Researching Your Custom Bathroom Renovation in Scarborough
Looking to revitalize and refresh the look of your Scarborough home? Custom bathroom renovations are a simple way to upgrade your
home.
Bathrooms are notoriously high traffic. And as such, it stands to reason that they should be given special consideration when it comes
to updates. Marrying style, function and organization is essential for bathroom renovations. This is why a job of this importance
should only be trusted to professionals.
DIY Pitfalls
There is too much hype about DIY (Do-it-Yourself) renovation projects in the media. Unless you are professional, it can be very
misleading and can lead to a lot of problems both now and further down the road.
Some of the information you will come across regarding DIY and quick fixes for the bathroom and home might be okay, if you are only
interested in minor updates like new paint or replacing a shower curtain. DIY is great for doing these with flair and require very
little skill or professional knowledge to complete the task.
For those looking at more substantial upgrades such as custom bathroom or home renovations, to change the whole look and functionality
of a space, choosing the DIY route can be dangerous - especially in the bathroom where electrical and plumbing aspects need to be
seriously considered. DIY videos and tutorials even elude to some dangerous misconceptions. The following are some DO’s and DO NOT’s
related to these.
DO NOT skip a licensed electrician for simple wiring jobs.
DO use a licensed, skilled professional. As mentioned above, not doing so creates huge safety issues – at best you could be damaging your
home; at worst you could be risking injury to yourself or someone else.
DO NOT forget about permits for minor renovations.
DO ask your custom bathroom renovators what permit (or permits) will be required for your project.
DO NOT risk incurring fines by not having the proper permits in place.
DO NOT buy the cheapest materials for your bathroom renovations because you are ‘splurging’ on professional installation.
DO save money in the long run by trusting a professional to help you plan both materials and installation. They will know the best
material choices for your project, especially the durability of various materials and what areas of the home they are best suited for.
Because the bathroom is such a heavily visited area of the home, cheap materials, no matter how professional the installation is,
would be a horrible, expensive idea. Cheap materials will degrade and wear out much faster than ones specifically designed for the
bathroom.
Trust the Professionals
The best companies for custom bathroom and home renovation for your Scarborough house or condo will work with you to plan your custom
bathroom or other projects. Ask to see if they offer a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. They will also help you further plan
the look and function of your renovation by using their years of industry knowledge to make suggestions for the most suitable
materials for the work that needs to be done.
Time is another important aspect to consider when you are looking at the value of hiring professionals versus risking the DIY route.
The best renovation companies are able to do the job right, on time, with minimal disruption to your home. Can you say it would be the
same if you attempted the project?
Trust the best custom bathroom renovation company to also provide you with a warranty and the knowledge that comes from decades of
experience.
The Risks of DIY Bathroom Renovations
DIY projects can seem appealing due to potential cost savings and the satisfaction of doing the work yourself. However, bathroom
renovations involve complex plumbing, electrical work, and precise installations that require a professional touch to avoid costly
mistakes. According to a survey conducted by Houzz, around 58% of homeowners who attempted DIY home improvement projects later regretted
their decision due to the complexity and challenges they faced.
Statistics on DIY Projects Needing Professional Redo
A study by the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) found that nearly 40% of DIY home improvement projects end up requiring
professional redo within two years. Specifically, in the realm of bathroom renovations, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
reports that about 30% of homeowners who attempt DIY bathroom renovations eventually hire professionals to correct their mistakes. These
corrections can sometimes cost more than hiring a professional from the beginning due to the additional work needed to fix initial
errors.
Common Issues Leading to Professional Intervention
- Improper Plumbing Installation: Incorrectly installed plumbing can lead to leaks, water damage, and mold growth. Professionals are trained to ensure that all plumbing
is correctly installed and up to code.
- Electrical Hazards: DIY electrical work can be dangerous. Faulty wiring can cause fires, electrical shocks, and other hazards. Licensed electricians
ensure that all electrical installations are safe and compliant with local regulations.
- Tile and Grout Failures: Achieving a professional finish with tiles and grout is challenging. Improperly installed tiles can crack, and poor grouting can lead
to water infiltration and mold. Professional tilers have the expertise to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
- Waterproofing Mistakes: Bathrooms require meticulous waterproofing to prevent water damage. DIY mistakes in waterproofing can lead to significant structural
damage over time. Professionals use specialized materials and techniques to ensure complete waterproofing.
Tips for Successful Bathroom Renovations
- Hire Licensed Professionals: Ensure that the contractors you hire are licensed and experienced in bathroom renovations. This guarantees adherence to safety
standards and building codes.
- Plan and Budget Appropriately: A well-thought-out plan and budget can prevent unforeseen expenses and ensure the project stays on track. Consulting with
professionals during the planning phase can provide valuable insights and realistic cost estimates.
- Use Quality Materials: Investing in high-quality materials can enhance the durability and longevity of your bathroom. Professionals can recommend the best
materials suited for your specific needs and preferences.
- Consider Future Needs: When planning a bathroom renovation, consider future needs such as accessibility features. This can include installing grab bars,
walk-in showers, or non-slip flooring.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several contractors to compare prices and services. This can help you find the best value for your investment
without compromising on quality.
While DIY projects can be fulfilling, bathroom renovations are complex tasks best left to professionals. The statistics clearly show
that many DIY attempts require professional intervention, often at a higher cost. By hiring experienced contractors, you can ensure that
your bathroom renovation is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard of quality, ultimately adding value to your home.
For more detailed planning and to see some examples of professional bathroom renovations, you can visit our website at
www.kwoodkitchens.com for inspiration and expert advice.