- By Hanover Plumbing
- In Plumbing, Tapware, Tips
- Tags Bathroom, Renovations, Tapware
Avoid These Bathroom Renovation Mistakes
Next to the kitchen, a bathroom renovation is one of the more costly projects in a house. Making sure that you’re taken the time to plan it properly is very important. It requires a wide range of skills – usually in a relatively small space – so if it’s the first time you are renovating, we have some tips for you. As Certifying Plumbers, we’ve seen it all but these are the biggest mistakes we come across when seeing bathroom renovations done.
Bathroom Renovation Mistakes to Avoid
Not understanding the level of disruption it may cause. If your house only has one bathroom, you really need to understand that renovating it will cause disruption to your routines. Be sure that you have back up plans in place. If you haven’t met your neighbours yet, it might be time. Keep in mind a realistic idea of life without a fully-functioning bathroom.
Not allowing enough time. Sure, we all like to look on the bright side but the reality of renovations is that there are unknowns that surface and cause delays. Allow more time than all of your estimates suggest. Finishing earlier than expected is much better than needing to find somewhere to shower a week longer than planned.
Not hiring experts when you should. Unless you are a certified tradesman, make sure that you bring in the appropriate tradespeople where it counts. Most homeowners can argue that they can paint well enough, but understanding how to shift plumbing around or how to properly hook up your faucets has bigger ramifications. Even installing a shower is something best left to a professional. They will do it faster and it saves you from stressing about that drop of water that keeps appearing at the seal.
Not allowing enough budget. Be realistic with your budget. Many items in a bathroom suffer when you let budget dictate your choices. Be sure to allow enough for quality tapware. An updated bathroom with the same twenty-year old taps just doesn’t feel quite as nice. Professional tradespeople will be happy to give you a quote for the work so you should not start until you have a clear grasp on costs.
Lack of storage. Imagine your newly-renovated bathroom – fresh, clean and full of random toiletries… not quite the scene you were going for, is it? Ensure that you have enough storage space for all of your bathroom stuff. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing a different vanity, or many companies make matching cabinet sets.
Overcrowding. Don’t try to fit too many things in! If the room just can’t accommodate that 1200 x 1200 glass shower, consider adjusting your plans. A large shower is great but if the space outside of it feels cramped, is it worth it? If you aren’t sure how to layout your new bathroom, contact a plumber for advice, or contract a bathroom designer to create your plan for you.
Not installing ventilation. Bathrooms create tons of moisture that can travel around the house if you don’t reduce it at the source. Install an exhaust fan to allow for maximum airflow to keep moisture levels as low as possible. Make sure you keep it running for a while after your shower is finished too.
A bathroom renovation can add value to your home, and make your routines more pleasant. Just be sure that you approach it with a plan, a realistic budget and plenty of time. We are more than happy to consult with you in your planning stages. Contact us so that your bathroom renovation is a low-stress success.
