Common Bathroom Design-Build Remodeling Oversights, Errors, Missteps

Whether you are new to home remodeling or a seasoned veteran, a bathroom remodel is one of the most challenging home improvement projects.

The average bathroom is a dense infrastructure of water pipes, drain pipes, electricity, and slippery surfaces in a small space of no more than 150 square feet. Along with your kitchen, when it comes to bathroom design-build, spacing, code issues, and best design practices are critical for success. Working with an experienced bathroom design-build firm is a decision that can make your project run smoothly from design through construction.

Your bathroom, large or small, must be well thought out, carefully located, and functional. Today's bathrooms must be beautiful, efficiently use space, and serve multiple users.

Let's look at some common mistakes we have seen throughout our years of designing and updating bathrooms for our clients.

Common First-Time Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes

Insufficient Budget

Many inexperienced homeowners don't plan or do sufficient due diligence before seeking a professional for a bathroom design-build project. Creating a realistic budget is a crucial first step for any project. Think about what you would like to accomplish with your project. Will you be taking your bathroom down to the studs and completely remodeling your bathroom, or simply updating, replacing, or repairing elements like shower walls, mirrors, cabinetry, or faucets?

Consulting with a design-build professional and getting an estimate is a great way to understand what is possible. Learn more.

Locating Your Bathroom in an Interior Space

No one wants a dark, damp bathroom with no natural light or circulation. It's no fun getting ready for work in a space like that. If you are remodeling or relocating your bathroom, try to locate it on an outside wall with windows.

If windows are not possible, consider installing an operable skylight to allow for fresh air and natural light and to make the space feel more comfortable.

Not Considering Sight Lines from Other Rooms

When designing a new bathroom, avoid locating it directly off a public room like the living room, kitchen, or dining room. Try to create some separation to break up the sight line. No one wants to sit on the living room couch to unwind with a glass of wine after a long day and look straight into the bathroom.

Replacing Everything

If you have a limited budget, repairing or updating features instead of replacement can offer significant savings. For example, if your vanity is dated but otherwise in good shape, paint it and install new hardware. You might be surprised at the transformation, and all for much less than the cost of replacing the vanity. Work with your contractor. Keeping features like the shower and toilet in the same place but replacing the fixtures can save significantly over relocating plumbing.

Skimping on Quality

Many homeowners fall in love with a property that often needs some updating. It's typical for contractors to use lower-grade materials when constructing a new home. Sometimes, first-time buyers will live in the homes as is until it's time to sell. One of the biggest mistakes when remodeling a bathroom is skimping on quality. Remodeling is the time to upgrade finishes, fixtures, and materials. In a bathroom remodel, one place to not skimp is on infrastructure. For example, you don't want to skimp on waterproofing. When it comes to finishes, buy the best you can afford. They will make the bathroom look more luxurious and are more durable than cheaper ones.

Underestimating Storage Needs

Bathroom storage is an essential element for functionality. Adequate storage can help you keep your new bathroom clean and uncluttered. You'll need space for towels, medicines, toiletries, and more. The key is smart storage that doesn't take up a lot of real estate in the bathroom. Try to incorporate different-size drawers in the vanity to accommodate different size items. If you have the space, a linen cabinet is a good addition. Consider open shelving with storage baskets for each family member to hold personal items.

It Might Just be a Mistake Not to...

While we've looked at some bathroom design-build remodeling mistakes, this next section includes a few affordable ideas to improve your bathroom's functionality and comfort. Renovating your bathroom will not only add value to your home, but it will also update its style and make it better fit your family's lifestyle.

Renovations are the perfect time to introduce these improvements that will serve your family for years!

Hidden Tank and Low-Flow Toilets

A hidden tank toilet places the water storage inside the wall. This offers a few benefits. If you have a smaller bathroom, it's a great way to save space, plus it fits right into a modern or contemporary bathroom design. However, be aware that routine maintenance can be challenging.

A low-flow toilet can save water every time you flush. It's an environmentally-friendly way to lower your home's water use and energy bills. Plus, a low-flow toilet can add value to your home.

Use Small Tile on the Shower Floor

When remodeling the bathroom, you'll have plenty of tile choices to think about, including the walls and flooring. The tile you choose for the shower floor is crucial for your safety. Choose a small textured shower tile. The texture and extra grout can keep you from slipping in a wet shower.

Modern tile comes in a variety of materials like ceramic and porcelain. It is finished using grout resistant to mold, humidity, and staining.

Upsize Your Drain Pipe

This is a hidden improvement that will make a big difference in the functionality of your bathroom. The typical bathroom drain is only 1.25 or 1.5 inches in diameter. A small-sized drain can clog more easily. Installing a 2-inch diameter pipe costs the same, meets code requirements, and can dramatically improve the drainage in your bathroom.

Add A Window in the Shower

Humidity in the bathroom can lead to mold and mildew. While a ventilation system can make a difference, the best option is natural ventilation. Adding a window in the shower stall can help to quickly draw humidity out of the room. Plus, a window adds natural light, which improves your bathroom's aesthetics.

Add a Recessed Medicine Cabinet

A recessed medicine cabinet is another space-saving feature that won't cost much in the grand scheme of things. A recessed medicine cabinet is useful if your vanity is a little shallow.

Don't Neglect Lighting

As you work with your designer to plan your bathroom remodeling, consider changing your lighting plan to improve the functionality and mood of your space. Consider adding a dimmer switch to the main lighting. This can help set the mood if you love to relax in the tub after a hard day. Don't neglect task lighting around the vanity. It gives you the best lighting for doing hair, applying makeup, or shaving.

Consider Heated Flooring

If you're replacing flooring, a nice upgrade is to add heated floors. They are not expensive to install and will add value to your home. Plus, heated floors can save you money on energy costs over the long term. They're more efficient than a central heating system, and nothing feels better than stepping out of the shower onto a warm floor on a cold day.

A renovated bathroom can add to your home's value and your family's enjoyment. Working with a qualified design-build professional can help you to correct the mistakes of former remodeling, or upgrade from a builder-grade bathroom to give you a dream space. A bathroom remodeling is not an inexpensive choice, but it is the perfect time to correct any issues and make improvements that will serve your family well for many years to come.

Are you considering a bathroom remodeling project? Let us help you create a new look and design the perfect finished space to meet your family's needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.