Renovating your bathroom is different from the rest of your home. There’s more to consider and much more that can go wrong. The key is to be mindful of these common bathroom renovation mistakes before you get started.
Megasealed are leak-repair experts and have been called to their fair share of DIY repairs gone wrong. They highlight the potential pitfalls when renovating a bathroom, emphasising DIY mishaps caused by improper installation, lack of expertise, or incorrect tools, which could lead to huge setbacks in your bathroom plans.
“The potential for further damage is particularly high regarding plumbing. If fixtures aren’t watertight, a small leak could become a much bigger problem, like water-damaged walls, mould or mildew growth, or a fixture that needs replacing.”
Generally, seeking guidance from professionals or experienced individuals in bathroom renovations is a good idea. Below are eight essential bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid. If you need some inspiration, here are our all-time best-budget bathroom renovations.
Eight bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid
Failing to make a plan
Don’t wake up one morning and decide to renovate your bathroom. Careful planning and consideration are needed for a successful bathroom renovation.
Before starting, ensure you plan the layout, design, and budget. Consider functionality, plumbing, electrical, and lighting needs. This includes setting a realistic budget and sticking to it. Including a backup plan for unexpected expenses is also a good idea. Here’s a guide to renovating your bathroom on the cheap.
Choosing unsuitable materials
Selecting materials that are not suitable for the bathroom environment is going to cause you problems in the long run. The bathroom isn’t the place to cut corners. When it comes to finishes, buy the best moisture-resistant and durable materials you can afford.
Improper waterproofing
Neglecting to waterproof shower and bath areas adequately is a big no-no.
When it comes to your budget, this is where you should invest. Get the job done right the first time and enjoy your new bathroom without any worries for years to come. After completing the work, you can also request a waterproofing certificate and warranty.
Doing the tiling yourself
If you have little to no experience with tiling, it might be a good idea to call a professional to get it done properly. Tiles not installed properly can lead to uneven surfaces or grout issues. If you tile your bathroom yourself, follow proper techniques, use spacers, and ensure a level surface. Remember that any mistakes are hard to rectify once the grout has set. You could also look into painting your bathroom tiles.
Not considering drainage
Water damage is a frequent culprit behind unexpected repairs affecting bathroom walls, floors, and other areas. Some water damage occurs gradually and remains hidden, potentially fostering hidden and unhealthy mould growth.
Doing a complete renovation when an upgrade will do
A mistake many DIYers make is thinking they need to renovate in the first place. A complete bathroom renovation can be costly and time-consuming. Assess the bones of your bathroom before you make any decisions. Updating the vanity, tapware, and tiles might be just the change you want, potentially saving you thousands.
Overlooking ventilation
With every bathroom comes lots of water. Neglecting proper ventilation can lead to mould and mildew issues. Install a quality exhaust fan to control moisture and promote good air circulation.
Going above your skill level
The idea of doing it yourself is tempting for many reasons. Sure, it might save you money but also causes many issues. Try not to attempt complex tasks beyond your skill level. Know your limitations and hire professionals for electrical or plumbing work.
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