Renovating a bathroom can be an exciting time as you explore your options and design the bathroom of your dreams. Many people start imagining the possibilities for their new bathroom a long time before they’re ready to start planning. Bathroom reno projects vary in scope. Whether you simply want to do some touch-ups to update your bathroom or are planning a complete overhaul of your current bathroom, there are a number of things you should consider before construction begins.
A bathroom makeover can do wonders for your home by making your bathroom space more enjoyable for your family and increasing the value of your home. Here are some bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid when redoing your bathroom.
Ignoring the Bathroom Fan
Bathrooms need as much ventilation as possible because they are prone to moisture.
Moisture buildup can be very damaging to your bathroom by providing a perfect environment for mildew and mold to grow.
Excessive moisture can ruin your bathroom wallpaper or cause the paint to bubble and look distasteful.
Having a bathroom fan with a timer switch is a great way to eliminate moisture.
Set your fan to run for 15 minutes after a shower.
Even if you do have a window in your bathroom, we still recommend having a bathroom fan for the best ventilation possible.
Lacking a Clear Plan
As the saying goes, ‘when you fail to plan, you plan to fail.’ The planning phase in a bathroom reno is critical. Not only will proper planning save you time, but it will also save you money. Gather as much information as you can beforehand, know the exact measurements of your bathroom, what design you would like to implement, the types of materials you plan on using, what your expected cost will be and which bathroom renovators you will hire
. Be as precise as possible about every detail so that your plans can go on as smoothly as possible. Renovation projects are stressful and disruptive. While it’s impossible for everything to go perfectly, a well-planned bathroom renovation can alleviate some of the stress.
Improper Spacing
The layout of your bathroom should be well thought out.
You want a layout that is functional and allows you to make the best use of the space in your bathroom.
Some layout options will not work well if you have a small bathroom. The spacing between the wall and the toilet should be appropriate.
Typically, there should be a 12-inch space from the back wall to the front of the toilet drain.
If the spacing is under 12 inches, you won’t be able to fit a standard toilet into the space without cutting into the drywall behind the toilet which is not ideal.
Make sure you have a qualified plumber take proper measurements to ensure that the spacing is correct.
As much as you want a bathroom that looks great, you need one that is functional as well.
Choosing Wrong Materials
Bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in a home and are subject to a lot of moisture and temperature changes. So in many ways, your bathroom is one of the most vulnerable rooms in your home. As you shop for materials for your bathroom, go with options that are ideal for the conditions in your bathroom. Make sure that the paint or wallpaper you select can hold up well in moist areas.
Being Unrealistic About a Budget
As we mentioned earlier, bathroom renovations can be costly. Many people get thrown off because things add up quickly. If you have a tight budget, choose options that will allow you to remain within your budget. Be realistic about what you can afford. Also, keep in mind that construction projects usually have unexpected expenses that come up. We recommend setting aside an extra 15% to 20% in your budget for unexpected expenses.
Overlooking Small Mistakes
Small errors here and there may seem minor, but sometimes even the smallest errors can stand out. As your project unfolds, be sure to look out for minor errors and insist that they are fixed regardless of how small they seem.
Sometimes we tend to focus on the bigger issues and less on the minor details, but whatever small mistakes you notice today may become major issues later on.
Mismatched Fixtures
The fixtures you incorporate into your bathroom space should flow seamlessly to create a nice, finished look. Always think about how different fixtures will complement the overall look of your bathroom. If you decide to mix different finishes, stick to no more than two different types of metals, woods, or tiles. Different types of fixtures will be too distracting and overwhelm your senses every time you step into the room.
Dull Lighting
Everyone loves a well-lit bathroom. It makes the space look more appealing. A great way to incorporate additional lighting is to install a few pot lights in the room.
Some excellent places to put these are in the shower, on your ceiling, by the mirror, and even underneath cabinets. Extra lighting is also great for getting prepped for the day because it eliminates shadows on your face and allows you to see a nice, flattering view of yourself.
Design is Too Trendy
A trendy bathroom design can seem like a really good idea when you’re planning your new bathroom. However, trends come and go. Bathroom remodeling is an investment that will last many years down the road so you don’t want to pick a design that is hot today and a big no-no tomorrow. The best thing you can do for your bathroom is to think about a timeless design that will still be appealing years later.
Not Squaring Bathroom Framing
Many people forget to confirm whether their bathroom is square when they are renovating it. They simply assume that it is. A well-designed bathroom will have a bathtub that is square with a doorway.
If it isn’t, your tiles will be off and this will greatly impact the finished look of your bathroom. To avoid issues with the tiling, make sure that your bathroom is measured and confirmed to be square before you start any remodeling work. Making the necessary adjustments, however slight, can make a huge difference.
Contact Us
Avoid these bathroom renovation mistakes by hiring a team known for some of the best bathroom renovations in GTA. Moose Kitchen and Bath specializes in exquisite Toronto bathroom renovations and boasts an impressive portfolio.
Call us today to learn more about our services and get started on your new bathroom!