Are you looking to give your bathroom a new look? As one of the most-used rooms in your home, it is only natural that you want yours to be as beautiful and as functional as possible. However, when it comes to bathroom renovations, it can be tough to know where to start and what criteria you need to meet to keep your bathroom up to code.

No matter whether you are looking for an aesthetic makeover or you are looking to improve the functionality of your space so you or a loved one can age in place, the right design is critical. Being proactive now can help you to enjoy the perfect space, rather than having to react as you age, which will help ensure a bathroom perfectly designed around you.

Here at Explore Baths, we are one of the leading providers of bathroom renovations in VA, and our team knows what it takes to ensure your space not only meets your needs but is beautiful and stylish, too. We understand how many considerations there are when it comes to designing the perfect bathroom, which is why we thought we would explore the various bathroom building codes that need to be adhered to and some of the top recommendations set out by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).

Building codes vs. NKBA: What’s the difference?

Before we take a look at some of the top tips and requirements for your bathroom renovation, we thought we should first explore the difference between building codes and the guidelines set out but the National Kitchen and Bath Association. In the simplest form, building codes are the laws that have been set out to ensure that properties remain safe. That means that any construction or renovation work, no matter whether being undertaken by professional contractors or as a weekend DIY project, is legally required to abide by these rules. To ensure that they have been met, the project will need to pass an inspection by a licensed city inspector. Although certain regions have slightly different rules, the vast majority are based upon the universal codes set out by the International Code Council (ICC). These are the base guidelines that all renovations must stick to and are known as the International Residential Code (IRC); however, it is always best to check with your local codes to ensure that there are no additional requirements you need to abide by.

While the ICC building codes are designed to help ensure that your bathroom renovation remains safe, the NKBA recommendations build on that further to maximize safety and functionality. Although these are not legal requirements that need to be followed, they are a very helpful guide to ensure that you are able to create the perfect space that your whole family will love.

Top recommendations for your bathroom renovation

Now that you know the difference between building codes and National Kitchen and Bath Association guidelines, what are the most important that you need to remember for your next project? Our Explore Baths team take a closer look at some of the most critical…

1) Door openings

One of the first considerations when undertaking a bathroom renovation is the door opening. There are no specifications set out by the IRC in terms of the door opening, but the NKBA state:

– The door should be at least 32” wide, which requires a 34” width from jamb to jamb.

– As 34” is not a standard door size, most designers will create a solution that is 36”.

– If you are remodelling your existing bathroom, then most building inspectors will allow you to keep your existing door width no matter the size. However, it is always best to check.

2) Door interference

The next consideration that you will need to factor into your bathroom renovation is any interferences to the door opening, such as appliances. The IRC does not have any specific requirements for this, while the NKBA state that good design will ensure the door does not impact any cabinet or shower doors.

3) Ceiling height

When creating the perfect bathroom, you always want to ensure that you have enough space to relax in. However, the IRC states that, unlike the 90” height requirement for most rooms, bathrooms only require 80” in front of fixtures. The only deviation that the NKBA says above the building code is those areas where you cannot walk, such as sinks or toilets, only require 60” of space.

4) Flooring space

Alongside ceiling space, you also want to ensure that you are creating enough floor space around your various appliances. The IRC states that you will need at least 21” between your toilet, bidet, and sink and the opposite wall or appliance, while there should be at least 24” of floor space in front of the shower entry.

The NKBA suggests that while 21” is the minimum, this can still be considered quite cramped, so they suggest that it should be 30”.

5) Sink spacing

In addition to the floor space, you also need to ensure that your bathroom renovation is factoring in the required distances around your sink. Building codes set out by the IRC state that the minimum distance from the centreline of the sink to the wall needs to be 15”, while freestanding or wall-hung sinks need to have at least 4” between the edge and wall.

Where possible, the NKBA suggests that the gap should increase to 20” to ensure that users have extra elbow room while washing their hands.

6) Double Sinks

Double sinks are becoming increasingly popular, and the IRC rules state that the distance between the centerline of the two sinks must be 30”, while there should also be a 4” between freestanding and wall-hung sinks.

To improve comfort and functionality, the NKBA suggests that the spacing should increase to 36” for double sinks. They also state that when in doubt, opt for a smaller size sink to ensure you have more room.

7) Vanity height

Here at Explore Baths, we know that vanities play a crucial role in any bathroom renovation, and while there are no IRC requirements, the NKBA suggests that vanities should be between 32” and 34” in height. If you have young children, then you can consider adding a built-in stool to allow them to reach the top.

8) Countertop corners

This is often an area that many homeowners overlook when renovating their bathroom, but the right countertop corners can transform the functionality and safety of your room. The IRC

does not have any specific requirements, but the NKBA suggests that there should be no sharp corners and instead, you should opt for rounded or chamfered options.

9) Shower size

Showers are an essential part of any bathroom, and if you are planning on utilizing one in your room then the IRC codes state that the minimum interior shower size is 30” x 30” or 900 square inches. The showerhead should also form part of this area.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association state that while the code minimum is 30” x 30”, homeowners should opt for a 36” square space as this ensures greater comfort.

10) Grab bars

If you struggle with mobility or are living with elderly loved ones, then grab bars are a very important addition to improving the functionality and safety of your space. The IRC does not have any specific guidelines, while the NKBA state that homeowners should always consider the addition of grab rails no matter whether they plan on using them now or not. The NKBA also suggests that for maximum functionality, the bars should be installed between 33” and 36” above the floor.

11) Non-slip floors

Non-slip floors are a very important choice, especially if you struggle with your mobility or are living with young children or elderly loved ones. Although there are no code requirements for non-slip floors set out by the IRC, NKBA recommends that non-slip floors should be incorporated into all bathroom renovations. They suggest that when opting for ceramic tiling, they should offer a coefficient of friction rating of 0.5 or higher when wet.

12) Toilet placement

When it comes to toilet placement, the IRC rules state that there must be a 15” gap between the centerline of the toilet and any other obstacles, appliances, or walls. The NKBA suggests that this can be extended to 18” if homeowners are looking to increase their space and comfort.

13) Toilet compartment

If you are creating a smaller WC or toilet compartment in your home, then the minimum size as set out by the IRC is 30” by 60”. However, the NKBA suggests the minimum should be 36” by 66”, while should your door swing in, you should consider going even larger.

14) Bathroom Accessories

When it comes to bathroom accessories such as mirrors, lighting, towel holders, or soap dishes, then the IRC does not have any ruling in place. To improve functionality, the NKBA recommends always considering ergonomics and aesthetics when placing your accessories. For example, a mirror over your sink should be at eye height, while toilet paper holders, towel holders, and soap dishes should all be within easy reach.

15) Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is vital to reduce condensation and the IRC state that the minimum level of ventilation required is a window of 3 sq. ft. that can be opened at least 50%. If a window is not available, then a mechanical ventilation system will need to be installed that is able to duct 50 cubic feet per minute. The NKBA suggests that an exhaust fan that vents direct outside should be placed in every bathroom that you have.

16) Heating

IRC codes state that all bathrooms will need an appropriate heat source that can maintain a minimum temperature of 68° Fahrenheit (20° Celsius). The NKBA goes further to state that the room should be ten degrees warmer than the rest of the house when bathing for maximum comfort, and you should consider an additional heat source if required.

Creating Your Dream Bathroom

Creating your dream bathroom and establishing an inviting space that your whole family will love, no matter their age can be tough and there are a lot of factors to consider. At Explore Baths, we know the design stage is one of the most critical aspects of your renovation, and keeping these 16 different rules and suggestions in mind is essential to creating the most beautiful and functional space possible.

Of course, we also know how difficult it can be to create the perfect bathroom for your family. That is why if you need help ensuring your bathroom renovation meets all regulations and looks fantastic,

our highly experienced Explore Baths team is here to help you. Want to learn more? Get in touch today by calling or texting 703-962-7510.

Residential Bathroom Code Requirements And Design Tips