Category: Home Makeovers

Step 3: Choose the Right Materials

Durability meets design in the modern affordable bathroom. Choose cost-efficient materials that perform well under daily use.

Step 4: Source Materials Locally

Shopping locally reduces shipping costs and gives you a chance to see and feel materials before purchasing. Visit kitchen and bath showrooms near me for side-by-side comparisons of fixtures, vanities, and tiles.
Showrooms often offer package pricing that includes hardware and lighting, which can save 10–20%.

Step 5: Hire Trusted Professionals

Even for smaller remodels, professional expertise prevents expensive mistakes. Look for:

• Licensed contractors familiar with Sacramento building codes.

• Verified online reviews or local references.

• Clear contracts with timelines and scope.

Pro Tip: Ask for itemized bids. It helps you compare true labor and material costs between contractors.

Step 6: Schedule Efficiently

Plan your remodel timeline carefully to minimize disruption.

Typical timeline:

• Demolition and prep: 1–3 days

• Plumbing/electrical updates: 2–4 days

• Tile and flooring installation: 3–5 days

• Fixtures and paint: 2–3 days

Scheduling trades sequentially — not overlapping — prevents confusion and keeps costs predictable.

Step 7: Inspect and Maintain

Once your bathroom is complete, inspect for:

• Proper sealing around tile and fixtures.

• Consistent water pressure and temperature.

• Smooth caulking and clean grout lines.

Afterward, maintain your bathroom by cleaning regularly and resealing grout annually.

Builder’s Notes

A step-by-step approach ensures your bathroom remodel stays on budget and on schedule. Sacramento homeowners who plan, compare, and hire carefully can achieve high-end results for a fraction of the typical cost.

👉 Remember: a clear plan isn’t just smart — it’s your strongest tool for saving money while getting beautiful results.

Step 3: Pick the Right Materials

Durability and maintenance are key. Focus on:

• Tile: Porcelain or ceramic for longevity and style variety

• Glass: Frameless for a clean, open feel

• Fixtures: Stainless steel or brushed nickel for corrosion resistance

• Flooring: Slip-resistant tile or textured stone

These materials provide a balance of safety, function, and aesthetics — all central to modern remodeling standards.

Step 4: Understand the Cost Breakdown

Your total investment depends on size, material, and labor.

If replacing an old enclosure, factor in your shower replacement cost, which varies by region and plumbing complexity.

Step 5: Plan for Functionality

A walk-in shower should feel beautiful and effortless to use. Include:

• A recessed niche or corner shelf

• Bench seating or a floating slab

• Dual showerheads or rainfall fixtures

• Adequate lighting for mood and visibility

Even small upgrades, like linear drains or heated floors, can enhance comfort and value.

Step 6: Hire Professionals for Installation

While some DIY enthusiasts tackle tile work, most homeowners benefit from hiring a licensed remodeler. A professional ensures:

• Proper waterproofing and drainage

• Accurate slope for curbless entries

• Code compliance and safety assurance

Look for contractors experienced with modern bathrooms — especially those skilled in tile alignment and precision detailing.

Step 7: Inspect and Maintain

Once complete, seal grout lines and wipe down glass regularly to preserve that just-finished look. Annual inspections help catch minor issues before they become costly repairs.

Homeowner’s Checklist

✔ Measure and evaluate your space
✔ Choose your design and materials
✔ Get quotes and finalize your budget
✔ Schedule licensed installation
✔ Maintain your new shower for lasting value

Builder’s Notes

A walk-in shower is one of the smartest upgrades you can make — balancing everyday function with lasting beauty. With a clear plan and professional installation, your remodel can deliver luxury, accessibility, and value in every square foot.

👉 Start with design inspiration, material samples, and a detailed consultation to turn your vision into a custom shower that’s built to last.

3. Aesthetics: Style and Substance

Fiber Cement Siding
✔ Offers refined, architectural appeal
✔ Can mimic wood grain, board and batten, or smooth contemporary finishes
✔ Paintable in any color — highly customizable

Vinyl Siding
➖ Limited in visual depth and texture
➖ Many color options but lacks the high-end aesthetic of fiber cement or wood

Wood Siding
✔ Unmatched natural beauty and texture
➖ Over time, weathering can either add character or require restoration

Stucco
✔ Clean, modern, or Mediterranean appeal
✔ Texture and pigment options, but not as versatile as cement or wood

Engineered Wood
✔ Attractive and warm, mimicking traditional wood
➖ Less customizable than cement siding in finish and format

Winner: ✅ Cement siding delivers beauty, variety, and longevity — a designer’s top pick for upscale curb appeal.

4. Cost: Upfront and Long-Term

Fiber Cement Siding
💰 Mid-to-high initial cost
✔ Excellent return on investment (~70–85% ROI in resale value)
✔ Lower cost over time due to durability and fewer repairs

Vinyl Siding
💰 Most affordable option upfront
➖ Lower resale ROI and shorter lifespan
➖ Aesthetics may limit value in high-end neighborhoods

Wood Siding
💰 High initial and maintenance costs
➖ Maintenance adds long-term expense
✔ May appeal in specific markets for its character

Stucco
💰 Comparable to fiber cement in cost, but climate-dependent
➖ Repairs can be labor-intensive

Engineered Wood
💰 Generally more affordable than fiber cement
➖ Requires consistent upkeep to avoid degradation

Winner: ✅ Cement siding balances cost, performance, and resale value — ideal for homeowners seeking long-term benefit.

5. Value Retention: What It Means for Your Investment

Fiber Cement Siding
✔ Ranked as one of the top remodeling investments by cost-vs-value reports
✔ Boosts curb appeal and attracts buyers with its longevity and low upkeep

Vinyl Siding
➖ ROI varies by market and home value tier
➖ Often seen as a budget choice

Wood Siding
➖ Can add charm, but maintenance concerns may reduce buyer appeal

Stucco
✔ Marketable in appropriate climates
➖ In wetter regions, may be seen as a maintenance risk

Engineered Wood
✔ Middle-of-the-road in perceived value
➖ Depends heavily on brand and finish longevity

Winner: ✅ Cement siding consistently ranks as one of the highest-value exterior upgrades.

Final Verdict: Cement Siding Earns Its Place at the Top

If your goal is a refined, long-lasting exterior that blends architectural appeal with proven performance, cement siding leads the pack. It’s a smart choice for homeowners who want a beautiful facade today — and peace of mind for decades to come.

🤝 3. Service: Consultation, Expertise, and Project Support

Service is often the deciding factor in whether a remodel runs smoothly or becomes a costly, time-consuming challenge. Exceptional showrooms offer more than transactions—they provide design consultation, technical insight, and long-term support.

Key Service Features to Compare:

• Complimentary or paid design consultations

• Knowledgeable staff with interior design or architectural backgrounds

• Transparent pricing and itemized quotes

• Coordination with contractors and installers

• Post-sale support (e.g., warranty handling, installation tips)

Local Trends:

• High-end showrooms in Sacramento increasingly offer full-service experiences, pairing in-house designers with contractor networks to manage projects from planning to installation.

• Mid-size showrooms may refer you to outside trades but still provide comprehensive guidance and product education.

• Some large retail-based showrooms lean toward a self-service model, offering competitive pricing but limited personalized assistance.

📊 Summary Comparison Table

🧠 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Showroom for Your Project

When selecting among bathroom showrooms in Sacramento, the ideal choice depends on your project’s complexity, budget, and design goals. Style should speak to your vision, selection should support your function, and service should simplify your journey.

Investing time in comparing showrooms—visiting them in person, speaking with consultants, and asking the right questions—can lead to a smoother renovation and a bathroom that not only looks exceptional, but also performs with lasting quality.

Because in great design, what’s behind the walls matters as much as what’s in front of them.

Step 4: Choose a Design and Layout

Keep your layout simple to control costs. A one-bedroom or studio ADU can serve most needs without excessive square footage. Straightforward shapes, such as rectangles, are easier and less expensive to build. Efficient floor plans make compact units feel open and functional.

Step 5: Select Materials Wisely

Affordable doesn’t mean cutting corners. Vinyl plank flooring, quartz-look laminate countertops, and stock cabinetry can provide style at a fraction of the cost of premium materials. Durable, low-maintenance finishes reduce long-term expenses while keeping the look modern.

Step 6: Hire the Right Contractor

An experienced ADU contractor ensures compliance with regulations, manages subcontractors, and helps avoid mistakes that drive up costs. Always review references, licenses, and previous ADU projects before signing an agreement. The right builder can save you money and stress.

Step 7: Manage the Construction Process

Stay engaged throughout construction. Regular site visits and clear communication with your contractor will help prevent delays, ensure quality, and keep the project within budget. Document changes and track expenses carefully to avoid scope creep.

Step 8: Plan for Utilities and Systems

Don’t overlook infrastructure. Water, sewer, and electrical connections must meet code. Discuss whether your ADU will connect to existing systems or require separate lines. Efficient HVAC systems and insulation can also reduce long-term energy costs.

Step 9: Add Final Touches

Once construction is complete, it’s time for finishing details. Landscaping, paint, and storage solutions enhance livability. Even small design choices, like light fixtures or built-in shelving, can make an ADU feel more inviting and functional.

Step 10: Enjoy the Benefits

With careful planning and execution, your new ADU can provide rental income, accommodate family, or create a versatile space that adapts as your needs change. Over time, well-built ADUs pay for themselves while increasing overall property value.

Final Thoughts

ADU Construction may seem intimidating, but with the right steps and careful decisions, it becomes a manageable process. From setting a budget to selecting materials and working with trusted professionals, you can create a cost-effective unit that provides both immediate and long-term rewards.

If you’re ready to add value and versatility to your property, now is the perfect time to explore your ADU options.

🛁 3. Product Quality and Material Options

Costco Program
The remodels feature Jacuzzi® brand products, known for quality in bathtubs, walk-in tubs, and accessible shower systems. Materials are durable, easy to clean, and designed for performance — but the selection is largely focused on acrylic and composite materials.

Custom Remodel
A custom route opens the door to natural stone, porcelain, designer tile, floating vanities, underfloor heating, and architectural lighting — all of which elevate the experience and overall property value. However, quality varies greatly depending on who you hire and where materials are sourced.

✅ Material Range: Custom Remodel offers broader (and often higher-end) product options.

⏳ 4. Timeline and Installation Speed

Costco Remodel
Because the program uses a pre-selected range of materials and certified installers, projects typically move faster. Some installations can be completed in as little as one week, especially for straightforward tub-to-shower conversions.

Custom Remodel
Custom projects may require 4–8 weeks or more, depending on availability of materials, contractor timelines, inspections, and design iterations. The planning phase alone may take several weeks.

✅ Speed Advantage: Costco Remodel is ideal for time-sensitive projects or secondary bathrooms.

🧠 5. Warranty and Support

Costco Remodel
The program includes limited product warranties and installation guarantees, with Costco backing the service via its vendor partnership. This can give homeowners peace of mind, especially for basic remodels.

Custom Remodel
Warranties vary by contractor and product. While many pros offer 1-year labor warranties and longer manufacturer coverage, you’re responsible for vetting and coordinating multiple parties.

✅ Warranty Reliability: Costco Remodel offers consistent post-installation support under one roof.

🏠 6. Impact on Home Value

Costco Remodel
Efficient upgrades, especially in guest bathrooms or aging-in-place scenarios, can enhance daily living and boost resale appeal — particularly when done cleanly and with reputable brands.

Custom Remodel
For primary bathrooms or luxury listings, a custom design can significantly increase perceived value and attract higher offers. Buyers often pay more for distinct, high-quality finishes and layout upgrades.

✅ Resale Value Winner: Custom Remodel, particularly when aligned with the home’s overall style and market expectations.

🧾 Final Thoughts: Which Remodel Is Right for You?

Choosing between a Costco Jacuzzi bath remodel and a custom remodel ultimately comes down to priorities.

• Choose Costco if you want a fast, functional, and cost-efficient upgrade with reliable results and minimal decision-making.

• Choose a custom remodel if you’re designing your forever bathroom, want total creative control, or are upgrading for long-term value and luxury.

Both paths offer smart solutions — and neither is wrong. The key is aligning your remodel with your budget, timeline, and lifestyle needs.

💡 Functionality: Looks vs. Livability

House A
The open shower concept looked high-end but caused water to splash onto the vanity and required frequent floor mopping. The LED-lit mirror they loved online had no dimmer—bright at 2 a.m. was… not ideal.

House B
They focused on function first:

• Built-in linen cabinet

• Lighting on dimmer switches

• A curbless shower with a glass door for warmth and containment

Every element supported how they actually lived, not just how they wanted the space to feel.

🧱 Materials: Showpieces vs. Substance

Sophia & Marcus splurged on a single slab of exotic quartzite for the vanity but cut corners on plumbing and waterproofing.

Karen & Glenn skipped the wow-factor stone but upgraded:

• Subfloor for heated tile

• Quiet, efficient ventilation

• High-quality fixtures with lifetime warranties

The difference? Long-term performance. One space needed repairs in under a year. The other? Aging gracefully.

📊 Outcome: Aesthetics, Function, and Value

✅ Final Thought

A bath remodel in Sacramento isn’t just a before-and-after moment. It’s a decision that shapes how you begin and end your day—every day.

Both remodels had beauty. But only one had balance: of personal taste, practical design, and emotional connection.

Nate Berkus reminds us: “Your space should reflect your journey, not someone else’s highlight reel.” Whether you’re designing with bold confidence or quiet intention, make choices that feel like home—not just for now, but for the years to come.

🧰 CALL TO ACTION

Planning your own bath remodel in Sacramento?
Let our design-build team help you create something personal, purposeful, and built to last—because the best space is the one that tells your story.

Performance Backed by Technology

Here’s where Lioher stands out in hard numbers:

• Scratch Resistance: Rated 4.5/5 for surface durability (based on 2023 IFA surface impact testing)

• Moisture Resistance: Surfaces show <5% swelling after 24-hour exposure (ideal for kitchens & bathrooms)

• UV Stability: Rated to maintain color in both high-sun and artificial light conditions for 10+ years

Translation? These cabinets are not just beautiful—they’re built for real life.

Sustainable Manufacturing Process

Lioher’s commitment to eco-friendly materials includes:

• CARB2-compliant panels (low formaldehyde emissions)

• 100% recyclable components

• Water-based finishes where applicable

Why It Matters: For homeowners prioritizing both design and responsibility, DreamLine Lioher offers style without compromise.

Versatile Applications

While Lioher is often seen in kitchens, it performs just as well in:

• Bathroom vanities

• Laundry rooms

• Home offices

• Closets and mudrooms

Design Tip: Use matte white Lioher in high-traffic utility spaces for a clean, contemporary look that hides fingerprints and enhances light.

Cost and Value Considerations

While pricing can vary by installer and region, most homeowners find that:

• Lioher cabinets offer 20-30% savings compared to full custom millwork

• Lead times are shorter due to pre-fabricated panel systems

• Long-term durability offsets higher upfront cost compared to low-end stock cabinets

ROI Insight: Kitchens with modern flat-panel cabinetry (like Lioher) see an average resale value increase of 6-10% in urban markets, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

Final Thoughts

DreamLine Lioher cabinets are more than a design choice—they’re a declaration of modern living. With durability, sustainability, and undeniable beauty, they empower you to create spaces that reflect your lifestyle and your values.

Whether you’re renovating for resale or redefining your forever home, let these cabinets be the foundation of your story.

Call to Action

Curious if DreamLine Lioher is right for your project? Our design consultants can walk you through samples, performance data, and layout strategies that bring your vision to life.

Step 3: Design the Layout with Intention

Sophie wanted a bench. Mark wanted dual showerheads. They both wanted more elbow room.

Their solution:

• A 60″ x 36″ open walk-in shower

• Recessed shelving for shampoo and soaps

• A floating bench with built-in support

• Rainfall and handheld showerheads for versatility

David’s Design Rule: Make every square foot count. Smart storage and layout upgrades are just as important as style.

Step 4: Choose Materials That Combine Style and Function

They selected:

• Large-format matte porcelain tiles for the walls

• Pebble mosaic flooring for added texture and grip

• Brushed nickel fixtures for timeless appeal

• Frameless glass to keep the space open and airy

Why it worked: These materials offered durability, low maintenance, and visual impact—without overwhelming the space.

Step 5: Trust the Process

There were delays. A custom glass panel arrived cracked. A plumbing valve needed replacing. But Sophie and Mark stayed patient.

Lesson Learned: Remodeling isn’t perfect—but the end result is worth every minor delay and tough decision.

Final Thoughts

Sophie and Mark’s walk-in shower remodel wasn’t just a fix for a leak. It was a lifestyle upgrade. With thoughtful design, a clear plan, and a willingness to adapt, they created a space that feels like a spa and functions like a dream.

Call to Action

Planning a walk-in shower remodel? Our team is here to help guide you every step of the way—from design to installation, and every beautiful detail in between.

3. Choose the Right Materials for Pipes

PEX, copper, or PVC? Each has its place.

• PEX: Flexible and great for remodels.

• Copper: Long-lasting and classic.

• PVC: Often used for drain lines.

Martha’s Tip: Don’t mix pipe materials without proper fittings—it can cause corrosion or leaks.

4. Always Install an Air Gap (or High Loop) for Dishwashers

An air gap prevents dirty water from backing into your dishwasher.

Why It’s Urgent: It’s required by code in many places, and skipping it can lead to health hazards and inspection fails.

5. Don’t Forget Venting

A drain without proper venting will gurgle, drain slowly, and eventually smell. Every fixture needs a vent—period.

Smart Solution: If traditional venting isn’t an option, consider air admittance valves (AAVs).

6. Consider a Hot Water Recirculation System

Hate waiting for hot water? A recirculation pump can solve that.

Efficiency Boost: Reduces water waste and enhances convenience—especially in large or open-plan kitchens.

7. Hire a Licensed Plumber for Critical Installations

DIY is great for organizing a pantry. Not so much for moving gas lines or drain pipes.

Safety First: A licensed plumber ensures everything is to code—and avoids expensive rework down the line.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re updating fixtures or planning a full kitchen renovation, understanding your plumbing essentials is critical. Addressing these seven points up front keeps your kitchen functional, beautiful, and safe.

Call to Action

Need expert plumbing advice or help planning your remodel? Contact our licensed professionals for fast, elegant solutions that keep your kitchen flowing smoothly.