11 Bathroom Design Regrets & Costly Mistakes To Avoid

11 Bathroom Design Regrets & Costly Mistakes To Avoid

The video “11 Bathroom Design Regrets & Costly Mistakes To Avoid” shares key tips to help avoid common pitfalls during bathroom renovations.

Tile Ordering

• Order all tiles at once with the same batch (dilot) code to avoid color mismatches.
• Avoid ordering tiles too early; wait closer to installation.
• Order 10-20% extra tiles for future repairs or installation errors.

Ventilation

• Prioritize ventilation to prevent mold and protect fixtures.
• Use a high-quality fan sized appropriately for the bathroom’s square footage (measured in CFM).
• Consider two smaller fans if the bathroom has separate zones.

Fixture Heights and Spacing

• Customize vanity height based on household needs (standard is 36”, range 32-43”).
• Lower countertops for vessel sinks (28-30” depending on sink height).
• Adjust showerhead height to household preference (typically 68-86”).
• Allow at least 8” clearance around freestanding tubs for cleaning; if space is tight, opt for back-to-wall tubs.

Floor Slope

• Ensure proper slope toward drains on all horizontal surfaces to avoid water pooling, bacteria growth, and cleaning difficulties.
• This is often a code requirement but frequently overlooked.

Open Showers

• Install splash guards and proper floor slopes.
• Include insulation, heating sources, or heated floors to maintain warmth.
• Open showers are more costly and require careful design to avoid negative experiences.
• Include a handheld showerhead for practicality and easier cleaning.

Shower Mixer Placement

• Position the mixer within reach from the shower entrance to allow turning on water while staying dry.
• Avoid placing it too far from the shower area.

Trendy Finishes

• Avoid overly trendy tiles and finishes that are costly to replace.
• Use trends in easily changeable decor elements like paint and towels instead.

Plumbing Layout

• Avoid moving toilets, showers, or sinks unless it significantly improves the space.
• Changing plumbing is expensive and complicated, especially with concrete slabs.

Shower Niches and Shelves

• Consider installing a shower niche or shelf for neat storage of shower products.
• Niches are recessed and space-efficient; shelves are better for larger showers.
• Match niche tile to shower tile for a seamless look or use contrasting patterns/colors thoughtfully.

Paint Selection

• Use moisture-resistant paint finishes like satin or eggshell.
• Avoid flat/matte paints as they show marks and peel easily in humid bathrooms.
• Premium options include Benjamin Moore Bath & Spa or Sherwin Williams Duration lines.

---

Notable Mentions: - Importance of tile batch codes (dilot) - Ventilation fan sizing (CFM) - Benjamin Moore Bath & Spa and Sherwin Williams Duration paint lines

The video emphasizes thoughtful planning and attention to detail to avoid costly mistakes and regrets in bathroom renovations.