Planning your dream bathroom remodel? As you envision that beautiful oasis with a roomy shower, brand-new fixtures, and shiny tile, why not invest a little time in creating an energy-efficient design? 

There are many benefits to having eco-friendly solutions in your bathroom, from helping the planet to keeping your utilities lower. At Beissel Renovation (a part of Beissel Window & Siding), we have seen the following energy-efficient selections are favorites among Twin Cities homeowners. You may wish to consider them for your remodel too!

1. Install Water-Saving Devices

The first place to start creating efficiencies in your bathroom? Water-saving devices, of course! Conserving water is a responsible element of modern living, and there are so many ways to incorporate this priority into your remodel. These days, you can craft a spa-like experience with the latest low-flow fixtures, reducing your water usage without sacrificing enjoyment, comfort, or luxury.

Low-Flow Sink

Low-flow faucets are a benefit in your bathroom sink, especially since so many of us have a habit of letting the water run while we wash our face or brush our teeth. This one choice can reduce how much water you use by thousands of liters per year.

Cozy Tub

If you desire a bathtub, there are ways to keep it efficient. A smaller tub is a clever approach, as it requires less water while still giving you a soothing place to soak.

Smart Shower

Low-flow showerheads can significantly lower your water use each year! In addition, consider how smart tech can serve you. Shower faucets with built-in regulation systems can help control water flow comfortably.

Water-Efficient Toilet

Another simple but practical option for lessening water consumption is an energy-efficient, low-flow toilet.

2. Maximize Efficient Lighting

There are many ways to illuminate your bathroom without the need for high electrical use. Look for energy-saving light fixtures and ways to bring in lots of natural lighting. (Remember, light-colored paints, tiles, and countertops also help make spaces brighter.)

LED Fixtures

A convenient and elegant solution, light fixtures that use LED bulbs create high levels of illumination—which is such a benefit in a bathroom. Plus, LED lights use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than old-style incandescent bulbs.

Large Windows

A remodel creates an opportunity to rethink your bathroom window, and it is well worth paying attention to this seemingly small detail because it can produce significant benefits. Choose a slim frame with a wide glass pane, or enlarge the opening in the wall to add a larger window that draws in more sunlight.

3. Look for Eco-Friendly Fixtures

A great way to lower your overall carbon footprint is to invest in sustainable materials made in environmentally friendly ways.

Long-Lasting Materials

Lean into resources that last for decades—such as bamboo, steel, cork, porcelain, and glass. These selections look lovely and endure for years. Try to avoid or at least reduce the choice of plywood, particleboard, pressed wood, and medium-density fiberboard, which wear down quickly and are made with unhealthy formaldehyde-based glues.

Recycled Products

Reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and repurposed tiles can add beautiful flair to your new bathroom while lowering waste. Many manufacturers highlight product lines made specifically with reused items. You could also browse places such as antique stores that might have previously loved materials you could incorporate into your bathroom. 

Low-VOC Paints

As you consider the color palette for your new bathroom, keep an eye out for eco-friendly paints and finishes. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints release fewer chemicals into the air, reducing the chances of respiratory issues. 

4. Leverage Renewable Energy

A modern, eco-conscious way to create an energy-saving bathroom is to harness the sun’s clean, renewable energy.

Solar Panels

Install solar panels on the roof to power lights and your water heater. This investment goes beyond your bathroom to benefit your entire house, and it makes you less dependent on the electric grid. Some systems are so efficient, you can even “sell” your unused solar energy to others.

Skylights

Another way to leverage the power of the sun is to add a skylight. It is a popular option for bathrooms that otherwise would not have a lot of natural lighting, such as in the center of your home. If you plan to have an enclosed washer-dryer room or a built-in closet adjacent to your new bath, a skylight will brighten those spaces without the need to even turn on a light fixture on most days.

5. Opt for Smart Ventilation Solutions

Removing excess moisture from the air in your bathroom is important, but old ventilation fans can be clunky, noisy, and inefficient. Choose modern replacements.

Efficient Exhaust Fans

Many bathroom fans come with motion-detector sensors so that they run only when the bathroom is occupied. Efficient fans also require less energy overall when in use. You can also put your fan on a timer so it turns off after a set amount of time. 

Small Plants

Why not incorporate small, attractive plants into the décor to freshen the air? With a spacious windowsill or built-in nook, you can let plants soak in excess moisture from showers. The touch of nature indoors is also soothing and stress-relieving. 

6. Invest in Regular Upkeep

Caring for your new bathroom on a consistent basis can do a lot to help you stay efficient because you will be more likely to spot any problems early.

Prompt Repairs

A common source of water waste in a home is leaky plumbing. Keep an eye on faucets, pipes beneath the sink, and the flooring around toilets, showers, and tubs. If you spot signs of a leak, no matter how small, have the issue repaired quickly.

Save Energy and Enjoy a Luxurious New Bathroom at the Same Time with Smart Remodeling Choices

Updating your bathroom offers a perfect opportunity to make your house more efficient. With creative design solutions, Beissel Renovation can bring your vision to life. Our approach to bathroom design combines flexibility, attention to detail, and practical guidance on materials to ensure you love your new bathroom. We look forward to serving you.

Ready to create the refreshing, spa-like bathroom of your dreams, but not willing to waste money doing it? It helps to be armed with all the facts before you begin, so you can avoid struggling to accommodate a suddenly increasing budget right in the middle of your remodel.

Here is the good news: With careful planning and clear expectations from the start, your renovation can give you a wonderfully luxurious bathroom, without the risk of overspending.

What Causes Overspending During a Bathroom Remodel?

The first step to prevent going over budget is to understand why budget problems arise during a remodel. While there may be unforeseen issues (which we will discuss below), most challenges can be prevented with some awareness of what a bathroom upgrade truly involves.

Below are five issues that our Angi’s Super Service award-winning team has found most likely to cause budget overruns, along with tips on how to avoid them.

1. Unrealistic Budget Planning and Overlooked Costs

This might surprise you, but many people begin their remodeling project without having a budget at all, which is not wise. Others have an amount in mind, but they underestimate the costs involved. 

When you fail to set a realistic budget, however, it can delay or stop the work mid-stream, tempt you to compromise by using cheap materials that do not last long, and create a lot of stress for you and your contractor.

How to set your initial budget:

• Start with clear, detailed estimates from a few different contractors so you have a reasonable idea of what things cost. 
• Add about one-third extra padding to your budget to account for the unexpected (such as an increase in material prices or a need to incorporate additional labor).
• Determine how you will pay for the project. Save up funds to cover the remodel. This reduces stress and eases cash flow.

2. Lack of Clear and Consistent Communication

Once you have settled on your must-have bathroom features and signed off on the estimate, the work can begin. At this stage, much will be determined by how well everyone communicates. 

Remember, mistakes are more likely to happen if there are misunderstandings, unasked or unanswered questions, or unclear expectations. Costly delays and a need to redo work or choose new materials can result.

How to avoid poor communication:

• Choose a remodeler that prioritizes communication. Our team designates a project manager to oversee your upgrades personally, which enhances communication. 
• Read estimates and contracts carefully so you know what to expect.
• Ask for clarification anytime! There are no dumb or silly questions when it comes to your remodel.

3. Changes in Direction Mid-Project

A common reason for going over budget is the temptation to change plans mid-stream. Remember, though, that a single change can require you to make other changes too, which may drive up costs substantially. 

That said, you may come up with new ideas as you watch your bathroom remodel unfold. Perhaps you really do want that additional sink or more storage space. You might also discover a bathroom design that you want to copy. Fresh concepts can be fun—just realize they are likely to impact your budget.

How to minimize mid-project changes:

• Carefully consider what you want most in your new bathroom, separating the must-haves from the nice-to-adds.
• Visit showrooms, watch remodeling shows, and peruse your contractor’s finished projects gallery to gain a clear vision for what would serve you best in your bathroom redesign. 
• Once the work begins, stick with the initial plan as much as you can.
• For last-minute changes, evaluate the cost of doing it mid-project versus in the future.

4. Unplanned Issues to Address

As your bathroom renovation progresses, you may have to make unexpected decisions. Your initial plans for shower or sink placement may require extra plumbing work. A product may be discontinued or unavailable due to shipping delays, requiring you to choose a pricier alternative.

In addition, it is not unusual for a project to become more complex, especially in an older house. For example, old electrical wiring or plumbing may require replacement for safety reasons or to meet code. A leak might be discovered—common in aging bathrooms—and floor repairs could be needed.

How to make room for the unexpected:

• Hire a professional to thoroughly inspect the electrical system, plumbing, and floor so you can catch issues upfront.
• Set aside additional funds (from ten to thirty percent above your budget) to cover potential repairs.
• Be prepared to compromise. Fixing rotten floorboards or leaky pipes may not be as fun as installing smart house features—but add-ons can always be installed at a later date.

5. DIY Mistakes to Fix

Many homeowners find themselves tempted to save on costs by doing some of their remodeling tasks themselves. We can understand the initiative, but unless you are skilled at renovation work, doing it yourself can produce costly problems. 

DIY errors can lead to buying additional materials, redoing work, unwanted delays, added labor, and even damage that now has to be fixed. No one wants that!

What to do instead:

• Be realistic about what you can and cannot do on your own.
• Save complex tasks that require permits—such as electrical work and plumbing—to licensed, insured professionals.
• Confer with your contractor to see whether doing small tasks, such as painting, would save you money. (It might be a hassle to do it yourself.)

Create Your Dream Bathroom—Within Your Budget—by Planning Ahead and Working with the Right Team

The best way to keep your bathroom upgrades on time and in budget is to plan carefully upfront. Choose a remodeling team that guides you through the implications of your design choices, provides a clear estimate, and helps you know what to expect from the start.

At Beissel Renovation (a part of Beissel Window & Siding), we focus on thorough planning and honest conversations to ensure our work is on budget, on time, and as expected. Reach out to our team to see how a beautiful bathroom remodel can transform your home lifestyle!

Bathrooms in aging houses may have their charm but can also feel worn out and in need of a refresh. It takes a thoughtful approach to meet building codes, retain the home’s original style, and enjoy updated features. 

When renovating old bathrooms, homeowners can find themselves facing unexpected complexities. Before you gut a vintage bathroom, consider the following:

What It Means to “Grandfather In” a Bathroom

Renovating a dated bathroom does not automatically mean updating everything. If the room was originally constructed in alignment with building codes, plumbing and wiring may often stay in place, depending on factors such as these: 

Current Working Condition

Vintage fixtures may often be retained if they are in good condition. However, water heaters, pipes, drainage systems, and electrical wiring frequently need replacement, which means meeting today’s building codes. 

Historic Preservation Requirements

If a house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places or a local registry, there may be more leniency provided to original bathroom features to preserve their historical integrity.

Building Permits and Inspections

Before starting your bathroom remodel, consult with city and county building departments, as well as national and local historic preservation committees. These authorities can aid you in determining what elements of your bathroom may be grandfathered in, and what may need to be brought up to code. Choose a contractor who has experience with updating bathrooms in older homes.

Updating an Aged Bathroom Can Be Complex

Once renovation begins, situations can arise that affect the scope of your remodeling plans. What turns up may require a new approach that involves a building code inspection.

Pulling Up Floor Tiles Is Complex

Replacing old flooring may not be as simple as prying it up. Historically, floor tiles were installed atop a thick base of concrete reinforced with wire mesh. Concrete may have been poured between floor joists. Removing this base is labor-intensive. 

Unexpected Delays May Occur

You may discover gas or radiator pipes buried in concrete floor or walls—sometimes still connected. Gas lines may need to be disconnected before renovation continues.

Decisions in One Area Can Affect Others

In some cases, new flooring can be placed atop the old tiles. This choice, however, raises the floor height and requires doors, frames, and thresholds to be adjusted.

Hidden Repair Needs Can Arise

During renovation, what lies beneath floors and behind walls gets exposed, bringing hidden issues to light. It is not unusual to find brittle subfloors or rotted wood floorboards in need of replacement. In addition, many old medicine cabinets featured built-in slots for disposing of razor blades. Rusty metal and other debris might be hidden inside walls, slowing down demolition.

Removing Old Wall Tiles May Involve a Permit

In older homes, wall tiles were embedded in thick layers of mortar or cement board. Often, the only way to remove them is to tear down the entire wall surface—which triggers an inspection to ensure code compliance. If you do open walls, it can be an opportunity to add insulation to your walls, which will help make your bathroom more comfortable.

Upgrades to Electrical and Plumbing Are Common

Dedicated circuits from the electrical panel to switches and outlets make it possible to enjoy modern spa-like amenities like heated floors and vanity lighting. This requires the replacement of old wiring. Aging plumbing may need to be torn out. These changes involve permits and inspections. If you are keeping the layout the same or at least not moving the locations of utilities, you might be able to keep your toilet in the same place even though its location might not meet current code requirements. It is worthwhile to talk to experts to determine how to proceed with a project.

The Work Can Get Noisy

Bathroom demolition is a messy job. It is common to find thick layers of concrete and tile in floors and walls, which cannot be broken up without heavy-duty demolition tools and noisy jackhammers that generate a lot of dust and debris. Cast-iron tubs, displayed in many old houses, are often too heavy to carry out and must be broken up with a sledgehammer. 

Structural Changes Trigger Inspections and Code Compliance

Making major structural changes, such as enlarging a bathroom, requires permits and inspections. This process ensures the work is done properly and safely. 

Ventilation May Involve Updating

Once an inspection is required for any other part of the bathroom, it is common for ventilation to be checked too. So, you may have to install a vented fan or a new window to meet codes concerning airflow.

Maximizing Your Available Space Can Be Helpful

Old bathrooms tend to be compact, so unless you are completely restructuring the space to enlarge it, smart storage solutions are key. Instead of bulky framed closets, use built-in cabinetry recessed into wall cavities to create seamless, space-saving storage. Upgrades like these may not require building code compliance, yet they are highly satisfying and add tremendously to your lifestyle.

Living Without a Bathroom During Renovation

Older houses, especially smaller ones, tend to have just a single bathroom. This can be particularly challenging during remodeling—which can take several weeks, or even months if the floor’s substructure is damaged or if you are receiving major upgrades to plumbing and electrical systems. Doing the labor as well as undergoing any necessary inspections takes time.

If you are undergoing a comprehensive renovation, it is beneficial to plan ahead for living without your bathroom. Some options can include:

• Renting a portable toilet. This option is convenient, especially if you prefer to stay in your home while it is remodeled.
• Booking an Airbnb. Many people enjoy the staycation feel of renting a space that they can make theirs during renovation.
• Staying with friends or family. Being away from your house during the messiest stages—demolition, inspections, and drywall installation—can give you peace of mind and make it easier for your contractors to do their work.

Envision Your Beautiful New Bathroom, Remodeled in Style by Minnesota’s Local Experts

Updating an old bathroom may be a complex project, but it is so rewarding—especially when you select the right team to assist you through the process. At Beissel Renovation, we welcome your questions and listen to your goals as we provide you with detailed, caring workmanship. The result is a beautiful, functional bathroom that honors your home’s history while meeting modern needs.

Learn more about our bathroom remodeling services, and envision your bathroom transformed with a contemporary spa-like style.