Easy Fix-Its to Restore Your Bathroom

Fortunately, it’s easy to fix many common problems in the bathroom. And it’s also easy to bring a whole new look to this important room without going through a major renovation. Here are some easy projects to show you how.

Easy and Dramatic Color Updates

Adding color is actually easier in the bathroom than in most other rooms. You can change the color scheme simply by changing the towels and the shower curtain.

Of course, painting is always an easy way to change the look of your bathroom, too. Painting the bathroom ceiling with a high-gloss ceiling paint will bring more light into the room. The sheen from this type of paint reflects more light down than paints with a flat finish.

New Drawer, Cabinet and Sink Handles

A relatively simple way to update the look in your bathroom is by updating the hardware—the faucet, faucet handles as well as drawer and cabinet handles. A new faucet comes with complete instructions and isn’t hard to install. A plumber can install it for you if you don’t have the right tools or want some help.

Then try to find drawer and cabinet handles that will match your new faucet handles. Unscrew your current handles before you choose your new ones, then look for handles that require the same number and spacing as the holes that have already been drilled. Once you find handles that you like, and that fit, screw them into the drawer or cabinet face and you’ll have a fresh look for your bathroom hardware.

Replacing Chipped Tiles

Many older bathrooms have chipped or damaged tile, either on the wall or in the floor. If there are only a few tiles that need to be replaced, consider doing the job yourself before calling in the handyman. A quick trip to the home center will get you everything you need to take care of the job.

MATERIALS

Grout saw
Hammer
Chisel
Stiff putty knife
New tiles
Tile adhesive
Premixed grout
Sponge
Grout sealer

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Begin removing existing tile by using a grout saw to remove the grout around all four sides of the broken tile.
2. Use a hammer and chisel to carefully remove the broken tile. Make sure not to damage any tiles other than the broken one, or to damage the wall behind the tiles.
3. Use a stiff putty knife to scrape out any remaining adhesive.
4. Place a light coat of tile adhesive on the back of the new tile.
5. Insert the new tile into the hole and gently tap down until it is level with the surrounding tiles.
6. Use your sponge to apply the premixed grout around the tile. Give them time to cure, about 45 minutes, and then remove the excess grout.
7. Apply the grout sealer according to the package directions.

You can do this project even if you don’t have cracked tiles. Add some color and interest to your bathroom by replacing some of your existing tiles with new, colorful tiles. Or you can use different sized tiles to create interesting tile patterns.