4 Classic Bathroom Renovation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
An expert reveals the blunders many first-time renovators make so you can factor them in
A bathroom redesign is one of the most challenging projects you can take on for your home, but, if you do it right, the rewards can be amazing. Unfortunately, people often encounter the same issues when they start their projects and, when not handled correctly, these can lead to delays, extra costs and a disappointing result.
Here are the most common errors first-timers make with bathroom projects, along with tips on how you can avoid making them yourself. Included are photos of beautiful bathrooms that do it right.
Here are the most common errors first-timers make with bathroom projects, along with tips on how you can avoid making them yourself. Included are photos of beautiful bathrooms that do it right.
Add in the cost of the subcontractors you’ll require and, if you’ll be doing anything yourself, include the price of any tools you’ll need to rent or buy.
I’d recommend adding a buffer of about 10% to the budget to pay for any unexpected costs that crop up – because chances are, they will.
I’d recommend adding a buffer of about 10% to the budget to pay for any unexpected costs that crop up – because chances are, they will.
Mistake 2: Replacing everything
I’m a big advocate of repairing rather than replacing where possible. Some first-time redesigners get a little ‘demolition happy’ and want to replace everything in a bathroom, which can cost a lot of unexpected money and time.
I’m a big advocate of repairing rather than replacing where possible. Some first-time redesigners get a little ‘demolition happy’ and want to replace everything in a bathroom, which can cost a lot of unexpected money and time.
If your vanity unit is a little dated but otherwise in good condition, for instance, have it painted and install new hardware. You might be pleasantly surprised at the transformation, and all for less than the cost of a replacement. Look for other features that could easily be refreshed or restored as well.
Mistake 3: Going with poor-quality work and finishes
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is trying to cut corners by not using quality professionals or products. Renovating is not about cutting corners, or smoke and mirrors – there’s no room for poor finishes or unsafe practices.
When it comes to a bathroom refresh, you don’t want iffy waterproofing. Trust me, when it comes to your budget, this is where you should invest. Do it right the first time by working with trained and certified waterproofing contractors.
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is trying to cut corners by not using quality professionals or products. Renovating is not about cutting corners, or smoke and mirrors – there’s no room for poor finishes or unsafe practices.
When it comes to a bathroom refresh, you don’t want iffy waterproofing. Trust me, when it comes to your budget, this is where you should invest. Do it right the first time by working with trained and certified waterproofing contractors.
When it comes to finishes, buy the best you can afford. They will make your completed bathroom look and feel more luxurious, and are more likely to go the distance than very cheap ones.
You might also enjoy How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Unit.
You might also enjoy How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Unit.
Mistake 4: Not allowing for enough storage
Just like every other room in the house, good storage in a bathroom is essential if you want it to function well and look clean and uncluttered. You’ll need space for make-up, medicines, toiletries, towels and more, depending on how many people will be using the room.
Just like every other room in the house, good storage in a bathroom is essential if you want it to function well and look clean and uncluttered. You’ll need space for make-up, medicines, toiletries, towels and more, depending on how many people will be using the room.
The key is smart storage that will give you a home for everything you need without swallowing up too much precious space in your bathroom. Look to incorporate different-sized drawers in your vanity unit to accommodate items of various shapes and sizes.
Tell us…
Have you experienced any bathroom renovating disasters? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
Tell us…
Have you experienced any bathroom renovating disasters? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
Many inexperienced homeowners don’t spend enough time planning their costs before the bathroom renovation starts. This can cause major setbacks down the road, including not being able to finish the project.
It’s essential to establish your redesign budget as accurately as you can before the work starts. Create a list of exactly what you’ll be replacing or repairing, such as shower walls, taps, mirrors and cabinetry. If you’re planning to replace any tiles, you’ll also have to work out the square footage you’ll need.
Ready to renovate? Find bathroom designers in your area on Houzz.