10 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

10 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

Bathroom renovations and remodels are a great way to breathe new life into the most intimate spaces in one’s home. These projects help plan and build an area customized to one’s current requirements and preferences, making them comfortable and convenient for daily use. However, some people make mistakes, which could become a costly nightmare for their health and pockets. Read on to find out about ten such bathroom remodeling mistakes.

Skimping on storage space
There’s so many bath products – shampoos, conditioners, body washes, soaps, toothpastes, brushes, scrubs, etc. Build ample space for these in the bathroom so they don’t end up cluttering counter space and ruining the aesthetics of a newly remodeled bathroom.

Skipping permits
In the excitement of a remodeling or renovation, many homeowners forget about getting civic permits or adhering to local regulations. This could result in abandoned projects, heavy fines, or even stripping off completed work. Before starting a new remodeling task, thoroughly check the local building codes and regulations and acquire any permits that may be necessary.

Ignoring ventilation
The bathroom typically has an extremely moist and humid environment. This can foster mold and mildew growth, which can adversely affect one’s health. There are two ways to avoid this:

  • Position the bathroom on the outside of the house or in an area with an outside view, so an outside window can be built. If this is not possible, consider installing a skylight.
  • Pick a ventilation fan with a high extraction rate and a humidity sensor for the bathroom. This must be installed properly to effectively remove moisture.

Improper waterproofing
Mistakes with waterproofing could also cause leaks and promote mold and mildew growth. This can be really problematic in the long run. Using quality membranes can reduce the risk of this seepage. Although using membrane is a must in and around the shower, below countertops, and beside the sink, experts recommend using it all around the bathroom floor to achieve a water-tight seal.

Inadequate lighting
Lighting is extremely important in the bathroom. Whether for daily tasks such as shaving or carrying out skincare or makeup routines, to set the ambiance, or to add some flair to the space, homeowners must carefully choose lighting. Add various types of types, colors, and intensities of light to create depth and make it a practical yet attractive area.

Getting the wrong measurements
There are a lot of individual accessories to account for when it comes to remodeling a bathroom. Unfortunately, it’s also really easy to get the measurements wrong during a DIY. Even the smallest errors here could leave one with pieces that do not fit well together. Not only can this be extremely frustrating, but also expensive.

Always remember to measure everything twice, just to be sure. If there is still room for confusion, consult a professional.

Placing the water drainage in the wrong place
One common mistake many DIYers make is failing to line up the water drainage hole with the plumbing drain on the bathroom floor. This can result in water getting trapped between fixtures, leading to foul odor and the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. Getting the measurements right can help avoid this from happening.

Tampering the layout
With any remodeling project, it is extremely important to pay attention to the layout. Neglecting this step could lead to the creation of a stuffy-looking place that is infuriating to use. From traffic flow problems to dysfunctional cabinets, one can run into many issues. Take some time to design the layout of the bathroom and where fixtures should be placed for optimal convenience. Attention to detail during this step can help one build a comfortable and convenient bathroom for daily use.

Fixating on fads and trends
With so many home magazines and inspirational pictures, getting swept away by trends and fads is easy. However, this could result in a bathroom that isn’t suited for one’s needs. During a remodeling project, homeowners must prioritize their needs. Whether it’s a grab bar or a little stool to make shower access easier, one must consider these requirements for building an elegant and functional bathroom.

Choosing the wrong materials
As previously discussed, the bathroom is an extremely humid space. Because of this, it must be made up of resilient materials that can withstand moisture. Picking the wrong materials could lead to wear and tear, causing homeowners to spend more time and money on repair and maintenance.