A simple bath remodel sounds straightforward—replace a few fixtures, update the vanity, maybe swap out the flooring. But what seems like an easy refresh can quickly turn into a series of unexpected challenges, extra costs, and results that don’t quite match your vision.
After remodeling thousands of bathrooms over the past 45+ years, we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a project successful—and what causes unnecessary headaches. Every year, we help about 150 homeowners navigate their remodels, and time and time again, the same mistakes pop up. The good news? They’re easy to avoid with a little planning and the right approach.
In this article, you'll learn the pitfalls to avoid and how to ensure your remodel turns out just the way you want it, with no unnecessary stress or regret.
- 1. Assuming a Simple Bath Remodel Won’t Need Professional Planning
- 2. Choosing Cheap Materials That Won’t Last
- 3. Hiring the Cheapest Contractor Without Checking Their Reputation
- 4. Overlooking the Importance of a Cohesive Design
- 5. Underestimating the Disruption of a Bathroom Remodel
- 6. Thinking a One-Size-Fits-All Approach Works for Every Home
- 7. Focusing Only on Bathroom Aesthetics and Forgetting Functionality
1. Assuming a Simple Bath Remodel Won’t Need Professional Planning
Even if you’re only making minor updates, a bathroom remodel still requires careful planning. Small changes—like swapping out a vanity or upgrading a shower—can have a bigger impact on plumbing, layout, and functionality than you might expect. Without a clear plan, what starts as a quick update can turn into a drawn-out, frustrating process.
The Mistake:
Many homeowners think that if they’re not fully gutting the bathroom, they don’t need to plan in detail or consult a professional. But even a small remodel can lead to big headaches if things like plumbing, layout, and material choices aren’t carefully considered. DIY bathroom projects can be a great choice in certain cases. Just make sure you know what you are getting into before you swing a sledgehammer.
What to Do Instead:
Start with a clear plan before making any purchases. Contractors who complete multiple bathroom remodels every week are used to thinking through details that most people would never notice until it becomes an issue. Things like:
✔ Will your new vanity fit in the space without interfering with door swing or plumbing?
✔ Will replacing floor tile impact the height of your toilet or baseboards?
✔ Does your existing lighting work well with new finishes and colors?
Even if you’re making minor changes, consulting with a professional early on can help avoid unexpected costs and ensure everything fits together properly. A well-thought-out plan prevents last-minute design compromises and delays.
2. Choosing Cheap Materials That Won’t Last
Your bathroom is one of the most used spaces in your home, exposed to moisture, temperature changes, and frequent cleaning. Choosing materials that can’t withstand these conditions may save money upfront but often leads to costly repairs or replacements down the road.
The Mistake:
It’s tempting to cut costs by choosing the lowest-priced tile, vanity, or fixtures. But in a high-moisture environment like a bathroom, lower-quality materials often show wear quickly—leading to issues like warping, discoloration, or even mold growth.
What to Do Instead:
Look for materials that offer durability, water resistance, and long-term value, such as:
✔ Porcelain or ceramic tile or high-quality tile alternatives (instead of laminate or low-quality vinyl) for flooring and shower walls.
✔ Quartz or Solid Surface shower walls and countertops (instead of porous materials like marble or tile) for a low-maintenance, water-resistant surface.
✔ Solid wood vanities with sealed finishes (instead of particleboard, which absorbs moisture and swells).
While high-end materials aren’t always necessary, it’s important to balance affordability with quality that holds up over time.
3. Hiring the Cheapest Contractor Without Checking Their Reputation
Hiring a contractor is a big decision, and the lowest bid isn’t always the best choice. A remodeling project can quickly become a nightmare if the work is done poorly, takes longer than expected, or results in surprise costs.
The Mistake:
A lower bid might seem like a great way to save money, but it can also mean cut corners, delays, or subpar craftsmanship. Homeowners who choose a contractor based on price alone often face issues like incomplete work, surprise fees, or poor communication.
What to Do Instead:
Before hiring a remodeling company, do your research:
✔ Check online reviews and testimonials on Google, Yelp, or Houzz.
✔ Ask for references and follow up with past clients about their experience.
✔ Request a detailed contract that outlines materials, labor, timelines, and warranties.
A reputable company will offer transparent pricing, clear communication, and professional workmanship that saves you stress in the long run. A good place to start is this list of the best bathroom remodelers in Columbus, OH.
Check our Remodeling Company Comparison Guide for questions to ask and space to write down each company's answers. This will help you decide which company best fits the needs of your bathroom remodel project.
4. Overlooking the Importance of a Cohesive Design
A bathroom remodel should enhance both function and aesthetics, but mixing different styles or finishes can leave the space feeling disjointed. Choosing individual elements separately—without considering how they work together—often results in a bathroom that doesn’t feel quite right.
The Mistake:
When selecting new fixtures, tile, and paint, many homeowners pick each element separately without considering how they’ll work together. This can lead to a mismatched or disjointed final look.
What to Do Instead:
Before making purchases, take the time to:
✔ Choose a style direction (modern, farmhouse, traditional) to guide decisions.
✔ Create a mood board or use design apps to see how elements work together.
✔ Ensure finishes match (e.g., don't mix chrome and oil-rubbed bronze without a clear design plan).
A well-planned design creates a polished, cohesive space rather than a collection of random upgrades.
5. Underestimating the Disruption of a Bathroom Remodel
Even a small bathroom remodel can disrupt your daily routine. If it’s your only bathroom, losing access to the shower, sink, or toilet—even for a few days—can be more inconvenient than expected. Planning ahead can make the experience much smoother.
The Mistake:
Even a simple remodel can be disruptive to daily routines, especially in a home with only one bathroom. Many homeowners don’t anticipate how long the process will take or how to navigate temporary inconveniences.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Ask for a timeline upfront to understand how long your bathroom will be out of service.
✔ Set up a temporary solution—a half-bath may need to function as your primary bathroom for a few days.
✔ Plan around the work schedule—if the remodel takes a week, ensure you have access to another shower during that time.
Being prepared for minor disruptions reduces frustration and helps the project stay on track.
6. Thinking a One-Size-Fits-All Approach Works for Every Home
Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes, and what works in one home may not be ideal for another. Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to recreate a look they saw online without considering their home’s unique layout, plumbing setup, or functional needs.
The Mistake:
Just because a bathroom layout or feature worked well in someone else’s home doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for yours. Every home has unique space limitations, plumbing considerations, and functional needs.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Assess your needs—do you need more storage, better lighting, or an easier-to-clean shower?
✔ Think about flow—will your new vanity allow enough space for movement?
✔ Consider long-term usability—will your selections still work if your family grows or your needs change?
Customizing your remodel ensures it’s tailored to your home and lifestyle.
7. Focusing Only on Bathroom Aesthetics and Forgetting Functionality
A beautiful bathroom is great, but it also needs to work for your everyday life. Without proper lighting, storage, or easy-to-maintain surfaces, even the most stylish remodel can become frustrating to use.
The Mistake:
Many homeowners get excited about how their bathroom will look and overlook everyday functionality. Not planning for proper lighting, storage, or accessibility can make the space frustrating to use.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Storage solutions—built-in shelves, medicine cabinets, and vanity drawers help minimize clutter.
✔ Layered lighting—vanity lights, recessed ceiling lights, and dimmers improve visibility and ambiance.
✔ Easy maintenance—materials like quartz and large-format tiles reduce grout lines and cleaning hassle.
A well-designed bathroom isn’t just beautiful—it’s practical, comfortable, and built for daily use.
Avoid These Mistakes to Experience a Smooth Bathroom Remodel
A bathroom remodel—no matter how simple—should enhance your home’s comfort, value, and functionality. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve a space that not only looks great but also stands the test of time.
Bathroom Remodel Keys to Success:
✔ Plan Ahead—Identify what you want your bathroom remodel to achieve and how much you are willing to spend.
✔ Choose Quality Materials—A bathroom remodel can be a hefty investment. Having materials that can stand up to the harsh conditions of a bathroom will protect your investment in the future.
✔ Work with Trusted Professionals—Bathroom remodel companies know how to make the details come together seamlessly. Hiring the right company may be one of the most important steps to ensuring your bathroom remodel is a success.
By planning ahead, choosing quality materials, and working with trusted professionals, you can ensure your remodel goes smoothly and delivers lasting results.
Thinking about refreshing your bathroom but unsure where to start? Explore design ideas, consult with experts, and plan a remodel that truly works for your home.
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