Bathroom remodelling mistakes can affect the functionality and comfort of the space. It is important to consider the efficiency and purpose of the bathroom and not become too focused on aesthetics. Otherwise, these mistakes can cause an expensive and time-consuming renovation. Here is a list of common bathroom remodelling mistakes that homeowners should avoid.
- Poor Ventilation Bathroom Design
Poor ventilation refers to insufficient airflow in the space. It can cause numerous issues including moulds, moisture, and foul smell. These unpleasant conditions can negatively affect the comfort of the space thereby making the bathroom experience horrible. Some of the reasons behind poor ventilation include;
- Inadequate Exhaust Fan Size
Homeowners often underestimate the purpose of the exhaust fan. As a result, they don’t pay attention to its size. The size of the exhaust fan should be based on the size of the bathroom space. It is not only important but also recommended that the size of the bathroom should be harmonious with that of the exhaust fan.
Home Ventilating Institute, for instance, recommends 1 CFM or Cubic Feet Per Minute per square foot. The institute also recommends at least 50 CFM for a space smaller than 50 square feet. Homeowners may use this standard as a guide when remodelling bathrooms.
- Incorrect Exhaust Fan Location
Some remodelling designs don’t pay attention to the location of the exhaust fan. The location of this device is crucial to achieving good air circulation.
Professional contractors suggest placing the exhaust fan near the wet areas. It should be placed near or above the shower or bathtub area to avoid moisture and mould growth. In cases of bathrooms with ceilings over 8 feet, consider adding another exhaust fan.
In general, remodelling plans should consider proper ventilation by choosing the right exhaust fan size. Failure to do so can prevent proper air flow causing damage and unpleasant bathroom experience.
- Inaccurate Layout Modifications
Bathroom layout modifications are possible, but a complicated task. Moving the shower, toilet, and sink will require plumbing and electrical work. So make sure to avoid mistakes in changing their locations. Some of the mistakes include;
- Wrong Toilet Location
Moving the toilet too close to the shower or bathtub can result in too much water splattering. When a bathroom is too wet, it is more prone to mould growth and moisture, which can eventually cause damage.
- Incorrect Bathroom Door Location
Remodelling the bathroom can also include changing the location of the door. While it is possible, it is also very possible that the new location may be inappropriate. For example, not properly planning the layout can lead to placing the toilet sink too near the door. It can cause a problem if the door swings inwards. Incorrect bathroom door location can also be very discomforting.
Incorrect bathroom door installation can also affect the ventilation of the space. Most international home improvement standards often suggest having more than 3/4 inch clearance. The bathroom door should not touch the floor to allow proper airflow.
- DIYs
DIY-ing some of the bathroom renovation projects is tempting, but can have consequences. Due to the desire to skimp on money, homeowners may overestimate their remodelling skills.
One common example is attempting to DIY the cabinets. DIY-ing the cabinets without the necessary skills can cause improper installation. In this case, bathroom users are prone to accidents and serious injuries.
Another example is an incorrect installation of tiles. Some experts warn homeowners and contractors to avoid placing new tiles on top of the old tiles. This practice can save money, but it can cause additional renovation expenses in the future. A bathroom is a moist area, which makes it more prone to tile cracking. Therefore, improper tile installation can compromise safety.
Remember, DIY bathroom renovation without the appropriate skills can cause damage and safety hazards. It is better to hire a professional than to be sorry later.
- Using the Wrong Materials
The use of the wrong materials during renovation is detrimental to bathroom users. They can pose risks and hazards. It also compromises comfort. Avoid using some of the listed materials below;
- Wood Flooring
Wood floors distort in moist areas. Often, it swells until it cracks and bursts. The warped condition of the wood flooring can cause wounds and injuries.
- Slippy Materials
Materials such as stone, porcelain, or ceramic are slippery. It is better to avoid using them on bathroom floors to avoid slipping accidents. There can be serious injuries resulting from those accidents.
- Wallpapers
You may be tempted to cover your bathroom cabinet with wallpapers. Although cabinets do not normally get water splashes, they can absorb moisture and humidity. Moist and humid conditions can lose the stickiness of the wallpaper’s paste. Over time, it will drop from the cabinets. It may not be a serious hazard, but we cannot rule out that it may still cause accidents. The beauty is also eroded when the wallpaper drops from where it was pasted.
To avoid risky bathroom remodelling mistakes, carefully choose the right materials.
- Unnecessary Spending
It is easy to spend on unnecessary fixtures if budget is not an issue. When excess occurs, some homeowners try to fit them all in the space to avoid wasting the materials. Buying too many mirrors for a small bathroom, for instance, is a waste of money. Hence, it is better to stick to one statement-piece mirror.
Too many bathroom accessories are also not ideal because the bathroom may look crowded. A crowded bathroom will not only limit the space but it can also make it appear less luxurious and pleasant. The unwanted additional accessories may also cause injury and discomfort because they usually take up more space than necessary.
Example: Too many mirrors
Overall, splurging on unnecessary fixtures can hurt your pocket without adding value to your bathroom.
- Not Going Green
Some bathroom remodelling plans ignore sustainability. Choosing traditional fixtures over green ones does not only harm the environment, it can also increase household bills. Thus, not “going green” is a crucial mistake that should be avoided.
Using sustainable fixtures generates long-term benefits for homeowners. LED lighting, for instance, is energy efficient. Thus, it can lower the power bill. Low-flush toilets, on the other hand, use less water than conventional ones. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that water-efficient fixtures lower annual water consumption by up to 60%. Considering this fact, going green can also reduce the water bill significantly.
In general, you will get more value for money by using sustainable fixtures.
- Prioritizing Trends Over Timelessness
When budget is not an issue, it is very tempting to follow the trends in bathroom improvement. However, trends often come and go. What is trendy today, may look outdated after 3 to 5 years. Often, it is impractical to follow the current fads as it can lead to another expensive bathroom renovation in the future.
Despite the risks of going out-of-style too quickly, trends like minimalism and floating vanities are efficient and valuable. Minimalist styles make bathrooms look luxurious. Floating Vanities, on the other hand, increase space efficiency. Remember to carefully choose the trends to follow unless you are ready for another renovation in 3 to 5 years.
Keep in mind these common mistakes when planning your project. It is highly recommended to plan ahead and carefully choose the correct layout and design. Always remember that a great bathroom is functional, efficient, spacious, and safe.