Gallagher Construction

The Rules of the Bathroom Trade

Construction has long been associated with Mathematics. Everything being built follows precise measurements of ratio and proportion. This does not only help in keeping a build structurally sound but also contributes to how effective a structure will be in terms of purpose. Whether it’s bathroom remodeling in places like Sacramento, CA to kitchen remodeling in Budapest, this “rule” is clearly being practiced by contractors the world over.

Modern engineering and architectural designers also integrate this concept in their works when remodeling rooms. Bathroom remodeling, for instance, is a good example of a project in which the use of measurements can be applied. Accurate measurements determine the degree of functionality and comfort that you can experience while utilizing your bathroom. Just imagine using one with a shower that won’t allow you to stand straight, or a sink that forces you to crouch. Indeed, bathroom remodeling, not only in Sacramento, CA but anywhere else for that matter, have to follow regulations that dictate measurements in order for the room and its components, such as showers, sinks, and vanity, to serve their purpose well.

The International Residential Code (IRC) serves as a standard for contractors to follow in order for every build to be as practical to homeowners or establishment owners as possible. With the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) contributing a large part on the development of the code, bathrooms in particular benefit from this standard in the sense that they will really provide comfort for the user.

Here are the standard measurements for the bathroom:

Toilets

It is important to have the toilet free from any form of obstruction. This makes access easier and provides more comfort when utilizing it. The front edge of the toilet must be clear of any obstructions such as walls and other installations by at least 21 inches. To attain the best comfort, the optimal clearance space to implement is 30 inches. In the same way, both sides of the toilet should have a minimum distance of 15 inches between the bowl’s center-line and any obstruction nearest to it such as bathroom fixtures, fittings, and partitions. A clearance space of 18 inches is the ideal measurement in this aspect.

Showers

Showers should be built to a minimum of 30 inches in width and 30 inches in height, although, it would be advisable to go for the 36-inch measurement of both dimensions so as to provide optimal comfort during use. The shower door should have a 24-inch clearance to prevent it from getting damaged upon opening, especially when considering that most shower doors are made from glass. Additionally, both showers and bathtubs are required to have an anti-scald device installed in order to prevent people from getting burned during a bath.

Electrical

Electrical sockets should be kept away from the bathroom floor. This is to make sure that water would not be able to enter the socket and cause the room to short circuit. In case that an outlet is installed within 6 feet of a water source such as a sink or a toilet, the socket should be GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter)-protected to ensure that the power is immediately cut off in case of a ground-fault incident.

There should be at least one wall switch control for the bathroom, with the switch mounted near the entrance. Lights should be installed with 3 feet clearance across and 8 feet above any bathroom component.

Ventilation

IRC requires the installation of a minimum of 3 square feet window installed, capable of opening halfway. If windows aren’t an option, one could use a ventilation fan instead. These measurements and requirements guarantee that bathrooms will be able to serve their purpose a lot better. It is also well agreed upon by a lot of bathroom designers that the more space the bathroom has, the better. As for contractors, they have the freedom to suggest additions or modifications on any installations present in the bathroom to their clients so long as the guidelines are followed. For those who might be wondering if the code restricts the overall look of the bathroom, the answer would highly depend on the skill and creativity of the remodeler.

If you are looking for contractors who provide cutting-edge services that include bathroom remodeling in your area of Sacramento, CA, then look no further than J.P. Gallagher Construction, Inc. Here at J.P. Gallagher, our experts are able to provide you with a  dynamic look to your bathroom while keeping regulations in check. We are able to work around these limits to provide you with a bathroom that’s functional, comfortable, and downright beautiful. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity! Call or email us today. You can also visit our CONTACT US page and fill out the form. Let us be the one to tell you today that your remodeling idea is definitely worth it, especially if you work with us.