From structural damage to mold and mildew, water damage can wreak havoc on a home, especially in areas prone to moisture like the bathroom. Although the wreckage can be stressful, the bright side is it provides an opportunity for home improvement. If you have a water-damaged bathroom, here are four steps to renovating it into a space that’s even better than before. 

How to Remodel a Water-Damaged Bathroom 

1. Dry It Out

Once you’ve addressed the source of the water damage, you’ll need to dry out the bathroom. If you have a plumber fix the leak, you may need to call a water damage restoration professional afterward. They will use specialized equipment to dry the room and prevent mold and mildew. If it has been a while since the damage occurred, they can do a moisture test to determine the extent of the damage and address any existing mold or mildew. 

2. Prepare the Room

Next, you’ll need to shut off the water and remove appliances, such as the toilet, before you can remove damaged drywall and flooring. Put these appliances in a safe space outside the room. If your cabinets were severely damaged, remove these, and discard them. 

3. Remove Damaged Flooring & Drywall

While you can remove drywall and flooring yourself, it’s best to work with a home improvement contractor who is licensed, insured, and highly experienced working with water damage restoration. If a small portion of drywall was compromised, you might be able to remove it using a hammer and keyhole to remove the damaged areas. Then, patch them with new drywall. Once the drywall is finished, move on to the floor. Remove the top layer and then the subfloor. For wood subfloors, cut out the damaged portions and replace the panels. For concrete, apply a leveling compound to replace disintegrated pieces. Make sure the subfloor is dry before applying the finish. 

4. Install Fixtures

Finally, you can install new fixtures, including cabinets, the toilet, and the sink, as needed. This is also an excellent opportunity to replace light fixtures or repaint the room for an updated look. After you’ve installed your new fixtures, you can turn the water back on and start enjoying your new bathroom.

If water has compromised your bathroom, turn to the home improvement contractors at Henry’s Services in Anchorage, AK. This full-service home remodeling company provides everything from emergency water damage services to tile installation and carpet cleaning to ensure your home looks and functions at its best. Call (907) 344-4200 to schedule a consultation with their skilled team or visit the website to learn more about their services.