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If you are the owner of one of Long Island’s traditional Cape Cod or ranch-style homes, you are familiar with the battle. Your bathroom is cramped, the design is dated and every square inch is important. You don’t have to tear down walls to find more space, and you won’t have to break the bank in order to get a bathroom that you can actually enjoy, with a little remodeling.

From Nassau County to Suffolk County and everything in between, here are the real challenges homeowners encounter when tackling a small bathroom remodel and some effective solutions that are applicable to the older housing market in Long Island.

Why Small Bathroom Remodels Are So Popular on Long Island

Numerous homes on Long Island were constructed several decades ago, and their bathrooms reflect that. People usually complain about the original tile, low water pressure, poor ventilation and awkward layouts. A small bathroom remodel is often sought after by homeowners as they are looking for:

• No loss of floor space with more storage.
• A stylish and contemporary appearance retaining the home’s character
• Improved air quality to prevent mold and mildew growth
• A layout which is open, but not enclosed

However, these problems are addressed and a well-planned remodel can actually increase value. From the eyes of real estate agents all over Long Island, one of the top features that buyers look for are revamped bathrooms.

Common Pain Points Homeowners Face

It’s always best to learn the problems that people encounter during a small bathroom remodeling before getting to the ideation stage. These are the Top 10 concerns that Long Islanders have voiced.

Limited Space to Work With 

Many older homes are equipped with bathrooms that are less than 40 square feet in size. It seems impossible to fit a tub, vanity and toilet into that space without planning.

Rising Renovation Costs 

The rising costs of materials and labor statewide, and homeowners’ desire to know what they are being paid for, also are a concern.

Finding a Trustworthy Contractor 

Nobody wants to experience overdue deadlines, hidden charges or shoddy work. Homeowners on Long Island value a team that is local, on time and communicates effectively.

Moisture and Mold Issues 

Because of the humid summers on Long Island, ventilation is a serious issue. Mold, peeling paint and warped cabinetry are caused by poor airflow.

Disruption During the Project

Primary level of the house has only one bathroom in most families. When the remodeling process takes weeks, it is a stressful process for everyday life.

If you’ve heard any of these, you’re not alone. Any reputable bathroom remodeling contractor should take care of all these concerns before they even begin the project.

Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Maximize Space 

Choose a Walk-In Shower Over a Tub 

Small bathrooms can feel larger with a walk-in shower that opens up to a frameless glass door. It eliminates the cumbersome tub frame and allows for an open sight line.

Install a Floating Vanity 

Floating vanities allow you to save ground space and keep things neat and clean. They also create the appearance of a bigger footprint, which is important in small spaces.

Use Large-Format Tile 

A smaller number of grout lines creates an illusion of a larger room. The large format tile provides an unbroken, contemporary look throughout your home, on both floor and wall surfaces, for both classic and contemporary style homes.

Add Recessed Storage 

To avoid taking up extra space, recessed niches installed into the shower wall neatly store toiletries.

Bring in Natural Light 

When the bathroom is located in a windowed area, keep the window coverings to a minimum. Frosted glass or plain blinds allow light to pass through but give privacy.

Upgrade Ventilation

The appropriate size exhaust fan can eliminate moisture issues quickly. One improvement will keep out mold, save money on your investment, and keep the room fresh all year long.

What Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Cost on Long Island?

The costs will depend on materials, design modifications, and the extent of the work performed but homeowners in Long Island can generally expect to spend:

• Basic refresh (new fixtures, paint, new lighting): $8,000-$15,000
• Mid-range remodel (new tile, vanity, walk-in shower): $15,000–$25,000
• Low end remodel: $12,000 and up

An in-depth written quote in advance prevents unwanted headaches. A reliable local contractor will come out to your space and explain the costs in detail before starting work.

Choosing the Right Bathroom Remodeling Contractor in Long Island

Some contractors are not familiar with the specialties of Long Island’s older homes—such as the narrow plumbing chases, outdated wiring, and tight crawl spaces. Here are some of the qualities to seek out in a team when you’re picking them for your small bathroom renovation:

• The licensed and insured status in New York.
• Consumer reviews on homes in Nassau and Suffolk County.
• A clear, written time line and payment plan
• Portfolio photos, not just for large bathroom projects, but also for small ones!
• Clear communication from initial patient consultation.

It’s important to ask the right questions at the beginning so you can avoid getting any surprises after.

How Long Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Take?

The average time it takes to remodel a small bathroom is 2-4 weeks, depending on whether there is a change to the plumbing or electrical. Projects that have cosmetic changes such as new tile, paint and fixtures get completed quicker. A reputable contractor will provide you with an honest timeline before the start of the project, and a plan for minimizing disruption.

Ready to Start Your Small Bathroom Remodel?

A small bathroom doesn’t have to look cramped or dated. By making smart design decisions and hiring a contractor that is familiar with Long Island homes, you can have an open, efficient, and fresh environment without the added stress of a cost or timeline guessing game.

Call today to discuss the possibilities for a no-obligation free consultation to transform your bathroom. Our Long Island remodeling team will guide you through design options, offer a clear breakdown of costs and create a timeline that suits your schedule. Give us a call today to begin your small bathroom remodel the correct way. 

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