Planning a bathroom refurbishment? You should be well-prepared for this project to ensure a functional and stylish space for you and your household members. To help you on your way, we’ve compiled a short guide highlighting common mistakes to avoid during a bathroom refurbishment.
Doing the Refurbishment Yourself
Undertaking the entire bathroom refurbishment yourself—such as installing plumbing, tiling, or handling electrical work—may seem like a way to save money, but mistakes can be costly. Issues like poorly laid tiles or bad plumbing can lead to expensive fixes, such as tearing down walls or redoing tile work. To avoid this, invest time in finding an experienced construction company that can handle your project professionally.
Poorly Planned Budget
Underestimating the cost of your bathroom refurbishment can significantly complicate the process. Running out of funds mid-way through the project might mean not being able to install the fixtures you originally planned. It’s essential to create a realistic budget before starting the work. Seeking help from professionals can provide you with a more accurate estimate, preventing unexpected costs and stress.
Lack of Good Bathroom Layout
Skipping the planning phase is a recipe for disaster. Without a well-thought-out layout, you may find your bathroom uncomfortable or non-functional once the refurbishment is completed. It’s vital to take measurements and make structural calculations before making any changes. Consider hiring experienced professionals to design the bathroom and plan the layout of key elements.
Choosing the Wrong Materials and Fixtures
Shopping for materials and fixtures for your bathroom can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with refurbishments. It’s easy to make mistakes, like picking materials that aren’t water-resistant or durable. Conduct thorough research before making purchases, and if you’re unsure, seek advice from experienced tradespeople or trusted reviews from other homeowners who’ve undergone similar projects.
Lack of Ergonomics and Functionality
Another common mistake during bathroom refurbishments is neglecting ergonomics and functionality. A beautifully designed bathroom that isn’t easy to use quickly becomes a source of frustration. Consider the placement of key elements like the sink, toilet, and shower to ensure they are easily accessible and comfortable to use. For example, avoid placing shelves or towel racks too high, and ensure there is enough space to move around freely. Consulting with home refurbishment professionals can help you design a bathroom that not only looks great but is also practical and ergonomic for everyday use.
Lack of Storage Space
When planning your bathroom refurbishment, don’t forget to factor in storage. A lack of proper storage can make your bathroom less functional and cluttered. Skilled home refurbishment experts can help you incorporate storage solutions, such as recessed shelving for towels, toiletries, and even decorations, in a way that’s both stylish and space-efficient.
Mistakes with Plumbing and Electrical Installations
Before making any changes to the plumbing or electrical installations, assess whether the alterations are necessary. The fewer changes you make, the lower the chance of costly mistakes. Proper installation in these areas is crucial for the safety and comfort of anyone using the bathroom. Don’t attempt to handle these tasks yourself; instead, hire trusted professionals to carry out the work.
Bad Ventilation
Lack of proper ventilation is not just about unpleasant smells. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture problems, mould growth, and damage to bathroom fixtures or furniture. This could result in the need for another refurbishment much sooner than expected. Make sure to hire specialists with good testimonials for their bathroom ventilation work to ensure long-lasting results.
Wrong Lighting
Lighting is often an afterthought when planning a bathroom refurbishment, but it can greatly impact functionality. Poorly placed lighting makes everyday tasks like grooming or cleaning more difficult. Consider consulting with interior designers and electricians who can advise you on the most effective lighting placement in your bathroom.
A Stylistic Chaos
Even though bathrooms are usually small spaces, it’s surprisingly easy to create a stylistic chaos. For instance, combining trendy marble-look glamour tiles with Scandinavian furniture and industrial lighting can result in a really chaotic effect. Be mindful when blending styles, colours, and materials. Hiring professional designers can also help ensure that your bathroom not only reflects your style but does so cohesively.