After the kitchen, our bathroom is one of the most commonly remodeled and renovated space in the house. No doubt, our bathroom deserves some extra love and you might also be thinking of having a new beautiful remodeled bathroom. Once you have made up your mind, you should know that bathroom remodeling is a daunting process and hiring the right contractor is crucial.

Finding a reliable, reputed, and competent bathroom remodeling and renovation contractor can be nerve-racking. If you’re getting ready to start such a project, here’s a quick checklist of what to do. By following some guidelines, you can find the best contractor to do the job and ensure that your project is a pleasant experience from start to finish.

• Do your own research

You need to have a proper understanding of both, your project and the contractor you’re hiring. Find an accredited and insured contractor who has prior experience with your type of project. You may ask for testimonials and work samples. You should clearly know what end result you want and make a realistic budget of what you’re prepared to spend.

• Remember contractors aren’t always bathroom designers

This is a common myth. Not all bathroom remodeling contractors are designers and most of them will expect you to come up with a design plan, which they can execute. However, there are some bathroom remodeling contractors who provide all services, from the initial design plan, sourcing the material to the final nail that is hammered into the wall. Therefore, it is necessary to know all these things before hiring them.

• Purchase your own Decorations

While some contractors will source the materials for the remodel, some will recommend stores or brands according to the project. Generally, bathroom remodeling contractors don’t mind if you buy your own decoratives, such as towel bars, light fixtures, mirror, etc. You can save money by purchasing your own decorative flourishes but not necessarily on basic construction materials. Keep in mind that contractors get his/her commission for every item they purchase.

• It may take longer than expected

Always remember, no matter what time frame contractor has promised you, you must be ready for an extended work schedule to finish the project. Bathroom remodeling is a detailed process and you cannot expect an absolute guarantee of when work will be completed. So, better be prepared for numerous things that could come up in the process of the work.

• Lowest bid may not always be the best pick

After doing your homework in regards to how much your remodel project typically costs, seek multiple bids. The estimate should include materials price, as well as a price for the estimated number of labor hours. Although, it is important to note that price should not be your final decision maker. Also, don’t forget to take everything in writing.

The bathroom remodeling is a 5 steps process, which includes the design stage, the demolition stage, roughing-in stage, the installation stage, and the final stage. In the first design stage, the project plan is laid down which includes bathroom remodel design. Next, in the demolition stage, depending upon the level of remodeling, demolition will take place. In the third, that is, roughing-in stage, the plumbers and electricians will “rough-in” their work. After this, in the fourth stage, shower/bath/sink/toilet etc. is installed. Finally, in the last, walls are closed up and painted, bathroom flooring is laid, and bathroom cabinets are put in. The process may look daunting but the right bathroom remodeling and renovation contractor can help make your remodeling experience a positive one and ensure that you love your new bathroom.