Category: bathroom renovation

Shower Remodel Ideas for Your Small Bathroom

Posted on by FCSSEO

Did you know that the average person spends about 190 days of their life in the shower? That’s the equivalent of over 6 months! You deserve to spend that time in a beautiful yet functional shower. If you have a small bathroom, a full-scale shower remodel might not seem possible, but truly, it is.

Continue reading to learn our best tips for a small bathroom shower remodeling project. 

Opt for a Light and Bright Design

Here at Express Bath, we know that there’s no “one size fits all” bathroom solution for our customers. That’s why we offer a variety of different styles and colors for customers looking to remodel their showers. In a small space, we recommend using light and bright colors, which can visually make your bathroom look bigger than it is.

Replace Your Tub With a Standalone Shower

Have you thought about converting your existing bathtub into a standing shower? Since bathtubs have a larger footprint than most showers, you can open up your bathroom’s floor plan with a conversion project. Opening up this extra room in your bathroom can give you more space for storage, helping to make your small space more functional as well. 

Choose a Glass Door

Want to make your whole bathroom look bigger? Installing a glass door on your new shower is a simple way to do the trick. Since a glass door draws your eye to the back of the shower, it will make the whole room look larger. As a bonus, glass shower doors are easy to keep clean! 

Add Shelving to Your Shower

Most small bathrooms don’t have a lot of storage space, so the bathing area quickly becomes a “catch-all” for products. This clutter can make your small bathroom look even more cramped. When you’re remodeling your shower, consider adding built-in shelving as part of a thoughtful design that keeps your bathing area looking clean and open. 

Be Strategic About Where You Place Your Showerhead

Finally, when remodeling your shower, give some extra thought to where you place your showerhead. Putting it a bit higher on the wall can draw the eye up when you walk into the space. This can trick your mind into thinking your ceiling is taller than it actually is. As a result, your whole bathroom will look a bit bigger.

Start Planning Your Shower Remodel to Transform Your Small Bathroom

Here at Express Bath, we’ve worked on just about every type of bathroom remodeling project that you can imagine. That means we’ve got experience in transforming your Birmingham or Huntsville shower into a space that better fits your needs. 

Over the years, we’ve tackled our fair share of small bathroom projects, making strategic design decisions that will make your space look bigger. A shower remodel is the first step toward maximizing the space in your bathroom. When you’re ready to get started, trust the Express Bath team to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and request a free estimate!

What Is the Average Cost of a Tub-to-Shower Conversion?

Posted on by FCSSEO

Are you dreaming of updating your bathroom? Good news! Bathroom remodels tend to yield the biggest returns when it comes to your home’s resale value. Regardless of what you decide to do to your bathroom, making updates in one of the most-used rooms in your house is a great way to give your home an overall boost. Before you schedule your renovation project, it’s important to think not just about how it affects your home value, however. You also want to focus on functionality. If you don’t use your bathtub very often, now is a great time to schedule a tub-to-shower conversion so you can make the most of your space. But what is the average cost of a tub-to-shower conversion project? The truthful answer is that it can vary from anywhere between $1,200 and upwards of $10,000. There’s such a wide range because there are several different factors that can impact the final cost of your project. 

Let’s take a closer look at what determines the cost of turning your tub into a shower so you can properly budget for your renovation project. 

The Materials You Choose

First things first, the materials you choose for your new shower will impact the cost. Many shower materials, like tile, are priced per square foot, so the more expensive the material you choose, the more the total cost of your project will be. And, of course, the bigger your shower, the more those materials will add up as well. 

Fortunately, our team at Express Bath is here to make it easy to get the bathroom of your dreams for the right price. We’re proud to offer a wide variety of different colors and styles and we’ll work with you to come up with a design that fits within your budget.

The Placement of Your New Shower

Another factor that can impact the cost of your tub-to-shower conversion is where you plan to put your new shower. Do you want to rework the layout of your bathroom completely? Or do you simply want your new shower to sit in the same place as your old tub?

Moving your shower to a different place in the bathroom will likely require plumbing updates which can add extra costs to your project. Essentially, the less complicated your project, the less expensive it will be. 

The Features You Include in Your Shower

One of the most appealing things about replacing your bathtub with a new shower is that it gives you the opportunity to customize your bathing space. When you choose the Express Bath team for your project, you can choose from unique and functional customizations like built-in shelving and caddies. 

We also offer safety features like grab bars, built-in seating, and custom threshold heights, so you can have peace of mind that you’ll stay safe while bathing. This is especially important if you plan to age-in-place in your home and want to remain independent. 

While the customization options for your shower are virtually limitless, some of them cost more, adding to the total cost of your project. Of course, many of the homeowners we work with agree that these customizations are well worth the extra cost to get the shower of their dreams!

When You Schedule Your Project

Do you need to schedule your project quickly? If so, you might have to pay a higher amount to get your project on the books as soon as possible than you would if you had a more flexible schedule. 

However, here at Express Bath, we always look out for our customers’ best interests and will do everything in our power to make sure you get the best possible deal on your project, no matter when you schedule it. Rest assured, we’ll always have your back. 

The Contractor You Hire

Finally, the company you hire will play a part in how much you pay for your tub-to-shower conversion project. The unfortunate reality is that some contracting companies overcharge unsuspecting homeowners simply because they know they can. 

We recommend shopping around a bit before making your final decision. Once you do, we hope you’ll agree that Express Bath is the right choice for your project! Our team is committed to full transparency every step of the way. 

From the first time we meet with you, we’ll be upfront about what to expect in terms of pricing and timeline, so you are never met with a surprise bill at the end of your project. We also run special promotions and offer different financing options so you can get a beautiful, updated bathroom for a price that works for you. 

Why Choose Express Bath for Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion?

As Northern Alabama’s leading bathroom remodeling company, your home is in good hands when you choose to work with Express Bath. Our team has decades of bathroom remodeling experience and our priority always remains to put our customers first while providing top-notch customer service and high-quality remodeling work. 

As a local company, our team is made up of your neighbors and we’ll always treat your home with the same care and respect that we would our own. 

Schedule Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion Project Today

Now that you know more about the different factors that affect the cost of a tub-to-shower conversion, you can start planning your budget and taking the first step toward a beautiful new shower!

Contact us today to tell us more about the ideas you have for your bathroom and we’ll let you know what we can do to make it happen.

How to Improve Shower Safety for Seniors

Posted on by FCSDev

Each year, on average, more than 230,000 people slip and fall in the bathroom. More specifically, 33% of seniors that suffer an accidental fall in the bathroom end up being hospitalized after the incident. While there are safety risks in all parts of the bathroom, the shower, in particular, can pose hazards. So, what can you do to improve the shower safety for yourself or your loved ones? You’ve come to the right place for guidance. 

Read through this guide to learn tips on how to improve shower safety so you can have peace of mind when bathing. 

Add a Comfortable Seat

First things first, consider adding a comfortable seat or bench to your shower. This allows those with mobility issues to sit down when needed, helping to prevent dangerous slips and falls. These days, there are a variety of different types of shower seats available, so you can find something that best suits your needs. 

For example, you might choose a reclining shower seat for maximum comfort or one with a wider seat so you can have plenty of space when you’re bathing.

Install a Hand-Held Shower Head

One of the best ways seniors can maintain independence in the shower is by replacing a wall-mounted shower head with a hand-held option instead. A hand-held option makes it easier to bathe on your own, especially if you need to sit down in the process. 

Most hand-held showerheads also come with a variety of different spray settings, so you can customize your water pressure for the most relaxing shower possible. 

Consider a Tub-to-Shower Conversion

If you’re able to renovate your bathroom in your quest to make it safer, consider a tub-to-shower conversion to replace your old, outdated tub. Since traditional bathtubs often have a high side that you have to step over to climb in and out, you risk tripping and falling every time you bathe. 

By replacing your tub with a standalone shower instead, you’ll reduce the risk of falling and have a more functional space that fits your needs. Best of all, when you choose Express Bath for your tub-to-shower conversion project, you can choose from different customizable options like built-in seating, shelving, lower thresholds, and more. 

Use Non-Slip Mats

One of the easiest ways to stay safe while bathing is to put down a non-slip mat outside of your shower. This will help prevent you from stepping on a wet floor and potentially slipping when you climb out of your shower. 

This extra traction is a budget-friendly and easy solution to help keep you safe, especially if you have mobility issues. 

Use a Weighted Shower Curtain

One reason that water splashes onto the floor in the first place is that the shower curtain may move while you’re bathing. You can help prevent that by replacing your traditional shower curtain with a weighted one. 

This will help keep your shower curtain in place while you bathe, so you won’t have to worry about a slippery floor once you’re finished. 

Install Grab Bars

Finally, consider adding grab bars to your shower area. Typically made from non-slip metal, grab bars can give you extra stability when you’re entering and exiting your shower and while you’re bathing. They’re wall-mounted and specifically designed to hold your weight should you lose your balance.

These can give you added peace of mind that should you start to fall while you’re bathing, you have something available to help steady yourself. 

Improve Shower Safety With Express Bath

After reading through this guide, why wait any longer to make your shower a safer place? Express Bath can help you improve shower safety with a new shower installation or a tub-to-shower conversion, based on your needs. 

Our team can also walk you through all of our different safety options, so you can design a bathroom that allows you to maintain safety and independence as you get older. Get in touch with us today to tell us about your bathroom safety concerns and to learn more about how we can help you address them. 

Can You Renovate Your Bathroom in the Winter?

Posted on by FCSDev

Around 65% of younger homeowners and 60% of Gen X homeowners are planning a home renovation project this year. One of the most popular renovation projects across all age groups is bathroom remodeling projects. If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom in the next year, one of the most important decisions you need to make is when to book it. Of course, your decision largely depends on your schedule, but if you’re not considering a winter remodel, you could be missing out on some serious benefits. 

Continue reading this guide to learn why you should consider a winter bathroom renovation. 

There Are More Scheduling Opportunities to Renovate Your Bathroom

Most homeowners schedule their bathroom renovations either during the summer or in the fall to prepare for holiday guests. This can make it very difficult to get your own project on the books. 

However, since fewer homeowners want to renovate during the winter, most contractors have more openings available during this “slow season.” This means you’ll have more freedom to pick a time that works best for you instead of trying to squeeze your project in based on the contractor’s schedule. 

You Might Be Able to Save Money

Just like in other industries, supply and demand have an effect on prices when it comes to your bathroom renovation. During the winter, when demand for home improvement projects is lower, some manufacturers and contractors offer special pricing deals, since there are fewer people scheduling renovations. 

Fortunately, if you choose Express Bath for your bathroom renovation, you can have peace of mind that you’ll get the best possible deal at any time of year. Check out our current special offers to learn more about how to get a new bathroom for the right price. 

You’ll Have Access to More Products

As we mentioned above, supply and demand drive almost everything when it comes to renovations. This is especially true when it comes to product availability. 

Since so many homeowners schedule their products in the summer and fall, it’s more likely that products will be out of stock. If you have your heart set on specific products, that means you might have to wait for back-ordered items to arrive or settle for less desirable options. 

By booking your project for the winter, manufacturers will have time to restock their supplies, so you can have more options available to you. 

There Will Be Fewer Disruptions to Your Project Timeline

Finally, when you book your renovation project during a busier time of year, there’s a higher chance that you may experience disruptions that affect the timeline of your project. For example, if one project ends up taking longer than expected, that can delay your project start date, which is inconvenient and frustrating. 

By scheduling your renovation during a slow time, there will be more resources available, so even if another project is delayed, it’s less likely that it will impact your project. 

Renovate Your Bathroom With Express Bath

Now that you know more about the benefits of planning to renovate your bathroom in the winter, it’s time to take the next step! Our team here at Express Bath offers shower remodels, bathtub replacements, and tub-to-shower conversions, so you can get the bathroom of your dreams. 

Your new bathroom is just a click away. Contact us today to learn more and get a free quote.

7 Tips for a Safe and Stunning Bathroom

Posted on by FCSSEO

If you’re planning a bathroom remodeling project, it’s one of the best things you can do for your home’s value. After all, potential buyers place high importance on bathroom features. But, even if you have no plans to sell your home, bathroom renovations can prove to be valuable to you and your family. 

In fact, even small updates can make big impacts, especially when it comes to safety in one of the most used rooms in your home. In this guide, we’ll cover some remodeling tips to keep in mind to help you make your bathroom a safer place, without having to sacrifice a beautiful design. Let’s get to it!

1. Upgrade Your Toilet

When you’re planning a bathroom remodel, your toilet is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But, replacing your standard toilet with a high-quality comfort toilet can make taking care of business much easier, especially if you suffer from back or knee pain. 

Comfort toilets are specifically designed to make sitting more comfortable since they’re a few inches taller than a traditional model. This makes sitting on and standing from the seat easier as well, which is ideal if you plan to age in place in your home. 

Best of all, these toilets look great too, so they’ll seamlessly fit in with any bathroom design. 

2. Keep Dangerous Products Out of Reach

Before you begin making updates to your bathroom, think about your family and how it might change over the coming years. For example, if you are planning to have children soon or you already have young children, you’ll want to make sure the bathroom is a safe place for them. 

One way to keep small children safe in bathrooms is by making sure they can’t get into dangerous products. As you’re planning design updates, be sure to choose cabinetry that you can lock or childproof so you won’t have to worry about your kids getting their hands on household cleaners or medication. 

3. Make It Easier to Access Your Bathing Area

As the years go by, your needs may change and what was once a perfect home for you might no longer feel functional. If, for example, you’ve noticed that you’re struggling to get in and out of your shower or bathtub, you may no longer feel safe in your own home. 

By hiring the Express Bath team, you can make your bathroom safer with a low-threshold shower entrance so you can bathe without having to worry about tripping and falling as you step in and out. 

When you work with our team for your shower remodel, you can have a safe bathing experience without sacrificing style or luxury. We proudly offer beautiful designs in a variety of different shapes, colors, and finishes, with endless customization options. Prefer a rainfall showerhead to a wall-mounted one? Want built-in shelving? We can do it all. 

When you choose Express Bath, you can get the shower of your dreams, and feel safe while you’re using it. 

4. Reduce the Risk of Slipping and Falling

Regardless of your age, slippery surfaces are one of the most dangerous aspects of a bathroom. To help prevent accidents, you can put down non-slip bathmats around areas that might get wet, like outside your tub and shower, by the toilet, and in front of your sink. 

However, you can take it a step further by installing non-slip flooring throughout your whole bathroom. While traditional bathtubs and showers have flooring with little traction, replacing them with textured flooring can help keep you safe while bathing. Then, by installing non-slip flooring throughout the rest of the room, you won’t have to worry about falling once you get out either. 

This special type of flooring is specifically designed to absorb and wick away excess moisture, while also looking great, so you don’t have to compromise style for safety. 

5. Think About Your Lighting Options

Does your bathroom get very little natural light? If it’s an interior space with no windows, the space may be dark, causing potential safety issues if you can’t see well enough to safely maneuver in the space. 

Try brightening up your bathroom by installing new wall-mounted light fixtures so you don’t have trouble seeing, regardless of the time of day. You can also get creative with lighting, installing a fixture over the toilet or in the shower area, or getting a mirror with a built-in light. 

The easier it is to see in your bathroom, the less likely you are to risk an injury. 

6. Consider Installing a More Accessible Sink

As you think about bathroom safety while planning for your bathroom remodel, take time to think about how your mobility might change, especially if you plan to age in place. While you might be able to get around fine right now, you may eventually need to use a walker or wheelchair. 

It’s best to plan ahead and create an accessible space now, so it’s ready when you need it. Instead of installing a bulky vanity in your bathroom, consider putting in a wall-mounted sink, that is more accessible for those with mobility issues. Then, look for other creative storage solutions to help make up for the storage space you’ll lose by not having a vanity. 

7. Add Extra Support

Finally, think about adding support features around your bathroom like grab bars in the shower, bathtub, or near your toilet. These can give you extra support when you need it, helping you to feel safer as you get older. 

In the shower, it’s a good idea to also install a comfortable shower seat. While it may not be something that you use every day, it will be nice to have it if and when you need it. These days, there are plenty of support options that are not only functional, but beautiful, so you can seamlessly integrate them into your bathroom design. 

The Trusted Name for Hartselle Bathroom Renovations

Do you need help implementing some of these safety features in your bathroom? Trust the Express Bath team for the job! Our goal is to provide northern Alabama homeowners like you with high-quality bathroom remodeling services, designed to fit your needs. 

We’d love to hear more about your ideas for your bathroom and tell you how we can bring them to life. Contact us today for a free estimate!

4 Bathroom Remodeling Tips for Empty Nesters

Posted on by FCSDev

You have just aced the world’s longest test – your kids have flown the coop and you’re now an empty nester. You finally have the space (and the money) to do some of the things you’ve been dreaming about for the past 18 years. At the top of many people’s lists is a home remodeling project. 

Your house has spent the past two decades serving a functional purpose, providing a home that can survive everything toddlers and teenagers can throw at it. 

But now, your home can be all about you! Whether it is your first time working on a project like this or your tenth, here are 4 tips to make sure that your new bathroom feels like home!

1) Add a soaking tub

If you are someone who loves a hot bath at the end of a long week, then it’s time to indulge yourself! Most homes come with a very basic, and usually very shallow, tub. These non-nonsense tubs work great when you have a young family and bathtime is part of your daily routine.


But now that you’re on your own, it’s time to bring your tub from functional to fabulous! Get that deep soaker tub that allows for full-body bathing. Or for a really lush experience, invest in a tub with hydrothermal jets, designed with optimum water pressure to not only relax but also to treat muscle fatigue.

Or, if you are looking for a way to lengthen the time you can stay in your home, consider a walk-in tub. You get all the same premium features as a soaker tub, but with the added benefit of a lower threshold entry/exit point that will ensure you can bathe safely for years to come.

2) Consider a barrier-free entry

Many people aren’t a big fan of baths and have only kept the original-to-home tubs for the needs of their families. 

Many older homes were built with giant garden tubs that take up a huge portion of your bathroom’s footprint. 

One of the most popular trends we’re seeing in bathroom remodeling is to lose that waste-of-space tub and replace it with a large, luxurious shower. Some features that can really make your bathroom look more modern include a wide shower opening and clear glass panels to give the whole room a more open, light, and airy feeling.

Also, consider including a barrier-free entry. In addition to preventing falls and increasing safety, barrier-free entries will also give your shower a sleek and contemporary look.

3) Choose the right materials to keep maintenance low

When your kids have left the house, you expect to drastically reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning. But if you replace your dingy old tub or shower with something like ceramic or stone tiles, you could spend just as much time trying to keep them looking new and clean.

Why should you consider acrylic showers? They are durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. All you need is a mild cleanser and damp cloth to keep them looking great for years!

Acrylic does not crack, fade or peel over time unlike those made with other materials which may break down easily. The shower will also be easier to maintain because there are no grout lines that require regular cleaning.

4) Keep it simple

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is to try and include everything they’ve ever thought of in their bathroom remodeling project. But if you try to put too much in a single space, you end up with an awkward and cramped area that doesn’t provide the relaxation you’ve been looking for.

Working with a professional bathroom remodeling contractor, like the team at Express Bath, will ensure that you’re maximizing, and not overdoing, your space. Our design & build crew take detailed measurements to plan out how to best use the footprint of your bathroom. And we help choose the right features and fixtures when renovating that don’t overwhelm the room. Our goal is to keep your project affordable and give you a new bathroom that is beautiful and easy to maintain.

 

If you’re ready to bring life back into your bathroom, contact us for a free estimate!

Soak Up These Amazing Bathroom Renovation Ideas You’ll Completely Love

Posted on by FCSDev

You’re so bored of your bathroom. That tile is feeling tired and old. And that 1980s vanity? It’s certainly time for a bathroom renovation.

But, where do you begin to choose the best bathroom renovation ideas? After all, the best bathroom renovation will be a long-term investment that can change how you live and enjoy your home. And, the right renovation may even add value to your home in the case of resale.

With these important results on the line, you can’t take your bathroom makeover lightly. It’s important to prepare for the renovation by streamlining your budget and knowing your style aesthetic.

Then, you can dive into transforming your bathroom into the sanctuary of your dreams. Read on to discover the best ideas to get started. 

Bathroom Renovation Advice 

Before we dive into the best design ideas, it’s important to get in the correct headspace to prepare for a bathroom renovation. Whether you need an affordable bathroom renovation or want to splurge on a luxurious bathroom retreat, this advice can help launch those ideas.  

Define Your Budget 

A renovation can become a costly undertaking. And chances are, you have saved and prepared for this remodel for a long time. But, do you know where your budget will go?

Do you know the cost-saving bathroom options? Do you know which part of your bathroom is best to splurge? Defining your budget and having a realistic expectation of potential renovation costs can prepare you for this venture.

If you have doubts about budgeting or expected costs it’s best to work with a professional renovation company. Express Bath offers customers more than 35 years of combined experience in bath renovations and remodels. The team can help define your budget, dream up a renovation plan, and install a bathroom that will exceed your expectations. 

Know Your Style 

A bathroom renovation requires you to choose a variety of fixtures, finishes, and design schemes. For example, do you want a modern and sleek bathroom? Have you always envisioned a colorful or vintage-inspired bathroom?

When you discover your decorating style, renovating becomes a breeze. That’s because you’ll have a clear vision of how you want the space to look, feel, and function. 

Bathroom Renovation Timeline 

Consider the right time to plan a bathroom renovation. Construction projects can take a shorter or longer period of time than initially planned. Therefore, it is important to plan life events around the renovation and be flexible should changes arise. 

Think Long-Term 

How will your bathroom renovation stand the test of time? Have you considered how you plan to use the space today and in the future?

This will help ensure your bathroom investment becomes a long-term and profitable design decision. Now that you feel more prepared to take on this renovation, let’s explore some of the best bathroom renovation ideas! 

White Design 

An all-white bathroom design is a chic and classic renovation style. You won’t ever have to worry about your bathroom looking tired or outdated.

White is also a favorite hue for potential home buyers due to its universal appeal. And, the color is also known to create a calming and relaxing feeling-  just perfect for a bathroom. 

Monochromatic Look 

Monochromatic design helps a space feel cohesive and luxurious. In your bathroom, try mixing different materials like stone, tile, or wood. But, keep these materials within the same color family to tell a design story. 

Small Bathroom Renovation 

A small bathroom renovation can still pack a punch with less space. These bathrooms often take the most ingenuity to plan and get the most out of each inch. For example, consider a pedestal sink instead of a traditional vanity.

This will help free up floor space and create the illusion of a bigger bathroom area. Use wall space for storage by creating free-floating shelving.

And in a smaller space, you can take bold design risks. Try installing a colorful wallpaper or choose a brilliant paint color to lighten the space. 

Vintage-Inspired Bathroom Renovation 

For vintage design lovers, a new bathroom renovation can still feel authentic and historic. Install vintage-size floor tiles for a big impact. And don’t forget to choose natural textures like wood or stone. 

Bath Tub Replacement

Don’t have the budget or the time to take on a full bathroom renovation? A bathtub replacement can change the entire look of your bathroom without sacrificing finances.

If your tub is old or outdated this can help create a more modern and cleaner space. Check out these customizable bathroom replacement options and services.  

The Tile Effect 

Replacing your bathroom with beautiful tile is an eye-catching and unique way to make a design impact. Tile your entire bathroom in one simple pattern. Or, mix and match tiles for an eclectic look. 

Multi-Functional Bathroom 

Renovate your bathroom to become more functional for your entire household. Consider expanding your vanity to include a makeup station with seating. Or, if storage is a concern, consider built-ins and storage towers to organize all your necessities. 

Tub-to-Shower Conversion 

For convenience and safety, invest in a tub-to-shower conversion. You may find your bathtub left unused and taking up valuable space in your bathroom. A tub-to-shower conversion is a practical renovation fix that can free up floor space and change the look of your entire bathroom.  

These Bathroom Renovation Ideas Can Inspire Your Next Design  

Have these bathroom renovation ideas inspired your next design? Remember that renovating a bathroom is a big investment of time and money. Therefore it is important to set your expectations and budget.

Understand how you plan to use your bathroom space in the future and what renovations are necessary to transform your space. These ideas can help you plan your bathroom retreat so you can enjoy this space for years to come. If you are interested in remodeling your bathroom and want to speak with an expert, contact Express Bath today.