If you’re thinking about a bathroom remodel — one that includes installing a new shower — you’re probably wondering if you can do it yourself, or if you ought to hire a contractor. Read on and we’ll detail the pros and cons of both options so that you can make the right decision.
DIY vs. Contractors
If you consider yourself handy, then there are a couple of major pros to doing DIY bathroom fixes:
- Save money on labor costs.
- Do the work on your own schedule, possibly minimizing disruption around the home.
Even though you’ll pay more for labor with a contractor, contractors have many advantages:
- They have all the necessary tools, whereas you may need to invest in tools that you might not need after the renovation.
- DIY projects — because you’re working on them in the evenings after work or on the weekends — normally take far longer than projects completed by a contractor.
- Are you prepared for contingencies should problems arise? Contractors are equipped to deal with all the problems that could be hidden behind your shower — plumbing that you didn’t know was leaking, subflooring that needs to be replaced, and so on.
- Good contractors guarantee a professional look, whereas an inexperienced DIYer might make a few small mistakes that stand out, such as oddly cut tiles, fixtures that aren’t level, or finishing details like trim that aren’t quite right.
Working with a Contractor
Working with a contractor is easy. Once you’ve found someone who is within your budget and does excellent work, then it is time to sit with the contractor and hash out deadlines, materials and other details. If there are certain aspects of the job that you can do yourself — like the demolition, painting, tile work and other finishing projects — then let your contractor know in order to save money on the project. You can also opt to buy your own shower and shower hardware at a discount rather than having the contractor make the purchases from his or her suppliers.
The Importance of Remodeling and Knowledgeable Contractors
There are many great reasons to replace a bathroom shower. Obviously, it’s time to remodel if the shower is broken or so worn that it is stained or difficult to clean. In addition, remodeling is the only way that you’ll be able to keep up with interior design trends — an important factor in maintaining a home’s value.
A contractor is one of your best assets when it comes to choosing design styles and themes. These professionals spend each day listening to the needs of their clients, which means that they know which styles are in high demand in your area.
Who Needs a Contractor?
When it comes to a bathroom remodel, almost everyone can benefit from the services of a contractor. The fact is, unless you happen to be a contractor yourself, then it’s quite likely that you’re unaware of all of the issues that could occur. Again, unless you are a contractor, you may not have the tools, experience and knowledge to get the professional results that a contractor can provide.
Where to Purchase Your Shower and Other Fixtures
It sometimes seems like the easiest way to buy a new shower and all the fixtures that go along with it is to shop at your local home improvement centers. However, this comes with a couple of major disadvantages: First, you’ll be locked in to paying retail prices. The second disadvantage is that home improvement centers have a very limited selection. At any given time, you’ll only find a small sampling of showers, tubs, faucets and fixtures.
The better option is to find an online retailer that can give you factory-direct savings and an immense selection. That is where we come in. At Modern Bathroom, you can save up to 70 percent on tubs, showers and other fixtures. Want to learn more? Call 1-888-777-1198 or contact us today.