Remodeling Your Bathroom

As a homeowner, tackling a bathroom remodel alone is no easy task. Believe it or not, there is more planning that goes into upgrading your bathroom than meets the eye. The delicacy of proper plumbing alone is more complex than the simple twist of a handle. Before you take on your next home improvement project, consider learning from the mistakes of others.

Mistakes to Avoid

To help you ensure a seamless bathroom renovation, here are some common mistakes that homeowners tend to make when remodeling.

Ignoring Proper Spacing and Layout

Keep functionality and spatial awareness at the forefront of your mind during the planning stages of the project to avoid major problems down the road. The key here is to remember that just because it fits, doesn’t mean it can function. Consider how much room you need to move comfortably within the space and then begin measuring out each area – the sink, toilet and shower appropriately.

For instance, a shower with a swinging door should leave plenty of room within your bathroom layout for the door to fully open. Other important spatial considerations to keep in mind are making sure elements of the room are close enough together to function. This includes toilet paper holders, towel racks and outlets that are all easily accessible.

Choosing Improper Materials

All parts of a bathroom are exposed to copious amounts of moisture and the harshest cleaning products. To make sure you design a bathroom that lasts, you’ll need the right materials that can withstand both factors.

The best materials that can withstand harsh cleaners and are not highly susceptible to mold, warping and distortion are: granite, marble, tile and quartzite. All in all, you’ll want to avoid porous materials that will retain moisture and choose durable, low-maintenance options that will last for years to come.

Forgetting about Ventilation

Accommodating for ventilation in your bathroom may seem like the least glamorous part of the renovation process, but it’s one of the most essential elements. Lack of proper ventilation can lead to mold and mildew. It can also make a bathroom uncomfortable during or after a shower.

If possible, try to incorporate a combination of both natural and artificial ventilation sources. While most building codes only require one, having both can make for year-round comfort.

Leaving out Storage Accommodations

You can never have enough storage space in the bathroom. While a stand-alone sink may accentuate a minimalist look, it quickly loses functionality when there’s not enough space to put your bathroom essentials. Ultimately accommodating for more storage space can help to keep your bathroom space clean and without clutter.

When creating your new bathroom, also take into consideration how many people will use the bathroom. Accommodate space for everyone and remember that some people like their privacy when it comes to bathroom storage.

Planning for Lighting Last

Although lighting is installed towards the end of the renovation process, it should be properly planned for long before the project reaches its end. Since your bathroom is where you get ready for the day, the type of lighting you choose for this space is essential to your daily routine. Additionally, waiting until the end to address light fixtures could lead to dark patches in the bathroom.

Consider which lighting style is the most flattering, and which areas you need the most light to ensure that you’re creating a bathroom that has both a flattering layout and lighting. For instance, other than having lighting above the sink, consider adding a light above the shower, tub or toilet for the perfectly lit space.

Increasing Your Home’s Value

When it comes to increasing the value of your home, two of the biggest remodels that have a strong guarantee on return on investment are kitchens and bathrooms. You can easily justify a higher price for your home when you have one or both upgrades. Especially when it comes to a renovated master bath. While bathrooms might not be the first room a potential buyer looks at, it can play a huge role in securing the sale. So, if you’re looking for a renovation that could potentially pay for itself later on down the line, you may want to consider upgrading your washrooms.