A bathroom renovation is a great way to refresh your home. It gives you the chance to make the space more practical and add a bit of personality. But without proper planning, things can go wrong fast. Many homeowners start with good intentions but hit roadblocks along the way. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top five mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
1. Skipping the Planning Phase
Many folks get excited and jump straight into demolition mode. The problem is that rushing in without a plan often leads to delays, stress, and extra costs. You might realize halfway through that the tub you bought doesn’t fit or that you forgot to budget for new light fixtures.
How to avoid this:
•Make a list of what you want to achieve with the renovation.
•Set a budget and stick to it.
•Use sketches or design tools to visualize the new layout.
•Check if permits are required for plumbing or electrical work.
Planning things out ensures the job stays on track and keeps unexpected surprises at bay.
2. Choosing Looks Over Function
Everyone wants a stunning bathroom, but sometimes homeowners get carried away with design trends. They focus too much on aesthetics and forget about practicality. For example, marble tiles look beautiful but can be slippery and high-maintenance. Or you might install a fancy vanity only to realize there’s not enough storage for your daily essentials.
How to avoid this:
•Think about how you use the bathroom every day.
•Opt for materials that are both stylish and easy to maintain.
•Prioritize features like storage, lighting, and good ventilation.
•Make sure the layout is practical—don’t block doors or windows with bulky fixtures.
A bathroom renovation should combine beauty with usability. After all, it’s a space you’ll use daily, not just a showroom.
3. Underestimating Costs
It’s easy to overlook small expenses when planning a renovation. Many homeowners assume they’ll stick to their budget, but hidden costs pop up—like fixing old pipes or water damage. Even the little things, like knobs, faucets, or delivery fees, add up quickly.
How to avoid this:
•Get detailed quotes from multiple contractors.
•Set aside 10–15% of your budget for unexpected expenses.
•Focus on what matters most—spend more on plumbing and tiles, but save on decor if needed.
•Track every expense to avoid surprises.
Being realistic about costs will help you avoid stress and keep the renovation on schedule.
4. Taking on Too Much DIY
DIY projects can be tempting—they seem like a fun way to save money. But doing everything yourself isn’t always the best idea. Tasks like plumbing and electrical work are complex and could create serious problems if done wrong. Homeowners in Burlington, ON sometimes take on too much and end up calling professionals to fix DIY mistakes.
How to avoid this:
•Stick to tasks you’re confident in, like painting or installing accessories.
•Leave plumbing and electrical jobs to licensed pros.
•If you’re short on time or experience, hire a contractor to manage the entire renovation.
•Remember, hiring professionals can save you time and money in the long run.
Knowing when to ask for help will make the process smoother and safer.
5. Overlooking the Small Stuff
People tend to focus on big-ticket items—like bathtubs or tiles—while ignoring small but important details. Skipping things like outlet placement, towel racks, or lighting can leave you with a bathroom that feels incomplete.
How to avoid this:
•Make a list of small essentials, like hooks, bars, and shelves.
•Plan the lighting in layers: ambient, task, and accent lighting.
•Double-check outlet locations—having one near the mirror is a must.
•Think about everyday use—do doors swing open properly, and is there enough space to move around?
Paying attention to details makes your bathroom not just beautiful but functional, too.
Final Thoughts
Renovating a bathroom isn’t just about making it look good—it’s about creating a space that works for your daily life. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you headaches and make sure you get the best results. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Burlington, ON, taking the time to plan, budget, and hire the right professionals will set you up for success.
By balancing style and function and focusing on the details, you’ll create a bathroom that adds value to your home and fits your needs perfectly. Enjoy the process, and remember—a little planning goes a long way!