Twin Cities summers bring the ideal window for bathroom renovations, lower contractor demand than spring, drier conditions for tile and finish work, and the perfect opportunity to address ventilation and humidity before fall. Whether you’re updating a primary bath in Summit Hill or finishing a basement level in Edina, the upgrades that deliver the most value combine functional improvement with a design that makes the space feel cooler, lighter, and purposefully designed.

Why Summer Is the Right Time to Renovate Your Bathroom

Spring renovation season in the Twin Cities is predictably busy, with contractors booked weeks out and material lead times stretched. By early June, scheduling availability opens up and project timelines become more predictable. For bathroom renovations specifically, summer humidity levels in St. Paul and Minneapolis are moderate enough to allow tile adhesive and grout to cure properly without the damp delays common in April and May. Projects that start in June or July can be completed before the fall, when heating season begins, and owners spend more time indoors, noticing everything they wish they’d updated.

Ventilation First: The Renovation Move That Pays for Itself

Minnesota bathrooms are vulnerable to humidity damage in both directions, high indoor humidity in summer and condensation during cold months. Upgrading the exhaust fan before or during a renovation prevents moisture from undoing the rest of your investment. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends at least 1 CFM per square foot for bathrooms up to 100 square feet. A quiet, high-efficiency fan with humidity sensing runs automatically when moisture levels rise, preventing mold formation behind new tile or on fresh drywall. In older St. Paul bungalows and Minneapolis foursquares where bathroom venting was often undersized or non-existent, this upgrade alone can transform long-term comfort and air quality.

Cool-Toned Design for Summer Spa Spaces

The most satisfying bathroom renovations in summer can create a shift toward calm. Cool-toned palettes accomplish this without heavy design effort:

• Large-format porcelain in soft gray or cloud white makes smaller bathrooms seem larger and cooler
• Frameless glass shower enclosures open the space and eliminate the visual weight of traditional framed units
• Floating vanities with under-mount LED lighting create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere that is increasingly popular for primary bathroom renovations in Mendota Heights and West St. Paul.

None of these require expanding the footprint. The impact is in material and finish selection, which is where design expertise matters most.

Humidity Control Beyond the Fan

For primary baths with soaking tubs or steam showers, mechanical ventilation alone isn’t enough. Consider moisture-resistant wallboard or tile board behind shower surrounds, and ensure that any wainscot tile installation extends high enough to protect the splash zone. Heated floor systems are a luxury addition that also serves a functional purpose in Minnesota winters, but the electrical and tile work is far more cost-effective to address during a full renovation than as a standalone project. In-floor radiant heat under large-format porcelain tile is one of the most requested upgrades in Twin Cities master bath remodels.

Small Changes, High Impact: What Moves the Needle

Not every bathroom renovation requires full demolition. For bathrooms that are structurally sound but visually dated, targeted upgrades deliver a strong return on time and investment:

• Replacing a vanity top and undermount sink with a quartz or quartzite surface updates the entire room’s feel without touching plumbing’s footprint
• New shower tile over a properly prepared substrate transforms the primary visual focal point
• Recessed niches in shower walls replace wire shelving that clutters the space and collects grime
• Swapping a builder-grade mirror for a framed or back-lit option is a two-hour change with an outsized visual result

Get Your Bathroom Project Planned This Summer

Beissel Renovation, a family-owned and operated company, works with St. Paul and Minneapolis homeowners to design and build bathrooms that are functional, durable, and crafted to last. Our customers consistently reference the planning process as the part that makes the project go smoothly. Start your project conversation at today and schedule a call to discuss the project and fit for your Twin Cities home. We look forward to helping your dream bathroom retreat come to life.

Successful bathroom remodeling in the Twin Cities depends on evaluating your home’s hidden plumbing early. Understanding pipe material, layout limitations, water pressure requirements, and local building codes prevents unexpected costs and ensures your new space functions reliably for years.

Many homeowners in the Twin Cities begin their remodeling journey by selecting beautiful tile and modern vanities. While the aesthetic choices are rewarding, the success of your project rests on the plumbing infrastructure hidden behind your walls. In neighborhoods ranging from West St. Paul to Mendota Heights, homes often feature a mix of historic charm and aging mechanical systems. Addressing plumbing concerns at the start of your renovation prevents mid-project surprises and ensures that your investment is built on a solid foundation. This blog demystifies many of the technical elements of bathroom plumbing to help you make informed decisions for your home.

Evaluating the Condition of Existing Pipes

Before you finalize your design, you must understand the state of your current piping. Many older homes still utilize original galvanized steel or aging copper supply lines. Galvanized pipes are prone to internal corrosion over time, which restricts water flow and can lead to pinhole leaks. If your house was built several decades ago, a thorough inspection of the stack and supply lines is a critical first step. We treat every client’s house with the same respect we would show our own, so we prioritize identifying these potential failures before they are covered by new finishes. Replacing outdated pipes during the demolition phase is much more affordable than repairing a leak after the remodel is complete.

The Reality of Moving Plumbing Fixtures

Relocating a toilet, shower, or sink often represents the most significant labor cost in a bathroom renovation. Plumbing relies on gravity and specific venting requirements to function correctly. In many Eagan or Inver Grove Heights homes, the direction of floor joists determines how easily a drain line can be moved. If your desired layout requires cutting through structural joists or trenching into a concrete basement floor, the complexity and price of the project will increase. Our designated project managers work through these logistical details during the design phase to ensure your estimate is accurate. Clear communication about these structural constraints helps you decide if a new layout is worth the additional investment.

Managing Water Pressure and Modern Fixture Demands

Modern luxury fixtures like rainfall showerheads and multi-jet systems require a higher volume of water than the standard faucets found in older Twin Cities properties. Before purchasing high-end fixtures, it is vital to test your home’s static water pressure. If your pressure is too low, these fixtures will not perform as intended. Conversely, excessively high pressure can damage modern valves and cause disruptive noise in your pipes. Additionally, upgrading to a larger shower usually requires increasing the drain size from 1.5 inches to 2 inches to meet modern standards. Ensuring your plumbing can handle the demands of new technology is a hallmark of the end-to-end excellence we bring to every interior project.

Navigating Minnesota Plumbing Codes and Venting

Venting is a crucial yet often overlooked component of a functional bathroom. Every drain requires an intake of air to prevent sewer gases from entering your home and to ensure smooth drainage. Local building codes in the Twin Cities are very specific regarding vent placement and pipe sizing. If you are adding a double vanity where a single sink once stood, the venting system must be modified to accommodate the increased load. As a Lead-Safe EPA Certified firm and a member of the NKBA, we ensure every project adheres to the strict Minnesota Plumbing Code. Compliance is not just about passing an official inspection; it is about protecting the long-term health and safety of your family.

Balancing Water Heater Capacity and Efficiency

A major bathroom overhaul often places a new strain on your existing water heating system. If you are installing a large soaking tub, a standard 40-gallon tank may be insufficient to fill it without running cold. We often discuss the transition to high-efficiency water heaters during the finalization stage of our process. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for nearly 20 percent of the average home’s energy use. Upgrading to a tankless system can provide endless hot water for your new primary suite and can reduce monthly utility costs. Planning for your hot water needs early ensures that your new bathroom provides the luxury experience you expect.

Protecting Your Investment with Quality Valves

The internal components of your plumbing system are just as important as the external fixtures. High-quality pressure-balancing valves are essential for maintaining a consistent water temperature when other appliances are running. These valves prevent the sudden temperature shifts that occur when someone starts the dishwasher or flushes a toilet elsewhere in the house. We also emphasize the importance of high-grade waterproofing systems behind your tile to protect the wall cavity from moisture. Our focus on these minute technical details is a result of our relationship-driven approach to remodeling. We build bathrooms designed to last through decades of daily use without requiring intrusive repairs or maintenance.

Planning a bathroom renovation involves more than just picking out finishes; it requires a partner who understands the unique mechanical needs of Twin Cities homes. At Beissel Renovation, we bring 75 years of trusted expertise and local legacy to every project we touch. We are here to listen to your goals and provide the personal attention your home deserves.

Schedule a call to discuss the project and fit. Let our team guide you through our proven four-step process to create a beautiful, functional space that adds lasting value to your house.

When to Prioritize the Primary Suite

• Daily Comfort: You use this space every single day, so a shower swap or a complete layout change could significantly improve your daily rhythm.
• Storage Solutions: Many older Twin Cities homes suffer from insufficient storage in the main suite, which we can resolve through custom cabinetry and smart design.
• Long-Term Value: A high-quality primary bath remodel is a major selling point and could help increase the overall value of a home.

The Benefits of Updating a Guest Bathroom

• Hospitality: Providing a clean, modern space for guests shows a high level of care for your visitors.
• Budget Flexibility: Since guest bathrooms often have less square footage, your budget for premium materials like Cambria quartz or natural stone can go much further.
• Quick Impact: A guest bath refresh can often be completed more quickly, giving you a “win” in your home improvement journey without a lengthy disruption.

Navigating the Renovation Process with Confidence

• Timeline and Disruption: A guest bathroom often involves a shorter execution phase because the square footage is smaller and the plumbing layout is usually simpler. If you are concerned about the length of time contractors will be in your house, starting with the guest bath can mean a quicker win.
• Daily Routine Management: Renovating a primary bathroom means your personal sanctuary will be out of commission for several weeks. By understanding the execution stage, you can decide if your current lifestyle allows for that level of shift in your morning routine.
• Budgetary Allocation: During the design and estimating stage, you will see how much further your budget goes in a smaller guest space. This helps you decide if you want to create one showstopper guest bathroom now or save those resources for a more extensive primary suite overhaul later.

A Quick Prioritization Framework

1. Which space causes the most daily friction? If a lack of storage in your primary bathroom makes every morning stressful, that project likely offers the highest return on your personal well-being.
2. What is your upcoming hosting schedule? If you have major family gatherings or out-of-town guests arriving in six months, prioritizing the guest bathroom ensures your home is ready for company.
3. Are you planning for “life stage” changes? If you are beginning to think about aging in place, the primary bathroom is the most critical area to address. Adding safety features like a zero-entry shower or improved lighting is often a higher priority than aesthetic updates in a guest space.

Partnering with a Trusted Minneapolis Team

Tired of struggling to see properly in your house’s dimly lit bathrooms? Outdated spaces often have limited natural lighting due to old-fashioned designs and minimal windows. Fortunately, modern windows offer ample options to make your bathrooms bright, airy, and refreshing, while still maintaining a much-needed sense of privacy.

Whether you are updating an aging bath or installing a new one, these approaches to choosing new windows can add valuable, inviting sunlight to your reimagined space.

Windows That Are Perfect for Creating Bright Bathrooms

Whether your bathroom is spacious or cozy in size, you can still find several ways to bring in added natural light with new windows. Consider these options as you develop your remodeling design:

Install Skylights and Solar Tubes

One way to bring in the sun’s rays without giving up privacy is to use options that passersby cannot easily peer into. Skylights and solar tubes are a great example of this, because they bring in so much daylight. They are especially practical in small, top-floor bathrooms as well as any rooms that lack exterior walls. 

Select Large Windows

When you plan a bathroom remodel or include a new bathroom in a larger renovation, consider investing in windows with expansive panes. The more glass, the greater the natural light, right? The great news is, there are so many options to choose from, such as:

• Picture windows — While they do not open and will not provide fresh air, picture windows invite in lots of sunlight.
• Sliders — These come with two or more sashes for ample illumination from outdoors, and they can be customized to fit perfectly in any size bathroom.They also provide additional ventilation.
• Casements — If wall space is limited, tall and narrow casement windows can provide a practical solution that brightens your room and provides more ventilation.

Position Windows Higher on Walls

To balance strong natural illumination with a sense of secluded relaxation, consider installing windows high on walls. In this position, they do not provide a view into your house, but they still allow great lighting. Plus, they can be relatively simple to add to an existing space during the remodeling process.

Practical options for high-wall placement include:

• Transoms — These horizontal, stationary windows can be installed above existing doors and window systems to make the room brighter.
• Awning windows — Since they crank open from the bottom, awning windows are ideal for high locations, where they can invite in fresh air as well as daylight.

Choose Privacy Glass

Maintaining a sense of privacy is a must for most homeowners. That said, your bathroom does not need to be dim and dark to deliver it. Today’s windows come with a variety of styles of glass, so why not choose panes that promote seclusion?

Frosted glass obscures the view into your bathroom from the outside, while permitting the sun’s rays to enter in. Also, there are decorative glass designs (such as stained glass) that can make it hard to see inside. These options preserve privacy, and they also look attractive, adding to your bath’s spa-like feel.

Include a Window Inside the Shower Stall

During a bathroom remodel, you have the opportunity to design the space as creatively as you like. One option that many homeowners enjoy is the addition of a window inside the shower, where it can be especially beneficial to have more natural lighting and ventilation. Privacy glass and high placement help to discreetly conceal the shower.

Other Tips to Make the Most of Your Bathroom Window Lighting

Once you have installed new windows, you can take extra steps to maximize the additional daylight you now enjoy. We recommend considering these tips and techniques, so your bathroom remains as bright as possible:

Add More Mirrors and Reflective Fixtures

When reflective surfaces are placed strategically on walls, the sunlight entering your bathroom is multiplied, causing the space to feel bright and airy. 

• Mirrors — Large mirrors placed opposite windows reflect natural light around the room. You can also create that effect with multiple small mirrors.
• Reflective surfaces — Consider choosing cabinets with mirrored doors to increase lighting in the room.
• Glossy tiles — Shiny floor and wall tiles in light colors help to reflect illumination.
• Pale paint palette — Choose soft, light paint finishes that reflect the sun’s rays.

Use Minimal Window Treatments

If you install expansive windows, then cover them up with heavy curtains or dark blinds, it gets harder to enjoy the natural lighting you have invested in. To ensure your bathroom still feels private, look for sheer shades or light-filtering blinds that allow in sun and obscure what can be seen from outside. 

Put in Glass Shower Walls

A final tip is to take steps to make your shower brighter. A great way to do so is to replace old, thick stall walls and bulky shower curtains with a glass enclosure or an open, walk-in shower. This allows light to bounce around the entire room, and if privacy is still a concern, frosted glass provides a good compromise.

Redesign Your Bathroom and Enjoy a Bright, Spa-Like Space for Relaxation

Upgrading the windows in your bathroom both brings in wonderful natural lighting and increases ventilation—and there is no need to sacrifice privacy. Achieving the spa-like feel you desire is within your reach when every detail, including windows, is carefully planned.

See how bathroom remodeling is made simple with the help of our experienced team at Beissel Renovation (a part of Beissel Window & Siding, a family owned and operated company that has been renovating Twin Cities homes since 1950). We are here to serve you!

Refreshing your bathroom tile is a great way to add modern amenities to your home, and it is also a wonderful opportunity to bring in personalized style. Your bath’s new look can be as unique as you can envision—especially when you consider the many tile colors, shapes, and textures that await your creative vision.

To get you started on your design planning, our team has pulled together some of our favorite approaches. Read on and dream of how your new bathroom tile can look!

Incorporate Unique Patterns

There is no reason to stick with traditional patterns. Expert design teams (like ours) enjoy bringing a creative flair to your bathroom’s look. If you can envision it, we can deliver it!

Create Curves

Tiles come in more than square, rigid looks, so why not embrace organic curves in your design? Look for penny rounds to incorporate into the shower floor, or install wavy-edged tiles in blue hues to draw attention to the ocean-like, scalloped patterns they deliver.

Go Geometric

Repeated patterns within your tiled walls and floors are a lovely way to integrate visual style and elegance. Geometric flower designs are one popular choice, especially since they can be created with as many colors as you can envision.

Build a Checkerboard

You might think of checkerboard style as black and white—a traditional look that certainly has its merits. Still, you can be inventive with this look too, by using bright colors and bold patterns. This design is effective on flooring, as well as on walls.

Be Thoughtful About Color Schemes

Remodeling a bathroom is a significant commitment, one you want to enjoy using with for many years. Consider your tile selection carefully because you are not likely to change it out anytime soon. Select colors you can embrace with joy.

Carry Through a Single Shade

Known as “color drenching,” this trend in interior design is bold and dramatic, and can be perfect in small spaces like bathrooms. Whether you choose a bright or muted hue, make sure it is one you like, because it will be spread across the entire space in stylish cohesion.

Choose Classic Neutrals

For a soothing design, consider neutral tones. Soft beiges, earthy light browns, and off-whites never go out of style, and these shades of tile can easily be blended to create a cohesive look. Match them with similarly colored fixtures, or bring in bold colors in small doses.

Select Hues You Love

If you have a set of colors you gravitate toward consistently, your new bathroom is a great place to leverage them! Select that bold red or cheery pink. Indulge in that rich emerald green or Southwestern teal. As long as you are confident you will enjoy that color scheme for a long time, let your bathroom reflect it.

Accentuate with Creativity

To give your bathroom added personalization, look for accents and designs that truly stand out. We have listed a few suggestions below, but there are many more, and our designers can help you find a specialized approach that draws attention to your new tile.

Get Inventive with Subway Tile

The distinctive rectangular shape of subway tile may seem simple, but it is also highly versatile. You are not limited to laying it horizontally. Try a vertical pattern along one wall for variety, set the tiles into an alternating grid design, or use hexagonally shaped subway tiles for added dimension.

Find Wood-Like Tiles

If the look of authentic wood is appealing, why not use it? Of course, real wood and moisture do not mix, but there are tiles that mimic this natural feel nicely. Wood-like tiles come with raised patterns, grains, and textures that deliver a grounded, organic style.

Add Trim Elements

Create a visually intriguing, layered look by setting off areas of tiled walls with decorative trim features. Some product lines have porcelain trim pieces so you can have a coordinated style. You could also use materials like stone tile accents to generate customized trims.

Carefully Select the Grout

Surprisingly, a small material like grout can have a significant impact on your tile’s overall visual appeal. Choose a grout color that is similar or complementary to your tile for a cohesive, soothing look—or find a contrasting shade that stands out against your tile for a bolder design.

Mirror a Specific Architectural Style

Bathroom spaces can be uniquely different than the rest of your house, or they can blend in smoothly. Whatever you do, think about ways to use your new tile to create a specific, recognizable style.

Mid-Century Modern

For homeowners who enjoy clean lines and dramatic minimalism, mid-century modern tile patterns and color palettes are worth considering. Execute this look with sleek subway tiles in soft, natural hues.

Japandi

Japandi blends organic Japanese simplicity and practical Scandinavian functionality for a style that is streamlined and soothing. The look leverages gentle earthy tones, restrained natural imagery, and cozy, grounded elements that are both decorative and minimalistic.

Moroccan Zellige

Crafted, painted and glazed by hand, Moroccan Zellige tiles are made with a centuries-old process that gives them a distinctive and artistic style. They come in many colors and sizes, making it simple to achieve a one-of-a-kind look for your bath.

Luxurious Marble

If you desire an elegant, customized look, marble provides so many unique grains and colors! Generate sleek, streamlined luxury by installing one type and shade of marble everywhere, or incorporate beveled tiles and dark grains to give the space dramatic visual interest. 

Refresh Your Bath Spaces with Gorgeous, Customized Tile from Our Expert Design Team

Ready to upgrade your bathroom with memorable new tiling? Whether your goal is to update a portion of the room or the entire space, a wonderful transformation awaits you!

As a part of Beissel Window & Siding, a family owned and operated company that has been updating Twin Cities homes since 1950, our team at Beissel Renovation provides Twin Cites Metro homeowners with creative, beautiful, long-lasting remodeling solutions. View some of our finished bathroom renovations for inspiration on your new tile installation!

One of the primary decisions to make as you plan your bathroom renovation is whether you prefer a standalone shower, a traditional or walk-in tub, or a combination shower-tub. After all, these fixtures determine the space and layout of the entire room, so they are important to get right. 

Fortunately, you do not need to struggle on your own as you make this decision. At Beissel Renovation, our design consultation process makes it easy for you to choose. To get you started, here are some key considerations to weigh as you think about the design of your new bath space:

1. How Many Baths Do You Have, and What Features Do They Include?

While it is tempting to focus on exciting aspects of remodeling such as picking out tiles, countertops, and sinks, a bathroom upgrade involves so much more than fixtures. It can affect your entire house, so begin by considering all your bathrooms—even if you are not updating all of them.

For homes with a single bathroom, having every option available to you and your guests is helpful. A full bath includes both a bathtub and a shower, either as a combined unit or as separate units if the room is spacious enough to allow for it. 

On the other hand, if you have two or more bathrooms, then you have more freedom to make one of them fit your ideal vision. That might mean adding a shower, with all the bells and whistles. If you like soaking but do not want to climb over a traditional tub’s curb, you might like a walk-in bathtub (which includes a “door” to ease entering). Remember, the more bathrooms you have, the easier it is to make each one unique.

2. What Amount of Available Space Do You Have to Work With?

Most homeowners prefer a roomy atmosphere that invites relaxation. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, you might consider expanding it with an addition to increase its square footage. If enlarging it is not an option, evaluate how to streamline the space you have.

A walk-in shower (which has no curb or glass door) takes up less square footage than a setup with a tub. If you wish to include a tub, a combination unit may be better than a standalone bath and separate shower. Walk-in tubs take up more room, so they are not the best fit for smaller areas.

3. How Will Your Selection Impact the Sale of Your Home?

Resale value is a key decision factor in any remodeling you undertake. For bathrooms, the number of baths, their locations, and their features should all figure into your design decisions. 

Why? Because houses that have at least one bathtub tend to perform better when placed on the market. Having a bathtub can help your house appeal to a greater variety of potential homebuyers, especially if your neighborhood tends to attract families.

In other words, weigh your preferences and immediate needs with what will appeal to others long-term. That way, you can position yourself to have an easier experience finding the ideal buyer when it comes time to sell. This is just one of the many design decisions that our experts at Beissel Renovation are here to help you make.

4. What Level of Accessibility Do You Require?

A bathroom can be one of the most accommodating spaces in a house—if you plan for it, of course. Think about how you are likely to use the room now, and how you might use it in the future. 

For those who wish to age in place or who have physical challenges, choose features that are convenient and safe. Walk-in showers with slip-free flooring make it simple to bathe with less risk of falling. They are also convenient for those in wheelchairs to use, because there is no curb at foot level to try to navigate.

Traditional tubs have high sides that can be challenging to climb over, especially for those with mobility issues. Their slick bottoms can be slippery. Walk-in tubs come with handrails and nonslip flooring to help prevent falls. They have a built-in bench for practical, comfortable seating, as well as the option of hydrotherapy jets to soothe achy muscles and arthritis.

5. Who Will Use the Bathroom Most Often?

We have already touched on those who may be aging in place, but what about those who have family members of different ages, all living under one roof? 

A traditional tub is usually most convenient for bathing young children, while teens may prefer the convenience of a shower as they get ready for school. Older adults may prefer the luxury of a large shower, even if that means forgoing a tub. If you entertain guests frequently, a combination unit will meet just about everyone’s needs. 

Added tip: If you have pets that you plan to bathe indoors, a traditional tub will be best for that purpose.

6. Which Is Easier to Maintain?

Walk-in showers have no glass door to wipe down, though this means water could spill onto the floor if you are not careful. Traditional and walk-in tubs have nooks and crannies that may be hard to reach, while tiled combination shower units have grout to deal with. If cleaning is a concern, look for shower units that feature smooth fiberglass walls instead of individual tiles.

Design Your Ideal Bathroom with Beissel Renovation

There are many decisions to weigh as you remodel your bathroom, but the good news is, there is no need to go it alone. At Beissel Renovation, our design consultation process makes it simple for you to plan your new bathroom. We would be delighted to speak with you about showers, tubs, and any other features you are considering. Contact us for a free consultation and discover the joys of a freshly remodeled bathroom.

Picturing the bathroom of your dreams as you remodel? Likely, you are envisioning a space with spa-like indulgences and attractive details that catch the eye, and rightly so. You deserve to love your new bathroom!

Of course, you have a budget in mind too, and it is important to balance the materials you select with affordability. Below, you will find some helpful suggestions for crafting elegance at a reasonable cost. This list is reasonable, yet luxurious—a wonderful mix of style and practicality.

Budget-Friendly Bathroom Features That Look and Feel Elegant

With thoughtful decisions, you can incorporate many well-appointed fixtures without breaking the bank. 

Install a Customizable Showerhead

Ready to indulge yourself during your daily routine? A good place to begin is with a spacious shower stall. A wide rain showerhead is gentle and relaxing, while a handheld shower wand with massaging spray settings can treat those sore muscles with ease.

Place a Bench in Your Shower

For a simple touch of indulgence, a stylish, water-resistant shower bench makes it easy to sit back and relax during your daily routine. It is also helpful for those who may need the extra comfort, such as those who are aging in place, have physical challenges, or are recovering from surgery.

Indulge All the Senses

Spa-like bathrooms tie every detail together to create a rich experience of sensory delight. Houseplants in eye-catching pots bring in a natural touch and freshen the air. Scented candles and essential oil diffusers offer peaceful aromas. Radiant heated flooring feels cozy underfoot, while built-in speakers can bring in soothing music.

Select a Soft Color Scheme

A gentle, airy color scheme featuring eggshell white, robin’s blue, or seafoam green can produce a spa-like environment without requiring a big investment. Hang large mirrors and install polished tile to help reflect light around the space.

Choose Tiles and Countertops Carefully

Some stone-based materials can be costly. In contrast, white subway tiles are a popular, economical choice, and they reflect light nicely. You can enhance their style by using black or gray grout, which typically costs the same as white grout while adding visual interest. 

A savvy choice of countertop material can help your remodeling space catch attention too. Some stones are pricey, but if a natural stone appeals to you, Carrera marble is often a more affordable option

Highlight Small, Well-Chosen Accents

Tiny details can add extra charm to your bathroom without adding significantly to remodeling costs. A lovely linen shower curtain can be an attractive, affordable alternative to a pricier glass door. Box-store vanities can be spruced up by replacing their hardware with specialty or vintage faucets and handles. To add visual interest, install a small, unique tile design in front of the sink or on one shower wall.

Add Touchless Chrome Faucets

There are many choices when it comes to selecting bathroom hardware. Of these, chrome fixtures tend to be the most affordable, and they complement many styles, but there are other finishes available that might work better with existing hardware in your home.

Add to the high-end atmosphere of your bathroom by selecting touchless features, such as faucets and toilets, that work by waving your fingers to activate them. Hands-free options feel upscale and can minimize messiness, helping the space stay tidy.

Find a Fashionable Sink

One of the most visible elements of your bathroom is the vanity. If you desire a touch of extra luxury, splurging on a stylish option—such as a colored glass or bronze vessel sink that stands atop the counter—can be worth the investment.

Look for Unique Light Fixtures

Updating light fixtures can infuse fresh life into your remodel. This is an area where you can get creative! Consider installing a small decorative chandelier or colorful glass pendant light to draw the eye. Pair the look with a variety of vanity lights, wall sconces, and mounted lights to ensure the bathroom is bright enough for everyday self-care.

Shop for Vintage Tubs

Another way to create a glamorous feel for your bathroom, even on a budget, is to look for an attractive centerpiece like an antique bathtub. Upscale new tubs can be costly, but vintage versions can often be purchased from local online stores, flea markets, thrift stores, or salvage shops. Have the tub professionally reglazed to bring it back to its original beauty.

Leverage Repurposed Materials

Reclaimed materials and repurposed furnishings can add a memorable touch to any room, including the bathroom. Create a custom design (that does not come at high-end prices) by looking for distinctive style pieces such as Victorian-style framed mirrors and decorative sconces. Match the style of a glamorous magazine design by repainting, waterproofing, and retrofitting an attractive antique cabinet or dresser to hold a new drop-in sink.

Upscale the Look of Toiletries

A simple yet effective way to create a sense of indulgence is to make use of aesthetically pleasing toiletry holders. Display eye-catching soap dishes with carved soaps. Use antique glass jars to store small items and designer bottles to hold hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Invest in a heated towel rack to make your bathroom feel even more luxuriouss.

Ensure There Is Ample Storage Space

When countertops are cluttered, your bathroom will look less than ideal. Streamline the room’s appearance by eliminating anything you do not need. Plan for abundant storage throughout the bathroom, using attractive baskets, mount hooks, decorative shelves, and furniture with drawers.

Enjoy a Soothing, Spa-Like New Bathroom Remodel from Our Design Experts

Since your bathroom is one of the most important spaces in your home, it is well worth planning its redesign carefully so you can fully enjoy the feel of luxury at every turn. 

At Beissel Renovation, we concentrate on thoughtful design planning to help you receive all the little details that matters to you. Discover how a new bathroom remodel can give you the luxurious, comforting, refreshed space you have been dreaming of. We look forward to serving you!

Updating your old bathroom is an exciting project—one that is well worth getting just right. With so many options to consider, however, the remodeling process can feel overwhelming, which can lead to costly missteps if you are not careful. 

How do you ensure your bathroom remodel achieves all your goals—without losing time or spending more than you should? To help you stay on track, our renovation pros have put together a list of things to be aware of as you renovate your bathroom.

Seven Ways a Bathroom Remodel Can Go Amiss

Avoiding renovation mistakes begins with pinpointing and tackling challenging issues head-on. These seven areas are the most common problems we see arise in bathroom remodels—and our suggested solutions: 

1. Failing to Plan Thoroughly

While your bathroom may seem like a small space, it contains many important elements—from plumbing and electrical systems to finish materials and spa-like splurges, and everything in between. If you are not careful, you could overlook details that can lead to delays, extra labor, and other issues.

What to do:

Consider all the details before beginning the renovation. Peruse websites, magazines, and showrooms to gather ideas—then work with an experienced design team (like ours) to clarify your remodeling plan.

2. Overlooking Budget

A well-defined budget guides the design choices you make throughout your bathroom upgrades. It allows you to identify what you want to spend more on, as well as areas where you can compromise. If the budget is unrealistic, you could end up overspending on some areas and underspending on others—which can lead to a remodel you are not happy with.

What to do:

Set a budget ahead of the project’s launch. Include additional funds to cover unexpected expenses or surprise repairs—ten to thirty percent extra is a reasonable cushion.

3. Forgetting About a Practical, Accessible Layout

Giving your bathroom a visual makeover can be thrilling—but its functional design matters greatly too. If the bathroom is laid out inefficiently or lacks accessible features, it may be hard to use and enjoy the space fully.

What to do:

Think about the room’s floor plan, fixture layout, and maneuverability. Choose features that give you ample room to move and enjoy the space. Consider installing accessible features such as slip-resistant flooring, grab bars, and lip-free doorways for those who may wish to age in place.

4. Neglecting Storage Space

Insufficient storage can limit how comfortable it is to use your bathroom. Cluttered counters are unsightly, while a lack of cabinets and shelves can mean having to walk down the hall to get towels and other supplies. 

What to do:

Take time to consider how you use your bathroom and what you would like to store within it. A well-designed bathroom makes it easy to have everything you need within convenient reach. Wall hooks, towel racks, cosmetics drawers, medicine cabinets, and shelves are all good options—and tailored cabinetry can be built to customize your storage options.

5. Ignoring Good Lighting and Ventilation

Aging bathrooms often suffer from a lack of airflow and adequate lighting due to issues such as a broken window, lack of a fan, or an old-fashioned light that does not illuminate everything evenly. Insufficient lighting makes it hard to prepare yourself for your day, while poor ventilation leads to a humid space susceptible to moisture damage.

What to do:

Incorporate windows, fans, and light fixtures into your design plans. Strategically place sconces and lights around the room and consider task lighting to make it simple to apply makeup or shave. Install proper vents to encourage airflow and reduce condensation.

6. Choosing the Wrong Materials and Finishes

As you envision the possibilities for your new bathroom, you may find yourself looking at many attractive materials—but not all of them may be practical for the damp environment. Luxury photos of bathrooms steeped in wood and natural stone may look beautiful, but materials like these are less resistant to moisture and bathroom cleansers. Also, lower-end products may save on costs initially, but they may wear down quicker, requiring you to make repairs or replacements sooner than you would like.

What to do:

Work closely with your remodeling team to weigh the pros and cons of every fixture that will be installed in your new bathroom. Being well informed can help you to make the best choices for you and your home. Focus your splurges on features that you can enjoy for many years—such as cozy, heated flooring, or ceramics with a specialty finish for long-lasting performance.

7. Doing It Yourself

It can be tempting to take on home renovations yourself, but keep in mind—a bathroom remodel is a complex project that can be hard to complete on your own. While painting and hanging towel racks may be doable, other tasks, such as laying tile, are labor-intensive and difficult. If you lack experience, the results can look unprofessional and lackluster—and may lead to a costly redo.

What to do:

Find a bathroom renovation crew that you can count on to do the work right the first time. Let them do what they are experts at doing—so you can relax and enjoy your beautiful, luxurious new bathroom!

Prevent Bathroom Remodeling Mishaps with Pro Planning and Execution from Beissel Renovation

A lovely, well-designed bathroom can truly invigorate your home and make it easier to pamper yourself. New bathrooms also appeal to buyers, meaning they are a practical investment to increase your house’s overall value. 

Of course, it pays to do the work right—from planning to execution—so you achieve superior results. At Beissel Renovation, a part of Beissel Window & Siding, we provide a seamless design-build approach that streamlines the remodeling process. Discover how a new bathroom remodel from our team can bring a wonderful, spa-like experience to your daily life.

Frustrated by a bathroom that feels constantly damp? While a little moisture is common in any bath space, too much humidity can be uncomfortable—and a precursor to costly damage too. Mold, mildew, wood rot, and other problems can all arise with excess moisture, and that added humidity sure feels unpleasant as well.

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the moisture in your bathroom, so you can enjoy a healthy, cozy, fully-functional space. Here are several approaches to help you solve the issue:

8 Solutions to Minimize Excess Moisture in Your Bathroom

A combination of smart habits, regular upkeep, and moisture-repellant materials all work together to help reduce excessive dampness.

1. Invest in an Exhaust Fan

One of the most practical methods to manage moisture is to ensure your bathroom has good ventilation. Older homes in the Twin Cities often lack exhaust fans or have one that performs poorly. Updating to a new fan with a higher capacity is a good place to start. In the Twin Cities region, our climate can be fairly humid, so consider installing a humidity-sensing fan that turns on and off automatically. You can also add a timer to your fan so that it turns off after a set amount of time, which makes it even easier to use your fan.

For best results, turn on your fan while you bathe and then keep it running for 20–30 minutes afterward to pull the extra moisture out of the air. Clean it regularly to remove dust and replace its air filter as needed.

2. Use a Dehumidifier

Another handy tool to consider is a dehumidifier, which pulls air into it and collects the excess moisture in a reservoir that can be emptied regularly. There are systems that work for your entire house if needed, or you can use a portable dehumidifier strictly in the bath area. 

Look for a unit that collects up to 40 pints of water daily for small rooms, or 40-60 pints for medium-sized baths. Select a product that uses HEPA filters, has an automatic shut-off, and lights up when the reservoir is full.

3. Open Windows and Doors

When the weather is mild in the Twin Cities and you are not running your heat or air-conditioning, why not open the windows? Allowing outdoor and indoor air to circulate is refreshing, and it also quickens the evaporation process.

Opening the bathroom door also encourages humid air to move out of the bath, which can enable moisture to dry up a little faster.

4. Hang Live Plants

Green plants add a touch of beauty and natural elegance to any bathroom, and the right ones can help dehumidify the space. Choose plants that are known to thrive on humidity, as they will absorb moisture and help create crisp, fresh air. A few types that do this well are aloe vera, bamboo, cactus, English ivy, Boston fern, orchids, and begonias.

Note: Not all plants can reduce humidity—some increase it instead. Double check with your florist or garden center to be sure the plants you choose will not add excess moisture to the air.

5. Wipe Down Wet Surfaces

Bathing, shaving, and other self-care tasks can leave little puddles of water in sinks and drains. Simply taking a moment to wipe down (or squeegee) these surfaces helps any remaining dampness to evaporate more quickly. This, in turn, impedes the growth of mold and mildew, and lessens the risks of slipping on slick flooring.

6. Take Short, Cool Showers

Updating your bathroom routine can make it easier to maintain a comfortable, dry space. Shorter showers and baths reduce the amount of steam in the air. Keeping water temperatures cooler also reduces steam and is more energy efficient too. Hang wet clothes and damp towels outside the bathroom instead of inside it.

7. Perform Maintenance and Make Repairs

When your bathroom fixtures leak or are in disrepair, issues like mold growth, mildewed grout, rotted flooring, and more can crop up. It is vital to fix these problems and stay proactive in maintaining your bathroom to keep moisture damage from taking root. If you notice wet pipes or defective faucets, have them checked and fixed as soon as possible.

In addition, repair any damaged seals around windows, doors, the shower stall, and the tub. Replace missing or old caulking to ensure a watertight seal. These simple methods of upkeep lessen moisture’s damaging effects and help your bathroom to stay in excellent shape longer.

8. Remodel to Address Larger Concerns

A little humidity in your home from time to time can be annoying, but when the problem persists, it may be a sign of lingering moisture damage that should be addressed. After all, too much dampness may lead to issues such as structural rot, which can be costly to repair.

Signs that a renovation may be in order include peeling paint, crumbling plaster, broken pipes, a sinking floor underneath the shower, tub, or toilet—or simply an older layout that no longer meets your needs. If you are considering a renovation, these tips can help your bathroom be less humid:

• Choose replacement windows that increase ventilation, such as awning, casement, or double-hung windows. These window types are easy to operate and to leave open for more air-flow.
• Update window frames to non-porous materials that resist moisture, such as vinyl or fiberglass instead of wood. 
• Replace tile and grouting with seamless shower panels to reduce the places that mold can begin to grow.
• Remove any materials that capture moisture (like carpets!), and update them with other options that are more water-resistant.

Achieve Your Dream Bathroom with a Beautiful, Efficient Remodel Crafted by the Experts

A comfortable, humidity-free bathroom is worth pursuing. Taking steps today to create your dream space is a smart way to give yourself years of enjoyment—without having to worry about the problems caused by moisture damage.

At Beissel Renovation, our team takes pride in creating lovely, practical bathroom designs that delight you! As a part of Beissel Window & Siding, we draw on decades of expertise to ensure your home remodeling suits your vision and your goals. Discover how we can solve your humidity concerns and transform your bathroom into an inviting, soothing oasis.