Tips for installing a basement bathroom

Whether your family has recently expanded or you’re just realizing that one bathroom won’t cut it, you might be considering adding a second (or third) water closet to your house. The most important decision at the start is where to place the new bathroom, and if you have a basement this may be an ideal solution.

Not only does a basement bathroom add another place for people to get clean and ready themselves for the day, but it will save you time from having to run up and down the stairs each time you need to use the space. What’s more, if this is not your forever home, having a finished basement with a bathroom can up the resale value of your house.

There are some things to keep in mind when planning out this new space from the bathroom design to the plumbing, fixtures, color scheme and theme. Here are some suggestions to help get you started:

Plumbing
First things first, your bathroom will need running water. Since plumbing a basement bathroom can be tricky, you might want to consider leaving this to professionals.

There are a few options to choose from when it comes to plumbing. The first is below-ground, which works if your home’s sewer line runs deep enough that gravity can take care of waste, according to HGTV. If this is the case, you can use similar plumbing to what’s upstairs. If this is not the case, you can opt for a sewage ejector system that works like a septic tank with an enclosed container that sits under the toilet. The third option is above-ground using an upflushing toilet. You won’t have to break concrete so the installation will be cheaper and easier.

Theme
Once you have the logistics figured out, you can begin to plan the fun aspects of a remodel such as what sort of theme you’d like for your bathroom. If you’re feeling an old-world vibe, a clawfoot tub and vintage faucet are perfect but if you want something more modern, you might want to install a vessel sink and sleeker, more updated fixtures. For those who would prefer a shower to a tub, consider a rainfall showerhead to give the space a luxurious feel. Your theme can also help you choose your color scheme and decor. You might want to keep it in line with the rest of the basement or you may want to play with pops of bright colors or floral wallpaper if it’s a country-style bathroom. Remember, just because this room is on the lower level, it doesn’t mean it can’t just as relaxing as your master bath.