Bathroom Restoration – How to Get Rid of Water Damage in Your Bathroom

Bathroom remodeling is a big project. It requires demolition, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical.
Converting a tub to a shower, moving the toilet or adding a storage closet are layout changes. Repainting the room and changing out fixtures and materials are style changes.
Planning ahead is important for a smooth remodel. It helps minimize workflow disruptions.
Plumbing
When water damage happens in your bathroom, the first step is usually to find and repair the source. This might include addressing a leaking toilet or clogged drain, or repairing damaged areas of drywall.
Wood floors can also be susceptible to moisture damage in the bathroom. Laminate floors in particular have real wood layers, which absorb water and can swell and warp.
A complete remodel of the bathroom involves rerouting plumbing and rewiring electrical, and sometimes involves stripping down to the studs to change the layout. This is generally referred to as a “gut renovation” and often requires permits and local-qualified builders.
Electrical
Electrical upgrades are often required in bathrooms to bring them up to current code. GFCI outlets that prevent electrocution are especially important.
New wiring will be needed for any major layout changes or if you decide to add an additional light fixture or switch. This work should be performed by a licensed Electrician.
Paint is a low priority for most bathroom renovations, but quality finishes protect against moisture, cleaning products, and mold and mildew. They can also add a nice design touch.
Flooring
For a true gut renovation, dropping walls and rerouting plumbing and electrical lines means stripping the space down to the studs. This is a time-consuming project that requires building service and may require permits to complete.
Moisture can rot plywood subfloors and loosen tiles, so it’s important to check for water damage before starting any work. Discoloration of tile grout and caulking is an early warning sign, as is a floor that feels soft or spongy.
Choose moisture-hardy flooring like tile, vinyl plank or laminate. Modern innovations in this category mimic the look of real stone or wood, too.
Walls
Whether from flooding or burst pipes, water damage to walls promotes mold and mildew growth. This encourages insects like cockroaches, and it can weaken the structure of your home.
Walls are built while the house is under construction, with a frame of studs and a top plate that ties them together. Drying walls quickly after water damage prevents irreversible damage. Water that saturates drywall moves up the surface of the wall by capillary action. This causes swelling, blistering and discoloration.
Fixtures
A fixture is a piece that’s permanently attached to the wall or floor, like a tub, toilet or sink. A fitting, on the other hand, can be removed without affecting the structure of the room.
Bathroom light fixtures offer a wide variety of striking designs and energy efficiency. Choose from wall sconces, pendants, flush mount and even chandeliers.
Make sure the light you choose for over a tub or shower is damp-area rated. This will protect it from moisture and condensation that can build up over time.
Lighting
Lighting is a great opportunity to add a touch of style to your bathroom. Layering lighting is a popular design strategy that allows you to alternate between bright task lighting and gentler ambient light.
Flush mount ceiling lights offer a clean, modern aesthetic and are ideal for smaller bathrooms. They pair well with vanity, sconce, and pendant lighting.
Accessories
A bathroom can still be a fun and whimsical space with the right accessories. Think colorful towels, fluffy bath mats and storage jars in a variety of styles. Add framed artwork or pictures that can withstand moisture and steam.
Even functional accessories can make a statement, like grab bars that provide safety for people of all ages and abilities. Consider a vanity shelf in reclaimed wood for a rustic vibe or glass shelves for a modern look.
Trim
Bathroom trim, like baseboards and window casing, is a must. These details protect walls from moisture and add a finished look. This black trim ties together the patterned floor tile and subway tiles on the walls.
If you’re staying with the same bathroom layout, try to reuse existing moldings. That will save on replacement costs. If your remodeling project involves dropping or rerouting plumbing or electrical, expect to pay for permits and other construction fees. They can add up to $1,000.
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