Bathroom envy is a thing. If your bathroom needs a makeover, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start.
A renovated bathroom can add value to your home, so it’s important that you treat the process like an investment. Any decision you make early on can have far-reaching consequences.
Here are our 10 tips to help ensure your bathroom renos are as smooth and stress-free as possible.
1. Stick to your budget
Defining your budget early is an essential part of the process. It’s also important to save a buffer of money for any hidden costs or in case things go wrong.
Ensure that you realistically identify the wants from the needs, and only plan for what you can afford first. Approach your bathroom renovation with a pragmatic mindset and then, where possible, add any additional features on your wish list that you can squeeze into your budget – this way, you’ll feel better about including these items into your new bathroom design when it hasn’t put a dent in your bank account.
For example, before adding underfloor heating as a priority on your wish list for your bathroom renovation, make sure that practical requirements are covered first such as ensuring you have intelligent storage options and good quality fixtures and fittings.
2. Take advantage of the original layout
You don’t have to rip up your whole bathroom for it to look better. If you’re looking to save money, consider the bathroom’s original design and aim to keep the layout of your new bathroom similar to what currently exists.
If you’re completely replacing the bath, shower and toilet, it can be really expensive to reposition the way they are situated in the bathroom, because this means your plumbing will likely need to be moved to accommodate these renovations.
You can save yourself a lot of money and time by keeping your plumbing in place and simply replacing the old with the new.
But, if shuffling things around is a priority on your reno list, this is the perfect opportunity to move things around if it’s been bothering you. For example, if your toilet is too close to the shower, or your bath is too small, use this chance to fix it.
3. Research the right builder for you
This step is crucial – don’t always go for the cheapest or first option. If you are doing a bathroom remodel, you will most likely use a professional builder or tradesperson, especially if things like plumbing are involved.
It can be understandably tempting to cut corners and hire the company or tradesman who offers the best dollar deal, but make sure you factor in;
their skills
workmanship
availability, and
commitment to the job
It’s a good idea to ask for a quote up front to make sure what they are suggesting fits within your budget. Most importantly, you want to be confident that the person you’re hiring will deliver your bathroom renovation to the standard you expect and meet your bathroom needs.
Also, make sure you request to review their references and ask to see the work they’ve produced in other bathroom renovations. If possible, speak to the owners to find out their opinions on the outcome of those renovations.
4. Know the design you want
This should be one of the first things to consider when planning a bathroom reno. There is no turning back once you start the renovations, so make sure you are 100 per cent confident with the style and design you choose.
Research different bathroom designs for inspiration and picture them in the space you have. Ask yourself: does it match with the bathroom and the rest of the house? Can you afford it? Is it practical? Don’t leave any question unanswered.
5. Pay attention to details
Things like electrical sockets, shower tiles, taps, light fixtures and ventilation can all be forgotten about during the design process. Make sure you sit down with your builder and make a list of everything you want in your bathroom and try not to leave anything out.
