs, walk-in showers, or smart bathroom technology.
Increases St. Louis Property Value
A remodeled bathroom can make a property more attractive to potential buyers. Many prospective homebuyers who are looking for turnkey homes in St. Louis want up-to-date bathrooms. It is one of the top criteria for people looking to purchase a new house.
Even if you don’t plan on moving, you still want your assets to appreciate over time. A new bathroom will add value to your home while enhancing your daily living.