Full house? Add an extra half bathroom
A half bath, or powder room, is a small room containing a toilet and sink but without the shower or tub to qualify it as a full bath. If you think you don't have enough room to add a half bathroom to your home, you might want to reconsider--a small powder room can comfortably fit into 20 square feet, and you might even be able to squeeze it into a tiny 11-square-foot enclosure. A new powder room consisting of just a sink and toilet can be ideal for guests to use. Depending on where your main baths are located, it may even be a little more convenient for your family, as well.
Where to put a half bathroom
In many homes, a powder room is located off a central hallway near the main living area. The unused space under a stairway to the second level can also be an excellent spot. In most cases, all you need is 15 inches from the center line of the toilet and sink to the nearest wall, and 21 inches of access in front of each fixture. Local building codes can vary, so it's a good idea to check with an inspector before deciding.
Laying it out and adding it up
Locating the sink and toilet at opposite ends of the room can be one method of maximizing your available square footage. Another method for creating an allusion of space in a small area is by using a pedestal sink or wall-to-wall vanity top with just an apron that doesn't seem as imposing as a full size cabinet.
Don't forget to allow room for a door when you're planning the space. Many powder rooms have a 24-inch door, but a 28-inch door can feel a little less confining. An inward opening door can eliminate a potential hazard in the hallway, but it may also take away space from the new room. So, a door that opens out should be taken into consideration with variables like how busy that particular area may be.
Pricing for a half bathroom can vary depending on its location, the demo work involved and the fixtures you choose. A good ballpark range is around $4,000 to $7,000. A local contractor should be able to give you a better estimate on your particular project.
Getting started
One of the most enjoyable parts of adding a half bath to your home is selecting the fixtures. You may consider any of the following manufacturers:
- Plumbing fixtures--Kohler, American Standard, Delta, Moen
- Vanities and cabinets--Merillat Cabinetry, Yorktowne Cabinetry, KraftMaid
- Bath hardware--Baldwin, Kohler, Delta
- Flooring--Bruce Flooring, Armstrong Flooring, Daltile
Unless you're a seasoned DIYer, hiring a contractor to manage all the tasks of adding a powder room to your home is often the wisest way to go. If you are ready to get started, fill out the form on this page to connect with contractors in your area.
