Bathroom remodeling sounds like an exciting project. Homeowners curate a mix of finishes, fixtures, and colors. They wait to see the finished result with excitement. But halfway through, they realize something is off. The lighting may be poor, or the layout is awkward.
However, some mistakes are not yet visible, and they are the worst. Homeowners realize them with everyday use.
If you’re planning a remodel, it is worth reviewing the common bathroom remodel mistakes. Our guide helps you pick design choices you won’t regret.
Prioritizing Looks Over Function
Many are guilty of falling in love with that Pinterest bathroom. But remember, what looks good in a photo doesn’t always work in real life. A floating vanity looks sleek, but it may not provide enough storage space. A freestanding tub is a luxury feature, but it may not be practical for everyday use. A homeowner installed a large soaking tub to bring a spa bathroom feel. However, they later admit that they are using it a couple of times a year. But if they had a larger walk-in shower, they would have used it daily.
Homeowners often make this mistake. They design with aesthetics in mind, but they realize that daily use is impractical.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to start with usability. Think about how you use the bathroom and shape the design around it. If two people use the bathroom, plan for double sinks and extra counter space.
Poor Layout Planning
A functional bathroom layout is everything. One of the bathroom layout mistakes is not planning enough clearance between objects. There is no point if the shower or cabinet doors are hitting fixtures. Or the toilet is positioned too close to the vanity.
Consult with a designer about spacing guidelines. They often recommend at least 24 inches of clearance space in front of the toilet. For vanities and showers, it’s 30 to 36.
Not Planning Enough Storage
Many homeowners love the clean and streamlined look. While minimalist bathrooms look refined, remember that real-life use comes with toiletries, towels, and clutter. And having nowhere to store them creates a mess.
A couple installed an open vanity for a modern look. But within days, they understood their mistake. There was no space for makeup and cologne.
To avoid this, storage should be your priority when planning the design. Consider implementing deep drawers, as they are more practical than cabinets.
Use the vertical space wisely and add tall cabinets. These are ideal for storing towels and hair tools.
Whenever possible, incorporate hidden storage for a streamlined look. Mirrored cabinets are a multifunctional solution.
Recessed shower niches are ideal for storing shampoo and conditioner. However, make sure to pour them into decorative glass pump bottles since they are on display.
Choosing the Wrong Materials
Choosing the right materials for the bathroom is crucial. With constant moisture, wood warps. Improper paint can peel, and cheap finishes wear out.
For example, matte black fixtures are a popular choice for many homeowners. But low-quality ones start fading within months.
Moisture-resistant paint is a must for the bathroom. And quality hardware will look pristine for years.
Ignoring Proper Ventilation
Showering releases moisture into the air. The role of ventilation is to remove the humidity. Otherwise, it settles on the cabinets, ceilings, and walls.
Long-term exposure can result in mold, peeling paint, warped vanities, and a musty smell. Even high-end materials won’t withstand it if the environment is too moist.
One of the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes is a small fan. If you have an old fan, it is recommended to change it when remodeling. They don’t work for the modern bathroom needs, especially if you have a larger shower.
Fans are rated by CFM (cubic feet per minute). Getting the right strength for your bathroom size is very important.
Another mistake that many make is not using the fan after installation. It should be consistently used to remove the lingering humidity.
Bad Lighting Choices
The bathrooms often don’t have enough light. Sconces over the vanity won’t do the job. You need layered lighting to enlighten every corner and get that modern look.
Homeowners often add overhead lighting only. But this casts shadows, making it difficult to do basic grooming.
The formula often used by interior designers combines ambient, task, and accent lighting. Start with ambient lighting on the ceiling to illuminate the room. Task lighting goes next to the mirror, making it easier to shave or put on makeup. Lastly, accent lighting is optional but great for setting the mood.
Going Too Trendy
A bathroom renovation is an investment that brings value for years. Remember that trends come and go, and doing a remodel every few years is impractical and expensive. Going for bold design choices may mean that your bathroom will feel dated in a few years.
And let’s not forget about the resale value. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, bold design choices aren’t appealing to buyers.
While you can update some decorative details like towels and laundry baskets, upgrading your tiles isn’t that easy. So make sure to go for neutral tiles for long-term flexibility.
Again, if you want to use trendy colors, do it in the form of decorative accents.
Underestimating the Budget
Bathroom remodels often don’t go exactly as planned. There may be hidden issues that cost extra to fix. Outdated electrical systems can prevent you from adding new outlets.
Old plumbing pipes need to be fixed to avoid the double hassles and extra costs. Often, these issues are hidden and come to light when the demolition starts.
One of the smart bathroom renovation tips is to account for 10% to 20% of the budget for unexpected costs.
DIYing the Wrong Things
To reduce the cost, many homeowners may try to DIY. However, keep in mind that not everything can be managed as a DIY project. Problems caused by a lack of experience may result in poor waterproofing and uneven tiles. These lead to expensive fixes later.
For example, a poorly installed shower can leak behind the walls and cause more extensive damage.
Make sure to leave the plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, and tile installation to the professionals.
Forgetting About Small Details
The small details may not seem important at first. But they affect daily comfort. After a remodel, homeowners may discover there is no place to hang towels. Or the outlets are in inconvenient locations, making it impossible to use the hairdryer.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to walk through your routine step by step. Think about where you place your items and if frequently used grooming tools are easy to reach.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom remodel isn’t only for aesthetics. It impacts everyday use and functionality. And you will understand the importance of the right design decisions during those busy mornings.
To avoid bathroom design mistakes, take your time to plan carefully and consult with your contractor. If you need help with your bathroom remodeling project, contact us!