by James Richardson

Created on: July 17, 2010   Last Updated: July 19, 2010

One way to get dramatic, cost-effective results in a do-it-yourself home improvement project is to start with the smallest room in your house – the bathroom. There is no need to be a professional handyman or designer to get professional looking results.

Updating your faucet:

When it comes to plumbing, most homeowners cringe at the prospect of doing the work themselves. However, updating a faucet is a fairly simple endeavor. Determine which type of faucet is needed and what the spread is on the handles. You will need this information when you browse a collection at your local home center. A wide variety of options are available, from traditional to modern and in a variety of finishes.

Once you choose the appropriate configuration in the style of your choice, check the box to make sure you have the tools available that you will need for the installation process. Easy step-by-step instructions are available with most popular faucets. Simply follow the manufacturer’s directions to remove your old faucet and install the new one. In addition, popular websites such as DoItYourself.com can offer additional insight and assistance.

Change your showerhead:

Changing out a showerhead is even a more simple process than changing out the faucet. Most all designs are universal in their installation. A low-flow showerhead can be chosen to help reduce the amount of water that you use when showering. Once you have chosen the showerhead of choice, use a wrench to remove the old and install the new. The entire change-out process should take less than 15 minutes.

Update your vanity:

In addition to purchasing and replacing your existing vanity, a vanity cabinet can be updated by priming and painting the existing one. To complete the change, first remove the doors and drawers and take off the current hardware. The new hardware can be reused or new hardware can be purchased if changes to the finishes are being done. Apply a coat of primer to the cabinet, doors and drawers. Once dry, paint the vanity with your choice of paint color. An indoor/outdoor spray paint can be used. Make sure that everything that is not wanted to be painted has been taped off and covered.

Accessories:

Changing out towel bars, towel rings, robe hooks, toilet paper holders, soap and/or toothbrush holders and shower rods can be achieved with relative ease. Once the existing accessories are removed, similar ones can be installed in the same location. Be sure to make sure that screws either go into a wall stud or that sheetrock anchors are used. New accessories can be added or locations can be changed if so desired. The time required to complete the process will vary with the number of accessories that you plan to change out.

Completing the renovations and updates to your bathroom will not only save you money, but will give you the experience and confidence to move on to bigger projects in your home.

Learn more about this author, James Richardson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.