If you’re a seasoned DIYer or a home flipper looking to enhance your bathroom space holistically, there’s great news: Transforming your bath need not feel overwhelming nor break the bank. You can create a more enjoyable and functional bathroom space by smartly engaging in DIY bathroom projects without exceeding your budget.
While experienced DIYers can tackle many bathroom projects effectively, there are situations where seeking professional assistance is crucial. This blog post will provide insights into which projects you can confidently tackle and offer helpful guidance on when it’s advisable to enlist expert help.
1. Updating Bath Waste Trim
Replacing your old or outdated bath waste trim with a new one can be a simple DIY project that significantly improves your bathroom’s appearance. Oatey® Bath Waste Touch Toe Half Kits make this task easier for beginners. These kits are affordable, easy to install, and come with everything you need to complete the job.
The kit includes all the necessary components, such as the top overflow elbow, bottom waste shoe, faceplate with a screw-in retention nut, and touch-toe stopper with a spud. The trim kits come in designer finishes, including Matte Black, Chrome, White, Brushed Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Brushed Gold, and Champagne Bronze.
2. Replacing the Shower Head or Faucet
Installing a new shower head or faucet is usually as simple as unscrewing the old one and screwing on the new one. Just remember to turn off the water before starting any work. You can use Hercules® Megatape as your thread sealant to ensure a secure and leak-free connection. This tape is designed for plumbing applications and provides a tight and reliable seal.
However, before you get started, watch this short, how-to YouTube video: How to Use Hercules Megatape Thread Sealant.
3. Installing a New Shower Drain
If your shower drain is not working correctly or is starting to show signs of wear and tear, installing a new one may be necessary. It is required to apply a plumber’s putty or silicone to create a water tight seal around the flange before beginning the installation process. Opting for the Oatey No-Caulk Shower Drain ensures a hassle-free installation experience.
It’s important to note that Oatey No-Caulk Shower Drains are designed explicitly for preformed shower bases and unsuitable for tiled shower floors. If your shower base is not preformed, Oatey offers alternative shower drains compatible with your specific requirements.
4. Re-Caulk Fixtures
Re-caulking around the bathtub or sink is another easy DIY project that can freshen up your bathroom’s appearance. Removing all old caulk before applying new caulking is essential to achieve a secure seal.
For those looking to ensure a clean, seamless finish, Oatey offers caulking solutions in clear or white options to match any design aesthetic. Whether you prefer the invisible look of clear caulk or the classic finish of white, Oatey’s caulking options provide a durable, mildew-resistant seal for all your bathroom fixtures.
5. Installing a Toilet
Replacing an old toilet can appear intimidating, making it a project for which we recommend hiring a professional. However, if you’re feeling confident and up for the challenge, there are affordable products and online tutorials available from Oatey that can assist in making the installation process more manageable.
When removing the old toilet, Oatey’s LiquiLock solidifies water in four to five minutes, helping to prevent drips and leaks. To repair the toilet flange, which secures the toilet to the floor, you can use Oatey’s Fix-It Repair Ring. This product allows you to fix broken, cracked, or worn-out toilet mounting flanges without replacing the entire flange. Watch a short video to learn how to install it.
In addition to the Fix-It Repair Ring, Oatey provides stops and supply lines that ensure easy on/off operation for controlling the water flow to the fixture.
6. Replacing a Bathroom Vanity or Sink
When replacing a bathroom vanity or sink, the first step is choosing a new one that fits your space and style preferences. However, installation can pose a moderate challenge. Nevertheless, with the right tools, patience, and a good understanding of the project, it is achievable for those who are handy and willing to educate themselves thoroughly on the process.
If you need suitable tubular piping for your plumbing projects, Oatey offers a range of products to consider, such as Dearborn® Plastic and Brass Tubular options. It is crucial to consider material, cost, application, size, and other relevant aspects to ensure a compatible and leak-free installation. For more information, be sure to check out our blog on how to select the right tubular.
7. Cosmetic Changes
For those looking to make cosmetic changes to their bathroom, adding an accent wall or applying a fresh coat of paint can be fun and straightforward DIY projects. Selecting the correct type of paint is crucial; opt for a high-quality, bathroom-specific paint that can resist moisture and humidity to ensure the longevity of your new look. Additionally, installing new bathroom lighting fixtures can dramatically change the appearance and ambience of the room.
When to Call a Professional
For some projects, it’s best to seek professional help. It’s also recommended to call for assistance if you don’t feel confident in completing a DIY project yourself. This ensures that the project is completed safely and effectively.
Remember, if you’re unsure about a DIY project, it’s always better to play it safe and seek the expertise of an experienced professional.
Re-Grouting Tile
Consider re-grouting if your bathroom tile is starting to look grungy or discolored. This project can be more challenging than others, so we suggest seeking professional help. Professionals have the tools to remove the old grout, re-grout, and waterproof or reseal the newly applied grout effectively.
Adding Grab Bars for Accessibility
If you or someone in your household has mobility issues, adding grab bars to your bathroom can be a life-changing improvement. While it is possible to do it yourself, calling in the professionals might be the preferable choice for this project. Professionals will ensure the grab bars are correctly and securely installed with proper backing behind the drywall.
Installing a New Exhaust Fan
If your bathroom exhaust fan is malfunctioning or needs an upgrade, consider replacing it. However, it is important to note that replacing an exhaust fan involves electrical work, which can be complicated and potentially hazardous. Therefore, we strongly recommend calling a professional for this project.
There are plenty of bathroom projects that DIYers can tackle with confidence using Oatey products available in retail stores. However, calling in the professionals is sometimes the best choice for safety and practical reasons. Always research any project beforehand, and don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Happy DIY-ing!