Renovating a bathroom can greatly improve your home’s functionality and value, but it’s easy to make mistakes during the process. As with kitchens, bathrooms are complex spaces with plumbing, ventilation, and electrical components, and overlooking certain details can lead to costly issues. Here are some common mistakes people make during bathroom renovations and tips on how to avoid them.
Neglecting Proper Ventilation
One of the most overlooked aspects of a bathroom renovation is ventilation. Bathrooms generate a lot of moisture, and without adequate ventilation, mould and mildew can develop, damaging walls, ceilings, and fixtures. Poor ventilation can also lead to peeling paint and musty odours.
Always install a proper exhaust fan that can efficiently remove moisture from the room. Make sure it’s powerful enough for the size of your bathroom, and that it vents to the outside, not into the attic or other areas of the house. Regularly clean or replace the fan to ensure it works properly.
Ignoring Storage Needs
A beautiful bathroom is great, but if it doesn’t have enough storage, it can quickly become cluttered. Many people focus solely on aesthetics and forget about practical storage solutions for towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. This can lead to a disorganised space that feels cramped.
Incorporate ample storage in your design, such as built-in shelves, recessed medicine cabinets, or a vanity with drawers. Think creatively about space-saving solutions, like over-the-toilet shelving or storage niches in the shower. Plan for both hidden and open storage to keep the bathroom tidy and functional.
Choosing the Wrong Materials
Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, and using the wrong materials can result in significant damage. For example, using wallpaper that isn’t moisture-resistant or selecting wood flooring that can warp over time are common mistakes.
Select materials that are specifically designed for bathrooms and can withstand water and humidity. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are great options for flooring and walls, while moisture-resistant paints and vinyl wall coverings work well for surfaces. Be sure to use water-resistant grout and caulking around fixtures to prevent leaks.
Improper Layout and Poor Space Planning
Not considering the layout and space limitations can result in an uncomfortable bathroom. A common mistake is placing the toilet or shower too close to the door or failing to leave enough room for opening drawers and cabinets. A poorly planned layout can make the space feel cramped and awkward to use.
Carefully measure the space before finalising the layout. Ensure there is adequate space between fixtures for easy movement. The toilet should have ample clearance, and doors, drawers, and cabinets should open freely without obstruction. Consulting with a designer or using a bathroom layout tool can help ensure the layout works for the available space.
Overlooking Lighting
Bathroom lighting is often an afterthought, but it plays a critical role in both functionality and aesthetics. Inadequate lighting can make the space feel dark and unwelcoming and waste energy while harsh lighting can create uncomfortable glare, especially around mirrors.
Layer your lighting with a mix of overhead, task, and accent lighting. Install bright, even lighting around mirrors for grooming tasks, but avoid harsh overhead lights that cast shadows. Consider adding dimmable lights for a relaxing atmosphere, especially around the bathtub or shower area.
Underestimating the Budget
Renovating a bathroom can be expensive, and underestimating the budget is a frequent mistake. Unexpected costs for plumbing, structural changes, or upgrading fixtures can add up quickly, leaving homeowners scrambling to cover extra expenses.
Always build a buffer into your budget for unexpected costs—typically 10-20% of the total renovation cost. Be realistic about your needs and prioritise cheaper projects like the garden, or essential upgrades over cosmetic changes if your budget is tight. Getting multiple quotes from contractors can also help you keep costs under control.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom renovation can dramatically improve your home’s value and comfort, but careful planning is essential to avoid common mistakes. By considering ventilation, storage, material selection, and layout, and by hiring professionals when needed, you can ensure a successful renovation that meets both your functional and aesthetic goals.