Bathroom Makeover: 6 Mistakes to Avoid

A bathroom makeover can be a massive undertaking. Whether you’re ripping out old tiles or replacing the vanity, a seemingly simple renovation can end up being more than you bargained for. But planning ahead is one of the best ways to avoid costly mishaps. From bad spatial design to picking the wrong materials, here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when overhauling their bathrooms.

1) Being unrealistic about your bathroom makeover budget

When planning your bathroom reno, get realistic about what you can afford. Sure, you may love the idea of a luxurious, oversized shower stall against Calcutta gold marble. But can your wallet handle that kind of expense? 

If you’re like most homeowners, you’ll have a limited amount of money to work with. So make a budget and stick to it. If you’re using a contractor, ask them for some insight into how much your project will really cost. Obtain multiple budget scenarios, depending on which remodelling aspects are most important to you. And remember to account for unexpected costs by tacking on an extra 15-25%. 

2) Bad space planning

Before choosing mirrors and lighting fixtures, think about your bathroom’s layout first. It must be comfortable enough for daily use. Are you okay with the toilet being so close to the sink? When the bathroom door is opened, does it hit the shower stall? These are the kinds of details that are important to think about when designing your layout. Your top priority should always be function, rather than looks.

3) Picking the wrong materials for your bathroom makeover

The bathroom is a high-traffic area. Not only is it used multiple times a day by multiple people, but it’s also prone to mould and bacterial build-up if you’re not careful. High moisture levels and abrupt temperature changes mean you have to be extra cautious about your materials. Always choose ones that are meant for bathroom use. 

Natural stone is a good countertop option. Slate, granite and soapstone, for example, are durable and resistant to stains. Marble is another popular choice, but it has its downsides. This elegant material must be cleaned regularly to avoid stains and moisture damage. When you’re spending this much money, it’s important to know whether your bathroom vanity or shower tiles can stand the test of time. 

4) Installing a small fan

The bathroom fan: An integral, but often overlooked, item. Always make sure it’s the right size for your space. Without proper ventilation, your bathroom will become a hot, humid mess. Over time, this moist environment can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew. Excessive moisture will also peel your paint and break down metal finishings. So choose a strong fan that has enough power to efficiently ventilate the space. 

5) Ignoring small mistakes

That small gap behind the bathroom mirror? Or how about that tiny crack in the corner tile? These glitches might seem insignificant at first, but they can become irritating down the line. As your renovation progresses, note these mistakes and get them fixed. Otherwise, they’ll turn into an eyesore. Never convince yourself that bad work is no big deal. If you’re noticing these mistakes now, you’ll keep noticing them every time you use the bathroom. 

6) Losing steam

Whether you’re using a contractor or doing the work yourself, it’s easy to hit the ground running when the project is just getting off the ground. But all that hard labour can make you lose steam over time. Instead, move at a steady pace and work in stages. As you’re approaching the finish line, slow down to make sure the work has been done correctly.

Bathroom makeover with VaVia

An orderly workspace is key to a successful bathroom remodel. And one of the best ways to maintain a tidy job site is with a reliable dumpster rental. VaVia’s 10-yard containers are perfect for bathroom renovations. They provide enough space and are also aesthetically pleasing enough to keep your neighbors happy. From old tubs to broken tiles, our bins can handle whatever you throw at them. Once your dumpster is full, give us a call so we can haul it away. It’s truly that simple.

So many things are up in the air when renovating your home. One thing that’s not? VaVia’s commitment to high-quality service. Whether you’re a homeowner or contractor, rely on us for your next bathroom remodel.

For more information on removing renovation waste, contact us here.