Materials to Consider for Your Bathroom Remodel
Bathroom Remodel Jacksonville FL can be an exciting project that enhances the functionality of your home. But a successful bathroom remodel requires planning and budgeting well in advance to avoid costly mistakes.
One mistake to avoid is assuming that contractors are on the same page as you. Clearly communicating what you want to do can save time and money during the renovation process.
Ceramic tile is a time-tested material that comes in a huge array of shapes, sizes and colors. It’s hard, durable and very affordable compared to other materials. Ceramic is made of a combination of raw materials such as clay, silica and dyes that are mixed, formed or pressed and fired in a kiln. Different raw materials, procedures and firing temperatures create different ceramic tile subsets that can be used for flooring both indoors and outdoors or for wall and facade coverings.
Because of the vast amount of design options and color combinations, ceramic tile is a great choice for walls and floors in kitchens, entryways, bathrooms and decorative accents. It is also available in a variety of surface textures such as matte and glossy, which can add visual interest to rooms with otherwise plain surfaces.
Due to its durability, ceramic tile is a good option for areas that receive heavy traffic such as walkways or mudrooms. It’s also easy to maintain, with simple cleaning of swept or vacuumed floors, and occasional mopping with a mild soap and water solution. It’s a perfect flooring choice for homes with children or pets as it resists damage and is slip-resistant.
While ceramic is hard, it’s not as comfortable as resilient flooring for standing on bare feet for long periods of time. Its lack of cushion can cause aches in the back and legs, especially if someone has poor posture. Adding throw rugs by entrances and in the kitchen can soften the hardness of ceramic flooring and make it more comfortable to stand on.
Porcelain is a specific type of ceramic that’s produced using fine-grained porcelain clay and fired in high temperatures. This results in a dense, moisture-resistant tile with a low water absorption rate (0.5%).
Granite
Granite countertops are a beautiful way to add a touch of luxury to your bathroom remodel. This durable, natural stone is heat resistant and can stand up to moisture without being damaged or stained. It also comes in a wide variety of colors, so you can find a look that perfectly matches your bathroom’s design aesthetic.
A coarse-grained intrusive igneous rock, granite is comprised of silica, feldspar, micas, and amphiboles along with other trace minerals that create the different color variations available. The natural variation in appearance is one of the key advantages of granite for your bathroom countertops, as no two pieces of this stunning igneous rock will look exactly alike. This allows you to customize your bathroom with a unique look, elevating your space from a functional space to a visual masterpiece.
This luxurious natural stone is a wise investment for your home as it increases the resale value of your house and is a highly sought after feature by homebuyers. Additionally, granite is easy to care for and requires little maintenance beyond a regular wipe down with soap and water. Annual resealing helps to prevent stains and protect against bacteria and mold growth.
When paired with the right fixtures and materials, granite can complement many design styles. For example, it pairs well with modern bathrooms that incorporate chrome and brushed nickel for a sleek aesthetic, or with more industrial-styled bathrooms that feature exposed piping and brick. This durability and versatility makes granite a timeless choice for any bathroom remodel.
Copper
Copper has long been used in plumbing because it’s durable and flexible. It’s also naturally antimicrobial. Unlike stainless steel, which requires moisture to maintain its antimicrobial properties, copper acts on bacteria and germs without needing any water. Copper is often paired with bronze fixtures, which complement it nicely. These fixtures can be a great choice during a bathroom remodel because they’re easy to clean and durable.
If you’re planning to use copper pipe in your new bathroom, it’s important to note that copper isn’t as long-lasting as plastic piping, like PVC and PEX. However, if you follow all the recommended guidelines for installation (cleaning every joint and using plenty of flux), and don’t overheat your joints, you can enjoy a long lifespan from your copper pipes.
Another benefit of copper is that it’s unaffected by ultraviolet rays, which means it can be used outdoors for water supply needs. However, it isn’t a good option for a remodeled kitchen, because the acids in food can cause it to corrode over time.
If you’re installing copper pipes, be sure to use the type K pipe with the thickest wall thickness; this is typically used for underground water service lines. The thinner type M is commonly used in home renovations and can be easily soldered, but it isn’t a good idea for drain systems. Iron pipe is tough, but it corrodes quickly and must be replaced; low water pressure is often a sign of rust buildup inside the pipes. Also, be sure to use 90deg copper stubs that have one end closed for pressure testing. This will save you money and hassle down the road.
Solid Surface Materials
Solid surface materials have a lot to offer the bathroom remodel. They can offer seamless aesthetics, superior durability and maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. In addition, they can be made into a variety of shapes and colors to suit your design preferences.
Solid surfaces are manufactured from a combination of acrylic resins and natural minerals. They are non-porous and resist stains, mildew, mold and bacteria. This is a major advantage over tile, which often requires sealants, waxes and special cleansers to keep it looking good.
Bathrooms are high-moisture areas and solid surface wall panels can withstand splashes of water without leaking or getting damaged. Plus, they come in a wide range of designs and colors that can match counters, tubs, or showers to create a cohesive look in your bathroom remodel.
Another benefit of solid surface is that it can be sanded and refinished to remove scratches, dents or other imperfections, making it easier for you to keep your new shower looking great. Replacing tubs, showers, and sinks can be costly, so being able to restore your old ones to their original condition is a real money-saver.
Solid surface showers have a smooth surface that dampens sound, unlike traditional tile that can reverberate and echo, creating a noisy room. And unlike a ceramic tile bathroom, which can get cold and uncomfortable in the winter, a solid surface shower will always feel warm and inviting. Swanstone offers a variety of different shower patterns, including EverGrout and the Concrete series, that add style and sophistication to your new bathroom remodel. Plus, they can be thermoformed into unique shapes to make it easier for you to create a custom shower.
Concrete
Concrete is a common construction material that offers a wide range of design options for bathrooms. It’s easy to clean and highly durable, making it a great choice for busy family homes. Concrete is also available in a variety of colors and textures to complement any bathroom decor. Plus, unlike tiles, concrete shower floors have no grout lines to trap dirt and moisture. A simple wipe-down with mild soap and water is all it takes to keep a concrete shower looking new.
Concrete can also be used for walls, floor slabs and even the ceiling of a bathroom. It’s available in a variety of finishes and textures, from smooth polished surfaces to rustic textured looks. It’s also possible to add color to concrete using a stain or tint. You can even stamp patterns into concrete to create a unique pattern that will stand out in your bathroom.
One drawback to consider is that concrete is cold underfoot. Luckily, there are options for warming concrete surfaces in the bathroom, like radiant floor heating. This helps to make the bathroom a comfortable space to spend time in, especially for those with sensitive feet.
Another concern is that concrete can be slippery, particularly if it’s not sealed properly or has the wrong surface treatment. You can reduce the risk of slipping by using a slip-resistant additive or by sealing your concrete floors periodically. You can also use mats or rugs to protect high-traffic areas from slickness. Concrete can also be susceptible to staining from spilled chemicals, although this is less of a problem in the bathroom than it might be in other living spaces. Staining can be prevented by sweeping frequently and wiping down with a pH-neutral cleaner designed for concrete.
