Skip to main content

Bathroom Makeover: Installing Wallpaper {Day 17}

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

If you follow along with me on Instagram, then you may have seen a few sneak peeks of the next phase of the Bathroom Remodel… the WALLPAPER!  Tile is done (well mostly) and after 17 days of cutting, grouting, tiling, I never want to touch another tile again in my life.  Now we know that’s not true.  But in all honesty, it was a big job.  Totally doable for any skill level, but just time consuming!

As I move forward with this Bathroom Makeover in 30 Days Challenge, the walls are now adorned with pure beautiful.

Take a look…

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Can we say dynamic?!  What do you think??

The evolution of this bathroom has been quite interesting.  Every moment I think I am leaning one direction, I end up going the opposite way.  Such as life, I guess.  Originally my plan was to go basic and neutral for the base elements, and then add pops of color and interest with layers.  Before tiling, I painted over the previous yellow paint color with a neutral greige. Once the white tile went up, it felt boring.  It wasn’t a reflection of my design style or the home we’ve created.  It needed something…  Then I found the wallpaper.

This wallpaper by Serena and Lily gave the perfect amount of eye-catching intrigue without overwhelming the space.  There is still a lot of whites + neutrals, and with the other elements I have planned, it’s going to be my next favorite space.

So on to the install…

I’ve wallpapered areas in my home before including the powder room and my son’s bedroom.  Both were one wall projects and didn’t involve a lot of cutting.  When working with a tight space that has lots of nooks, crannies, and crevices, it can get a bit tricky.

Differently from the other walls I’ve used wallpaper on, I never before used a wallpaper paste.  A discussion started a few weeks back on a picture I shared on Instagram about using wallpaper primer.  An expert chimed in strongly suggesting using wallpaper primer before wallpapering, ” You can install wallpaper without primer if you have smooth walls, however, it’s going to be a pain later when when you want to remove it. If you prime your walls, the wallpaper will roll down in long flowing strips. If you don’t prime, the drywall comes off with the wallpaper in 6+ years.”  My thought upon this input… USE WALLPAPER PRIMER.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

I chose this clear wallpaper primer at Lowe’s and the gallon was about $16.  I used the smallest amount so a little goes a long way.  I wish they sold it in smaller amounts, but o well.

I poured the primer into a paint tray and using a roller, I  applied it to the walls.  You really only need a thin coat because it is watery.  I found after a few minutes some of the primer dripping down the wall, so I took a cloth and dabbed it so it wouldn’t harden.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

In about 3 hours, it was dry and ready to wallpaper.  I waited till the next morning to start though…

Supplies for Wallpapering

  • Wallpaper
  • Wallpaper Paste
  • Smoothing Tool
  • Sharp Razor or blade
  • Other handy tools for wallpapering are: a tape measure, a laser level, a pencil

How-To Wallpaper

I started off at one edge of the wall and worked my way around the room from that point. Because I am planning on adding moulding at the top of the wall, and a tile trim piece at the bottom, measuring exactly wasn’t needed – phew!  I measured about the length of the wall and cut my wallpaper with a scissor. Then I layed it on the floor so I could apply the paste.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Unlike with my previous wallpaper experiences, this time I applied the wallpaper paste to the back of the wallpaper as indicated on the instructions that came with the wallpaper.  In the past, I put the paste directly on the wall, then adhered the paper.  I wanted to see if this other method worked better (and in the end, it did!).  Why?  I felt that by adding the paste to the back of the wallpaper instead of applying the paste to the wall there resulted in less air bubbles and air pockets.  The paper was easier to smooth out which avoided the paper from getting creased or damaged.

I applied a nice coating of wallpaper paste using an inexpensive paint brush.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

2

Then I let the paper sit about 3 minutes (as the instructions stated) and aligned it on the wall.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Once I positioned it where I thought it look best, I used a long level (sorry no picture) and made sure it was vertically plumb.  Once I had the paper in the right place, I used the smoothing tool to smooth out the paper from air bubbles and air pockets. It’s best to start in the center of the paper and work your way out to the edges.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Once the paper was smooth, it was time to move on to the next piece.  I cut another piece of wallpaper length and then aligned it edge to edge with the previous piece.  Never overlap the wallpaper.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Once it was smoothed out, I took a lint-free rag and cleaned off the paste from the seams. One reason that I love this paper is that is easily cleanable.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

This damask looking wallpaper was really nice to work with and the quality was very good, but I was slightly unhappy with the design repeat when I went to align the edges. The design didn’t match exactly like it should and I was bummed about it.  I tried my best to line up the design to make it look right.  Thankfully the pattern is so busy that you don’t really notice.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Once I had the 2 sheets up, I was feeling really confident in my work.  I continued around the room and then I came to my first obstacle…  the corner and the door.

For this area, I used the old method of applying the paste to the wall because I was afraid if I didn’t, the paste would get on everything – door, tile, etc.   To start, I measured and trimmed the paper leaving lots of extra on the edges. Then I put it in place and trimmed again until the size of the paper fit the exact space.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

I had a few other obstacles to overcome like the outlets, the switches, and the light.  I typically use a scissor or a sharp blade to cut the paper.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

Before I knew it, a few hours later, all the walls were covered and the wallpapering process was complete.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

A recap of the before & in-progress now.

Bathroom Remodel: before & progress / Check out this DIY bathroom makeover

Whats up next?

The moulding at the top + the tile trim around the shower & walls…

Bathroom Remodel: DIY bathroom makeover in 30 days. This phase of the project is installing wallpaper. Check out the details + the before & after NOW

As you can see, this new bathroom space is surely NOT going to be boring.  I can’t wait to finish it up and finally use it.  Even though there are lots of little things still to do, I am thrilled with the direction that it is taking.

The installation of this dynamic wallpaper took about 5 hours on one day

Follow along on this bathroom remodel with these other posts
Plan of Action {Day 1}
Demo: Removal + Installation of the Tub & Walls {Day 2-4}
How-To Tile + Grout the Bathroom Walls {Day 5-16}
Installing Wallpaper {Day 17}
Adding a Tile Accent Border {Day 18}
Creating a Tiled Niche {Day 19 + 20}

Coming up (still to do)
Details: Moulding, Lighting, Accessories
Finishing Touches
Bathroom Remodel Reveal

{Day 17} Wallpaper – Complete!  13 more days to go…

This post is sponsored by Lowe’s, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.  I am thrilled (and a bit nervous) about tackling this project, but very excited to be partnering with Lowe’s on creating an entirely new bathroom space.  I’d love for you to follow along on this new project!

Check out more of my posts on wallpapering

[Frames Wallpaper in my son’s bedroom]How To Wallpaper: tips + tricks to wallpaper like a pro!

[Amy Butler Wallpaper in my Powder Room]How-To Hang Wallpaper with paste

Bathroom Makeover: DIY Tips & Tricks on How-To Tile + Grout a Bathroom {Day 5-16}

It’s Day 5-16 for the next phase of this Bathroom Makeover in 30 Days Challenge.

The tile is done.  I could not be more happy.  It wasn’t difficult, but it took a long time.  Rightfully so since this 5′ x 8′ space is almost completely covered in tile.

Before this I had only tiled small areas – a fireplace surround, a kitchen backsplash, and a bathroom backsplash (and a few floors but that was using luxury vinyl tile). But this was a mega job.  I was nervous and I got overwhelmed at times.  BUT it’s complete and it feels so good.  And looks good too.  I’m still no expert, but I surely have some tips to share.  Take a look at the bathroom now…

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

And just to give you a reminder of what it looked like before…

Bathroom before makeover

Before I got started, I put together a Plan of Action and that has kept me on track when picking and choosing the new elements + items for the bathroom.

I’ll admit though, even though it is a small space finalizing a design direction was tricky.  My #1 objective was to make it functional (since it’s the hall / kids bath) and classic (subway tile), but I also wanted to bring the unexpected (wallpaper).  I searched the tile aisle of Lowe’s many times before finding a tile that I loved…

Walking the aisles of Lowe's searching for the right tile

In the end, I chose to move forward with 3 x 6 white subway tile and 13″ x 13″ natural stone herringbone mosaic

White subway tile - the most classic, most beautiful (an one of the least expensive) tile you can get!

Lowes Herringbone Carrera Marble

Once the removal & installation of the tub + cement board walls were complete, it was time to tile!   To start, I chose the center point of the space – the back wall – and worked my way out and around the room.  I marked out a level line at the base of the tile so I the tile would be as plumb as possible.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

When starting the first row, it is important to keep the tile about 1/8 – 1/4″ above the tub deck (I used shims so the tile would not slide down).  Instead of filling this gap with typical grout, use an expandable sealant to repel the water.

Tip to Know: Subway tile is the only tile that has a slight bevel, so there is no need to add a spacing/ joint between tiles. If you added a joint (using a spacer) than the joints would be very large.  The pro for using subway tile is they stack one on top of the other.  The con for using subway tile is you have no wiggle room.  If a tile is off (when using spacers), you can cheat on the next tile or the next row, but not with subway since ever tile butts next to each other.

I continued my way around the base of the tub and installed the tile on the plumb line.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Once the first row was finished and the tile was cured, I continued my way up the wall starting at the back.

Somehow, somewhere I got this crazy-zany idea to introduce an accent tile.  Yes gorgeous, but should an inexperienced person (me) be acting like a pro on the Day 2 of tiling?  I asked myself late one evening.  Well there was no going back…

Once I figured out how large I wanted my accent tile inlay to be, I marked lines on the wall using a level.  Then to outline the accent tile, I used a 1/2″ x 6″ pencil liner.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

The two sides of the accent tile nearly killed me because of all the cuts, but I kept saying to myself, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

But then, the sides were done, the pencil tile was added to the top and the bling-bling accent tile was ready to be installed!

 

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

For the accent tile, I found the midpoint of the box and laid the first tile which is 13″ x 13″ natural stone herringbone mosaic (on a mesh sheet backing). Then I added the adjacent tiles.  For this part, the Mister and I worked fast because we wanted to avoid the tiles from sliding down (gravity was not our friend on this day).

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

FYI: I tried taking as many pictures along the way, but to be honest, my hands were messy and filled with mortar.  All the pictures were taken with my iphone and much of the project was tackled in the evening (with poor lighting).

[details on adhering the tile to the wall below]

 

Once the walls of the tub were complete, I continued the tile about 3′ up on the main walls of the bathroom.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Before & After of the sink area…

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

 

What’s to Come

Once the subway tile is complete, I will be wallpapering the remaining exposed walls + a decorative border tile will be added to the edge of the subway tile to give a finished look.

Those were the steps I took for installing the tile and here are some details + specifics

How-To Cut Tile

There are two methods I used to cut the tile, (1) with a hand-held tile cutter (like this) or (2) with a wet saw (like this).  There are pros and cons to both.

Hand Held Tile Cutter
The subway tile was fairly easy to cut/trim, so for those cuts I used the hand-held tile cutter and was able to do it right on the bathroom floor.  This made the project easier and more manageable to tackle at night (which is when most of the bathroom came together).

Once I marked where the tile had to be cut.  I lined it up on the tile cutter.  Scored it 3-4 times with the manual blade.  And snap.  The tile was cut.

Using a hand-held tile cutter to cu subway tile. It's affordable and easy to use with no mess, no water, and simple clean up!

For smaller sized ceramic tile, I find that the hand held tile cutter is perfect, but for larger tile (ie: 12 x 12 or larger) and thicker natural stone (ie: the herringbone) a wet saw is needed!

Wet Saw
The beauty of the wet saw is the ease and preciseness of the cuts.  BUT it’s messy and there is a setup / cleanup process.  Many wet saws come with a stand, but we don’t have one and instead set it up on our driveway.  Since water is needed, there is a tendency to get wet and when working on a project late at night, who wants to be running up and down the stairs to go outside to cut tile?  NOT I.  So, for the cuts using the wet saw (herringbone accent tile and the decorative border tile) we waited till the weekend.

Using a wet saw will give you precise cuts for your tile. Ideal with larger and thicker tile!

Adding Adhesive to Tile

Because I couldn’t spend 8 hours a days tiling (I wish – I’m glad if I got in 2 hours each day), I mixed small amounts of adhesive at a time, so I had to alter the directions from the back of the bag since they called for using all the adhesive at once.  If you plan on tiling over many days, then mix small batches so the adhesive is fresh each time (otherwise it will harden).

Totalflex Universal Mortar tile adhesive

Tip: Instead of cleaning out the bucket of mortar (as well as grout) each time, grab about 5-10 small buckets so they can be thrown away.  And never ever, ever cleanup your tools in the sink of your home.  Yes you can wash your hands, but be sure to run hot water for a few minutes afterwards.  Washing a bucket or the tools in the sink of your home could result in the mortar (or grout) hardening in the pipes.

Why am I sharing this with you?  Because  it happened to me.

The consistency of powder to water should result in a pasty (not watery) mix…  It shouldn’t fall easily off the trowel.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Most experienced tile installers put the adhesive on the wall to attach the tile.  I tried that and found it made a lot of mess + a lot of wasted product.  Instead, I found it much easier to add the adhesive directly to the back of the tile (for both the subway tile and the accent tile).  This process may seem longer, but for me it worked better and there was very coverage.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Using a trowel, I added the adhesive to the back of the tile, then using the notched edge, I raked the adhesive in a vertical direction (perpendicular to how it will lay on the wall).   Then I applied the tile to the wall.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Once the tile was on the wall, I wiped away the excess adhesive on the tile surface.  If I hadn’t, it would have hardened on the surface.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Once the tile was set and the adhesive cured, it was time to grout!

How-To Grout Tile

Grout seals the deal!  It not only gives a finished look, but grout “locks in” and secures the tile to stay in position.

For this bathroom renovation, I chose to use unsanded grout (watch this video on how + why to use sanded / unsanded grout).  Sanded grout is typically for larger joints from 1/8″ – 1/2″, while unsanded grout is for smaller grout lines that are less than 1/8″.

Using a small bucket, I added the powder then the water to create a pasty mix (similar to the consistency of toothpaste).

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

When the grout mix was ready, I added a nice amount on to the grout float.  Then I chose a starting point and worked the grout into the joints with the float.  Once a good sized section of tile was covered in grout, I took a damp sponge and wiped the surface.  This not only cleans the tile face but smooths out the grout joints.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

You can see how finished the wall looks with the grout by comparing the area with the joints filled in and the area without.

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

Once the bathroom was tile and grouted, this was the result…

How-To Tile and Grout a Bathroom tub area: tips & tricks to do it yourself. Follow along on this DIY bathroom remodel!

The installation & grouting of the tile & grouting took about 12 days – in total about 25 hours

Just shy of 1600 words, this post is jam-packed with information – I hope I didn’t overwhelm you!  I was very apprehensive about tackling such a BIG project and at times I was overwhelmed, but in the end the job wasn’t difficult.  Long YES, but not difficult.  If I could tackle this huge space, so can you!

{Day 5-16} Tile & Grout – Complete!  14 more days to go…

From start to finish, these are all the posts pertaining to this bathroom remodel
Plan of Action
Demo: Removal + Installation of the Tub & Walls
How-To Tile + Grout the Bathroom Walls
Installing Wallpaper
Adding a Tile Accent Border
Creating a Tiled Niche
Bathroom Makeover Reveal
Resources

This post is sponsored by Lowe’s, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.  I am thrilled (and a bit nervous) about tackling this project, but very excited to be partnering with Lowe’s on creating an entirely new bathroom space.  I’d love for you to follow along on this new project!

Bathroom Makeover: Demo {Day 2-4}

It just got real.  No more dreaming or fantasizing about a new bathroom, because it’s happening NOW.

So it’s Day 2 for this Bathroom Makeover in 30 Days Challenge (day 1 was putting together the plan of action and by day 30 my goal is to be finished) and the DEMO HAS BEGUN!

Instead of me jumping ahead and sharing what it looks like now (a hot mess with walls missing), let me show you what it looked like before…

Bathroom before makeover

Yes, the space was fine, but it needed updating.  All the fixtures had seen better days.  The tub was an insert style and very dated, while the shower/tub fittings were starting to leak and even though I would scrub them regularly, the mildew would not go away.

It pains me to share these before images, but I’m just being real…

Bathroom before makeover

The difficult part about a tub insert is that it only goes 6′ high leaving the above space open for water splashing (which could lead to bacteria growth and/or warping of the walls).  Because the kids really abuse use this bathroom, the new space not only has to be pretty, but extremely functional.  With my kiddos it seems there is more water outside the tub than inside, so the surrounding areas really need to be protected (hence my decision to tile the entire tub area + the lower section of wall around the rest of the bathroom).

Bathroom before makeover

The current vanity is a factory-made cabinet and even though I freshened it up a few years ago with a coat of paint, it was starting to warp and fall apart (that’s what eventually happens to a paper composite cabinet that is in a moist area).  From the pictures, the space may look okay to you, but close-up it’s not.

Here’s a snap shot of the bathroom right before demo started…

Bathroom before makeover

So that’s the story about the before bathroom…

Onto the current.

Removing the Tub + Walls

The plan of action is in place and the start of the renovation has begun.  The other day I failed to mention that with all of the kitchens and bathrooms I have designed for others, I have never renovated my own kitchen or bathroom.  I think because I know the process and the unknowns that could happen, I have a fear of embarking on such a big project.  Putting fears aside, I am psyched about this new proposed space.  Like with all big projects, not everything can go as planned.  With that being said, LET THE DEMO BEGIN!

1. First up, the removal of the bath fittings.

Bathroom Makover: Demoing the exisiting

2. Next up, demoing the walls above the tub using a hack saw.

Bathroom Makover: Demoing the exisiting

3. Once the walls above were removed, the screws that held the tub insert in place (to the studs) were removed and the tub got cut up into pieces (separating the sides from the tub) to be hauled out.

Bathroom Makover: Demoing the exisiting

This is what the plumbing looked like (in the wall) once the tub was removed…

Bathroom Makover: Demoing the exisiting

Installing the New Tub + Walls

4. When the tub was out and the space was cleaned up (somewhat), the new tub was put into place.  As I mentioned the other day, we chose to hire this part out and called in a pro to install the tub, as well as the tub fittings so it was done right.  We don’t have any experience with installing tubs / tub fittings and the hookups need to be done right to avoid any water leaking.  A contractor + a plumber were definitely needed for this job – we know when to call in help, and this was the time!

Bathroom Makeover: Installation of the new tub

New studs were also added behind the tub + at the corners to provide the right support + best fit.

Bathroom Makeover: Installation of the new tub

5. Next up, the walls!  In the tub area cement board was installed (ie: DUROCK > Lowe’s) instead of sheetrock because it’s resistant to bacteria and fungus + will not warp, delaminate, or disintegrate when/if exposed to water – it really it a must-use material in a shower or tub.

I found this very helpful video with a great tutorial on installing backer board

Bathroom Makeover: Installation of the new the cement board in the new shower space

The new cement board butts up to the existing sheetrock walls that continue around the room.  It is important to have the two materials align as perfect as possible and also be at the same plane so the tile can be seamlessly applied.

The removal of the old walls + tub and the installation of the new tub and cement board took about 2.5 days – about 10 hours

Removing the Medicine Cabinet

6. Also on day 2, I removed the medicine cabinet that sits near the sink.  We never really used it in the past and I thought it would be better served as a niche.  I thought the removal process would be tricky, but it was actually very simple.

Inside the medicine cabinet were screws that were screwed into the surrounding studs.  I removed the screws and voila, the medicine cabinet came right out.

Now there’s a huge hole.  O, the potential for this little niche!

Bathroom Makeover: Removing the existing medicine cabinet to create a stylish new niche

So there you have it – day 2, 3, 4 are complete.  There are 26 more days left to meet my goal of a complete bathroom in 30 days!   The space looks pretty scary and I’m not feeling super confident, BUT I am trying to stay positive and like always, I’m going to keep chugging along…

Next up…  TILE!

Bathroom Makeover in 30 Days CHALLENGE! Day 2-4 Removing of the existing tub + tub walls & Installing the new tub & cement board in tub area. Follow along on this bathroom makeover and see if this DIY bathroom will be complete in 30 days!

{Day 2-4} Tub Removed + Installed – Complete!  26 more days to go…

From start to finish, these are all the posts pertaining to this bathroom remodel
Plan of Action
Demo: Removal + Installation of the Tub & Walls
How-To Tile + Grout the Bathroom Walls
Installing Wallpaper
Adding a Tile Accent Border
Creating a Tiled Niche
Bathroom Makeover Reveal
Resources

5 Ways to Update a Bathroom on a Budget

There have been some really qualified “entries” for the ugly bathroom makeover.  I’m not going to lie…  some of you are in desperate need of direction & a plan on how to jazz up your bathrooms.  Most of the bathrooms I received pictures for, have good bones and are similar in layout of many homes, but they need to be taken to the next level to be practical and pretty!

Lowe’s and I are going through the pictures and next Monday will be the day when you’ll get to see what reader submitted bathroom we chose, along with a Creative Vision Board + ‘plan of action’ for the space.  In the meantime, I wanted to share my thoughts + ideas with ALL of you on 5 Budget-Friendly Ways to Update a Bathroom

5 Ways to Upgrade a Bathroom on a Budget: Don't neglect a needed bathroom revamp because of cost + no-experience. Instead, embrace what you have and revamp the layers of the existing!

I’ve been working on my fair share of client kitchens lately, which I adore, but I’m equally obsessed with revamping bathrooms.  Having an educational and professional background in architecture and interior design, I love how all the components- cabinetry, hardware, and all the details in between – come together and interlink to create an incredible result.  Even more so, I love all the added layers + color that can be brought into a bathroom to make it not only a functional space, but a magical oasis – remember I said last week, who doesn’t sneak away to the bathroom here and there for some peace + quiet?!

Unlike a typical 4 walled room in a house, bathrooms (as well as kitchens) can seem daunting when thinking about a makeover.  There’s plumbing, electrical, tile, and more that is involved in changing.  BUT, instead of neglecting the idea of an overwhelming revamp, embrace what you have and revamp the layers of the existing.  Not only will a budget-friendly bathroom makeover increase the value of your home, but it will also simply make you happy!

Ditch those apprehensive, scary thoughts and let me share my 5 Ways to Update a Bathroom on a Budget…

1. Paint

Easy (well fairly easy) and cheap!  There is nothing like a fresh new coat of paint on the walls!  And for a typical bathroom, from start to finish, it should really only take a few hours. Since the fixtures of a bathroom are often white or light-colored, think about adding a pop of color on the walls.  Or, if you’re desiring a serene and calming space, go light  – not white, but light.

Let’s start off with a bang.  Check out one of my all-time favorite before and after bathroom makeovers that incorporates a splash of color + fun on the walls, via BHG

Splash of color on the walls of the bathroom

To step it up a notch, consider painting the existing bathroom cabinet.  It’s not uber difficult to remove / upgrade a bathroom cabinet, but it does involve plumbing and the possible install of a new countertop and/or sink.  If that’s not within your wheelhouse, a new coat of paint will be the answer.

Whether wood or laminate, the bath cabinet can most likely be revamped.  If it’s not structurally stable or you don’t love the look, ditch it, but if it can be used there is a little prep work before you paint…  Start by removing the doors and give them a good cleaning (diluted all-purpose cleaner, wood cleaner, or white vinegar with a little warm water usually works). Lightly sand the surface – using a hand sander is best.  Then add a primer to seal the wood underneath and to give a solid base coat for the paint to adhere to. Then using a roller / brush combination or a hand sprayer, apply at least two coats of paint (read all instructions ahead of time and follow the directions on the product). The transformation will be breathtaking.

Check out this awesome bathroom upgrade with a newly painted cabinet…

hall-bathroom

5 Ways to Upgrade a Bathroom on a Budget: 'After' picture of a newly painted cabinetBefore and After Bathroom space by Centsational Girl

2. Hardware

The layers of any space are key to making it unique and interesting.  An easy upgrade in a bathroom is adding or changing the hardware on the bath cabinet.  I’ve found that bath cabinets often don’t have any knobs or pulls, and once added the cabinet always comes alive.  The cheap builder-grade vanity in my master bath had no hardware, so using a drill, I drilled 2 holes, added crystal knobs, and now the “black dress” is accessorized!

Jazz up an old cabinet with new hardware!

Check out how great this bathroom upgrade looks by The Turquoise Home

Jazz up an old cabinet with new hardware!

Jazz up an old cabinet with new hardware!

I love the new paint color on that cabinet & the new hardware looks fabulous!

3. Lighting

I feel the light fixture in a space is so important.  A fixture can truly make or break a room, and typically I live by the motto GO big, or GO home!  How many of you have those old eye-ball style fixtures with 3 or 5 or 7 bulbs across and every time you walk into the bath you cringe because it’s so bright? {It’s okay to raise your hand}.  Ditch em’!  I’m all for good light in a bath space, but you don’t need a blinding light that is glaring into your eyes every time you enter.  Upgrade to a fixture(s) that is different and maybe not typical for a bathroom.

I’m still loving the $17 light that I found at Lowe’s for my powder room.  The ‘before’ light was fine, but expected.  This light is functional + exciting >

DSC_0165

Unique + Functional lighting in a bathroom can "make" a space!

If you’re on a tight budget for your bath, grab a can of spray paint + a few new glass bulbs, to revamp an old, drab fixture. Check out how Lindsay of Makely Home transformed her bath light >

If you're on a tight budget for your bath, grab a can of spray paint + a few new glass bulbs, to revamp an old, drab fixture.Lindsay also has a great post on finding the perfect bathroom light!

4. Flooring

I know, it sounds like a big, scary project, but it doesn’t have to be!  As you may know, I continually profess my love for groutable luxury vinyl tile (LVT).  It’s a quick, easy (no experience needed), and budget-friendly way to cover up the ugly mess of a floor that you may have.  And if you don’t have an ugly mess of a floor, you might just want a change and LVT flooring is the answer.   There are also a bunch of other flooring out there that you may love and adore, but either way, new flooring will truly jazz up a bathroom hands-down!

Here’s a recent update I shared on how the groutable luxury vinyl tile floor has held up after 2 years.  If you’re thinking of installing this type of flooring in a bath or any space of a home, this is a must-read!

master bathroomm floor

Want proof that a new floor can make for a killer new bathroom, take a look at this before and after bathroom transformation by Roeshel of DIY Show Off

bathroom-makeover-before

New Groutable Luxury Vinyl Tile transforms this blah bathroom into an incredible space

Another idea for an easy flooring upgrade is wood laminate, which most of the time can be installed directly over your existing floor.  Take a look what Jen of I Heart Organizing did with her bathroom reno…

New Groutable Luxury Vinyl Tile transforms this blah bathroom into an incredible space

5. Layers

Last, but certainly not least, but actually the most important…  The Layers!  If you’re on a bare bones budget and have very little to spend, focus on the layers.  What layers? a pretty shower curtain, a simple window treatment (if you’re bath has a view of the exterior), artwork, hooks, shelving, etc.  The layers in any room of the home speak your style and share the story of who you are.

You saw a peek of Jen’s bathroom above, and here is the finished revamp >

The layers of a space are the most important. In a bathroom, incorporate a pretty shower curtain, shelving, artwork, and anything that simply makes you happy.How fabulous of a space and it ‘s mostly all existing and/or DIY!

Another amazing transformation is Paige’s hall bath of Lively Green Door >

The layers of a space are the most important. In a bathroom, incorporate a pretty shower curtain, shelving, artwork, and anything that simply makes you happy.

And lastly, check out this fun bathroom space.  With a few new elements (no fixture changes), look how it has come alive with new paint, a killer light fixture, and a gorgeous shower curtain.

The layers of a space are the most important. In a bathroom, incorporate a pretty shower curtain, shelving, artwork, and anything that simply makes you happy.via BHG

Are you now convinced that a bathroom doesn’t need a full gut to be fabulous?  Who’s ready for a makeover? 

As always, incorporate elements you love & those that are truly meaningful.  Look for inspiration around you before executing, and remember it’s not a race.  Now I’ve gotta get back to looking through all those ugly bathrooms to see which would be perfect for a makeover!  Be sure to check back on Monday to see if it’s yours!

Want to pin & save for later, here you go…

5 Ways to Upgrade a Bathroom on a Budget: Don't neglect a needed bathroom revamp because of cost + no-experience. Instead, embrace what you have and revamp the layers of the existing!

Kitchens are another space in the home that homeowners fear to upgrade because of time and budget.  Totally understandable!  BUT just as the bathroom can be revamped on a budget, so can a kitchen.  Check out my thoughts for 5 Upgrades to a Killer Kitchen

5 Upgrades for a Killer Kitchen

Taking over & Transforming the ‘Ugly Bathroom’

Let’s talk bathrooms…

They’re one of those spaces in the home that often gets neglected, yet should get the most attention.  Whether just moving into a home that has a bathroom in dire need of a makeover or a bathroom that’s gone too long without a refresh, revamping a bathroom doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive.

Let’s face it, who doesn’t duck away from it all for a few minutes of peace and quiet in the bathroom (especially when you have kids).  And who doesn’t relish in a long, hot shower after rolling out of bed to actually feel fully awake.  No moments of any day should be spent in a blah bathroom.

The bathroom is truly a space that should feel like a fresh, calming oasis to start the day.

Ugly Bath Makeover {call for action}. Submit your pictures today and I will choose and create a design board + plan of actionall images taken from a previous post on Real-Life Sensational Standard Sized Bathrooms.

Having said that + sharing glimpses of amazing bathrooms, you have to start somewhere.

Do you remember the master bathroom we started with when we moved into our home 4 years ago?  It surely wasn’t pretty and it was the last space in the house to get a transformation…

Ugly Bath Makeover {call for action}. Submit your pictures today and I will choose and create a design board + plan of action

Were we overwhelmed? YES!

Could it have been expensive? YES!

But we ‘took it over’ and made it ours on a very slim budget of less than $500.

Here is the before & after

DIY: Master Bathroom Makeover - This entire bathroom transformation cost less than $500!

If we could do it, so can you!

I’ve transformed my fair share of bathrooms and even though the task of a makeover may seem daunting + expensive, there are many ways to give this important space in the home a refresh WITHOUT spending a huge amount of money or time!   That’s why I was super excited when Lowe’s reached out to me about partnering together to share my design expertise + budget friendly ideas with YOU, my fabulous followers.  They have put me up to the task of giving my design advice + a plan of action to a reader who is in need of a bit of help & a “point in the right direction” for transforming their ugly bathroom.

I’m here to help rid you of your ugly bathroom…

Ugly Bath Makeover Challenge {ENTER NOW} to be a lucky winner to receive a FREE BATH DESIGN + "Plan of Action' to fix up an ugly bathroom! Enter @ WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

The Lowe’s team + I will choose one space for which I will create a Creative Vision Board + a ‘plan of action’ for, and it will be showcased on the blog.  As always, I will share doable do-it-yourself ideas + affordable, but stylish design suggestions to transform the bathroom using some of my favorite items from Lowe’s!

Ugly Bath Makeover {call for action}. Submit your pictures today and I will choose and create a design board + plan of action

Disclosure: By submitting your images to Lowe’s Companies, Inc, including any of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies (“Lowe’s”), you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the following terms, grants, and conditions.

You agree that (i) any images you submit are voluntarily provided; (ii) you have no expectation of compensation from Lowe’s or otherwise; (iii) you own all right, title, and interest in and to the images free and clear without any encumbrance whatsoever and (iv) no relationship of trust or confidence, whether express or implied, exists between you and Lowe’s in connection therewith. In addition, if any of your images references or includes any copyright-protected content, any invention or any other intellectual property, you hereby grant to Lowe’s an irrevocable, perpetual, transferable, and royalty-free license, with the right to sublicense others, to make, have made, use, sell, offer for sale, import, distribute and promote products (including packaging) and services that incorporate in whole or in part your patent, copyright, trademark, trade dress, or other intellectual property rights referenced or included in any one or more of your image(s). You also hereby grant to Lowe’s an irrevocable, perpetual, transferable, and royalty-free license, with the right to sublicense others, to use, reproduce, modify, perform, distribute, and create derivative works based on, any content included or contained in any one or more of your images. The rights you grant herein are for the purposes stated by Lowe’s and, at a minimum, for use in accordance with any of Twitter’s terms of service/rules and in accordance with the Lowe’s privacy statement (located at http://www.lowes.com/cd_Privacy+and+Security+Statement_137461171_ ). You understand and agree that Lowe’s may be working on or may already know of such images. You also understand and agree that Lowe’s is free to disclose or use the images as it deems fit.

Powder Room Remodel – Phase 1: Removing the Existing Toilet and Pedestal Sink

My feet are sore and my fingers have a few blisters, but it’s well worth the pain for how much work around the house was accomplished this past weekend.  It was the first days of really nice weather and aside from a baseball game and a birthday celebration, much of the weekend was spent cleaning out the garage, sprucing up the exterior, and starting the powder room remodel.

I shared details of my plans for the powder room a few weeks ago and was thrilled to finally get started. To begin the process the old had to come out before the new goes in, so the Mister and I got our tools out and got to work on removing the existing toilet and pedestal sink. I actually didn’t know the process of how to remove either plumbing fixture, but thankfully the Mister has done this before and helped me out – of course with a few bumps along the way – can’t be a DIY project without…

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

Do you know where and how to start the process of removing a toilet and sink?  If not, this post is for you! Keep on reading, but I’ll worn you, this tutorial is ultra detailed, but the pictures aren’t pretty.

Removing an existing toilet.

1. Turn off the water supply.  The oval valve at the side or back of the toilet is the water supply.  Using a vice grip or adjustable wrench, turn the valve so you turn off the water.  Then flush the toilet a few times to empty the tank.  Using old rags, put them in the tank and/or bowl to soak up any left over water.  It’s best to use gloves during the process as the toilet bowl isn’t a pretty place.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodelYup, that’s a closeup of my toilet… Not something you probably expected to see on a Monday mornin’

2. Remove the tank bolts. Remove the (2) plastic caps on each side of the toilet base.  Once exposed, you will see the tank bolts, also sometimes referred to as “Johnny Bolts”.  Remove the nut, which is easiest to do using a vice grip or adjustable wrench, and the bolt will be exposed.

Then carefully loosen the toilet, rocking it from side to side to loosen the wax seal, and lift it up. Residual water may spill, but that’s fine.

 Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

I warned you this post wasn’t pretty, BUT it sure will be helpful when you want to upgrade that sad looking toilet.  There surely isn’t a need to hire a plumber because you CAN do it yourself.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

3. Remove the old wax. Once the toilet is lifted, the existing wax will need to be removed.  Using a putty knife, scrape away the wax from the pipe flange. It’s definitely important to use gloves too (of course we didn’t, but I suggest you do).

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

We also removed the tank bolts and plan on replacing them when we install the new toilet.

Here is the hole, free and clear of wax.

Pretty sight, right?

NOT! But at least you now know it’s not that difficult of a process.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

If there is a time lapse between removing and installing a new toilet, it is very important to plug the drain opening with a rag to prevent sewer gases leaking into your home.

Removing an existing pedestal sink.

Toilets are toilets, and are fairly similar, but there are a range of sink configurations, so I’m sharing the details of my situation, but yours may be different.

The process of removing our pedestal sink was tricky because we could not get our hand in the back to turn off the water supply.  After years of wear, the valve had rusted making it very difficult to turn off.  So what did we do?  We broke the sink.  Not what we anticipated doing, but it had to be done.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

After that we…

1. Turn off the water supply. Just like the toilet, turn the oval valve at the back of the sink so the water is shut off.  Remove the nut from the water supply.  Then put a bucket under the drain trap to collect any residual water, and loosen the nut to remove the trap.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

Disconnect any additional plumbing connections and remove the sink.  For us, we had to unscrew the sink bowl section of the pedestal from the wall and then remove the tile backsplash I added a few years ago.  New sheetrock will need to be installed before anything else.

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

And this is the result…

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

Powder Room Remodel- Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

The entire room will look pretty in no time…

Powder Room Makeover Phase 1: Tutorial on how to remove an existing toilet and pedestal sink. It's not as difficult as it may seem. Pin NOW, check out later. @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM #powderroomremodel

Plan of Action for #powderroomremodel:

  • Choose and buy sink
  • Choose and buy toilet
  • Choose and buy faucet
  • Remove sink
  • Remove toilet
  • Repair hole with new sheetrock
  • Repair floor @ sink and toilet
  • Hang wallpaper
  • Paint
  • Add crown moulding (yes, my 1st moulding ever)
  • Assemble sink
  • Install sink and faucet
  • Install toilet
  • Accessorize – mirror, pictures, etc.

That’s quite a list for a little space…

Please tell me you’ve found this post helpful.  The Mister thought I was kinda insane for taking pictures of a toilet, one of the ickiest parts of the home.  I know it’s not the prettiest post ever, but who knows when it’ll come in handy.

Before you read this post did you know the details on how to remove a toilet or sink?  Not to difficult, right?!

Happy Monday to ya!

  • 1
  • 2