10 Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes to Avoid

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most popular home improvement projects. It is also a project that can cause lots of problems if not done properly.

To ensure your new bathroom remodel is successful, you should avoid these common mistakes. They include: a lack of space, slippery tiles, bad ventilation, and more.

1. Not Having a Plan

A bathroom remodel is not a small task and it takes planning. It is important that you work with a professional and make sure you have a design that works for your space and needs. This includes things like color, wall and floor coverings, faucet shapes and bath sizes.

It’s also important to think about things like storage. Having ample storage space is key to a clean and organized bathroom. This will ensure that you have a place for everything and it will not look cluttered.

Another important thing to consider is ventilation. This is especially important in a bathroom where humidity can wreak havoc on paint, wallpaper and materials. It’s important to make sure you have a fan that is the right size for the space so it can properly ventilate the room. This will help to prevent mold and mildew.

2. Not Having a Budget

Having a budget for your bathroom remodel is essential to ensure you don’t end up spending more than you should. There are many ways to finance a bathroom remodel, including using your home equity or taking out a personal loan.

Remember to consider the smallest details as well. For example, a towel rack or shower curtain may seem insignificant but will make a huge difference to the overall feel of your new bathroom.

Also be sure to take into account any additional costs that could arise during the remodeling process, such as extra plumbing or materials. It’s a good idea to set aside 20% of your total budget for unexpected expenses. This will help you avoid going over-budget and allow you to complete your project without any stress. It also helps you stay on schedule and ensure a return on your investment. Make sure to ask around for the average cost of a bathroom renovation in Australia so you don’t get ripped off.

3. Not Having a Design

Whether you’re renovating an ensuite bathroom, basement powder room or children’s bath, a well-designed plan is essential to achieving the results you want. It will help keep you on budget, ensure the job gets done right and add value to your home.

It’s easy to get carried away when shopping for bathroom materials and hardware, but without a clear design in place, you could end up with a bathroom that looks crowded or unfinished. You may also run over your budget if you don’t stick to a realistic timeline.

Don’t forget to factor in things like lighting and ventilation. Incorporating them into your plans will save you the pain of bashing through beautiful tile work to access plumbing later on. In addition, making sure the space has enough storage will keep it looking neat and tidy.

4. Not Having a Budget

Remodeling a bathroom can be expensive. One way to control costs is by planning ahead. This will include preparing a list of priorities, which can help you avoid unpleasant surprises after you start tearing things out.

For example, you can plan to replace your vanity if it is outdated or damaged. Alternatively, you can choose to save money by keeping your current vanity and simply refreshing the countertops and cabinets.

It is also important to get detailed item quotes early on in the process so you can budget for any unexpected expenses and stay within your goal. This will prevent you from getting fixated on a single element and spending more than you intended to on the project. Remember, quality materials that can withstand moisture are worth the extra cost. Splurge a little to make your new bathroom feel luxurious.

5. Not Having a Design for Lighting

Bathroom remodeling is no small undertaking. Whether it’s your ensuite bath, basement powder room or kid’s bathroom, homeowners and inexperienced renovators often make design mistakes that can leave them with a space that isn’t functional or aesthetically pleasing.

Lighting is critical for this important room that serves multiple purposes, from getting ready in the morning to calming down at the end of a day. Too dark and you’ll struggle to see, too bright and it won’t be a relaxing place to unwind.

One common mistake is choosing an exhaust fan that’s too small for the room, warns realtor Trey Van Tuyl. This can cause condensation which will lead to mold and mildew over time. Make sure the fan is rated for the room size, says interior designer Kelly. Also, incorporating a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting is essential for proper functionality.

6. Not Having a Design for Accessories

It might seem minor, but planning out hanging storage and towel hooks can make or break a bathroom. Having these details mapped out in advance can save homeowners from rework and frustration down the line.

One mistake that inexperienced renovators often make is selecting a fan that’s too small for the space. A poorly sized exhaust fan can trap humidity and lead to mold and mildew over time, says Realtor Trey Van Tuyl.

It’s also crucial to layer your lighting. Overhead lighting and sconces are great, but accent lights can add depth to a room and illuminate things like intricate tile work or a beautiful art piece. When paired with ambient or task lighting, accent lighting creates the most cohesive and functional look in a bathroom. Achieving a cohesion between the elements of your bathroom is essential to creating a space that you’ll love to use.

7. Not Having a Design for Storage

When remodeling a bathroom, there are many things that need to be considered in order to make it functional and appealing. One common mistake that inexperienced renovators make is not planning for storage space. It is important to have adequate storage in a bathroom to avoid clutter and frustration. This can include having enough storage space for cosmetics, toiletries, towels and even medications. It is also important to plan for hanging storage options like towel hooks and a place to hang bath robes. Another mistake that often occurs is using regular paint on a room that is frequently wet, which can lead to mold and mildew issues. It is always best to use moisture-resistant paint when remodeling a bathroom. This will help ensure that your new bathroom is beautiful, durable and safe for years to come.

8. Not Having a Design for Plumbing

When it comes to plumbing, you don’t want to take any chances. Whether you’re remodeling your ensuite bathroom, basement powder room or kids’ bathroom, it’s vital to have a well-planned design so that everything goes smoothly.

A common mistake is choosing fixtures and fittings that are too big for your space, warns PlumNation. Aside from making the room look crowded, these larger items can create problems like moisture buildup and mold.

It’s also important to consider water supply lines. Because they run alongside and through every fixture in your bathroom, they need to be carefully planned and installed by a professional. It’s a good idea to group rooms that require plumbing together so they are closer to each other (for example, laundry rooms should be located near kitchens and bathrooms should be placed close to bedrooms). This will help to reduce water waste and make the system more efficient.

9. Not Having a Design for Electrical

If you don’t run the appropriate wiring for new lighting fixtures and other electrical needs, you could end up with a sloppy job and costly repairs down the line. Make sure all lights in showers and over tubs are rated for damp areas, and run the wiring for wall sconces so you can add them later if you wish.

Remodeling your bathroom is not a small project, so it’s important to avoid making any big mistakes that can lead to regret down the road. With a little planning, you can create your dream bathroom without any major headaches. Just be sure to keep these 10 common remodeling mistakes in mind before you start your renovation. Good luck! Our Geo Square White Carrara Marble Mosaic Tile makes a great statement in any bath. Buy online or visit one of our showrooms.

10. Not Having a Design for Lighting

Whether you’re doing a complete makeover of your ensuite bathroom, basement powder room or the kid’s bath, there are some common mistakes homeowners and inexperienced renovators often make that can derail their project. Knowing these 10 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid ahead of time can help ensure your remodel is a success and that you get the best ROI on your investment.

For example, forgetting to install enough lighting will leave a room too dark and unsuitable for many of the bathroom’s functions, like shaving or applying makeup. Layering lighting is key: wall sconces on both sides of a mirror to illuminate the face from a flattering angle, accent lights to highlight intricate tile work and artwork, and a central overhead light for overall illumination. Also, don’t forget to choose a powerful exhaust fan that will effectively ventilate the space to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew.

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