Top Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Bathroom

 

Introduction 

A well-designed bathroom is not as easy as scrolling through Pinterest. It is a process that combines function, aesthetics and contentment. A successful bathroom design will improve your quality of life, boost your home value and make your daily routine easier.

In this blog, we will walk you through common mistakes that homeowners make so that your project goes smoothly from beginning to end. 

 

Poor Space Planning

It is critical that bathrooms are laid out correctly and thoughtfully. A cramped bathroom is uncomfortable to use and creates more clutter. Please keep in mind these clearances when possible: at least 21 inches from the edge of the vanity to the wall, at least 21 inches in front of the toilet and 30 inches for ADA compliance, and 18 inches from the centerline of the toilet to the wall. Code requirements are often the least amount of space and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends more room for ease of use.

 

Forgetting about Lighting

Poor lighting in a bathroom is frustrating and one light over your mirror is simply not enough. We use a combination of recessed lighting and task lighting to achieve the optimal brightness for your space. It is best to have the recessed lights and the sconces on a separate switch so that you can customize the amount of light you want at various times of the day. If you prefer to have even more light, a backlit vanity mirror is a third layer of lighting that makes a big difference when getting ready for the day.

 

Choosing the Wrong Materials

Your bathroom is used every single day and sees a lot of wear. If you choose the wrong materials, you will be disappointed with how it holds up in the long run. Selecting materials that are not waterproof such as hardwood floors, will cause damage and headaches. Bathrooms are very humid environments, which will cause swelling and warping to materials that are not moisture-resistant.

 

Overlooking Storage Options

Bathroom products are plentiful and often create a lot of clutter, especially when the bathroom is used by more than one person. Drawers are the top way to store the typically small sized items. If your bathroom can fit a linen cabinet with roll outs, it is a no-brainer. This cabinet can fit linens, towels, cleaning products, a hamper, a trash can and so much more. Other options for bathroom storage include: tank toppers, open shelving, medicine cabinets, niches and built-ins.

 

Ignoring Ventilation

Ideally, all bathrooms that have a shower will include a window for natural light and ventilation. However, based on the design of your home, that is not always possible. A strong exhaust fan is an absolute must to reduce your risk of mold and mildew buildup. It is also important for your exhaust fan to be as quiet as possible so that it does not sound like an airplane is taking off every time you turn it on.

 

Not Looking Ahead

While life can be unpredictable at times, it is a big mistake to not consider where you or your family could be within 3-5 years. Will an extended family member be moving in and require ADA compliant options like a zero-threshold or curbless shower? Is this your forever home and aging in place features are a good fit for you? These types of questions are imperative to ask yourself now so that you can remodel your bathroom the right way the first time.

 

Conclusion

With the right planning, materials and workmanship, your bathroom renovation will make a large improvement on your life.  If you are thinking about remodeling your bathroom, be sure to refer to this list to ensure that you are pleased with your end product.

Starcom Design Build has over 35 years of experience to guide you along the way and make your dream, a reality- from concept to completion.