Bathrooms are the source of many leak risks, and the best way to avoid water damage is to take a proactive approach to preventing bathroom leaks. In doing so, you don’t just protect your home from water damage, but you also conserve water and reduce your utility bills.
Carrying out routine inspections is key to preventing bathroom leaks and water damage. You don’t need to be a professional; just keep an eye on water connections and bathroom fixtures by looking for wear and tear or signs of water leaks. If you notice cracks or rusting, it could indicate a leak. Also, look at the grout and sealant in wet areas to ensure it’s still intact.
Whether you need repairs or you’re having new fixtures installed while renovating a bathroom, ensure it’s completed by a professional and all appropriate waterproofing steps are taken. Waterproofing goes beyond the membrane, it’s also about ensuring the pipes and tiles are properly set to avoid water intrusion.
Smart home owners know the power of leveraging technology, and there are options for leak detection, too. You can use smart technology to detect irregularities in your water usage, and some devices will alert you to excess moisture or leaks before they are visible. These smart systems are compatible with Wi-Fi to provide real-time updates and notifications.
As for putting DIY solutions in place, you can tighten any pipes and nuts or change out washers for extra protection. Some people take extra precautions by applying extra sealant or waterproof tape around their pipes, and while this can be helpful, it may prevent the typical early signs and backfire when a pipe bursts.
If you do spring a leak, you can use waterproof tape to temporarily fix a shower head or faucet if you have noticed a leak. Tape will hold until a professional attends. Alternatively, you can use waterproof sealant. You can replace grout and sealant if you notice an issue, but if the problem has gone too far, it can seal the moisture problem in. At that point, you may have no choice but to call for bathroom renovations.
If there is a leak, calling in a professional quickly will help prevent further damage. If you do have leaks that lead to water damage, it’s a great opportunity to choose a custom bathroom renovation.
There are several signs to look out for that may indicate a leak, and the quicker you address these issues, the less likely you are to experience water damage. These are the early warning signs, so don’t ignore them.
The most obvious indicators are puddles or damp patches. This is indicative of a major leak around your bath or shower. The most common cause for concern is the shower head and faucets, these are the most common items to spring a leak, and it’s usually down to poor sealant or old washers.
Water stains on the walls and ceilings are also a clear indication of a water leak. If you notice discolouration or peeling, or bubbling wallpaper and paint, it could be a result of water damage. If the floors feel spongy, that’s a sign of serious structural damage, and you should call a plumber immediately to locate the source of the problem. This suggests significant damage and can’t be put off.
Listening is just as important as looking because if you have a constantly dripping faucet or you can hear knocking or hissing, this indicates a leak somewhere in the pipe system. Your water bill is also a clear indication of a problem. If you notice a spike you didn’t expect or can’t explain, you have a problem somewhere in the plumbing system.
If you notice damp patches or puddles, take immediate action by calling a plumber. If you leave moisture areas unchecked, you may notice musky smells and mould growth. Bathrooms are the perfect environment for mould and moisture problems, but mould growth is a serious sign of problems.
Preventing leaks is a crucial part of maintaining your home’s value, and the tips above will help you prevent leaks and avoid water damage. Unseen leaks can do serious damage to your bathroom and beyond, so keep your eyes peeled for the signs we covered. If you suspect a leak, call in the professionals to find the root of the problem and address the repairs.
If you’re looking for bathroom renovation in Sydney, look no further than Crystal Bathrooms. We upgrade bathrooms in Sydney, whether you’re interested in a spa-like retreat off your bedroom or want to overhaul the family bathroom. Crystal Bathrooms can help you design your dream bathroom, and we’ll handle the renovation every step of the way. Get in touch to arrange a consultation with one of our bathroom professionals.
A bathroom renovation is an exciting development in any home, but after the work is done, what comes next? The first step is the post-renovation cleanup, and once the cleanup is done, you can fully enjoy your bathroom renovations. We also have some handy cleaning and care tips to help you maintain your new bathroom renovation in Sydney.
Let’s get started with the initial cleanup once the renovating bathroom work is complete. If you use a reputable and reliable contractor, you shouldn’t need to worry about large debris. The contractors should remove the big stuff and ensure they leave a relatively tidy space behind. However, if you are left with a mess, start by clearing out those large items of construction leftovers, and ensure you wear the appropriate protective equipment to prevent injuries.
Now, gather your cleaning supplies and get ready to tackle the leftovers. The biggest challenge is dust, so you’ll need a microfibre cloth to remove the fine dust, followed by a damp cloth to take over the same areas before using a vacuum to follow up to remove the rest.
Dust gets everywhere, so make sure you wipe down the ceiling and walls before you vacuum the floors. Don’t forget to wash the windows and mirrors! There’s likely more dust than you realise because it’s so fine it’s invisible, so take your time with the cleanup and take a more detailed approach than usual.
As for your bathroom fixtures, a mild cleaner will be more than sufficient for metal fixtures, just be sure to rinse them clean and polish. Don’t forget the light fixtures.
Now you can sanitise the surfaces. In addition to a non-abrasive cleaner for your floor and wall tiles, be sure to disinfect the tub, shower, and sink. It’s also a good idea to clean your toilet thoroughly, inside and out, including the flusher.
Cleaning after your bathroom renovation isn’t just about removing fine dust, it’s also about ensuring it’s properly sanitised. Not just clean, but hygienic. Once you’ve tackled the surfaces, you can sanitise the furniture.
Once the bathroom is clean, you can do a final inspection to make sure every nook and cranny is spotless.
Many people prefer to call in a professional cleaner to handle post-renovation cleanups, but with this handy list, you should have it done in no time.
There’s no use having a brand new bathroom renovation if you’re not prepared to look after it to extend its lifespan. First and foremost, you should be dusting daily and cleaning the fixtures and fittings weekly. A daily shower spray is ideal for the shower cubicle, and many don’t require follow-through, but a squeegee is a handy tool to keep the glass clean. The last one out is in charge of that task!
Carry out a maintenance check once a month. This is your opportunity to check seals, sealants, fixtures, and fittings to ensure everything is operating properly. Look out for signs of water leaks and address them as quickly as possible. Remember, if you’ve just had work done, you may be within warranty, so the quicker you react, the better. Regularly checking up on your bathroom is the key to identifying problems quickly to taking preventative steps.
Regular cleaning will help you prevent the buildup of soap scum, mildew, and mould and by following a cleaning schedule, you can stay on top of the task easily. Proper ventilation is key, but even if you have an exhaust fan, you should open the window as often as possible and keep your fan clean! Add it to the monthly routine.
Grout is prone to discolouration, so using grout cleaner once a season should be enough to prevent the issue. Just use a soft brush to maintain the appearance of your grout or apply grout sealant to make cleaning simple and prevent stains. If you notice cracks or chips in your tiles, you’ll need to repair or replace them quickly before your waterproofing is endangered. If you notice damaged caulk or deteriorating sealant, you can replace this to protect your watertight seal.
A post-renovation cleanup can feel daunting, but as long as you follow the system, you’ll have the job done in no time. Take each section as it comes and be sure to stay on top of the cleaning moving forward to keep your new bathroom renovation in tip-top shape. Regular cleaning and maintenance are the key to extending the lifespan of your bathroom and keeping it sparkling clean.
The cleaning and care tips above will help you address issues promptly so you can enjoy your bathroom for years to come. If you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation, contact Crystal Bathrooms in Sydney to arrange a consultation with one of our design specialists.
Bathroom renovations are a major investment and if you’re going to spend tens of thousands of dollars on yours, you need to find a reliable bathroom renovation contractor. Bathrooms deliver one of the highest returns on investment and getting the bathroom renovation right is key to increasing your property value. So, what makes a reliable bathroom renovation contractor? Let us help you find the right team for your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
You can’t find the right team unless you identify your renovation needs. What type of style are you considering? What’s your budget and how about your timeline? Nail down all your needs and understand what you’re looking for in a renovation – do you want to completely redesign the space, update the fixtures and fittings, or give it a facelift? The more you know about what you want, the easier it will be to find the right renovating bathroom team.
The research takes three forms. The first is asking your friends and family for recommendations. If you know someone who has had work done in the last few years, ask who they used. It’s one of the best ways to get a solid team on board. You can also use the internet to search for local businesses that specialise in bathrooms in Sydney and make sure to read the reviews to see what other customers think about the service. Alternatively, you can go straight to the source by checking professional associations like the Housing Industry Association or Masters Plumbers.
Always check licenses and insurance. Many businesses will list a business number that is either made up or leads to another business, so it’s wise to double-check. This step ensures there is adequate insurance coverage and confirms they are licensed to deliver the industry standard and their work meets legal requirements.
Experience is an important part of the renovation process, so look for a contractor that specialises in bathroom renovations. A general contractor might not be able to deliver the bathroom design you want to a high enough standard.
If there are no portfolio photographs on the company’s website, ask if they have a portfolio to view.
You might think you’ve found the perfect fit, but you should always obtain at least three separate quotes. A quote should break down all the costs for material, labour, and any other fees associated with the project. This is the clearest way to compare contractors. If one bid is unusually low, you should discard it because there’s a good chance they are inexperienced, using a lower quality of material, or they’re going to add in extra fees to surprise you later.
If the online reviews aren’t enough to sway you in one direction or another, ask the contractor for references and follow up with previous clients for more information. A solid bathroom renovation contractor won’t mind.
Sometimes, the decision comes down to who you gel with. So, schedule an initial consultation with your finalists and assess their professionalism and communication skills. Are they willing to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have? Do they have solid answers? Do they listen to your design ideas and communicate effectively? That’s a big part of the process because you’re inviting this team into your house and you want to ensure you can get along.
Finally, when you’ve made your decision, ensure you have a written contract. This should be secured before any work begins and it should outline the work that’s set to take place, including the timeline, the terms of payment, the materials that will be used, and the appliances, fixtures, and fittings for installation. This contract should also include any information about guarantees or warranties. This protects both of you should something go wrong and will help avoid disputes.
Your job isn’t over just because you’ve hired the right team, it’s important to stay involved in the renovation process and schedule check-ins to remain up-to-date. This check-in should be for the contractor to raise concerns and answer any questions you may have. This is key to keeping the timeline in check and ensuring the final product is up to your standards. By doing a periodic check-in, you can catch problems immediately, whether it’s a style issue or there has been a deviation from the plan.
If you want a reliable bathroom renovation contractor that will include you in the process, Crystal Bathrooms is the first call to make. Our team is skilled and experienced, handling the renovation from the design process through the renovation’s completion. We’ll sit down with you to discuss your design ideas and show you 3D plans of the finished product to ensure you get the bathroom renovation of your dreams.
You might have a long list of dream renovations, whether you bought a fixer-upper or you’ve been living in your home for decades. If it’s finally time for the bathroom renovation of your dreams, we’re here to calm your fears and detail the entire process so you know precisely what to expect from your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
Whether you plan to do most of it yourself or you want the professionals to handle your renovation from start to finish, the steps are similar. You can’t take any action until you’ve assessed your needs and requirements.
Think about your current layout and design – what do you hate about your bathroom and why? Do you constantly complain about how dark it is? Is it a functionality problem? Maybe the design is tired? Whatever your issue, it’s important to understand your needs before you take any action steps to renovating bathroom spaces. If you’re renovating a family bathroom, you might want to keep a bath, but if it’s an ensuite you could save space with a walk-in shower.
The good news is if you know the general idea of what you want but you don’t know how to turn it into a practical idea, a reliable bathroom renovation contractor can turn your dreams into a functional design.
How much do you plan to spend? Think about the necessities and your preferred materials and designs and create a budget for your bathroom renovation project. Depending on your needs, you might need to factor in the cost of flooring, wall coverings, fixtures, fitting, appliances, lighting, ventilation, and labour rates for the necessary professionals. Costs of fixtures and fittings vary depending on the style, size, and quality of your chosen products. Using a contractor that can do every part of the project will likely cost less than hiring individual contractors for every step.
You’ll get a more realistic idea about prices when you get quotes from contractors, but it’s still smart to have a rough idea about what you can afford.
Once you have your contractor in place, you can choose your design. Your contractor will consult to discuss your needs, ideas, and ultimately, your chosen design. The design includes everything from layout and colour scheme to the heating, ventilation, wall coverings, flooring, lighting, and fixtures and fittings. When you work with a skilled contractor, they can help you set the right mood in your bathroom, whether you prefer dark and bold, bright and airy, or earth tones are your preferred colour scheme. The designer will offer advice about what colours work well with the style of bathroom you want and the size of your space, but it’s ultimately up to you.
You can lose track of costs easily when it comes to choosing your fixtures and fittings, so make sure you have a clear idea of where you want to spend big and where you don’t mind pulling back on quality. The same is true of tiles, whether it’s for the floors or the walls. You can choose a cheaper material and still achieve the same look without splashing out on marble.
The designer will walk you through your lighting options and this is where many people go wrong. Task lights are a must for illuminating the mirror area, ceiling lights provide general lighting, and downlights or wall lights can give ambient lighting.
When it comes to choosing your furniture, consider how much storage you need and how that will realistically fit into your space.
The new bathroom can’t be installed until the old one is removed. While you could save money by handling the removal yourself, it’s much easier to let the professionals handle the task to avoid damage and additional costs.
Once that’s complete, the installation can begin and it starts with the first fix, which is plumbing and electrical. The wall coverings are next, then the floor, and fixtures and fittings before the finishing decorative touches like mirrors and lighting are installed.
Maybe all you want to know is how long it takes. That depends, but we can give you a general sense of the timeline. The planning and design stage can take anywhere from three to six weeks and that largely comes down to the size of the project and the adjustments to the plan to tweak it to your dream bathroom. It can take up to eight weeks to get all the materials in place and a day to prepare the site.
Removing the old bathroom can take a day, but longer if the space is larger or complicated. Likewise, the plumbing and electrical work could be done in a day, but if you’re changing the layout and there are major changes, it could take several days to complete the work. The wall and floor preparation and covering can take several days and require time to dry or set, and a day or two to install the fixtures and fittings.
All in all, you should plan for a four-week renovation, but your contractor will be able to give you a firm timeline once the scope of the project is clear.
Crystal Bathrooms in Sydney provides a full bathroom renovation service, delivering your dream bathroom from the design stage through to project completion.
Every detail of your bathroom renovation matters. Each piece is part of the bigger picture, and it helps you pull the overall aesthetic together for a seamless, stylish look. While you might not have given bathroom mirrors much thought, incorporating the right mirror can elevate your renovation to new heights.
The first consideration is function. The bathroom mirror’s primary function is to provide a clear reflection while you wash your face, shave, apply makeup, or style your hair. However, that isn’t everything to consider during bathroom renovations.
You can use a cleverly shaped and placed mirror to enhance your bathroom lighting, reflecting artificial and natural lights. It’s a clever way to brighten the space and make it look larger and more open. Mirrors do a wonderful job of creating the illusion of space, and they’re commonly utilised in compact spaces.
If you’re worried about storage space, invest in a mirror with built-in storage for bathroom essentials.
A framed mirror adds elegance and luxury to a bathroom. It comes in various designs, materials, and finishes. You will easily find the right aesthetic to fit your bathroom, whether you prefer something traditional and ornate or a sleek, modern touch.
Frameless mirrors are a good choice for modern bathrooms if you’re looking for a sleek, minimalistic look.
If your design is traditional or you want the mirror to serve as a statement piece, then a decorative mirror is the ideal choice when renovating bathroom. Decorative mirrors come in different styles, shapes, and sizes, whether you’re looking for a vintage look or a trendy geometric design. They provide the functional purpose you need from a bathroom mirror and can serve as the focal point. Art meets function with a decorative mirror.
Task mirrors are an important part of creating a functional bathroom and backlit mirrors are part and parcel of modern designs. It gives a soft glow for ambience and function, providing a touch of luxury.
To touch on shape, the experts suggest an oval mirror when you have an oval basin. In a small bathroom, a rectangular mirrored cabinet is a good choice, while a circular mirror is a good choice when there’s a double vanity or you want to soften angular elements. A wide three-door mirrored cabinet is also a great choice for a double vanity. Alternatively, you can install two round mirrors, one over each basin. If you’re creating a spa-like design, a horizontal mirror might be the perfect finishing touch.
When it’s time to choose the right mirror, look at style, size, and function. It must fit in with your overall aesthetic but also provide the function you need, and size is a big part of that. Many mirrors come in several sizes, so you should be able to find the perfect fit.
How big should it be? Generally, the main bathroom mirror should be a touch narrower than the vanity to create the perfect balance. It should be fitted 10 cm above the faucet or 15 cm above the backsplash.
What mirror is right for a bathroom? It’s all about function and style. The purpose of a mirror is to enhance visibility, so consider whether the mirror you like can do that. Even with the perfect balance of bathroom lighting, if everyone gets ready in the bathroom mirror, an illuminated LED mirror might be a must. If there’s a stylish mirror you love that might not provide the full function you need, look at a small size and place it elsewhere in the bathroom to bounce off the bigger mirror. Mirrored cabinets maximise space in smaller spaces and an oval or round mirror is an elegant touch to soften angles. If you want a classic look, a rectangular mirror is a good fit.
How are LED mirrors powered? That depends on your bathroom. They can be powered by mains electricity, and this is most common, especially when there’s a renovation taking place. However, some LED mirrors can be powered with batteries. If you don’t want to worry about batteries, the connected option is an easy choice. However, choosing a battery-powered LED mirror allows you to install it wherever you want.
If you want something on trend, what’s hot in bathroom mirrors? Ultimately, the trend is balanced aesthetic appeal with function, which has led to a rise in the popularity of integrated storage, smart features like Bluetooth and demisting functions, and illuminated mirrors.
With a wide range of bathroom mirrors to choose from, you can go glamorous or be artsy, whatever fits best and still provides function. Our design team will be more than happy to make recommendations based on the bathroom design you choose and we can even help you explore your options until you find the right fit.
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Sydney, contact Crystal Bathrooms. We’ve been renovating bathrooms in Sydney for decades and we can take you from the design stage through to installation.
Lighting in interior design is a crucial decision and your bathroom renovation is no different. When it comes to bathroom renovations, the lighting isn’t just to light the space adequately. It’s all about setting the perfect ambience to combine style and functionality. So, if you’re thinking one light will suffice, think again!
The first factor to consider is the different types of bathroom lighting available.
You can’t choose the right lighting until you understand the different options.
· General
General lighting is your primary bathroom light source and it should light the entire space uniformly. Generally, it’s a ceiling light and its purpose is to light the space for showering, using the toilet, and dressing.
· Ambient
Ambient lighting is supposed to bring a touch of rest and relaxation to the space and you can achieve this through a wall light or an indirect light.
· Decorative
Decorative lighting is about the style of the light fixture or it’s used to highlight a specific bathroom feature. Decorative lighting can come in the form of accent lights, LED strips, or wall lights.
· Task
Task lighting is often overlooked, but it’s important because it provides the light to support tasks like styling your hair, applying your makeup, shaving, or any other grooming. Task lighting should be shadow-free and clear lighting.
Colour temperature might not be something you’ve considered before, but bulbs change how you perceive your environment. Bathroom lights should mimic natural daylight as closely as possible, which equates to around 4500 Kelvin. The higher the Kelvin, the cooler the light, which is closer to a daylight ambience. However, your relaxing ambient lighting should be a warmer bulb, something closer to 3000 Kelvin. It’s important to note that Lumens define the brightness of a bulb, but Kelvin is for temperature.
Different types of lights will provide a different effect.
For example, an LED light is long-lasting and energy-efficient and with various colour temperatures, they are great for providing clear light. They come in strips and are suitable for recessed lighting, too.
Fluorescent lighting is bright and energy-efficient, but it’s cooler than the recommended Kelvin rating for bathrooms. It can be too bright for the space, so if you’re thinking about this option be sure the style mimics natural light the way you want.
Incandescent lighting is warm and inviting, but they have a shorter lifespan and they’re not energy-efficient. That being said, if you’re looking for warm lights, this is a good bulb for ambient lighting.
It’s important to check the light fixture, many require expensive specialist bulbs and that could be an expensive ongoing cost you don’t want to be lumbered with. Additionally, you must ensure your lighting fixtures are suitable for use in the bathroom. It might be beautiful, but it might not react well to a high-moisture area.
You might buy the perfect bathroom lights, but if you don’t know where to place them, they won’t do the job you need.
If you enjoy a relaxing bath, ambient lighting is a much more important factor than you realise. Flipping the switch on a big light won’t bring tranquillity, but an LED strip light along the bathtub will.
Think about how you use your bathroom and what different moods you might need to set, that should help you decide on perfect placement.
There’s nothing worse than catching sight of yourself in the work mirror and realising your makeup is a mess or you’ve missed a spot shaving. Great task lighting can prevent these mishaps and task lights are typically placed around the vanity.
Task lighting should provide bright illumination, but it must be shadow-free. In addition to vanity lights, wall lights can create a flattering light.
If you have plenty of space, you might want to spring for under-cabinet lighting. You can also install side lights.
Lighting in the shower or bathtub is also task lighting, it must be sufficient to make bathing safer and it has to be water-resistant. Recessed ceiling lights are the most likely option.
The bathroom can be hazardous, especially to older people and very young people. You need to consider your lighting from a safety perspective, too.
Can everyone see where they’re going? Think about night-time visits and whether an ambient light provides enough illumination for safe passage. An adjustable setting might be a good compromise to avoid installing an extra light fixture.
Lighting a bathroom is much easier if there’s plenty of natural light, but with clever lighting choices and placement, you can mimic natural light to achieve the right look. A professional renovation team can offer advice on how to achieve this.
If you’re considering a bathroom renovation in Sydney, there’s just one team to call. Crystal Bathrooms in Sydney has a combined experience of three decades and we can take you from the design stage of renovating bathroom right through to installation.
If you’re considering a bathroom renovation, but you don’t have the budget to go big, you can make a major difference with a few key upgrades. Whether your bathroom looks dated or you’ve just bought the place and want to put your stamp on it, the cost of a full renovation can be daunting.
You might not need a full renovation at all. Before we dive into upgrading your bathroom fixtures, let’s touch on some of the signs you need to look at serious bathroom renovations.
If your tiles are cracked, mouldy, or grout is discoloured and flaking, that’s a sign of water damage and you might need to carry out more serious renovations due to mould growth and the potential rot the tiles are hiding. Peeling paint and wallpaper are also a sign of issues, but it might be down to poor ventilation, so look into that before you start designing a bathroom renovation in Sydney. You might need a new extractor fan.
Many people get frustrated with a lack of storage space, but you can utilise vertical storage to solve this problem, a full renovation isn’t required. Layout is another issue people grow tired of, but this is an expensive change so consider whether you have the budget for the plumbing and electrical work it may require.
If the issue is outdated fixtures and fittings, you don’t need to start renovating bathroom space to make those changes. You can simply upgrade faucets, sinks, and toilets for a fraction of the cost. Outdated décor and design isn’t as big a problem as you might think. A fresh coat of paint and changing your fitting might be all it takes to make a radical change.
A new sink and faucet is a great choice, but you can still make an impactful change by simply upgrading your faucet. Choosing modern tapware can enhance the look of the side while pulling your overall aesthetic together.
The first question to ask yourself is what style are you trying to achieve? What’s your budget? What material do you prefer? Is your water pressure a factor? Does the basin have the correct number of holes for your preferred option? Do you want to match with your shower and bath fittings or mix and match? How easy is it to clean? Is it eco-friendly and does that matter?
Consider making a shower upgrade as well, a new showerhead can wildly improve your bathing experience and add a modern look to the space.
If you want to make a sink change, there are plenty of solid options to modernise the space. If it’s a family bathroom, countertop space is important. Otherwise? The sky’s the limit.
Pedestal sinks are great if you don’t need storage and you’re dealing with a smaller room while wall-hung sinks are popping up across bathrooms in Sydney because they provide universal access and come in several designs. An under-counter sink is easy to clean and frees up counter space while an above-counter sink offers a dramatic focal point.
Countertops are a must if you spend a lot of time getting ready in the bathroom or it’s a family-sharing situation, but you can maximise usable space better with a semi-countertop sink if need be.
Not only is it an easy upgrade to make, but you can also opt for an eco-friendly toilet and reduce your water usage, lowering your bills.
A closed-coupled toilet is the most common toilet option so you have plenty to choose from across a range of budgets. Another common toilet is the back-to-wall option. Wall-hung toilets leave a cleaner finish, but it means the cistern is hidden in-wall. If you like the clean look, another in-wall cistern option is the wall-faced toilet.
Think about the layout of your bathroom, the space you have, and the overall aesthetic you’re trying to create. Does it blend seamlessly with the faucet and sink you’ve chosen, does it match the shower unit?
Before you decide, consider how much traffic your bathroom gets and how easy the toilet is to clean. Some are much easier than others. Finally, do you want a bidet? You can have one installed separately or invest in the add-on that fits over your existing toilet. Of course, if you choose a smart toilet, many come with a built-in bidet.
If your tiles are still in reasonably good condition, you could freshen the caulk and grout for a little facelift. While some tiles are paintable, double-check whether that’s an option and remember you will need special paint for that. It’s rarely a good choice, you’re much safer to freshen up caulk and grout.
Finish the look with new accessories to tie the look together.
If you’re thinking about a full-scale bathroom renovation or you want to do some upgrades here and there, be sure to call in the professionals for advice. Call Crystal Bathroom Renovations in Sydney licensed and insured to design, install, and make your bathroom dreams come true.
It might seem daunting, but choosing the right bathroom tiles can be an exciting adventure through texture, shapes, sizes, styles, and trends. Whether you’re renovating the family bathroom or trying to make an ensuite feel larger, the tiles you choose will play a key role in setting the style and tone of the space.
So, before you design your bathroom renovation, take a look at the materials, styles, and tile trends to choose from.
The most common bathroom tile material is ceramic or porcelain because they are resistant to moisture and highly durable, but there are plenty of other options available.
Let’s discuss the most common options first.
Ceramic tiles are the first and foremost option that most people consider when looking at tiles for renovating bathrooms. They’re easy to maintain, durable, and come in a wide range of colours and styles, so they make a solid choice for budget and aesthetic reasons. If you’re put off by how glossy they are, don’t worry – they do come in a range of finishes, including matte.
If you’re thinking about porcelain tiles for your bathroom renovations, it’s probably because you know they are highly durable and water resistant. They’re baked the same way ceramic tiles are, but using finer particles and a higher baking temperature to create a harder tile. They look great on walls and floors. If you want extra durability for flooring, opt for unglazed tiles.
Natural stone tiles are also common, but they are more expensive to install and harder to maintain so it’s something to consider. They’re great for creating a timeless look and you can opt for marble, limestone, granite, or sandstone. Whatever natural stone you choose, it will add a touch of luxury to your bathroom so consider the overall aesthetic you’re going for. If you’re not worried about elegance, you don’t need to stretch your budget.
Glass tiles are also available in a range of finishes and styles, but these are usually reserved for dividers, features, or splashbacks. You can utilise this option in a mosaic, wall feature or border, but it’s not something to choose from a full floor or wall, especially in the bathroom.
Concrete tiles have grown in popularity as an option for bathroom renovations. It’s becoming a more common sight across bathrooms in Sydney due to the rise of minimalism and industrial looks. Concrete delivers many dramatic options, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking to make a statement.
Tile styles include the shape and size of a tile and making the right choice ensures maximum aesthetics and functionality. Rectangular tiles come in various sizes and are ideal for modern and classic designs, while subway tiles are more suitable for modern and traditional designs. With metro tiles available in a wide range of colours, you can mix and match to create something unique. If you’re looking for luxury, you can create an elegant distinctive look with fishscale tiles.
Square tiles remain a solid choice because you can create a grid or staggered patterns using different sizes and colours. If you want a rustic style or a Scandinavian look, plank tiles imitate wood, but if you’re looking to create a statement, you can do that with hexagonal or mosaic tiles.
The great thing about tiles is they’re always in style. However, there are always different tile trends on the go and if you’re looking to stay on the cutting edge, take a look at these big trends for this year.
Black and white tiles were a major trend in the 1980s and even though they never went out of style, they’re back in a big way. Whether you want to create a checkerboard or a geometric design, choosing a monochromatic look can suit modern, vintage, and retro aesthetics.
Grid, or Kit Kat, tiles are set to be one of the most popular design trends this year and beyond. They get their name from the grid pattern, essentially a mosaic finger in a grid, just like the chocolate bar. They make a great fit for contemporary bathrooms and are available in plain white if you want a classic, no-fuss look with added texture.
Marble has been gracing us with its beauty for centuries and it’s expected to do the same throughout this year and the next. While marble is available in a wide range of colourways, classic white marble is set to have the biggest moment. It’s up to you whether you want to use your bathroom renovation on this touch of luxury.
Patterned, textured, and herringbone tiles are also set to make waves in bathrooms across Australia.
If you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation in Sydney, you need a contractor you can trust. Crystal Bathrooms bathroom renovations in Sydney are licensed and insured to make your dreams come true. Get in touch to discuss your design ideas with our knowledgeable design team and let us handle your dream renovation from start to finish.
An accessible bathroom should provide easy movement between individual fixtures, which is true of any functional space. However, to create a truly accessible bathroom, a barrier-free space is a must. Crystal Bathrooms has some suggestions on how to create a barrier-free space.
Often, accessible bathrooms fail on several fronts – they’re inadequately equipped or too small and cramped, which can make it difficult for people with disabilities to move comfortably. So, the primary design concept should be maximising the available space with the right fixtures and fittings and you don’t need to sacrifice style to achieve it. It’s vital for people who use walking aids, use a wheelchair, or have visual impairments.
In all cases, the most crucial aspect of the design is space. You need plenty of floor space to facilitate uninhibited movement. The area in front of the shower, toilet, and washbasin should be unobstructed so the user can manoeuvre it easily.
The toilet should have adequate space around it, and there must be enough space for comfortable side transfers from a walker or wheelchair. You should also consider the height of the toilet seat.
The washbasin or vanity should provide legroom underneath to accommodate a wheelchair comfortably. The taps should be lever-operated as they are easier to operate for someone with limited hand mobility.
For a true barrier-free space, the shower should be a walk-in. A step-over entrance increases the risk of falls and the inclusion of grab bars and a seating area will ensure stability and safety.
In effect, the idea is to design a wet room. It’s a completely open space that provides clear access from one fixture or fitting to another. A wall-mounted basin is ideal for clear floor space and easy access, especially if the space is being designed for a wheelchair user. You can also utilise the walls for vertical storage space to keep the floor area clear.
For someone who has limited hand mobility, touch-operated fixtures offer convenient technology that eases the user’s burden. Whether it’s a sensor toilet flusher, faucet, or hand dryer, it’s as simple as waving your hand in front of the sensor.
You can also opt for motion sensor mirrors that provide complete control over the lighting, which can be adjusted for the task or time of day.
If you’re planning a wet room, how do you choose the right accessories? Without the shower screen, there is plenty of space for wall-mounted seating, and grab bars, and none of that has to interrupt navigation. A wall-mounted seat can fold out when you need it and fold away when you don’t. The key is ensuring it’s sturdy enough to support the user’s weight and that it’s adjustable for different needs and heights.
In addition to a wall-mounted shower handset, you might want to consider an overhead rainfall shower. On days when just getting in the shower is a struggle, the rainfall shower’s ease means less work for the user.
If the user has limited mobility, there are different recommended heights for toilets and while you can install a clip-on seat, it’s possible to opt for a taller toilet fixture. You also need to consider the height of any vanities, fixtures, or fittings you plan to install. As far as countertops go, you can opt for a cut-out that allows walker or wheelchair users to get close enough to use. However, you have to factor in the height and limited dexterity for operation when choosing fixtures like faucets. Someone who uses a wheelchair is going to need a lower countertop for easy reach, but that might not be suitable for everyone.
Finally, you should choose non-slip surfaces. Many accidents occur in the home and in the bathroom due to wet flooring, so opting for a non-slip surface reduces the risk of this. As far as your options go, you can choose between epoxy coatings, anti-slip mats, or a textured tile that will provide traction when it’s wet. Textured tiles are a perfect choice because they provide a pleasant aesthetic and the safety you’re looking for. Mats are great, but they have to be lifted for cleaning, which can be an added burden for some users.
Ultimately, since you’re erasing barriers, you don’t need that much extra space for accessible bathroom renovations. That being said, you need to factor in the space between fixtures for easy movement. The user has to be able to shift from a wheelchair or walker to the toilet, sink, and shower without risk. Grab bars provide additional stability and assistance during transfers, but they should also fold away when not needed to allow for easy navigation.
The only way to ensure your barrier-free space is truly accessible is to enlist the services of a professional design and installation team. If you’re looking, find a specialised contractor for bathroom renovations in Sydney licensed, insured, and experienced in designing and installing barrier-free accessible bathrooms. If you’re thinking about an accessible bathroom renovation in Sydney, Crystal Bathrooms has been renovating bathrooms in Sydney for the last 30 years, providing stellar service to the wider area. We have a design team to help you create the ideal space and an installation team to handle the rest.
If you’re looking for the hottest bathroom design trends, we have all the latest news on what to look out for in 2025. The biggest lesson is your bathroom doesn’t have to be boring, there are plenty of ways to create an exciting design while still delivering a functional bathroom renovation.
There are a few aesthetic trends to keep an eye on. One that has been popular and we see as a continuing trend is creating a spa-like bathroom. With more people recognising just how much time they spend in their bathrooms, creating a bit of an oasis is huge. Picture wooden tiles, walk-in showers with rainfall shower heads, and marble walls. It’s a combination of simplicity, nature, and sustainability that many people love.
Another trend hitting big in 2025 is feature walls and bold accents. It’s the perfect way to express your personality and create a stunning aesthetic in the bathroom. What does a statement or feature wall look like in a bathroom? Think slatted wood, bold colours, or a unique texture to add a bit of depth to what is otherwise a neutral aesthetic. It’s all about using a neutral background and using bold accents or a feature wall to design a striking focal point.
One of the trends that exists now but is set to grow even bigger is sustainable or eco-friendly bathroom designs. It’s about embracing eco-friendly fixtures to reduce water usage while embracing the advancements in technology. Whether you’re choosing recycled materials or opting for highly durable products, it’s about having a deeper understanding of how to create a sustainable, but stylish, design. Think reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled glass.
Finally, there’s a shift in attention to more traditional designs, there’s a sense of nostalgia about this. While it isn’t the only style making a resurgence, Art Deco is about to come back in a big way, with jewel tones, rich textures, and decorative motifs. If that isn’t your cup of tea, there’s set to be a run of historical design period aesthetic trends as well.
If you’re thinking about bathroom renovations and you like some of the bathroom renovation trends we detailed above, let’s take a look at the big colours, materials, and fixtures you can expect to see more of in 2025.
As always, when renovating bathroom space, nature-inspired and earth tones are in. Think about the warm greens, beiges, and browns that you see in nature and consider how you can harness these alongside warm terracottas. It might be trendy, but it’s a classic look that won’t date.
Brushed black and its variations (gunmetal, slate, anthracite) are making a comeback, but rather than hitting the walls, it’s about fittings and accessories. While this can make a home in many different design trends, it’s set to be a popular choice for those looking to create an alternative spa-like aesthetic.
Every generation goes through a period where they recycle the popular trends of yesteryear and 2025 is about embracing bold, retro colours. Rather than embracing a nauseating avocado green bathroom suite, they are opting for a touch of fun to incorporate those avocado green and cotton candy pinks with neutral tones. They’re not afraid of colour, which means they will embrace more jewel tones like oxblood and emerald green. While colour drenching is popular now, there is a return to feature walls to break up the look.
Other colour trends to look for include warm metallics, dark colours, and woods.
Are there any materials you should pay close attention to?
Yes!
Textured finishes are back in a big way and they are part of multiple different aesthetic trends in 2025. It’s all about creating depth that provides a visual interest without overwhelming the space.
If textured finishes aren’t your thing, consider patterned tiles as a whimsical way to vary your design. Another popular choice is large format tiles because there’s less grout, which means easier cleaning. It can also be an impressive focal point, especially if they’re patterned. Many bathrooms in Sydney are set to embrace Terrazzo in warmer tones.
Things like chrome, all-white bathrooms, and grey colours are on their way out, so bear that in mind as you consider design options.
We expect shower bidet toilets to make a big impact in 2025. Rather than installing a separate bidet, you can incorporate it with your everyday toilet for maximum efficiency. Many options include smart technology so you can opt for heated seats, multi-spray options, and nozzles that self-clean.
Whirlpool baths are another fixture to consider because with so many people pursuing a spa-like effect, a bath with jets is a must to finish the look.
Freestanding shower baths are also coming back into fashion as people look to ditch their freestanding baths to combine style and practicality to suit the entire family. If you have a particularly large bathroom, a freestanding bath makes a lot of sense to use the space wisely. Otherwise, a freestanding shower bath is a much better use of your space.
If you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation, be sure to look for a skilled contractor in bathroom renovations who is insured, and experienced with the style of bathroom you want to create. At Crystal Bathrooms, we have a design team who can help you create the dream bathroom renovation in Sydney and an installation team who will get the job done.