Remodelling a bathroom is a significant investment that can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of one of the most used spaces in your home. However, it can also be a complex process that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and the right balance between quality and cost.
Whether upgrading outdated fixtures, rethinking your bathroom layout, or installing new materials, knowing what to do—and what not to do—can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth renovation experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the essential “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of bathroom remodelling, offering practical advice on planning, material selection, layout considerations, and professional hiring. From avoiding last-minute changes to prioritising waterproofing, these tips will help you create a beautiful and functional bathroom while staying on budget and schedule.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plan thoroughly, focus on durable materials, hire professionals for critical tasks, and ensure proper ventilation and lighting for a successful bathroom remodel.
Take your time with the planning phase, making last-minute changes, underestimating the timeline, and cutting corners on waterproofing.
Stick to a realistic budget that balances quality and cost while leaving room for unexpected expenses. Information like storage, spacing, and accessibility will enhance functionality and safety.
Do’s Of Bathroom Remodeling
Plan Thoroughly
Start with a comprehensive plan before diving into any remodelling work. Your plan should include every detail of the remodel, such as:
- Layout: Review the current bathroom layout and assess if it fits your needs. Consider the placement of the toilet, sink, and shower/bath. Changing the layout may improve functionality but can increase costs, especially if it involves adjusting plumbing.
- Materials: Choose materials suited for high-moisture environments. This includes durable flooring like tiles, waterproof paint, and high-quality finishes that can withstand wear and tear over time.
- Fixtures: Plan for fixtures (faucets, showerheads, vanities, etc.) that will match your design aesthetic and meet practical needs.
Layout Planning
- Assess Functionality: Take time to analyse the current layout’s functionality. Does the current setup meet your usage requirements? Do you need more storage, a larger shower area, or a double vanity?
- Cost of Layout Changes: Moving the toilet or shower can significantly drive up remodelling costs due to plumbing modifications. If possible, try to maintain the existing locations of major fixtures to stay within budget.
- Flow and Accessibility: Ensure the layout allows easy movement and accessibility, especially in smaller bathrooms. If space allows, consider separating wet and dry areas.
Material Selection
- Durability: Choose materials that will last in humid conditions, which is common in bathrooms. Recommended materials include:
- Porcelain or ceramic tiles are durable, water-resistant, and available in various styles.
- Waterproof Paint is essential for walls, particularly in areas exposed to moisture, such as near sinks or showers.
- Faucets, showerheads, and vanities should be stylish and functional. Choose finishes that resist corrosion and tarnishing.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Select materials that reflect your style while still being practical for long-term use.
Hiring Professionals
Professional contractors ensure quality work, saving you from expensive repairs in the future. While DIY projects can be tempting to save on labour costs, certain tasks are best left to professionals:
- Plumbing: Poorly installed plumbing can lead to leaks and water damage, which are costly to fix.
- Electrical Work: Bathrooms have specific electrical safety requirements (such as GFCI outlets) that a licensed electrician should handle.
- Tiling: Installing tiles incorrectly can result in water seepage and cracking.
Focus On Ventilation
- Preventing Mold and Mildew: Proper ventilation is key to preventing moisture-related problems like mould, which can damage the bathroom and impact your health. Without good airflow, mould and mildew thrive, especially in damp areas.
- Exhaust Fan: Install a high-quality exhaust fan that fits the bathroom’s size. It should be strong enough to remove excess moisture from the air after baths and showers, helping prevent condensation and mould buildup.
- Natural Ventilation: Windows or skylights can supplement mechanical ventilation by allowing fresh air to circulate, reducing humidity and odours.
Prioritise Lighting
- Layered Lighting: Lighting affects both the functionality and ambience of the bathroom. A combination of lighting types is ideal:
- Ambient Lighting: General lighting that provides overall illumination for the room. This could include ceiling-mounted lights or recessed fixtures.
- Task Lighting: Focused lighting for specific tasks, such as around the vanity for makeup application or shaving.
- Accent Lighting: highlights design features like artwork, mirrors, or architectural details.
- Damp-Approved Fixtures: Ensure all lighting fixtures are rated for damp conditions, especially those installed near showers or bathtubs.
Choose The Right Fixtures
- Invest in Quality: Quality fixtures may cost more upfront, but their durability and long-lasting performance will save you money.
- Tapware: Choose faucets and taps that are both stylish and functional. Look for finishes that resist water spots and tarnishing, and ensure the fixtures are water-efficient to help reduce water consumption.
- Showerheads: Invest in a showerhead that balances good water pressure with water conservation features. Low-flow showerheads can save water without sacrificing the quality of your shower experience.
- Toilets and Basins: Look for models designed for water efficiency (such as dual-flush toilets).
Don’ts Of Bathroom Remodeling
Don’t Rush The Planning Phase
- Take Time to Plan: One of the biggest mistakes in bathroom remodelling is rushing through the planning stage. Careful planning allows you to think through every aspect of the renovation and avoid costly mistakes.
- Detailed Design: Before starting the project, ensure you’ve accounted for everything in the design, including layout, materials, plumbing, and lighting. A lack of a solid plan often leads to delays, unexpected costs, and compromises on the final result.
Avoid Last-Minute Changes
- Stick to Decisions: Avoid making last-minute changes after finalising your design and selected materials. Modifying plans mid-project can significantly increase costs and cause delays, as contractors may need to reorder materials or adjust timelines.
- Financial Impact: Changing a major element like layout or fixtures after work has begun can be particularly expensive due to the added labour and material costs. It can also throw off the original schedule.
Don’t Underestimate The Timeline
- Plan for Delays: Bathroom renovations often take longer than expected, especially when dealing with structural changes, unforeseen plumbing issues, or custom fixtures. Plan for potential delays in your schedule, and always have a backup plan for another bathroom to use during the renovation.
- Coordination of Trades: Coordinating various trades (plumbing, electrical, tiling) can add time to the project. Properly scheduling each task helps avoid bottlenecks and reduces downtime.
Don’t Skimp On Waterproofing
- Importance of Waterproofing: Bathrooms are constantly exposed to moisture, so waterproofing is essential. Inadequate waterproofing can lead to leaks, mould growth, and long-term damage, requiring expensive repairs later.
- Use Professional Waterproofing: Areas around the shower, bathtub, and sink are most vulnerable to water damage. To prevent future problems, ensure these areas are professionally waterproofed with high-quality products.
- Meet Building Codes: Always check local building codes and regulations for waterproofing standards to avoid future legal issues. Skipping this step could lead to failed inspections or even the need to redo sections of the remodel.
Don’t Ignore Small Details
- Storage Solutions: Thoughtful storage solutions are critical in maintaining a clutter-free bathroom. Consider incorporating cabinets, shelving, or built-in niches to store towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials.
- Proper Spacing: Crowded bathrooms could be more comfortable and practical. To improve usability and comfort, ensure sufficient space around each fixture, such as the toilet, sink, and shower.
- Accessibility: Consider all users when planning the remodel, especially if elderly family members or individuals with mobility issues use the bathroom. Installing grab bars, non-slip flooring, or a walk-in shower can add significant value to the space and enhance safety.
Don’t Neglect To Set A Realistic Budget
- Budget Wisely: Bathroom remodels can quickly exceed budget if not planned carefully. Set a realistic budget that includes materials, labour, and potential additional expenses like permits or professional services.
- Budget for the Unexpected: Always allocate 10-20% of your total budget as a contingency fund for unforeseen issues, such as plumbing or electrical surprises, structural repairs, or delays. This will help you avoid financial stress as the project progresses.
- Balance Quality and Cost: While staying within your budget is important, don’t sacrifice quality to save money. Cheap materials and fixtures may wear out or break more easily, leading to costly repairs or replacements later. Investing in quality from the start can save you money and hassle in the long term.
Conclusion
Thorough planning and attention to detail are key to successful and cost-effective bathroom remodelling. Prioritise creating a detailed plan that includes layout, material selection, and proper lighting and ventilation.
Hiring professionals for complex tasks like plumbing, electrical work, and waterproofing is essential to avoid costly mistakes. Additionally, it focuses on functionality and accessibility to meet the needs of all users.
Take time with the planning phase, last-minute changes, and underestimating timelines or budgets. Skimping on waterproofing or choosing cheap materials can lead to long-term issues.
Set a realistic budget that balances quality and cost while accounting for unexpected expenses. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll achieve a well-designed, durable, and functional bathroom that adds value to your home.
FAQs About Remodel A Bathroom
What To Avoid When Remodeling A Bathroom?
Common Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
- Low Ventilation.
- Improper Layout.
- Dull Lighting.
- Forgetting to Add Storage Space.
- Overestimating the Budget.
Which Factors Should Be Considered Before Bathroom Remodeling?
The design, logistics, budget, and contractor choice are all major considerations that can either make or break your bathroom remodel. As you create your bathroom remodelling checklist, consider these considerations before you start to ensure your bathroom is everything you imagined it could be.
How To Do Basic Bathroom Remodel?
Bathroom Renovations Step by Step
- Demolition.
- Install Plumbing Fixtures.
- Install Wall and Floor Tiles.
- Install Cabinets and Countertops.
- Install Lighting and Accessories.
Should You Replace Toilet When Remodeling?
If you are remodelling or redesigning your home, it’s the ideal time to change the toilet. With an abundance of choices, the toilet can enhance the design and appearance of your home.
What Is The Rules Of Bathroom Layout?
Plan a clear floor space of at least 30 inches from the front edge of all fixtures (lavatory, toilet, bidet, tub, and shower) to any opposite bath fixture, wall, or obstacle. Code Requirements: A minimum space of 21 inches must be planned in front of the lavatory, toilet, bidet, and tub.
