A bathroom serves as a hub to retreat from a hectic lifestyle. But like any other space in a home, a bathroom will see wear and tear with time and may require renovations. It is the perfect time to redesign the space to make it more suitable to one’s taste. However, renovation requires a lot of thought, and a simple mistake may hamper the final output permanently. So, here are nine bathroom renovation mistakes one can easily avoid.

Failing to draw a plan
Many homeowners get excited about renovations and dive into the project without thought. Doing so without prior planning could lead to poor renovation, such as loose tiles, inefficient waterproofing, and unsafe wiring. Therefore, before one begins the home renovation project, one must chalk out a plan. Make a list of the changes one wishes to make while considering the existing layout for plumbing, wiring, and surface materials.

Overlooking budget
One could come up with a premium design for their bathroom space. However, it would set them back by thousands of dollars if they do not decide on a budget. One should always determine how much they are willing to spend on the project before considering materials for the job. Staying within the budget can ensure that one has sufficient money set aside for unexpected expenses, which usually arise in the case of renovations.

Settling for sub-standard materials
Setting a budget for a bathroom renovation is important. However, opting for low-quality materials because of a lower budget is not the ideal choice. While one may save a couple of dollars, using cheaper bathroom hardware can cause issues due to its inferior quality, requiring constant repairs or replacements in the long haul. Ultimately, in one way or another, the homeowner will spend more on the cheaper materials. While one should not overspend on bathroom additions, one should look for brands that create value-for-money products.

Forgetting to accommodate ventilation
If one decides to renovate their bathroom completely, there is a high chance that they may overlook the importance of proper ventilation. It is essential for a bathroom to have some form of ventilation, like a properly sized window, as required by the code. If one wishes to install an exhaust, one should consider the ideal size and power for the space. The homeowner must consider the amount of cubic feet of air that can be moved by the exhaust per minute. Also, one should note that a smaller bathroom may benefit from a mid-powered exhaust as a more powerful option might create excessive noise in the space.

Neglecting storage space
Nobody wants to walk in and out of the bathroom carrying things like towels, soaps and shampoos all the time. Therefore, one must ensure they account for sufficient storage space. This space will help store each item and accommodate other things like toiletries, cosmetics, and air fresheners. If the space is tight, one could build into walls to create more space. A few examples include recessed soap dishes, cabinets, and toilet roll holders to create as much room as possible. One could even flatten the ceiling light by converting the existing fixture into a recessed option.

Lack of hooks
To keep one’s bathroom looking clean, neat and tidy, it’s best to avoid installing too many hooks. However, hooks can be a great way to increase a bathroom’s surface area without installing a real countertop. One could use hooks for various things, such as hanging clothes, bathrobes, and towels. The ideal place to install hooks is behind the door, on unused sections of the walls, and on the side of the cabinets.

Not adding accents
A bathroom renovation is not just about installing basic fixtures like taps and showers. One should also consider adding accessories to the space to uplift the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom. For instance, a homeowner can install a floating shelf in the bathroom and place plants on it that thrive well, which can add a pop of color to the area. The type of lighting you choose for the space will also help set the ambiance. Light fixtures installed on both sides can better illuminate the bathroom while eliminating shadows that are usually seen with overhead lighting.

Installing flooring based on design
Flooring is an essential element in any renovation process. If one gets it wrong, there could be potential repercussions that one might have to face over time. Many homeowners opt for solid wood floors in their bathrooms as they add more character to the space. However, from a practical perspective, it may not be the ideal flooring material. It is important to choose and install flooring that can endure the impact of daily bathroom use. A few notable choices in this regard include porcelain tiles, vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl planks.

Trying to DIY the renovation without expert help
Renovating various areas and fixtures of the bathroom by oneself is a great way to save money. However, one should never take on the entire project themselves, especially if they are not well-versed with bathroom renovations. The space’s major elements, including electric wiring and plumbing, are best handled by a trained professional. The expert will also ensure that the work is completed as per the local guidelines to avoid legal trouble later on. In addition, professional bathroom renovators can help homeowners with ordering the necessary materials for their bathroom space while suggesting items that can be avoided in order to balance costs.