Bathroom Remodelling vs Renovation: Which is Right for You?

Remodelling is an excellent option if you’re happy with the layout and functionality of your bathroom but want to freshen up the look and feel of the Space.

Creative Bathroom Renovation Ideas

1. Statement Lighting: Install unique and eye-catching lighting fixtures to create a dramatic focal point in your bathroom. Use pendant lights, chandeliers, or a vintage lamp to add character and style.
2. Accent Walls: Create an accent wall using colourful or patterned tiles, wallpaper, or bold paint colour. This can add a pop of personality to your bathroom and create a visual point of interest.
3. Statement Mirrors: A large, ornate mirror can add a touch of glamour and elegance to your bathroom. Consider installing a mirror with a unique shape or frame to make it a statement piece.
4. Creative Storage: Storage doesn’t have to be boring. Install open shelving or unique storage solutions such as ladder shelving, vintage crates, or floating shelves to add visual interest to your bathroom while providing functionality.
5. Spa-Like Features: Add spa-like features to your bathroom, such as a rainfall showerhead, a soaking tub, or heated flooring, to create a luxurious and relaxing space.
6. Nature-Inspired Design: Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements such as wood, stone, or plants into your bathroom design. This can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere.
7. Vintage Touches: Add vintage touches to your bathroom, such as antique mirrors, clawfoot tubs, or vintage fixtures, to create a timeless and elegant space.

Bathroom Design and Installation: Key Considerations

1. Space: One of the most important considerations when designing your bathroom is the available Space. You must ensure enough space to move freely and that the fixtures and fittings are appropriately sized for the room. You also need to consider storage space for towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials.
2. Layout: The layout of your bathroom will significantly impact how well it functions. You must ensure the design is practical and functional, with the toilet, shower or bathtub, and sink in convenient locations. You must also consider the room’s flow and ensure enough space between fixtures.
3. Style: Your bathroom should reflect your style and taste. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or a more traditional, classic feel, many design options are available to suit your preferences. Consider the colour scheme, fixtures, fittings, and other elements like lighting and accessories.
4. Functionality: A well-designed bathroom should be functional and easy to use. Consider the placement of fixtures and fittings, the type of shower or bathtub, and the height of the sink and toilet to ensure everything is easy to access and use.
5. Budget: Finally, it’s essential to consider your budget when planning your bathroom design and installation. It would be best to prioritise your spending based on what is most important to you, whether it’s a high-quality shower or luxurious tile flooring. With a clear budget, you can decide which elements of your bathroom renovation to prioritize.

Bathroom Fixtures and Fittings: Choosing the Right Ones

1. Budget: Determine your budget before selecting any fixtures and fittings. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending.
2. Style: Consider your bathroom’s overall tone and theme when choosing fixtures and fittings. If you have a modern bathroom, you might select sleek and minimalist fixtures, while a traditional bathroom might benefit from more ornate fixtures.
3. Durability: Invest in high-quality fixtures and fittings that will last years. Look for brands with a reputation for quality and reliability.
4. Functionality: Choose fixtures and fittings that are practical and functional for your needs. For example, if you have a large family, you might consider a double sink or an enormous bathtub.
5. Energy Efficiency: Consider eco-friendly options that will help you save on your utility bills. Look for fixtures and fittings that have low flow rates or energy-efficient features.

• Sink and Taps
• Showerhead and shower fixtures
• Bathtub and Taps
• Toilet
• Vanity and mirror
• Lighting fixtures
• Towel racks and hooks

Shower, Bathtub, and Toilet Installation

Importance of Professional Installation

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when renovating their bathroom is attempting to install the shower, bathtub, or toilet themselves. While it may seem cost-effective, DIY installation can often result in costly mistakes and safety hazards.

DIY-disaster

Types of Showers, Bathtubs, and Toilets

• Walk-in showers offer easy accessibility and are an excellent option for those with mobility issues.
• Corner showers: Perfect for smaller bathrooms, corner showers are designed to fit snugly into the corner of the room.
• Power showers use a pump to increase the water pressure, providing a more stimulating and powerful shower experience.

• Freestanding bathtubs: These bathtubs are not attached to any walls and can be placed anywhere in the bathroom.
• Corner bathtubs: Similar to corner showers, these bathtubs are designed to fit snugly into the corner of the room.
• Soaker tubs: These bathtubs are designed for soaking and are typically deeper than standard bathtubs.

Toilets also come in a variety of styles and designs, including:

• One-piece toilets integrate the bowl and tank into a single unit, providing a sleek and seamless look.
• Wall-mounted toilets: These are mounted directly onto the wall, creating more floor space in the bathroom.
• Comfort-height toilets: These are designed to be taller than standard toilets, making them easier for those with mobility issues.

Choosing the Right Fixtures for Your Bathroom

Shower, Bathtub, and Toilet Installation

1. Importance of Professional Installation
It may be tempting to install these fixtures yourself to save money, but it’s important to remember that professional installation is critical. An experienced plumber will ensure that your fixtures are installed correctly, preventing leaks or water damage that could be costly in the long run. Additionally, a professional will ensure that your institutions are level, secure, and properly sealed to prevent any issues down the road.

2. Types of Showers, Bathtubs, and Toilets Available
Consider your Space, budget, and personal preferences when selecting the right fixtures for your bathroom. Before you choose your fixtures, you must know the available showers, bathtubs, and toilets. For batteries, options include walk-in showers, corner showers, and shower/tub combos. Bathtubs come in various styles, including freestanding, alcove, and corner models. Toilets come in multiple styles: standard, low-flow, and dual-flush.

3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Fixtures
When choosing your shower, bathtub, and toilet fixtures, there are a few essential factors to consider. Firstly, consider the size and layout of your bathroom to ensure that your fixtures will fit comfortably in the Space. Secondly, suppose your bathroom style and select fixtures that complement that style. Thirdly, consider the quality and durability of the institutions you choose to ensure they will last for years to come.

Bathroom Tile Installation: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Choose the Right Tiles
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are famous for bathroom floors and walls due to their durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. The first step in tile installation is choosing suitable tiles for your bathroom. Consider the tiles’ colour, style, size, and material, as well as their durability and slip resistance.

2. Measure the Space Before installing the tiles;
Measuring the Space is essential to determine how many tiles you will need. Measure the length and width of the area and multiply the two numbers to get the square footage. Add 10-15% to this number to account for cuts and waste.

3. Prepare the Surface

The surface where the tiles will be installed must be clean, dry, and flat. Remove any old tiles, adhesive, or grout, and repair any cracks or holes. If necessary, use a self-levelling compound to even out the surface.

4. Lay Out the Tiles Before installing the tiles, lay them on the floor or wall to determine the best pattern and layout. Use spacers to ensure even spacing between tiles. Start in the centre of the room and work your way outwards.

5. Install the Tiles Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the surface using a trowel, then press the tiles into the cement, using the spacers to maintain even spacing. Once the glue has dried, remove the spacers and apply the grout to the spaces between the tiles. Cut the tiles as needed to fit around the edges and corners.

6. Seal the Tiles After the grout has dried, seal the tiles to protect them from water and stains. Apply a sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and allow it to dry completely before using the bathroom.

Choosing the Right Bathroom Accessories

1. Consider Your Bathroom’s Style: Choose accessories that match your bathroom’s overall design and colour scheme. If you have a modern bathroom, opt for sleek and minimalist accessories, while a traditional bathroom may benefit from more classic or ornate pieces.
2. Focus on Functionality: Select accessories that serve a practical purpose in your bathroom. Towel rails, toilet paper holders, soap dispensers, and toothbrush holders are essential for any bathroom, so choose stylish and functional designs.
3. Opt for Quality: Invest in high-quality accessories that will stand the test of time. Durable materials such as stainless steel, brass, and ceramic can withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring your bathroom looks its best for years.
4. Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid cluttering your bathroom with too many accessories. Keep it simple and choose just a few key pieces that will impact the space without overwhelming it.
5. Personalize Your Space: Add personal touches to your bathroom with accessories that reflect your unique style and personality. Decorative elements such as artwork, candles, and small plants can help make your bathroom feel more inviting and homely.

1. Install an Exhaust Fan: An exhaust fan is essential for removing excess moisture and unpleasant odours from your bathroom. Choose a fan with a high enough CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating to effectively ventilate your bathroom’s size.
2. Keep the Fan Running: After taking a shower or bath, keep the exhaust fan running for at least 20-30 minutes to help remove excess moisture from the room.
3. Clean and Maintain Your Fan: Regularly clean and maintain your exhaust fan to ensure it remains in good working order. This includes removing dust and debris from the fan blades and checking that the motor functions correctly.
4. Use a Humidity Sensor: Installing a humidity sensor can help maintain your bathroom’s moisture levels. The sensor will automatically turn on the exhaust fan when the humidity levels rise, ensuring proper ventilation.
5. Ensure Adequate Airflow: Ensure sufficient airflow in your bathroom by keeping doors and windows open when possible. This will help circulate fresh air and prevent stale or damp air lingering in Space.