10 Bathroom Renovating Mistakes Contractors Wish You'd Stop Making

When you start thinking about bathroom remodeling, it's not just about what you want to include; it's equally important to consider what you should avoid.

We interviewed contractors and custom home builders to find out the common mistakes people make when renovating their bathrooms.

Poor Space Planning

Awkward door swings, insufficient space around fixtures, or poorly placed vanities and toilets can make a bathroom feel cramped and awkward.

"A bathroom should be beautiful, but it should also be highly functional," says contractor Yarin Gani.

In small bathrooms, good space planning is even more essential. In a space where every inch counts, a well-thought-out layout can make the difference between a door that swings freely and one that doesn’t fully open or close.

Gani recommends starting with a solid layout by consulting a professional, such as a designer, contractor, or architect. They can help you optimize the space, ensuring everything is both comfortable and efficient.

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Ignoring Ventilation

A big mistake in bathroom renovations is not planning for proper ventilation, says Roi Omer, a contractor with the design-build firm Valley Boutique Builders.

"Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, so adequate ventilation is crucial," Omer explains. "Poor ventilation can lead to mold growth, peeling paint, and even structural damage."

You can avoid these issues by installing a high-quality bathroom exhaust fan that suits your room size.

Also, think about which areas generate the most moisture (like the shower or tub) so you can position the exhaust fan effectively.

Overlooking Water Management

Though an exhaust fan helps remove airborne moisture, bathrooms also have water sources like showers, tubs, sinks, and even toilet and wall condensation.

"Failing to address waterproofing adequately can lead to costly problems like mold, mildew, and water damage," warns Gani.

Many homeowners assume that standard drywall or low-grade waterproofing will suffice, but skimping here can lead to bigger problems later.

Investing in high-quality waterproofing membranes behind tiles, especially in the shower or tub area, is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that protects your investment for the long term, Gani advises.

Moving the Plumbing

While you can move plumbing during a bathroom remodel, consider carefully whether you need to—and if you can afford it.

An average shower remodel costs about $8,500, but moving the shower can add another $4,000 to the project.

"Moving the location of the shower is where the real money gets spent," says Hendrik Vandepoll, master plumber with Service Force Plumbing.

Ignoring Functionality

"Many homeowners go for stylish and trendy details without thinking about how they will function on a daily basis," Omer notes.

You can avoid this mistake by listening to your contractor and designer.

"Work with them to design a layout that takes storage and lighting into consideration," Omer advises.

It’s also important to consider the placement of plumbing lines and electrical outlets.

Falling for the Latest Trends

By the time you finish incorporating the latest bathroom design trends, chances are they could already be out of style.

Whether it's shiplap on the walls, farmhouse chic, contrasting trim, or three-light sconces, don't choose a trend just because it's popular.

Instead, opt for timeless bathroom designs and elements like premium floor tiles, neutral colors, or hardware that complements the bathroom vanity.

Ignoring Storage

Overlooking bathroom storage can be a significant mistake. Given the limited space, storage solutions are crucial.

Consider creative bathroom organizing ideas like:

• Above-toilet shelving unit
• Labeled clear plastic containers
• Tiered organizer
• Freestanding linen cabinet
• Ladder for displaying towels

Choosing the Wrong Materials

"Not all materials perform well in bathrooms," says Gani. "Sometimes homeowners choose flooring, cabinetry, or countertops based solely on looks, without considering their performance against moisture, humidity, and frequent use."

For example, if you choose a wood bathroom vanity or porous stones that stain easily, it's essential to properly seal them.

Even better, select durable, water-resistant materials designed for high-moisture environments.

Porcelain or ceramic tile is a great flooring option, and quartz countertops are low-maintenance and resistant to staining.

Tiling the Shower Yourself

Installing tile can be a fun and rewarding project for a DIYer. With enough time and patience, even a novice can install a backsplash or wall tile in a bathroom.

Since backsplashes and wall tiles receive limited water, they are fairly safe DIY projects. However, installing shower tile is different.

You need to choose a wall tile with a low water absorption rate and purchase shower floor tile with the correct coefficient of friction (DCOF) to prevent slipping.

The wall tile needs to be installed perfectly to be waterproof. Many DIYers find installing shower floor tile so tricky that they prefer to install a pre-built, single-piece fiberglass or acrylic shower pan instead.

Not Future-Planning

Omer notes that homeowners often plan for their current lifestyle but not for the future.

"They redesign their bathroom based on how they live now," Omer says.

Instead, consider universal design principles, such as wider doorways and curbless showers. These features ensure your bathroom remains functional and accessible without compromising its current look.