Your bathroom can be a real haven that you can relax in at the end of a hard day. It can also be a fun place for the kids to play and splash about while getting clean. Just like everything else in your home, your bathroom needs a bit of TLC if it’s going to serve as a retreat or provide that enjoyable experience that you’re looking for.
Patrick Hendricks, from Cape Town Plumbers, says although sometimes you need professional help, there are some bathroom renovation ideas that you can easily carry out yourself to give your bathroom an instant facelift.
Patrick shares seven bathroom renovation ideas to try at home…
1. A paint job
Repainting is an easy way to renovate your bathroom without calling in a professional. All you need is some paint, paint brushes or rollers, plenty of dust sheets to cover everything, and a free weekend.
The choice of paint colours out there are vast, which means your new bathroom 'look' is limited only by your imagination.
For instance, why not try a rich, warm colour to add luxury or a light, cool shade with vivid blue or green accents for a crisp, fresh look?
2. Get tiling
Adding tiling around your bath or shower is another weekend job that can make a huge difference. Why not check out a few video tutorials online before you start so you get a better idea of techniques to use?
If you're worried about matching up tile patterns, opt for plain coloured tiles.
White is a bright, classic choice, but colours can add fun and personality.
If you're still yearning for some pattern, try out some tile stickers designed especially for the bathroom. They look great and are easy to apply.
3. Replace your taps
Replacing your taps takes a bit more skill, but is still simple enough to do on your own. It can also make a big difference to your bathroom.
Make sure you shut off the water before you start.
Some penetrating oil can help to shift stiff old nuts or bolts. You might also choose to hacksaw off the older end of the pipe so you have a fresh clean pipe end to connect to.
4. Replace your accessories
Replacing some of the accessories in your bathroom can make a huge difference to the overall look. Why not try adding a new mirror or a towel rail? Both of these are easy to mount and fit in less than an hour.
If you're short on time or cash, something as simple as replacing your toothbrush holders and soap dishes or dispensers, adding new ornaments or accents and buying fresh towels can make a surprisingly big difference too.
5. Redo the floor
A new floor can make your bathroom look completely new and fresh. Carpet and wood are not good choices for bathrooms as they can easily rot or smell thanks to the damp, steamy atmosphere. However, you'll find a wide range of ceramic, porcelain, rubber and vinyl tiles that are great for bathrooms and relatively easy to lay down.
If you don't want to tile, don't overlook linoleum. Far from the dated look of old, linoleum is now available in a wide range of colours and finishes for a modern feel. It's easy to cut it to the size and shape you want, and is generally quite economical.
6. Change the lighting
Do you have a single overhead light bulb with a shade? Why not replace it with one or more pendants with beautiful shades? Alternatively, you could opt for minimalistic recessed lights that brighten your bathroom while keeping the look clean and simple.
Whatever your bathroom style, you'll find a lighting choice that meets your needs. You could also add lighting over the mirror or tub to vary the light levels and visual interest.
7. Add a vanity
A beautiful vanity is eye-catching and will give your bathroom that instant chic look. You can buy a pre-made vanity to fit your existing sink and fittings for a quick update.
If you want something a little more personal, why not paint or artfully distress your new vanity for a unique look?
You can also repurpose a found wooden cabinet or other suitable stand for a unique vanity that will stand out and give your bathroom a whole new look.
Renovating your bathroom doesn't have to cost you a lot of time or money. Each of these seven projects will take you anywhere from an hour to a weekend.