Do’s & Don’ts of Bathroom Renovations
Do's & Don'ts of Bathroom Renovations
There’s a reason why bathrooms on home renovations often delivers the most wow factor, a good renovation can transform a damp, dated box into something beautiful and functional. That said, the process involves so many trades and know-how that it’s also one of the toughest renovations of all. Bathroom renovations can look easy – but they can be one of the trickiest rooms in your home to transform.
1. Do Hire a builder, not a plumber, to manage the project.
Plumbers only run the pipework and install the fixtures. Engage a builder who can oversee the project from demolition to completion and organise the correct sequence of trades.
2. Don’t go too Trendy.
While many of the reality renovation shows are great at exposing the latest trends and inspiring heaps of people, it is important to remember that trends date. In as little as five years, a bathroom can be out of fashion, so consider a more classic look with a hint of something trendy so your bathroom stays present and contemporary for a longer period.
3. Do Buy products that comply with Australian Standards.
All products installed in a bathroom need to be covered by an Australian Standards Watermark. If it doesn’t, the plumber is not legally allowed to install it. Buying from specialist bathroom stores and choosing reputable brands will also mean less headaches down the track if you need a spare part.
4. Don’t use cheap suites
There is always the temptation to use cheap products, even if they look expensive. The problem with doing this is most of the time, cheaper products tend to be of low quality and not durable. Sometimes you might find an exception to this rule – for e.g., some retailers might be selling off premium brand items at discounted prices because they might be end-of-link stock.
5. Do Stick with the Budget
To help control costs and keep the project progressing on time, it’s important to create an exact budget and then stick to it. If you hire a professional designer, He or She will design the renovation within your budget and guide you through each step of the process. However, you’ll have to factor the cost of the design in your budget.
If you decide to handle the budget yourself, be sure to carefully keep track of all expenditures. Get price quotes in writing from contractors and suppliers. Add on an extra 10 to 20 percent to your total budget to cover any unforeseen changes or repairs
6. DON’T Forget SAFETY
Slips and falls are quite common in bathrooms. After installing slip-resistant flooring, you should place slip-resistant floor mats outside the tub or shower and use non-slip mats or adhesive strips inside the tub.
The most important bath safety device is the grab bar. Once found only in health-care facilities and bathrooms of elderly homeowners, grab bars are now commonly installed in all bathrooms, regardless of the age of the home owner. Consider putting grab bars both inside and outside the shower stall and bathtub, and mount one beside the toilet.
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