BATHROOM UPDATE

10 Signs It’s Time to Renovate Your Bathroom

While you might think your bathroom is functioning fine, there are many signs you may be overlooking. Not only will a freshly renovated bathroom increase your ROI if and when you decide to sell, but it will also make your everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Here are some signs that will give you the push you need to go ahead and renovate your bathroom.

1. Unfunctional Layout

Having an unfunctional layout can cause frustration every time you use your bathroom. If you shake your head every morning wondering why the bathroom door opens to hit the toilet every single time you enter, it might be time to consider a remodel. Even if you cannot alter the amount of space, chances are there is something that can be done to make the space more functional. Something as simple as swapping out your bathtub for a shower could completely change the space.

2. Lack of Storage Space

Having a cluttered or disorganized bathroom is never a good thing. Not being able to find your toothbrush when you’re running late in the morning is sure to start your day off on the wrong foot. If your bathroom is always cluttered and messy, this is a sign you need storage solutions. Before you begin any renovations, take the time to clear out your bathroom and get rid of the clutter. Think about a different layout, or if your budget will not allow it, attempt to find clever ways to store your items.

3. Outgrown the Space

The bathroom that once worked when you were single likely will not work if you now have a partner and a couple of kids running around. Your home needs to grow with your family and its needs, and the bathroom is often overlooked during this process. Consider the different needs you might have now at this stage in your life.

4. Old and Mouldy Tile

If your bathroom tile always looks mouldy and dirty no matter how often you clean it, this is a sure sign it’s time for a change. Not only do old tiles look dirty and gross, but if your bathroom is covered in mould, this is a serious issue that could be affecting your health.

5. Old Plumbing

The health of your plumbing is the most important thing when it comes to your bathroom. While you can’t see the complex work that goes into bathroom plumbing, it’s important to keep up to date with how it’s functioning. A plumbing issue can result in major damage to your home, including flooding and clogged pipes. To ensure there are no surprises, it’s a good idea to have a plumber check the status of your plumbing. This is especially true if you’ve never had it looked at and have no idea of what’s going on behind the scenes. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to a potential flooding hazard.

6. Add Safety Features

If the time has come that you need to install some helpful safety features for you or a loved one, it’s a good idea to renovate at the same time. Many homeowners who plan to age in place will need to update their bathrooms to make them more functional and accessible. Common renovations could include things like converting your bathtub into a shower and adding handrails to the walls. Some people also opt to install a higher toilet and sink.

7. Better Lighting

Poor lighting in your bathroom can lead to a number of issues. From not seeing that toothpaste stain on your shirt, to over applying makeup, to not being able to see what you’re doing in general. Updating the lighting will not only make your bathroom function better, but it will also help it look better. If your bathroom is particularly old, it’s a good idea to have the electrical work looked at as well. From there, you can start choosing new fixtures that will really update your bathroom.

8. Outdated Look

If your bathroom is stuck in a certain era or is a mishmash of different time periods, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. Bring your bathroom into the modern era by upgrading your toilet, sink and shower with new models. Also, consider adding a fresh coat of paint and some new tiles. With so many styles and options out there these days, there’s sure to be a design that will fit your taste and budget.

9. Increase Energy Efficiency

If you live in an older home, it’s likely your bathroom was not built with energy efficiency in mind. Did you know that the average person uses 329 litres of water per day and that 65% of that water is used in the bathroom? Now that we know how much water the average bathroom wastes, it’s important to do what we can to conserve it. If you’re planning to renovate, consider including energy efficient upgrades. Everything from your toilet to your towel rack has energy efficient options these days that can help you save money and the planet.

10. Increase Value Before Selling

You’ve probably heard that the kitchen is the most important room to renovate if you’re planning to sell your home. While the kitchen is still king, an atrocious bathroom could be a deal breaker for some buyers. Some simple updates could make a big difference in the overall appearance of your home and could result in your home being sold for more money. Even if you’re not planning to sell for a couple of years, go ahead with a bathroom renovation now so that you’re ready for when you do sell. You’ll also be able to enjoy it while you’re still living there, an added bonus.