Avoid These Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes for Success

Avoid These Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes for Success
Picture of Harvey Radanovic
Harvey Radanovic
Harvey is a seasoned general contractor with over 10 years of experience in home renovation. From small repairs to full-scale remodels, Harvey has a proven track record of delivering high-quality results for his clients.

Venturing into a bathroom renovation in Vancouver can significantly dent your finances if you’re not careful. Based on personal experience, having navigated this process more times than I wish, I’ve encountered numerous pitfalls. Problems range from not giving enough thought to the importance of proper ventilation, choosing lighting that doesn’t flatter, to the hazards of choosing tiles that are too slick. Additionally, the mistake of not consulting with professionals can be outright disastrous. Keep on reading, and I’ll help you avoid these common errors, preserving both your budget and peace of mind.

It also highlights the importance of a contingency budget and creating a stunning focal point. Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and stress for a successful bathroom makeover.

Table of Contents

Ignoring Proper Ventilation

Overlooking proper ventilation is a common mistake in bathroom renovations. Instead, invest in a quality exhaust fan to prevent mold growth and maintain a comfortable environment.

Importance of preventing mold growth

Proper bathroom ventilation prevents mold development and maintains a healthy home. Install an efficient exhaust fan during your bathroom renovation to reduce moisture buildup and minimize the risk of respiratory issues and allergies caused by prolonged exposure to damp environments.

Choosing the right exhaust fan for your space

Choose the right exhaust fan for your bathroom by considering room size, noise level, energy efficiency, and installation requirements. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends selecting a fan with a CFM rating that matches or exceeds your bathroom’s square footage.Choose the right exhaust fan for your bathroom by considering room size, noise level, energy efficiency, and installation requirements. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends selecting a fan with a CFM rating that matches or exceeds your bathroom’s square footage.

  • Noise Level: Opt for fans with lower sone ratings if quiet operation is essential to you.
  • Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR-certified models consume less power while providing effective performance.
  • Ease of Installation: Consult with Skilled Home Renovations Burnaby professionals about which options are most suitable based on existing ductwork configurations or other structural considerations within your home.

Ensuring sufficient ventilation during a bathroom remodel is critical to avoiding the proliferation of mold and mildew. Inadequate lighting choices can also impact your renovation; therefore, considering options such as dimmer switches or LED lights may be beneficial.

Inadequate Lighting Choices

Inadequate lighting is often overlooked during bathroom renovations. Dimmer switches and LED lights can improve functionality, ambiance, and energy efficiency.

Benefits of Dimmer Switches

Dimmer switches are a great addition to your bathroom renovation. They provide flexibility to control brightness levels for a relaxing atmosphere or increased visibility. They can also help reduce energy use and extend the life of light bulbs by allowing adjustable illumination levels.

  • Create a customizable ambiance with adjustable brightness levels.
  • Reduce energy consumption by lowering light intensity when not required.
  • Prolong bulb lifespan through reduced usage at full capacity.

Using LED Lights for Added Style and Savings

LEDs are an eco-friendly and cost-effective for bathroom renovations due to their extended lifespan and low heat output. They add style to your design while providing significant cost savings over time.

  1. Durable: LEDs have an impressive lifespan of up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
  2. Eco-Friendly: These lights consume less power than other options, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electricity production.
  3. Stylish: LED lights come in various styles, colors, and sizes to suit your bathroom’s aesthetic. Consider using them for accent lighting or even as a focal point.

Adding dimmer switches and LED lights to your bathroom renovation project enhances the space’s atmosphere and functionality. Choose lighting options that are both stylish and secure. Selecting the right floor tiles is equally important for bathroom remodels.

Selecting Unsafe Floor Tiles

Bathroom floor tiles should be non-slip but not overly textured, as this can make cleaning difficult. Prioritize safety by choosing appropriate materials that provide traction without compromising cleanliness or visual appeal.

Selecting Unsafe Floor Tiles

Choose bathroom floor tiles that balance slip resistance and ease of maintenance. For example, textured surfaces offer better grip but can be harder to clean, while smooth tiles may pose a slipping hazard.

Consider tiles with moderate texture, like natural stone or porcelain with subtle patterns, for optimal slip resistance and easy maintenance.

Selecting Unsafe Floor Tiles

  • Ceramic: Ceramic tiles are versatile and budget-friendly in various colors and designs. 
  • Porcelain: Porcelain is denser than ceramic and offers excellent durability and low water absorption rates.
  • Natural Stone: Natural stone materials such as slate, travertine, or limestone offer inherent slip-resistant properties due to their rough textures. 
  • Vinyl: Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are an increasingly popular choice for bathrooms due to their water resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance. 

Request tile samples and test them in your space before deciding. Consider slip resistance and maintenance when selecting bathroom floor tiles. Professional assistance may be necessary for a successful and long-lasting remodel.

Selecting Unsafe Floor Tiles

Forgoing Professional Assistance

While a DIY approach to bathroom renovation may seem cost-effective, hiring an interior designer, specialist bathroom designer, or experienced builder/plumber guarantees professional results and a more efficient remodeling process. Avoid costly mistakes and ensure long-lasting results with their expertise.

When to Consider Hiring an Expert

  • Complex projects: If your renovation involves significant structural changes, such as moving walls or plumbing fixtures, it’s best to consult with professionals.
  • Limited knowledge: If you’re not well-versed in construction techniques or local building codes, seeking expert advice can save you from potential fines and ensure your project meets all necessary regulations.

Budget concerns: While hiring contractors might seem like an added expense up front, their guidance can save you money by preventing costly errors and helping you make informed material and design choices.

How Professionals Contribute to Long-lasting Results

Hiring experts for your bathroom renovation offers several benefits that contribute to a successful outcome:

  1. In-depth knowledge: Professionals with extensive experience can recommend high-quality options that suit your style preferences and budget constraints while ensuring durability over time.
  2. Creative solutions: An interior designer or specialist bathroom designer has the skills to create innovative designs tailored to your space. 
  3. Efficient project management: Working with experienced builders or plumbers means having someone who understands how to efficiently coordinate all aspects of a renovation. 

Enlisting professional help for your bathroom renovation is a wise investment that ensures high-quality results and added home value. Be sure to seek out expert advice to avoid costly mistakes. Creating a realistic contingency budget is essential for a successful remodel.

Failing To Include Contingency Budgets

Many homeowners underestimate renovation costs by sticking too closely to their initial budgets without factoring in unexpected expenses. A contingency budget of at least 10% – 20% more than planned provides flexibility when unforeseen issues arise.

The Importance of Contingency Budgets in Remodeling Projects

A contingency budget is essential for any home renovation project, as it helps cover additional costs that may not have been anticipated. These could include material price increases, changes to the design plan, or discovering hidden problems like water damage or outdated wiring. By allocating extra funds for these potential surprises, you can ensure your bathroom renovation stays on track and avoids financial stress.

Tips for Creating Realistic Financial Plans

  • Research materials and labor costs: Taking the time to look into what your financial expectations should be is wise.
  • Prioritize needs over wants: It’s easy to get carried away with luxurious upgrades and finishes; however, prioritize functional improvements before splurging on extras.
  • Create a detailed scope of work: Outline every aspect of the renovation, from demolition to final touches. 
  • Maintain open communication with contractors: Keep an ongoing dialogue with your general contractor about progress and any potential changes that could impact the overall cost.

Add wiggle room into timelines: Delays are expected in renovation projects, so factor extra time into your schedule to avoid unnecessary stress and additional costs.

To ensure a smoother bathroom remodel, including a contingency budget and creating a realistic financial plan that accounts for unexpected expenses is paramount. Additionally, identifying a focal point can help tie together all design elements and make a strong statement in the space.

Identifying A Focal Point

A well-designed bathroom should have a focal point that draws the eye and elevates the overall design. Choose one key piece, such as a statement vanity or freestanding bathtub, to anchor your space. 

How to Choose the Perfect Focal Point for Your Bathroom

Selecting an ideal focal point involves considering both aesthetics and functionality. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

  • Assess your space: Take note of your bathroom’s size, layout, and existing features before deciding on a focal point to ensure that it complements rather than overwhelms the room.
  • Consider functionality: While appearance is important, remember practicality. For example, if you’re short on storage space in your bathroom renovation project, opting for a unique vanity with ample storage could be beautiful and functional.

Budget constraints: Remember that some statement pieces can be pricey; however, affordable options are also available.

Examples of Stunning Statement Pieces

To inspire you further during the planning stages of Skilled Home Renovations Burnaby’s projects, here are some captivating ideas for creating visual interest in any bathroom remodel:

  1. Freestanding bathtubs: These elegant tubs serve as a functional and stylish centerpiece. 
  2. Statement Vanities: A striking vanity can instantly transform the look of your bathroom. Choose from bold colors, unique designs, or luxurious materials to make it stand out.
  3. Eye-catching tile work: Creative use of tiles can add visual interest to your bathroom walls or floors. Consider using patterned tiles or creating a mosaic for an artistic touch.
  4. Bold wallpaper: Wallpaper isn’t just for living rooms. Introduce drama into your bathroom with vibrant patterns or textures that draw attention.

Finding the perfect focal point is crucial to design a visually appealing and functional bathroom. Consider your space’s needs, budget constraints, and personal style preferences to create a stunning sanctuary during your home renovation project.

Conclusion

Investing in a bathroom renovation can be a significant expense, but with proper planning and professional assistance, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a successful outcome. By partnering with Skilled Home Renovations Burnaby for your project in Greater Vancouver, you can rest assured that your bathroom renovation project will be completed to the highest standard.


From identifying the perfect focal point to selecting suitable materials and ensuring proper ventilation, our team will work with you to create a stunning sanctuary that meets all your needs. Contact Skilled Home Renovations Burnaby today to get started on your dream bathroom renovation!

Bathroom Counter Tile Detail

Frequently Asked Questions Bathroom Remodel Mistakes

Before starting a bathroom remodel, knowing the importance of proper ventilation, lighting choices, and safe flooring options is important. Also, consider hiring professional contractors for complex tasks, ensure you have a contingency budget, and identify a focal point to create an aesthetically pleasing space.

The most challenging aspects of bathroom remodeling include the following:
  • Plumbing and electrical work.
  • Installing fixtures like bathtubs or showers correctly.
  • Tiling floors and walls with precision.
  • Ensuring adequate waterproofing measures are in place.
  • Managing overall project timelines while staying within budget constraints.

A well-executed bathroom renovation can last between 15-20 years or more, depending on factors including material quality used during construction.