Bathrooms
are important parts of the home. Not only do they serve a purpose for
you and each household member, but they also add value to the home.
Unfortunately, some homes are not equipped with a sufficient number
of bathrooms. Adding a half bathroom into the home's design can be a
great investment.
On
average, adding a half bath to your home can increase the value 10.5
percent.
The addition can also improve your lifestyle, giving your family and
guests the extra personal space they need for quick cleanups and
toilet breaks. Of course, you may not know where to start designing
your new half bath. Here are a few essential steps to take when
adding a half bath.
1.
Size/Location
One
of the first decisions you need to make is where your half bath will
be in the home. Remember that half baths only require a toilet and
sink/vanity, so you may be surprised by how little space is
necessary.
For
a toilet and sink, a space that measures 3
feet by 5 feet only
will be sufficient for your half bath. Because you only need a small
space, finding room for your half bath should not be a challenge.
In
most homes, you can convert a walk-in closet into a powder room. Or,
you can utilize square footage from another room of the house, such
as a spare bedroom or utility room. You can also add a half bathroom
into a hallway or under a staircase depending on your home's floor
plan.
When
selecting the location, make sure to consider the bathroom’s
function. Because guests may mainly use it, you will want the half
bath in a central location close to the kitchen and family rooms.
Finally,
since plumbing is already in place in bathrooms, kitchens, and
utility rooms, adding a half bath near these locations is wise.
2.
Plumbing
Now
that you know where your half bath will be, you can begin choosing
the fixtures in your bath. Fortunately, your plumbing
contractor can
help you determine the best plan for connecting your new plumbing
fixtures to nearby pipes already in place.
Other
than running plumbing connections, you will also need to choose and
install a toilet and sink.
To
ensure you follow code, the toilet must be installed so you have a
minimum of 30
inches of
sitting space. If floor space is an issue, consider a wall-mounted
toilet and pedestal sink.
If
you have the space, opt for a traditional-style toilet and
sink/vanity with storage. Many vanity designs are available, in
ranging styles and sizes, which will create the functional half bath
you want and need. A vessel sink, which sits on top of a vanity like
a bowl, adds a modern feel to your bathroom while providing you with
a countertop surface and storage space underneath.
3.
Electrical/Ventilation
Since
you are turning one space into a bathroom, this will also require
different electrical and ventilation updates.
The
half bath will require lighting, whether you choose one light fixture
over the vanity mirror or a mirror light and an overhead light
fixture. Code requires a GFCI outlet in the bathroom, as well. This
outlet should be within 36
inches of
the sink vanity.
Even
though you have no shower or bathtub, the toilet and sink will add
moisture to the space, so the half bath will require some
ventilation. If the half bath will not have a window, an exhaust/bath
fan is necessary to help ventilate the space.
Adding
a half bath can be a worthwhile investment, but professional help is
crucial. To get started on your half bath addition, contact Lewis
Plumbing today.
