Once you know what work needs to be done, it's time to set a budget for the project.

It can be a challenge planning to renovate the most important room in the house.

Define your scope

Are you simply looking to update the plumbing fixtures and finishes, or do you want a complete gut job?

Set a budget

Once you know what work needs to be done, it's time to set a budget for the project. Keep in mind that even small bathroom renovations can be expensive. Bathroom accessories such as a freestanding bath, heated towel rail, underfloor heating, chrome toilet roll holders and custom wall-hung vanities will be expensive.

Choose a design scheme

What style do you want? What colour scheme will you use? Making these decisions early on will make the actual renovation process much easier. A wall-mounted mirrored cabinet or vanity may give you enough storage space to include a bath and shower.

Hire a contractor

Make sure to interview a few different contractors and get quotes before making your final decision.

Create a schedule

Once you have all the pieces in place, create a schedule to ensure that the project stays on track.

How do I draw up a bathroom plan?

Once you have the basic layout in mind, you can start thinking about how to arrange the fixtures and fittings. You can use an online bathroom planning tool or you can draw up a simple floor plan by hand. Taking the time to plan all of these details ahead of time will make the actual renovation process much smoother for all trades involved.

In what order do you update a bathroom?

If you're simply updating the fixtures and finishes, then you can start with any element that you want. However, if you're doing a complete gut job, then it's best to start with the big-ticket items like the tub and sink and necessary plumbing before moving onto the next stage.

Once the major elements are in place, you can move on to smaller details like painting, tiling and bathroom lighting. Again, it's important to have a clear plan for what you want to accomplish before you start the actual renovation process.

What colours work best in a bathroom?

There are a few different things to consider when choosing paint colours for a bathroom Consider the size of the space. Smaller bathrooms can feel cramped and claustrophobic, so it's best to use light and airy colours on wall tiles. Darker colours on the bathroom wall can make a small space feel even smaller, so they should be avoided if possible. And finally, think about the lighting in the room. Bathrooms typically have good lighting, but you'll want to make sure the paint colour you choose doesn't wash out under artificial light.

What is the first step in a bathroom renovation?

Once you have a clear idea of your goals, you can start making decisions about the design, fixtures, and finishes.

There are also professional bathroom designers who can help you create your dream bathroom. For more information on bathroom renovations, take a look at Your Home.

Does a bathroom need to be waterproofed?

Bathrooms are wet areas, so it's important that they are properly waterproofed. This will help prevent water damage. If you're doing a complete gut job, then you should have the space professionally waterproofed before proceeding with any other work. If you're simply updating the fixtures and finishes, then you may not need to do anything additional. A professional can assess the condition of your bathroom and make recommendations accordingly before you begin your bathroom reno.

How do I waterproof a bathroom?

There are a few different ways to waterproof a bathroom. The most common method is to use a waterproofing membrane, which is applied directly to the surface of the bathroom walls and floors, underneath the floor tiles. This will create a barrier that will prevent water from seeping through. Another option is to use waterproof paint or sealant on the surfaces of your bathroom. This can be done yourself, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully and do a test area first to make sure the products are compatible. And finally, you can have a professional do a complete assessment of your bathroom and recommend the best course of action. This is often the best option if you're not sure about the condition of your bathroom or how to proceed with the project. In general, waterproofing membranes are the most expensive option for a standard bathroom, followed by paint or sealant.

How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom?

A simple update, like painting the walls and replacing the old fixtures, can be done for a few hundred dollars. But a complete gut job with a new toilet, floors, walls, towel rails and fixtures can easily cost several thousand.

If you're not sure how much you should budget for your project, it's a good idea to get quotes from different contractors or consider hiring a bathroom renovation experts. They can assess your space and give you an estimate of the costs.