A bathroom renovation is a laborious affair. It can get costly too that doing it the first step can be intimidating. It’s even a fairly large investment, big enough to make most people think thrice before diving in unprepared. On the flip side, you really can’t blame others for wanting to upgrade their bathroom areas, after all, putting your own personal stamp on your home is rewarding.
A skillfully-remodelled bathroom yields an elegant and relaxing sanctuary, while a poorly-done one will serve as a daily reminder of low-quality materials or shoddy workmanship. As such, there are some critical dos and don’ts for bathroom renovations you need adhere to convert your bathroom area into an oasis.
DO: Search For Design Inspiration First
Every bathroom renovation project starts with a plan, especially those that come with a hefty price tag. Prior to starting the physical aspects of the project such as putting in a rainforest shower or tearing up flooring, you need to have a concrete plan about the new layout you want to achieve for your bathroom.
You don’t need to adhere to one design strictly. Feel free to choose and play with different styles until you arrive at your preferred look.
DO: Set Extra Budget For Bathroom Renovation
It’s wise to set a budget for unexpected expenses when planning your bathroom renovation as with any remodelling project.
For instance, overhauling your bathroom could unmask hidden issues like mildew damage or mould behind your shower walls that could have remained undetected. You will need a contingency budget in both money and time to deal with these unforeseen circumstances should you run into them.
DO: Consider Going Green
If you consider bathroom renovation as a form of investment, you’ll probably be interested to know that there’s a serious ROI (Return on Investment) in it. Hence, to make the most out of your renovation project, use and install fixtures that are efficient and environmentally-friendly.
Toilets, faucets, and showerheads are just some of the standard fixtures that now come with eco-friendly seals. Using them will not only give your bathroom an aesthetic upgrade but will also give in an instant boost to its value.
DO: PUT APPROPRIATE LIGHTING AND VENTILATION
A typical bathroom has limited space and probably does not have large windows to provide ventilation or a lot of natural light in it. As such, consider how to ventilate the moisture and steam that results from showers and hot baths and let in enough light inside.
If your bathroom already has a good ventilation system, take advantage of your remodelling project to upgrade. You can add a window or attach a ceiling-mounted vent fan.
DON’T: Hire The Rock-Bottom Labour Cost
As with any renovation project, the cost is a major concern. But, it’s important to think of this project as an investment before hiring a contractor or designer because of a low price tag. Depending on the scale of your renovation project, there might be simultaneous works such as electrical wiring to plumbing that will take place. Both of which can be costly.
Be wary of those who offer a quick turnaround at a low price. Skilled trades don’t come cheap and for a good reason. Also, the good ones are well-versed with building codes and regulations and know what they’re doing. Don’t skimp on quality, otherwise, you’ll end up having a botched bathroom renovation and may spend more to fix the damages.
DON’T: Rush Your Timeline
The primary reason you go beyond your budget when renovating is the lack of a good plan. Hence, take your time and consult with experts to thoroughly discuss your budget, lifestyle requirements, and ideas.
If you are getting estimates or quotes from a contractor, be wary of those who offer a shorter timeline. You need to make sure that you’re hiring the right people to get the project done right. Avoid the notion that faster means better because it’s not.
Wait until it’s done, and that could either be in a delay in purchased products from the factory or labour. Again, don’t rush.
DON’T: Compromise The Quality Of The Materials
Items such as the ones you use for the vanity countertop are prone to wear-and-tear. As such, you need to take into consideration the quality of the materials you’re going to use.
The same goes for the tile surround you use for either walk-in shower or tub. The materials that you’ll touch on a daily basis will wear faster, so think about the quality before purchasing one.
DON’T: Forget About Storage
Separate sinks are popular amenities, especially for couples. But the majority now agree that adding extra space for storage is more important. Features like soap dishes or built-in shower caddies are also easy ways to maximise the storage capacity of your bathroom.
Whether you are looking for a space-saving shower, walk-in tub, or bath replacement, there are reputable stores where you can buy such item such those in home builders Melbourne, Sydney and other major states in the country.
DON’T: Forget The Vanity
Another feature where you can make a big statement is the bathroom vanity. There are options that feature large mirrors, double sinks, and plenty of storage, most of which are on-trend. It’s best to go for something that’s made from a fine-grade material such as marble or granite to add more aesthetic appeal to your bathroom space.
Another good thing about improving the vanity is that it’s easy to update in case you want to switch to a different look for your bathroom. For instance, giving it a fresh coat of paint is a simple and easy way to do so. You can also buy a new topper from a home improvement store or switch out the drawer pulls to freshen up the bathroom’s overall visual.
TAKEAWAY
You spend a considerable amount of time in the bathroom for your daily cleaning, prepping, and hygiene rituals. Hence, renovating to make it look better and bigger is only justifiable. And, no matter how small or big your bathroom renovation is, it’s very important to consider the following dos and don’ts given above to make it a success.
Illan Elberg
Managing Director
Illan is an accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in construction management and a deep understanding of bathroom and kitchen design. His dedication to staying current with industry trends, coupled with his creative vision and meticulous project management, make him an invaluable asset to GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens.
