Even though some bathroom fixtures are used more often than others, inevitably, some parts will slowly wear out over time. Still, there are things you can do to make your bathroom last longer and avoid having to replace parts or do a complete remodel in the future.
Based on the results of our most current survey, it’s clear that Australians spend between $10,000 and $13,000 to remodel just their master bathrooms. With an average life expectancy of eighteen years, your bathroom will cost you $722 per year, or about $1.97 per day, as long as it works. Even though this cost might seem acceptable for all the amenities a bathroom offers, it’s always nice to get the most out of anything you buy, including bathrooms.
Also, if you are interested in remaining in your present residence for the rest of your life, choosing a bathroom remodel that makes it easy for you to get around can help you avoid having to do more work on the bathroom as you get older.
Longevity Planning for Your Bathroom Renovation
It’s important to remember that each bathroom has different hardware and furniture. Walls, tiles, and plumbing are also very important. Because of this, the length of time a bathroom lasts can vary a lot. Still, most experts acknowledge that most bathrooms will usually last between seven and ten years before they need to be updated.
Two things might make you think about making a change in this situation. The first has to do with how well it works. For example, the furniture in your bathroom may have become worn over time. Fixtures and other hardware in the bathroom could also need to be fixed, such as leaking pipes or poor heating controls. If you want to avoid bigger problems in the future, you need to deal with these issues as soon as possible.
Nothing is as satisfying as a renovation that makes a big difference. On the other hand, nothing is more disappointing than putting effort and cash into a renovation that doesn’t last.
But before we get into a few suggestions, it’s important to know why bathrooms today are more likely to show their age.
Broken Or/and Damaged Equipment
This is one of the most common reasons a bathroom needs a new design. We must remember that bathrooms have to go through a lot of damage. Over time, the most durable parts will get broken or stop working as well as they used to. In this sense, there are many examples.
There may be a lot of broken or missing tiles on the floor. There may be signs suggesting the acrylic in a shower enclosure has worn away. If your bathroom has old pipes, faucets, and valves, you may need new solutions to fix leaks or water-based stains.
As a general rule, you should think about remodelling your bathroom if you can see damage. Those who opt for postponement might suddenly find out they have to pay more for an assignment that would have been easy to finish otherwise.
During your bathroom renovation, think about these tips if you want to save money and make your bathroom last longer.
Choose Durable Flooring
Bathrooms always have a lot of water and steam, so the floor must be strong enough to handle it. Bathroom floors can be made of vinyl, laminates, tiles, or hardwood. If your floor isn’t made of any of these things, you should change it when you remodel your bathroom.
Keeping Your Wet Area Dry
After each shower, dry it off with a microfiber towel to prevent mould growth. This will also keep the shower tidy and reduce your time cleaning it. This may not be possible for everyone so a squeegee will help similarly.
Check Your Grout
Grout does not age well at all. And grout that has changed colour or looks old tends to break easily. This lets water get between the tiles over time, which causes the tiles to crack. To get around this, buy good grout for the bathroom renovation or re-grout the tiles you already have.
It’s easy to fix the grout between tiles. You must get good grout from the store and start putting it down. By doing this, you can easily add at least five years to the life of your floors.
Be Aware of Cleaning Products
It is not a good idea to use oily substances or cleaning products with citrus in them. The chemicals in these products can get into the grout and break down the waterproofing membrane in the bathroom, which can cause water damage.
Baking soda and a dishwashing liquid that doesn’t have citrus in it are all you need to clean a bathroom wall. Bleaching and harsh cleaners should be avoided because they don’t “kill” mould or microbial reproduction and can also be used as food by mould. They are also dangerous chemicals that can hurt people’s health.
Choose Finishes and Features That Will Last a Long Time.
Before spending money on remodelling your bathroom, ensure that the amenities and finishes you select will stay in style, especially if you plan to sell your home.
Tub Vs Shower
Converting bathtubs to showers has become the norm when remodelling or renovating home bathrooms. Most people need more time to get rid of their old bathtubs.
Bathrooms are getting bigger, and showers are getting bigger, too. There are many benefits to replacing the bathtub with a larger walk-in bathroom, such as a more luxurious look, easier access, and less upkeep. Many of these things are growing trends in home design and greatly affect how long your bathroom will last.
Timeless Colors
It may be tempting to follow the latest trend, but if you want something that will last, you should avoid trendy colours. White and grey are classic colours that will never go out of style. If you want to use popular colours, use bathroom decorations or hardware that is easy to replace or paint. The same goes for the colours of the fixtures. Chrome or brushed nickel colours are perennially in style and go well with most other fixtures and finishes.
Colours and Patterns for Tiles That Will Last Forever
Your choice of tiles could make a difference between a beautiful and stylish bathroom and one that looks completely outdated in a few years. The subway tile pattern has stayed in style over time. It is easy to build on because it has only one colour.
Stick to neutral colours that are easy to match since trendy colours like pastels go out of style quickly. Natural materials like stone, which can be used in many ways, and glossy whites and greys will never go out of style.
When you choose your bathroom’s materials, tile, layout, fixtures, and finishes, don’t just think about what’s in style. Instead, think about how long your choices will last.
Change Your Bathroom or Vanity
Bathroom renovations can be very expensive, so you should consider upgrading your tub and vanity unit instead of doing a full renovation. If you replace one unit, you can update your bathroom without spending over $10,000 on a renovation. And, of course, a new tub or vanity means your bathroom will last another ten years or more.
Is It Time to Renovate the Bathroom?
Could a change be in order? Most bathrooms will last up to ten years, but this also depends on how often they are used and what kind of furniture and components are in them.
The results are always worth the work, no matter how big or small a project is. For example, buying a new shower curtain when the old one is broken is a good example. You can give this room a new look and feel in no time. These kinds of improvements can raise the worth of your home, which is something to consider if you plan to sell it in the future.
Your Wall’s Paint Is Coming Off
The peeling paint in your bathroom is caused by humidity between the paint and the surface underneath. This makes the room look bad and could be more annoying. This can cause high humidity and too much condensation, leading to dampness and making it easier for mould and mildew to grow and flake the paint.
More layers of paint or a dirty surface before painting can also cause this. Bad painting techniques and cheap paint can also cause it.
In an ideal situation, you should use the most suitable bathroom exhaust system for the size of your bathroom with a good humidity detector that can automatically detect moisture. Every time you shower or bath, you can run the bathroom fan for 20 minutes to an hour to eliminate as much moisture as necessary.
There Are Clear Signs of Damage, Such as Leaks, Odours, and Humidity
If parts of your bathroom are leaking or there’s a pervasive smell of mildew, you must dedicate yourself to a bathroom renovation. People who want to do the least amount of work possible may wonder why they must do a full bathroom renovation rather than just painting it. The truth is that damage needs to be fixed before it gets worse.
Also, if you’re embarrassed to show your bathroom to visitors, you shouldn’t have to ask yourself if you should do a renovation.
Something ugly or mouldy shouldn’t be saved; it should be thrown away immediately. If there is rust or lime scale, it needs to be cleaned up. When you update the fixtures and fittings in your bathroom, you can fix these issues and save water simultaneously.
Ensuring your bathroom has enough ventilation can help eliminate unpleasant smells. Renovations should address these more technical problems so that even the less exciting parts of a bathroom are in good shape.
There Is Mould Growing
Mould growth is another important reason you need to fix your bathroom. It can be caused by several things, like shower water that doesn’t drain, leaking tubes, sinks, and wet cellulose products like sponges and toilet paper that aren’t thrown away or used properly.
Mould can make your bathroom look bad but also make you sick. It can give you a runny nose, sneeze, cough, wheeze, headache, and tiredness. Apart from this, your bathroom must be well-ventilated and get a lot of sunlight, preventing mould from growing.
Moulds like Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and Cladosporium are often found in bathrooms. These moulds are bad for your health and can be found in hidden spots on walls and tiles.
REMEMBER: Even Small Changes Can Have a Big Effect.
Undoubtedly, bigger tasks will take much work to finish on time. If you have an older house, this is even more important. Replacing a few old fixtures might be easy, but if you need a new bathroom or replace a toilet that doesn’t work, the job can become much more complicated. So, it might be better to concentrate on smaller things.
For example, why not give your bathroom a new feel with trendy bath mats or wood flooring that doesn’t get damaged by water? Let’s keep in mind that even though a bathroom is very useful, it must also be considered a nice place to be.
Buying a set of towels with matching colours, choosing a counter-mounted sink, or putting in brass hardware are all inexpensive ways to make a big difference in the look of this space. Of course, buy good products if you want them to last a long time.
Conclusion
Some parts of a bathroom may wear out over time, so updating it can help keep it in good shape. The normal Australian master bathroom costs between $10,000 and $13,000 and will last for 18 years. Plan for your bathroom to last longer, since each one has different hardware, furniture, walls, tiles, pipes, and so on. Most bathrooms only need to be updated every seven to ten years.
To save money and make your bathroom last longer, choose durable flooring, keep the wet area dry, check your grout, be careful with cleaning products, and choose styles and features that will last a long time. More and more people are putting bathtubs in their homes when they remodel, but showers can look more expensive, be easier to use, and require less maintenance.
Consider the age of the fixtures, the need for a new design, and the need for a bathroom that will last a long time when picking a bathroom renovation. By using these tips, you can save money and extend the life of your bathroom.
To make a bathroom that will always look stylish, don’t use trendy colours. Instead, use classic white and grey tiles. Choose neutral colours and patterns, like chrome or brushed brass, that will last for years. If you want to save money and keep the value of your bathroom, think about upgrading your bathroom or vanity unit instead of doing a full makeover.
If your walls are peeling or smell like mould, you might want to remodel your bathroom. If they are leaky or smell bad, throw them away right away. If there is rust or lime scale, clean the area with a good bathroom vent system and run the bathroom fan for 20 to 60 minutes.
If you see signs of damage, like leaks, smells, or high humidity, you need to fix them before they get worse. Fixtures and fittings should be updated to save water and get rid of bad smells. Make sure there is enough air flow and ventilation to stop mould from growing.
Mould can grow because of a number of things, such as a leaking shower, leaked pipes, sinks, or wet paper products. It can make you sick and be bad for your health. Make sure your bathroom has good air flow and gets sunlight to stop mould from growing.
In the end, even small changes can make a big difference in how a bathroom looks and how well it works. Focus on small changes like trendy bath mats, wood floors, and a well-designed space to make a beautiful and useful space.
Content Summary
- Australians spend between $10,000 and $13,000 on average to remodel their master bathrooms.
- The average lifespan of a bathroom is around eighteen years, costing about $722 per year.
- Planning for longevity can help you avoid further work as you age if you intend to stay in your current residence.
- Most bathrooms last between seven and ten years before requiring an update.
- Dealing with minor issues like leaking pipes or worn furniture can prevent bigger, costlier problems in the future.
- It’s disheartening to invest in a renovation that doesn’t last, making longevity a key focus.
- Bathrooms endure a lot of wear and tear, leading to broken or damaged equipment over time.
- Visible damage is a sign that you should consider a remodel soon to avoid higher costs later.
- Durable flooring options for bathrooms include vinyl, laminates, tiles, or hardwood.
- Drying off wet areas with a microfiber towel or a squeegee can prevent mould growth.
- Grout ages poorly and should be checked regularly, as discoloured or old grout tends to crack.
- Re-grouting tiles can add at least five years to the life of your bathroom floors.
- Avoid cleaning products with oily substances or citrus, as they can damage the waterproofing membrane.
- Neutral finishes and features are recommended for their longevity.
- Converting bathtubs to larger walk-in showers is becoming increasingly popular.
- Stick to timeless colours like white and grey to ensure your bathroom remains in style.
- Opt for classic fixture colours like chrome or brushed nickel for long-lasting appeal.
- Subway tile patterns and neutral colours are recommended for tiles that will stay in style.
- Upgrading just the tub or vanity can be a cost-effective alternative to a full renovation.
- Smaller projects like buying a new shower curtain can give your bathroom a quick facelift.
- The peeling paint in a bathroom is generally due to high humidity and poor ventilation.
- A bathroom exhaust system with a humidity detector can help control moisture levels.
- Signs of damage like leaks, odours, and high humidity call for an immediate renovation.
- Proper ventilation can eliminate unpleasant smells and should be considered in any renovation.
- Mould in the bathroom can cause various health issues, from respiratory problems to headaches.
- Good ventilation and sunlight are essential for preventing mould growth.
- Even small changes can make a significant impact on your bathroom’s look and feel.
- Smaller tasks may be more manageable for older homes rather than large-scale renovations.
- Adding trendy bath mats or water-resistant wood flooring can refresh your bathroom’s look.
- Buying towels in matching colours can enhance the aesthetic of the bathroom.
- Counter-mounted sinks are an affordable way to modernise your bathroom.
- High-quality products in brass hardware can make a noticeable difference and last longer.
- Damage needs to be fixed before it worsens thus immediate action is crucial.
- Replacing old fixtures can make your bathroom last another ten years or more.
- Natural materials like stone are timeless and easy to incorporate into various designs.
- Poor painting techniques and cheap paint can lead to peeling, requiring a re-paint.
- Running the bathroom fan for 20-60 minutes after showering can help eliminate moisture.
- Longevity planning for your bathroom is essential for long-term residence.
- Repair or replace broken tiles to extend the bathroom’s lifespan.
- Bathrooms are getting larger, with showers also increasing in size.
- Bad odours in the bathroom are a sign that a renovation is due.
- Water-based stains might require new plumbing solutions.
- Mould strains like Penicillium and Stachybotrys are harmful and should be promptly addressed.
- Limescale and rust should be cleaned immediately to maintain bathroom quality.
- Mouldy or damaged items should be replaced rather than saved.
- Your bathroom’s lifespan depends on the frequency of use and the quality of its components.
- High-quality grout can prevent water from getting between tiles, thus avoiding cracks.
- Considering the resale value of your home can help you make informed decisions on your bathroom renovation.
- Baking soda and non-citrus dishwashing liquid are ideal for cleaning bathroom walls.
- Assessing the state of your bathroom every few years can help you decide when it’s time for a renovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a new bathroom last?
Between seven and ten years
There are also things like walls, tiles, and plumbing to think about. The length of time a bathroom lasts is different. However, most experts say that most bathrooms will only last between seven and ten years before they need to be updated.
What material is better for the bathroom?
You should consider MDF cabinets or furniture-grade plywood, which are less likely to bend. Glazed porcelain tile is still popular for bathrooms because it works well in wet places. This kind of tile has a porosity of 5%, which means it doesn’t soak up water.
What is the most timeless bathroom floor?
Natural Stone
There are a lot of different bathroom tile ideas in this example, but the natural stone floor is the most interesting. A dark stone or slate tile floor gives off an elegant, sophisticated, and, of course, timeless vibe.
What is the best surface for bathroom walls?
Marble, granite, and natural stone all have porous materials that can be destroyed by the water and humidity in a shower if the tile is not regularly sealed to keep the water from getting into the tile. Consider getting porcelain, ceramic, PVC laminate, or even glass for your shower walls if you want them to be easy to clean.
What is the best shower material to avoid mould?
Acrylic shower walls
Acrylic shower walls that look like tile are the best solution if you already have grout stains and mould in your shower or are planning a bathroom remodel to avoid these problems. Acrylic shower walls are waterproof because water can’t get through them like it can through tile and grout.