According to the Wall Street Journal, Americans spent approximately $130 billion on remodeling and renovations projects in 2013. If you're considering gutting and remodeling your bathroom, you might be thinking about tackling part or all of the project yourself. No matter what, the first step is always demolishing anything you don't plan on keeping. Here are a few tips to help get you started:
Gather the Necessary Tools, Equipment and Supplies
Before you begin demolishing your out-of-date bathroom, it is vital to gather the correct tools, equipment and supplies. This will help ensure you get the job done right and in less time. Here are a few items you will require to begin your demolition project:
- Sledgehammer – Choose a sledgehammer that you are easily able to swing. This is an invaluable tool that you will need to take down walls, shatter tiles or bust through wood.
- Drop cloths, plywood and cardboard – If you're planning to save anything in your bathroom, such as the tub or flooring, it is vital to cover them. There is also a heavy-duty temporary flooring that is laid on top of your existing tile.
- Tile-stripping or pry bar – Either one of these will be invaluable if you're planning to rip out tile or need to pry away plywood.
- Chipping hammer – In addition to a jackhammer, you will need a chipping hammer to remove tile flooring. The chipping hammer will remove any stubborn flooring that wasn't lifted with the jackhammer.
- Dumpster – The size of dumpster you will require is dependent upon how large your bathroom is and how much you are planning to demo. According to Home Advisor, the average cost to rent a dumpster is $506. However, Home Advisor also states that most residential projects will only require a dumpster that costs between $150 to $300 to rent.
- Safety gear – Safety needs to be your biggest consideration. Purchase a pair of safety glasses and work gloves. While performing the demolition, wear a pair of long pants and a long sleeved shirt.
Prepping For the Job
Now that you have all the necessary tools and equipment, it is time to begin preparing for the job. You must begin by gathering the necessary permits. The type of permits required will depend upon the job you're undertaking. According to How Stuff Works, the majority of cities and states follow the I-Codes rules The I-Codes are a systems of building rules and regulations that many cities and states use as the basis for their building permit laws.
Basically, if you're planning to move, repair, enlarge or demolish your bathroom, you will require permits. Check with your city's permit office to determine which permits you will require to finish the job legally. Remember, it is important to obtain all necessary permits before you swing your sledgehammer or begin ripping up the flooring.
If you're planning on salvaging anything, such as the tub, toilet or flooring, it is important to protect the item with a drop cloth, plywood or cardboard. Once again, the heavy-duty temporary flooring is the best option if you're planning to reuse your existing floors.
Next, remove any artwork or other odds-and-ends from the bathroom. Once the bathroom is empty, seal off the door with plastic sheeting. Sealing off your bathroom will help prevent any construction dust or debris from entering your home.
Specialized plastic sheeting is available that features a zippered door, which allows you to easily enter and exit the room. The sheeting is attached to the door casing and should be kept up until the remodel is completely finished.
From making sure you have the right tools to gathering the necessary permits, there are several vital steps you must take before you begin demolishing your existing bathroom. Now that you're properly prepared, go ahead and begin gutting the space and creating the bathroom of your dreams! For more information on dumpsters for rent, contact a company like Tri-State Disposal.
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