You’ve decided it’s finally time to renovate that outdated bathroom. While a bathroom remodel can significantly improve your space’s look, feel, and function, it can be challenging.
Without proper planning, you may fall victim to some all-too-common mistakes. Don’t let your remodel go down the drain! Follow this advice to avoid headaches during your bathroom upgrade.
Rushing the Process
Remodeling your bathroom is something you want to take your time with. Careful planning and attention to detail will help prevent delays, budget overages, and poor workmanship.
Give yourself ample time to choose fixtures and finishes so you don’t feel rushed. Create a realistic timeline and stick to it. Trying to cram the project too short of a window will only cause trouble. Patience is key!
Ignoring Permits
It can be tempting to skip permits when doing a bathroom remodel. However, this dangerous shortcut often comes back to bite you. Unpermitted work won’t pass inspection when it comes time to sell, meaning you’ll have to tear it out and do it again up to code.
Plus, you have no recourse if unpermitted work is done poorly. Protect yourself by pulling all required permits and having professional work inspected. Do it right the first time!
Prioritizing Trends over Function
While keeping up with interior design trends can be tempting, be sure not to prioritize form over function. Refrain from letting trends dictate design choices that will be impractical in your home.
Prioritize how you and your family will use the space rather than choosing finishes and layouts based on current fads. Focus on quality and durability over instantly dating your bathroom to 2023. Timeless design with classic materials always stays in style.
DIYing Important Tasks
We know you’re handy and like saving money by doing work yourself. But when remodeling a bathroom, it’s wise to leave critical tasks to qualified pros.
Plumbing, electrical, tile-setting, and other complicated jobs are best handled by experts who know codes and have years of experience. Refrain from risking safety or accepting shoddy results for DIY pride. Hire pros for the critical stuff and DIY the decor.
Choosing Cheap Options for Key Materials
Remodel budgets are tight, but don’t choose cheap in ways that will come back to haunt you. Invest in high-quality fixtures, faucets, shower materials, and other critical components. A discount on tiles or vanities may save you money upfront, but they will likely degrade quickly and need replacement sooner. Spend more on durable materials that will last, avoiding the need for another remodel.
Remodeling your bathroom is an exciting project that can significantly enhance your home. Avoid common mistakes like those above by planning thoroughly, hiring pros, and focusing on quality over trends. With smart decisions, you’ll create a bathroom you can enjoy for years!
