Remodelling a bathroom is exciting and challenging, as it offers homeowners a chance to enhance one of their home’s most functional and frequently used spaces. However, bathroom renovations can quickly become overwhelming, costly, and stressful without proper planning.
Whether revamping a small guest bathroom or updating a main suite, avoiding common mistakes and following best practices will help ensure a smooth and successful remodel.
In this guide, we’ll outline the dos and don’ts of bathroom renovations to help you achieve a space that is not only beautiful but also functional and long-lasting.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Bathroom remodelling can transform a key area in your home, but it’s important to follow best practices to avoid common mistakes. Start with a detailed plan, prioritise functionality, and set aside extra budget for unexpected costs. Invest in high-quality materials, focus on proper lighting and ventilation, and design for future use.
Take your time with the process, skimp on fixtures, or overlook storage. Avoid overcrowding the space and resist following trends unthinkingly. Ensure smart water efficiency, test fixtures in person, and consider long-term maintenance to create a stylish, functional, and lasting bathroom space.
The Don’ts Of Bathroom Remodelling
1. Don’t – Rush The Process
One of the biggest things homeowners need to improve is rushing through the renovation process. While it’s understandable to want your new bathroom completed quickly, taking shortcuts or hastily making decisions can lead to poor results. Take the time to plan your renovation thoroughly, consult with professionals, and ensure everything is done properly.
Allow your contractor and tradespeople enough time to complete the work to a high standard. Rushing through important tasks like waterproofing, plumbing, and tiling can lead to issues down the road that may require costly repairs.
2. Don’t – Skimp On Fixtures And Fittings
Fixtures and fittings are crucial to a bathroom’s aesthetics and functionality. It may be tempting to save money by opting for cheaper fixtures, but this can be a costly mistake in the long run. Low-quality taps, showerheads, and toilets are more prone to wear and tear and may need to be replaced sooner than their high-quality counterparts.
3. Don’t – Neglect Storage
A common mistake in bathroom design is prioritising aesthetics over functionality. While creating a visually appealing space is important, ensuring that your bathroom has sufficient storage is equally important. Lack of storage can lead to cluttered countertops and an overall disorganised look.
Consider adding built-in storage solutions such as vanity drawers, recessed shelves, and medicine cabinets. These features will keep your bathroom tidy and ensure all your toiletries, towels, and essentials are easily accessible.
4. Don’t – Overcrowd The Space
It’s easy to get carried away with design ideas, especially when remodelling a small bathroom. However, overcrowding the space with too many fixtures and accessories can make it feel cramped and less functional. Be mindful of your bathroom’s size, and avoid trying to fit too much into the room.
For smaller bathrooms, consider space-saving options like wall-mounted sinks or vanities, and opt for a shower-over-bath combination if you need both. The key is to balance style and functionality while ensuring the room feels open and comfortable.
5. Don’t – Follow Trends Blindly
While following the latest bathroom design trends is tempting, avoid choosing trendy finishes or fixtures that may quickly become outdated. A bold colour or unusual tile pattern might look great now, but it could feel dated in a few years.
Instead, opt for classic designs and neutral colours that will stand the test of time. If you decide to sell your home, this approach will make your bathroom more timeless and appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.
The Dos Of Bathroom Remodelling
1. Do – Start With A Well-Thought-Out Plan
The foundation of any successful bathroom renovation is a detailed and practical plan. Before tearing out old tiles or choosing new fixtures, map out exactly what you want to achieve with your remodel. Write down your goals, such as improving storage, upgrading outdated fixtures, or creating a more modern and aesthetically pleasing space.
It can be helpful to work with a professional designer or contractor to ensure your plan is realistic and suited to your budget. A designer can offer expert advice on layout, materials, and finishes that will bring your vision to life while ensuring functionality.
2. Do – Prioritise Functionality For Future Use
While style is important, your bathroom’s functionality should take priority. Think about how the space will be used in the future. For example, if the bathroom is for children, consider including durable materials and easy-to-clean surfaces. If the space is intended for long-term use, such as in a forever home, consider adding age-friendly features like grab bars or a walk-in shower to accommodate changing needs.
If you plan to sell your home in the future, choose timeless designs and neutral colours to appeal to a broader audience. This will increase the resale value and ensure your bathroom remains attractive for years.
3. Do – Plan For Unexpected Costs
Bathroom renovations are notorious for uncovering hidden issues such as water damage, mould, or outdated plumbing. To avoid being caught off guard, set aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected repairs. This will allow you to handle any surprises without compromising the quality of your fixtures and finishes.
4. Do – Choose High-Quality Materials
Your bathroom is exposed to moisture, heat, and frequent use, so investing in its durable, high-quality materials is essential. This applies to everything from tiles and countertops to fixtures like taps and showers. Choosing durable materials ensures your bathroom will continue to look and function well over time, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.
5. Do – Focus On Lighting And Ventilation
Proper lighting and ventilation are key elements of any bathroom design. Good lighting makes tasks such as shaving, applying makeup, and cleaning easy. Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting will ensure the space is bright enough, allowing for softer, more relaxing light when needed.
Ventilation is also critical in preventing moisture build-up, which can lead to mould and mildew. Install a high-quality exhaust fan to remove excess moisture and maintain air circulation. This will help preserve your paint, finishes, and fixtures while preventing costly repairs in the future.
Practical Tips For A Successful Bathroom Renovation
Plan For Water Efficiency
Incorporating water-efficient fixtures is a smart way to save on utility bills while being environmentally conscious. Look for products such as low-flow showerheads, toilets, and taps. These fixtures use less water without sacrificing performance, making them a great long-term investment.
Maximise Space With Smart Design
In small bathrooms, every inch counts. Use clever design solutions to maximise space, such as installing floating vanities, wall-mounted cabinets, and recessed storage. These features create more room and give the bathroom a sleek, modern appearance.
Opt For Easy-To-Clean Surfaces
Choosing low-maintenance materials will save you time and effort in the long run. Porcelain or ceramic tiles, solid-surface countertops, and glass shower enclosures are easy to clean and resistant to stains. Avoid porous materials like marble or limestone, which require regular sealing and are more susceptible to damage.
Incorporate A Spacious Shower
Consider upgrading your shower to a larger, more luxurious design if space allows. Walk-in showers with multiple shower heads or body sprays can transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat. If you’re limited, you can choose a frameless glass shower that can create the illusion of more room while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
Final Considerations For A Bathroom Renovation
Don’t Forget To See The Fixtures In Person
Shopping for bathroom fixtures online may seem convenient, but seeing and feeling the products in person is important before making a final decision. Colours, materials, and textures can vary significantly between what you see on a screen and how they appear in real life. Visit a showroom to ensure that the finishes you choose meet your expectations regarding both look and feel.
Avoid Overlooking Plumbing And Drainage
A common mistake in bathroom renovations is underestimating the importance of plumbing and drainage. Poor drainage can lead to long-term issues such as water damage or leaks. Ensure that your plumber evaluates the existing plumbing and recommends any necessary upgrades to avoid problems down the road. This is especially crucial for relocating your major fixtures like toilets or showers.
Consider Future Maintenance
When selecting materials and finishes for your bathroom, consider how much maintenance they’ll require. Some high-end materials, such as natural stone, may look beautiful but require regular sealing and upkeep. Choose low-maintenance materials that will continue to look good with minimal effort. For instance, solid-surface countertops and porcelain tiles are durable and easy to maintain.
Conclusion
Remodelling a bathroom is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide, you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your new bathroom looks stunning and meets your practical needs. From creating a detailed plan and budgeting for unexpected expenses to choosing durable materials and ensuring proper ventilation, each step plays a crucial role in the success of your renovation.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovation
Which Factors Should Be Considered Before Bathroom Remodeling?
- Putting together a plan for your bathroom renovation.
- Create the environment you want.
- Examine and handle the components that you intend to use.
- Pay careful attention to the framework.
- The expense associated with renovating the bathroom.
- Hiring a contractor to do the work.
- In what ways will this change your agenda?
- Remember to bring some water with you.
What Should You Not Do In A Bathroom?
Avoid taking showers or baths, washing dishes by hand, playing hard-wired video games or computers, and talking on hard-wired phones. Lightning can strike a power line or the ground and enter your home through the pipes.
What Can Go Wrong With Bathroom Renovation?
Drainage issues can be the biggest problem, especially if the gradient isn’t right for the space. Many horror stories about problems with bathroom makeovers are usually the result of poor workmanship and incorrect installation.
Where Should A Toilet Be Placed In A Bathroom?
If possible, the toilet should be installed to face an open wall or door rather than a fixture. This will usually ensure sufficient space for clearance in front of the toilet. The goal in any other bathroom should be a thirty-inch front clearance space.
How Much Space Do You Need Between Toilet And Shower?
Establish a clear floor space at least 30 inches in width between the front edge of each fixture (the commode, the toilet, the bidet, the bathtub, and the shower) and any other bath fixture, wall, or obstruction. Code Requirements: There must be a minimum space of 21 inches in front of the bathtub, the toilet, the bidet, and the lavatory.
