Bathroom renovations add value to your home, they give you an upgraded sense of comfort and style, and if you’re smart about it, you can add a lot of functionality without having to take out a second mortgage.
If you’re looking to make some changes to your bathroom, but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you. These tips will not only help improve the function of your bathroom, but they will add a touch of that spa experience too!
Style vs. Functionality
We recommend staying away from design trends that will not stand the test of time. It’s always hard to predict where our aesthetic preferences will go, but we’re pretty sure a carpet in the bathroom, 1970s style, never had a practical component. 
Instead, where possible, opt for solutions that combine the style and function of bathrooms. And if you do go for style only, go for the inexpensive details you can easily replace when you decide you want something a little different.
The ‘Miracle’ of the 2-inch Drain Pipe
Many modern bathrooms clog regularly, which can get incredibly annoying. With this very small (potentially DIY, if you’re up for it) improvement, functionality will increase plenty:
Replace your drain pipes with 2-inch diameter varieties. Most use PVC pipes that are only 1.5 inches, which clog super easily, particularly if you have a big family sharing a single bathroom. The cost difference is approximately nothing, which makes this upgrade a no-brainer.
Low Flush Toilet
According to the EPA, the average low-flush toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year. For those of you who are concerned about the environment and your monthly bills, this is a big win.
Low-flow toilets have a bit of a bad reputation. That’s because the 1990s vintage was terrible in terms of performance. These days, however, they’re just as efficient as the ‘normal’ varieties. Just be aware that high-pressure versions are a little bit louder.
Think About Ventilation
Bathrooms are the most humid rooms in the house, for obvious reasons. Condensation on windows, tiles, and mirrors can lead to expensive issues in the long term. And if you develop mould, that’s not good for your health.
Ventilation is therefore an important component of a healthy and low-maintenance bathroom. We recommend investing in a bathroom vent fan; don’t skimp on the cost, as the cheap varieties are nowhere near as effective, and can even be a potential fire risk.
Say Goodbye to Your Bathtub
Ask yourself an honest question: how often do you really use your bathtub? And even when you want to have a relaxing candle-lit bath after a rough day at work, something (or someone!) tends to get in the way.
Instead, consider a bathtub-to-shower conversion. There are several benefits:
- Increased safety. The bathroom can be the most dangerous room in the house, with the CDC recording over 20 million injuries per year.
- More space. Bathtubs do not use space efficiently. Not only that, showers that use clear doors can also give the impression of more space, resulting in a roomier feel overall.
- Accessibility. If you’re planning for life in your later years, shower rooms are far more accessible and will make it easier for you to get clean.
Hidden Tanks
Toilets aren’t exactly stylish, no matter the type you purchase. You can, however, make this essential bathroom component a little more aesthetically pleasing by hiding the tank inside the wall. This will not only improve the overall look and feel of your bathroom, but it will also save a fair amount of space.
Note: ensure that the setup still allows for routine maintenance. You don’t want a leak to develop, only to find that there is no way of accessing the water tank without causing significant damage.
Ultimate Luxury: Rainfall Shower Heads
We don’t know about you, but we love that luxury 5-star hotel spa feeling. And why not bring that into your home for a fraction of the price? This is how you do it: rainfall shower heads.
Just imagine yourself disappearing into a tropical getaway, with the gentle drip of a waterfall above you. It’s a huge pro to any bathroom, and the plus point is that it’s quite inexpensive.
Heated Flooring
Our final tip may not be attainable depending on your budget, but if you can swing it, heated flooring will cause a revolution of style and comfort in your bathroom. They require a bit of an up-front investment, but the cost won’t be as high as you may imagine. Get a few quotes and you will be pleasantly surprised. In the long term, it’s also a more efficient way to heat the room.
In terms of comfort, it’s no contest. You won’t get the problem of stepping on cold tiles after your morning shower, and it will make the getting ready process far more comfortable overall.
Just remember: put most of your money into function, as this is where you’ll get the most value. The details are for styles that change yearly, as these can be swapped easily and for little money.
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