Bathroom Remodeling Ideas for Older Homes

Keep the character you love

Many older New England homes have details worth keeping: original trim, wide window casings, classic tile patterns or a clawfoot tub. A remodel does not have to erase them. Consider which pieces can be restored or reused, and choose new finishes that complement the home's age.

• Subway, hexagon and penny tile suit many traditional homes.
• Painted wainscoting or beadboard adds warmth and protects walls.
• Pedestal or furniture-style vanities feel at home in period bathrooms.

Plan for what is behind the walls

Opening up an older bathroom can reveal outdated pipes, undersized drains, old wiring or past water damage. It pays to expect some surprises and set aside a contingency in your budget.

This is also a good time to replace aging supply lines and drains, add properly grounded outlets with ground-fault protection, and repair any soft subfloor.

Waterproof properly

Tile and grout are not waterproof on their own. A continuous waterproof membrane behind tile in the shower, and on the floor where needed, protects the framing of an older home from slow leaks that can go unnoticed for years.

Fix ventilation for humid winters

Older bathrooms often rely on a window for ventilation, which nobody opens in January. A quiet exhaust fan, ducted to the outside and sized for the room, prevents peeling paint, mold and moisture in the walls. A humidity-sensing or timer switch makes sure it runs long enough.

Make the most of a small room

• A curbless or low-threshold shower makes a small room feel bigger and is easier to use for everyone.
• Recessed niches and medicine cabinets add storage without crowding.
• A pocket door saves the swing space of a standard door.
• Light colors and a large mirror bounce light around the room.

Comfort touches for cold mornings

Radiant floor heating under tile, a heated towel rack and good, layered lighting make a real difference on dark winter mornings. Electrical upgrades like these should be planned early and carried out by a licensed electrician.

Ready to plan yours? See our bathroom remodeling service.