A bathroom remodel is one of the most satisfying home improvement jobs and it can also be a daunting task. There are a lot of things to consider, including the choice of materials, the way your design fits with the rest of your house, etc. Regardless of whether you are renovating an old bathroom or creating a brand new one, it is good to keep some do’s and don’ts in mind so that you can end up with a stylish, functional and long-lasting bathroom renovation.
Do’s of Bathroom Renovation
Plan Your Budget
One of the most crucial things in a bathroom renovation is setting a realistic budget. You will have to consider the material cost, labour and other miscellaneous costs. Keep in mind that bathroom redesigns can get costly very fast, particularly when you are changing large fixtures such as bathtubs or countertops.
Focus on the most important upgrades first, including worn out plumbing, lighting upgrades, and ventilation. The luxury such as heated floors or high-end countertops can be added later if you have enough money.
Do Focus on Functionality
Aesthetics are good, but do not forget about the functionality of your bathroom. Your bathroom must be a place that suits your family and yourself.
Consider the following:
Storage Solutions: Spend on intelligent storage such as vanities that have built-in drawers or shelves that are wall-mounted.
Lighting: Lighting is important. Put bright lights around the mirror where you need light to shave or put on makeup and dim lights to give a relaxing atmosphere when you are taking a bath.
Plumbing and Fixtures: All the plumbing fixtures such as faucets and showerheads should be of quality and should meet your requirements.
Consider your Lifestyle: In case you have an expanding family, pay attention to the design of a bathroom that will have a lot of storage and surfaces that are easy to clean.
Do Use Long-lasting Materials
Bathrooms are places with a lot of moisture and therefore, it is necessary to choose durable and moisture resistant materials. Seek quality materials that will be able to resist humidity and daily wear and tear.
Tiles: Ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tiles are recommended on walls and floors because they are durable and easy to clean.
Countertops: Granite, quartz and solid surfaces make a good countertop because they are impervious to moisture, stains and scratches.
Paint: Apply paint that is mildew and moisture resistant, which is specific to the bathroom. Seek mould-resistant ones that will assist in preserving the quality of your walls.
Do Ventilate Well
A bathroom should be well ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation that may result in mould and mildew growth. It is simple to maintain the area dry and fresh by installing an exhaust fan. Make sure you select a fan that is of the right size with respect to the size of your bathroom.
Do Stay True to the Style of Your Home
When you are renovating your bathroom, make sure that the design of your bathroom is according to the style of your house. A contemporary bathroom will appear misplaced in a classic house and vice versa. Select finishes, colours and fixtures that will enhance the appearance of your house.
Don’ts of Bathroom Renovation
Do Not Ignore Lighting
Lighting is a factor that is underestimated in bathroom remodeling, but it is one of the key factors in the appearance and functionality of the space. Do not use one overhead light. Combine your lighting by having task, ambient, and accent lights.
Do Not Go Crazy with Trends
Fashionable designs might sound like a good idea now, but the bathroom trends can become obsolete very soon. It is more advisable to concentrate on classic designs that will be applicable in years to come. In case you do want to include trends, do it in small doses, i.e. in accessories or minor details that can be easily altered in the future.
Rather than using the popular loud colours, use neutral colours such as whites, greys or creams which can fit most styles. Additions of colour can be made using accessories such as towels or a colourful shower curtain.
Don’t Ignore Small Details
It is frequently the little things that make or break a bathroom renovation. It can be the kind of cabinet handles, the quality of grout or the location of towel bars but each of these details adds to the overall appearance and usability.
These are some of the details to pay attention to: towel hooks should be placed at the appropriate height, and the finish of faucets and handles should be in line with the rest of the room.
Don’t Forget About Water Efficiency
Water efficiency is a factor that is taken into consideration in the modern world. Choosing water efficient toilets, faucets, and showerheads will also save you money on your water bill and your environmental footprint. Seek fixtures that have the Water Sense label, which ensures that they are efficient.
You can also install a low-flow showerhead and a high-efficiency toilet that will help you save a lot of water without compromising performance.
Do not Skimp on Hiring a Professional
Although DIY projects are fun, in the case of bathrooms, it is usually a good idea to leave the tough work to the professionals. Plumbing, electrical work and tiling may be complicated and demand certain skills.
Employ qualified contractors that deal with bathroom remodeling. It is a worthy investment to make sure that the job is done properly and follows the code.