Introductory Bathroom Renovations Guide

When you are looking to add value to a property, bathrooms are one of the most important rooms to renovate.  Many older homes in Sydney have dated bathrooms and kitchens that require a modern update. Tackling these rooms can be daunting as costs can be high and often homeowners are stuck, not knowing where to start. This introductory guide sets out the basics of bathroom renovations and aims to highlight the key aspects that you should consider before any work begins.

When first deciding if you should progress with a bathroom renovation there are many questions that commonly arise. We have expanded upon two of these questions which we believe will provide significant insight into the bathroom renovation process.

  1. How do I plan a bathroom renovation?
  2. What is the process of renovating a bathroom?

 

HOW DO I PLAN A BATHROOM RENOVATION?

The first set of steps which we recommend first time bathroom renovators follow are the A, B and C of renovation planning. The ABCs are Assess your bathroom requirements, Decide on a Budget, and find a Contractor or Bathroom Renovation Company.

A – Assess:
The first step is to assess the current bathroom and decide on what the renovation must accomplish. This may include narrowing down the must have features you want to add, or adjusting the layout. But you must evaluate whether there is space available to make the changes you would like and if any existing fittings or fixtures are to be removed or relocated to do so. Next you should confirm the style goal for your renovation, and create a mood board of new additions which will establish the look you are after.

B – Budget:
Renovations, especially of bathrooms, can be expensive projects and if you do not set a clear budget for yourself, you may see the costs balloon upward. Firmly define how much money you have to spend on the renovation and ensure that it is understood by all parties. Additionally, if you can set aside a contingency fund, that can be very valuable if anything unaccounted for arises. However, hiring a bathroom renovation company who offers fixed pricing is a great way to ensure you stay on budget.

C – Contractors/Companies:
After defining your wishlist and setting your budget, it is time to decide who will be taking on the renovation. If you are a tradesperson yourself or you know some contractors, this can be very convenient. However, if your bathroom renovation is large or complex it is best to speak to a specialist bathroom renovation company. Bathroom renovations are highly labour intensive and require the work of various tradespeople throughout the process. A bathroom renovation company will set the scope and order of works, stick to the budget and timeline you request, and progress systematically through the stages of construction. This can significantly reduce the stresses of a bathroom renovation so you can relax and watch your new bathroom come to life.

Find out how to select the right bathroom renovation company for your project!

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR RENOVATING A BATHROOM?

Once you have established your bathroom renovation plan, it is time to outline what you should expect throughout the stages of construction. If you are working with your own contractors and managing the job your way, the process is up to you. However, if you are using a professional bathroom renovation company, they will most likely have a specific process which they follow. The exact steps may vary but below is a broad overview:

  1. Demolition:
    The renovation company will dismantle all of the fittings, fixtures and tiling that is no longer required in the bathroom. They will then organise the removal of the demolished elements from the site so you are not left with the mess.
  2. Roughing-in:
    Your plumbing and electrical tradespeople will then prepare the wiring and piping, so that installation can be easily completed once all of the new bathroom fittings and fixture locations have been finalised and agreed upon.
  3. Wall Linings & Waterproofing:
    Once the plumbing and electrical has been roughed in the waterproofing and wall linings will be installed. This is an important step as it protects your bathroom from leaks and moisture build up, which could lead to mould and water damage.
  4. Tiling: This is an exciting step as a home owner because you can finally see your new bathroom taking shape. Your chosen tiles will be laid by a professional tiler to protect the floors and walls, but also create the foundation for the attractive and stylish design of your new bathroom.
  5. Installation:
    Fittings and fixtures; such as your selected vanity, toilet, bath, tapware, accessories, lighting and power outlets, are now installed to the agreed upon locations over your beautiful new tiles.
  6. Completion:
    Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Final adjustments are made, the bathroom can be painted and the shower screen and mirrors can be installed. Once completed, your bathroom renovation is ready for you to enjoy.

 

Now that you have had an overview of bathroom renovations and the steps involved, you may be ready to commence your own bathroom renovation project. Feel free to speak to the professional bathroom renovations team at Novalé Bathrooms for advice and a FREE In-home Consultation.

At Novalé Bathrooms, we are bathroom renovation experts. Our teams across Sydney and the Central Coast are ready to start building you a fantastic new bathroom. For more information on how we could transform your bathroom, please get in contact with the Novalé team on 1800 NOVALÉ.