By Mashum Mollah
Installing a new shower system as part of a bath remodel project can lead to many wrong things.
Leading home and bathroom designers point out that when it comes to shower systems, corners should not be cut. The slightest compromise or oversight can lead to disaster.
As a homeowner who is going for a bathroom renovation project, rising costs and expenses are a major area of concern. While all projects are started with a lot of positive intent, rising costs force everyone to compromise on the work.
Yes, this leads to further troubles and worries and creates repetition of tasks. In other words, the more you try to save money, the more you eventually end up spending extra rectifying the mess.
In this article, we look at some of the top shower installation mistakes that should be avoided during the next bath remodel project.
Shower Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Planning to change the overall look of your shower? Here are a few things to keep in mind when doing so!
1. Going with an Inexperienced Contractor-
One of the most common mistakes is going with a contractor that has little or no experience in installing shower systems.
In recent years, showers have become technically sophisticated. They require special piping solutions, electricity flows, and the specific nature of the installation.
If the contractor is not up to date with these changes, then there is no doubt that they will do a shoddy job. This is why a lot of care and time should be spent on selecting the right contractor.
2. Not Waterproofing the Shower adequately-
Many people live under the misconception that sealants, tiles, and grout are enough to make a shower waterproof. The reality is that they are not.
If your shower floor is not waterproof, you are looking at a long list of worries. This includes seepage issues, the formation of dangerous molds, and cracks in the foundation of the floor.
Water seepage should be tested adequately to ensure that the shower floor is always completely 100% waterproof.
3. Going for a Small Size Shower in a Large Bathroom-
How often have you had to crouch under the showerhead to enjoy the right water pressure? Many homeowners make the mistake of going for a small shower in a large bathroom.
This prevents adequate coverage of water and reduces the pressure drastically. At the end of the day, you do not feel satisfied and content after taking a shower.
Ensure that you measure the area of the bathroom and shower space and then get a shower. This will prevent the mistake.
4. Choosing Floor Tiles for the Bathroom and Shower Spaces-
Many designers point out how homeowners are quick to use up the leftover tiles that they had saved from their other renovation work and install them in the bathroom.
This is one of the most common things that take place. In fact, I should mention that bathroom and shower tiles are created specifically to address the issue of water flow in these areas.
They are grippier, tougher, and have fewer seams than normal floor tiles. This makes them waterproof.
5. Not Paying Attention to the Wall Panels-
Installing a shower, especially a custom shower, is all about treating the wall panels with the right kind of respect. Inexperienced contractors use faulty coverings in the wall panels.
This is a mistake that should be avoided at all costs. Superficial sealing and installation of wall panels will create water seepage and rust out the piping.
This is why you need to do a thorough job as far as wall panel installations are concerned in custom showers. After all, you do not want to make repairs within the first year itself.
Budget-Friendly Means to Renovate Your Bathroom Shower
Renovating your bathroom shower can be a fun and exciting project to take on.
However, it can also be an expensive one!
New shower fixtures, along with a new tub or shower base for the floor, can easily break the bank if you let it.
While there are some tempting things out there that you might want to add to your renovation shopping list (like those cool “rain” adjustable height shower heads and custom-designed amenities).
Here is how you can give your bathroom living area a brand-new look for a lesser budget.
1. Refinish Your Old Shower Pan vs Replacing It
A great way to keep costs down is by using affordable or repurposing old materials.
You can go to your local hardware store for discounted or on-sale tiles or consider purchasing a gently used vanity or mirror from a second-hand store. With a little bit of elbow grease, you can transform these items to look brand new!
Another way to boost your savings is by opting for more budget-friendly materials. For instance, when it comes to flooring, instead of choosing high-end marble or natural stone, consider ceramic or porcelain tiles that will give you the same look at a fraction of the price.
Not only are these options less expensive, but they’re also both durable and easy to clean.
2. If You Can Do It Yourself, Do It
If you’re handy with tools, consider tackling some aspects of the remodel yourself!
While you may want to leave complex plumbing or electrical work to the pros, you can easily handle painting, installing new shower curtains, or changing out fixtures.
A little DIY effort can go a long way in keeping costs down!
3. Upgrade the Showerhead
Sometimes, investing in a simple showerhead upgrade can make all the difference in your daily routine. Trade an old, water-wasting model for a new, energy-efficient one.
Not only will you benefit from a better-quality shower, but you’ll feel good knowing that less water and energy is being wasted in the long run.
Plus, it’s a simple 15-minute DIY project anyone can handle!
4. Maintain Floor Plan Stability
Moving plumbing fixtures is one of the most expensive parts of a remodel. If you can, keep the shower, sink, and toilet where they are to avoid the cost of re-routing the pipes.
Instead, make cosmetic upgrades with new tiles, paint, or modern hardware.
So, you see, a bathroom shower remodel is within reach!
In fact, it could be more affordable than you think. Just follow our six tricks for making your small bathroom seem larger!
The Final Word
By paying close attention to the mistakes mentioned in the article, you will be able to ensure a successful installation process. This will help you create a shower system with a very long shelf life and not worry about regular repairs and servicing bills. If you wish to know more, drop your queries in the comments section below.
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