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Most codes require 15 inches on either side of the toilet's centerline (from the wall or vanity) and at least 21 to 24 inches between the toilet and the wall in front of it. These codes ensure that your toilet is easy to use and access, even in small bathrooms. Check your local building codes for the exact measurements required. 

The water in your toilet tank refills after each flush. So if you see dirty water in the bowl, you should check the tank to see if it’s coming from there. A dirty toilet tank can be the result of sediment in the water itself—-after all, the water will sit in the tank between flushes and can cause the interior to change into a dingy color. Faulty toilet components, like an old flapper, corroded tank lever or chain, or damaged seals, can also lead to dirty water as the materials break down inside the tank. You can clean the toilet tank or change out the old parts to give it a fresh start.

Adding another bathroom isn’t the most complicated project you can undertake, but it’s in the top 5%. Anything involving plumbing and electrical work should be handed off to a pro, and adding a half bath involves both. A contractor may charge $70 to $120 an hour for labor, but chances are they can work much faster and more accurately than a DIYer.

There are several ways to save money on a bathroom remodel through proper planning and savvy design strategies. To reduce costs, consider the following:

• Purchase your own materials: Buy your own bathroom fixtures, hardware, and other materials to avoid contractor upcharges and delivery fees.

• Shop smart for big-ticket items: Save on pricey items like tiles and tubs by shopping sales and at discount stores.

• Avoid major layout changes: Keep plumbing in its current location. Opt to replace fixtures rather than moving them to avoid significant renovation work.

• Focus on high-impact, low-cost updates: Make affordable but impactful smaller changes, such as upgrading hardware, installing new lighting, and adding stylish but economical accessories.

• DIY where possible: Handle easier parts of the remodel yourself, like painting or installing light fixtures, to save on labor costs.

• Time your remodel strategically: Consider remodeling in the spring, which tends to be a lower-demand time of year and may result in lower costs.