Common Mistakes When Renovating Your Bathroom

Whether you're planning on remodeling the entire space or just replacing an outdated vanity, bathroom renovations can be expensive. Here are several common mistakes people make when it comes to bathroom renovations.

Ignoring the Bathroom Fan An appropriately-sized exhaust fan is important, as humidity can get trapped in the space and turn it into a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Before you add a new exhaust fan to your bathroom, make sure to clean the vents thoroughly.

Lacking a Clear Plan Before starting a bathroom remodeling project, make sure that you have a clear plan that considers all of the project's details. This will allow you to make informed decisions and avoid potential mistakes. A plan will enable you to work efficiently with contractors and family members involved in the project.

Improper Spacing One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to bathroom renovations is focusing on the looks instead of the functionality of the space. If you're renovating your bathroom, prioritize function over form. Before you start decorating, focus on the layout and spacing to ensure it meets the building codes for minimal spacing guidelines. Additionally, make sure the furnishings and fixtures in the space allow for comfortable everyday use, especially if you're moving plumbing fixtures and breaking down walls.

Choosing the Wrong Materials When choosing materials to redo your bathroom, ensure they are designed specifically for bathrooms. These spaces tend to experience high moisture levels and rapid temperature shifts, which can cause warped or mildewed floors, walls, or vanities. Spending money on your bathroom renovation requires selecting materials that can survive high humidity; these include wallpaper and wood vanities that will withstand the test of time.

Being Unrealistic About a Budget If you're working with a limited budget, it's essential to be cognizant of what you can afford. Try to stay within your budget, as going over it could lead to needing to make compromises that won't leave you satisfied. Having a realistic budget will allow you to avoid potential mistakes and ensure the project is completed on time. Overspending can lead to cutting corners and compromise the integrity of the work. It's best to leave some room in the budget for unexpected expenses; a buffer of 15-20% of your budget can account for unforeseen costs.

Overlooking Small Mistakes Although minor mistakes, such as a gap in the bathroom vanity or a tile job, may seem insignificant, they can quickly become major issues that will affect the entire project. As the renovation progresses, make sure that you fix all of the errors that have been made.

Losing Focus Toward the End The initial excitement of a home renovation can quickly wear out due to the hard work involved and the long hours it takes to get the job done. If you're eager to see the finished product, try to maintain a steady pace throughout the process. This will allow you to ensure that everything is done correctly.