Renovating your bathroom is an exciting project that can breathe new life into your home and create a peaceful space to pamper yourself, all whilst increasing your house’s resale value. However, it’s a task that requires careful planning and consideration to ensure the end result meets your expectations.
From budgeting to design choices, here are 6 things you need to consider before jumping into your bathroom renovation project.
1. Access your needs and set a budget
Before you start picking out tiles and fixtures, take some time to have a think about your needs and priorities for the space. Are you looking to create a spa-like retreat that is perfect for relaxing in, or do you need a more functional layout to accommodate a growing family? Are those with four paws likely to be a regular visitor in which case do you need a space that’s easy to get them in and out of? Understanding your goals for the renovation will help guide your decisions throughout the process.
Once you have a clear vision in mind, the next step is to set a realistic budget. Consider factors such as the cost of materials, whether you’ll hire professionals (that’s the route we recommend – more on this further down!), and any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the renovation. It’s also a good idea to allocate some emergency funds to cover unexpected costs and avoid any financial stress down the line. Although it’s never possible to use ‘X’ray vision to see what is under the floor and in the walls), with the right professionals additional emergency funds should be less of an issue and most definitely less further financial stress down the line if using recommended professionals.
2. Plan your layout and design
The layout of your bathroom can significantly impact how functional and visually appealing it is. Consider things like the placement of plumbing fixtures, storage options, and traffic flow when planning your layout. If you’re working with a small space, look for clever storage solutions and space-saving fixtures to maximise the available square footage.
When it comes to design, think about the overall style you want to achieve. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional aesthetic, choose materials, colours, and finishes that complement your vision. Whilst it’s important to stay true to your own preferences, you should also keep in mind that timeless design choices are likely to stand the test of time better than trendy options that may quickly go out of style.
At Alan Heath & Sons, we can create CAD designs to show you what your bathroom will look like before it’s installed. This ensures that you’re totally happy with the layout whilst also allowing for space to be used to its full potential.
3. Hire the right professionals
While some homeowners may attempt to tackle a bathroom renovation as a DIY project, hiring professionals is often the best way to ensure a successful outcome. Look for reputable contractors and tradespeople with years of experience in bathroom renovations – like us! Ask for testimonials and make sure you review images of their past work.
Communication is key when working with professionals, so be sure to clearly communicate your expectations, timeline, and budget from the outset. Regular check-ins throughout the renovation process will help ensure that everything stays on track and any issues are addressed promptly.
4. Choose good quality materials and fixtures
Investing in high-quality materials and fixtures is essential when creating a bathroom that is up to the task of day-to-day wear and tear. While it may be tempting to cut costs by opting for budget-friendly options, skimping on quality can lead to problems down the line, such as leaks, cracks, and excessive wear and tear. This can end up meaning you then have to fork out for some costly repairs.
When selecting materials such as tiles, countertops, and cabinetry, it’s a good idea to prioritise durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. Similarly, choose fixtures such as taps, showerheads, and toilets from reputable brands known for their quality craftsmanship and reliability.
You also need to think about how much time you’re willing to put into maintaining your bathroom, as some materials require a bit more TLC than others. For example, if you opt for stone features, you will need to regularly seal them to prevent water damage, making stone a less practical choice for busy families or those with mobility concerns.
5. Consider accessibility and universal design principles
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation for aging in place or accommodating family members with mobility issues, consider incorporating accessibility features and universal design principles into your design. This may include features such as grab bars, wider doorways, and adjustable height fixtures.
By designing your bathroom with accessibility in mind, you can create a space that is safe, comfortable, and convenient for users of all ages and abilities. It may be worth consulting with a design professional or accessibility specialist if you’re designing with a specific challenge in mind to ensure that your renovation meets the necessary standards and guidelines.
6. Don’t forget about ventilation and lighting
Proper ventilation and lighting are often overlooked for the more fun bits like design and picking colours, but they are actually some of the most important aspects of a successful bathroom renovation. Good ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould, mildew, and other issues. Make sure your bathroom is equipped with an appropriate exhaust fan or ventilation system to ensure proper airflow and humidity control.
In terms of lighting, consider both natural and artificial sources to create a well-lit and inviting space. You can incorporate task lighting around mirrors and vanities for grooming needs, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting to highlight architectural features or focal points.
It’s also important to make sure that the lighting you use is bathroom safe. Again, if you’re not totally sure about whether the bathroom lighting you want is bathroom appropriate, it’s best to double check with a professional.
Contact us today and we can help you to transform your bathroom into the sanctuary you’ve been dreaming of!