Bathroom Renovation 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Transforming Your Space

You begin your day in the bathroom and often end it there as well, so you deserve a space that truly reflects your style and meets your needs. If you are planning a bathroom renovation, there are many considerations before you start to transform your space. 

Assess your needs and set your goals 

The first step in any renovation is to assess your needs and set your goals. Start the process by evaluating your bathroom in its current state – 

– What are the biggest issues that stand out?
– Do you have storage issues?
– Are there problems with functionality?
– Is it merely an aesthetic improvement you need?

Identify the issues and consider what solutions will address them, use this to set your renovation goals. You have to be realistic with your bathroom renovation expectations, but it’s important to look at the big picture to determine what you need most. 

Planning & budgeting 

Design considerations

When it comes to design, there are a few big considerations to factor in. 

◦        Layout

◦        Overall style

◦        Fixtures and fittings

◦        Lighting

◦        Colour schemes

◦        Storage

 You will need to measure your space and speak to the experts but there are plenty of online design platforms that may spark inspiration, and you can create sample mood boards using platforms like Pinterest. It’s an excellent way to find inspiration, but also to create a variety of different looks to see which one fits your space and style best. 

Budgeting and cost estimation

When it comes to estimating costs and setting a budget for bathroom renovation in Sydney, you have to factor in the labour costs, as well as the cost of materials. The size of the space and the quality of materials you choose will all factor into your budget. 

There are plenty of ways to save on costs, from upgrading or repurposing existing fixtures to prioritising essential upgrades. You can go big on certain items and pull back elsewhere to make the budget work for you. For example, you may want to splurge on a spectacular shower and you can cut costs by opting for a basic bathtub. 

Hiring professionals or a DIY approach 

While there are some steps you can handle in terms of renovating bathrooms in Sydney, there are a lot of limitations as well. For example, you need a professional plumber to carry out much of the work because of plumbing regulations. Additionally, a professional has to handle all of the waterproofing and electrical work. So, unless you are making very basic aesthetic changes to your bathroom, you will need to hire professionals. 

Opting for professionals to handle the full renovation means you have their expertise and they are fully focused on completing your project while you may need to balance other responsibilities. Professionals are also prepared to handle any obstacles they may encounter. Whether you are looking for a plumber or an electrician, look for contractors who are skilled and members of the appropriate industry bodies. You can also read online reviews and ask for recommendations. 

Essential steps in a bathroom renovation 

·       Demolition and removal

If you are fully renovating your bathroom, then demolition is the first step. This is when a professional can make all the difference. Proper techniques are key here because plumbing fittings can be damaged if care isn’t taken. Additionally, there are safety precautions to take during work and waste disposal.

Removing all of the fixtures and fittings also must be done with care. Before you can carry out any removals and demolition, you need to turn the water off and drain standing water from faucets and toilets. You should also switch off any other power in the bathroom. To handle this stage safely you will need to wear goggles, long trousers, long sleeve shirt, gloves, boots, and a face mask. You will need a variety of tools, including plastic sheets, pliers, chisels, screwdrivers, hammers, utility knives, rags, and duct tape.

·       Plumbing and electrical considerations

Any electrical or plumbing work must be carried out by a professional, and it’s vital that you obtain permits if necessary. You can check with your local authority about what permits you need or discuss this with your contractor. If you do not have the correct permits, you can be fined or forced to remove your renovations.

·       Flooring, walls, and surfaces

When it comes to flooring, walls, and surfaces, waterproofing is an important factor to consider. You need to choose materials that are durable and moisture-resistant. However, your chosen material must also fit in with the overall aesthetic of your renovation. Waterproof panelling is a popular shower choice, but so are tiles.

·       Fixtures, fittings, and accessories

When you select your fixture and fittings, you have to think about the style of your renovation, but you also have to factor in your budget, preferences, needs, and functionality.

◦        Sink

◦        Toilet

◦        Shower

◦        Bathtub

◦        Vanity

·       Finishing touches and aesthetics

Don’t forget the little touches that pull your look together, from task, ambient and vanity lighting to mirrors, storage, and decorative touches like hand towels and art. 

Maintenance and care 

Stay on top of cleaning your newly renovated bathroom so it maintains that fresh new look. Regular cleaning also helps extend the lifespan of your fixtures and fittings. Just be sure to use cleaners that are compatible with the surfaces. You should also take steps to check the area regularly to spot any issues before they become major problems. 

How Crystal Bathrooms can help 

Are you thinking about renovating bathrooms? Enlist bathroom renovations Sydney licensed specialists to provide you with advice and guidance. Crystal Bathrooms can help you design the perfect bathroom renovation and carry out the work as well. Our team will be with you every step of the way, from the very start to the finish.