Once you’ve decided to remodel your bathroom, there’s no backing out. You must commit all the way through. It doesn’t matter if it’s just the improvisation of the visual aesthetics or the functionality of the bathroom space — you must make the right calls for a successful bathroom remodel.
While you’re envisioning your potential new bathroom, you might consider a variety of ideas such as glamorizing your bathroom with glass, mosaic tiles, or even a glass mosaic bathtub. However, realistically speaking, these ideas are impractical and would only cost you a wasted fortune.
We encourage you to plan with some foresight so you can figure out to save money on your bathroom remodel.
The truth is that some of us like new trends, while some of us don’t. And that’s completely okay. Trends are not supposed to be followed absolutely. However, there are some things you should steer clear from regardless of your preferences. With relevant data, we have gathered information about many designs that are impractical. And they can be big design mistakes if you don’t pay attention to them.
Let us help you in avoiding these mistakes by suggesting better alternatives to ensure your bathroom remodeling is done smoothly.
1. Budgeting Too High or Having an Unrealistic Budget
Unless you have a very healthy bank account, do not commit more than necessary to the project as bathroom remodeling can be extremely pricey. Decide on an ideal budget before starting because you do not want the project to be abandoned midway due to a lack of funds. Once you’ve set the budget, you can focus on other tasks that are equally important.
Start by consulting a contractor to gauge the estimated cost of labor and materials. Then, add up 20% of the total amount for unexpected costs that may occur during the project. Remember, last-minute changes, unexpected problems, and damages may happen. Therefore, it’s always good to have some extra coverage to handle the unexpected.
2. DIY-ing the Complicated Work
If you’re highly-skilled, experienced, and properly qualified for the job, proceed to renovate by yourself. If not, give it to the experts.
Despite your willingness to learn it on your own, it’s just not worth your time and effort. Also, while trying to save money, you might end up doing more damage instead, and incur extra costs as a result.
There’s a reason why these things require experience. This applies especially to plumbing and electrical jobs. They are extremely complicated and can be risky if done wrong. Furthermore, their experience extends to discovering and fixing rotten pipes & mildew early before it starts to become a problem too. Professionals are also meticulous with their measurements and adjustments, so there’s less risk of things going wrong.
For your peace of mind (and your family’s) – we would strongly encourage you to steer clear from DIY-ing complicated remodeling tasks.
3. Not Optimizing Your Bathroom Storage Space
A lot of planning needs to take place before you can actually initiate the renovation process.
Begin by thinking about the changes that can be made to enhance storage capacities. That could include deep cabinets, shelf storage above the toilet, additional shelves in the linen closet, or extra drawers. Our belief is that you can never go wrong with storage as the extra space is always useful in the long-term. Should your needs change with the change of your lifestyle and family dynamics, you won’t have to fret about it for a second.
Switch it up a little by adding a sleek contemporary vanity which is great storage space. If done right, it can also be the wow-factor of your bathroom. If you like being creative, you can opt for an open bookshelf on the wall too. No matter your design theme, always make room for extra storage because you’ll never know when it’ll come handy.
4. Procrastinating Problems Instead of Solving It
In anything that we pursue, the unexpected always happens. In the case of a bathroom remodel, things like visible piping or a hole in the wall can suddenly make themselves obvious. Solve the issue as it happens instead of delaying it. Remodeling is the best time to fully utilize your contractors to fix up inconveniences as such.
Delaying the problem won’t make it go away and eventually when you decide to fix things, you’d still have to hire a professional which would incur more cost. Therefore, no matter the issue, don’t procrastinate and you’ll thank yourself in the long run.
5. Not Leaving Clearance for New Installations
Buying things for your new space feels great until you realize your space is insufficient to accommodate the new items. What happens then?
If you move walls and plumbing fixtures, ensure that the new layout matches the building codes for minimal space guidelines. Locate the fixtures and the furnishing as per their daily usability too.
Also, proper spacing is required from the back wall to the start of the toilet flange when installing a standard toilet which is a good 12 inches. Make sure that the plumber takes note of important things as well. If an issue occurs with flange moving, you’d have to get specialty toilets that will cost more.
So, always plan and take note of the space before going on a shopping spree and get help from a professional for details like this.
6. Hiring the Cheapest Contractor
Cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Make sure you are not getting someone less qualified and experienced. Stinging on the contractor results in a poor quality of work which is an absolute waste of money.
We recommend hiring a contractor with relevant experience. You should always check their reviews on trusted websites, read testimonials, and recommendations. Also, ensure that they are licensed and insured and charge reasonably.
Be mindful that the contractor and his crew will be working at your home for a period of time; so it’s best to get someone you trust to be around yourself and your family.
7. Choosing Materials that Get Damaged Easily
Bathrooms are constantly exposed to high moisture and temperature changes.
Undoubtedly, it’s of paramount importance to get the right materials that can withstand water damage. It’s pointless to go for fancy and costly items if they don’t last. So, think of the future and purchase durable materials even if they’re a little pricey.
8. Choosing Odd Fixtures
As much as you want to be unique in your style statement, would too unique work in the long run?
If you plan on selling the house, would future owners share the same vision as you?
Play it safe but don’t settle for boring by investing in classic and neutral fixtures instead. Neutrals are evergreen and the appeal is not lost on anyone despite the change in time and era.
As a result, your bathroom will look serene with neutral shades of either crisp white, serene cream, pearl grey, orrich brown. Toy with the idea to see if a combination works. Think a white stool, shimmering tiles in multiple shades of grey on the tub surround, and a pristine white vanity with beige undertones. The overall subtle charm will always capture you, despite the years.
9. Not Focusing on Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial in the bathroom as it gets stuffy and uncomfortably wet without a passageway for air.
Windows do a decent job at it. Alternatively, choose a fan with a timer that runs for a while after your shower to dry up condensation and avoid damage to the ceiling paint.
Ventilation is a key requirement in certain areas, specifically if your bathroom is without a window. Despite having a window, a good quality vent is a must in all bathrooms. To maintain your newly renovated bathroom, we recommend a fan of at least 150 cubic feet per minute air exchange.
10. Bad Lighting
Lighting is absolutely necessary for a functional and soothing space. Most people read on the toilet, do makeup near the vanity. And honestly, who would want a dim and dull space for their bathroom?
Experiment with multiple lighting options in the tub area, the shower, and the vanity to liven up the space. Try side-mounted scones on either side of the mirror, layer the lights by combining chandeliers or pendants with task lighting as the second layer. The final layer could be accent lighting to accent the architectural finesse of your newly remodeled space.