How to Renovate a Bathroom

Renovating can involve a complete overhaul, with new fixtures, fittings and tiles. However, you can also refresh your bathroom with a few small, budget-friendly changes. Whichever route you choose, bathroom renovations can modernise your home and add value to your property when the time comes to move on.

Wondering where to start? Discover our top tips below to learn how to renovate a bathroom and make your next project a success.

The overall cost of renovating a bathroom will depend on several factors, including the size of the space, the amount of work required and the quality of any new fittings and fixtures. Set a budget before beginning the renovation, as costs can quickly add up!

For example, if you’re hoping to install a brand-new bathroom suite, prices start from around £3,000. The most expensive part of bathroom renovations is typically electrical work, tile work and plumbing. However, there are plenty of affordable ways to renovate on a budget, including painting the walls, switching up your old fixtures and fittings, and investing in new towels or bathroom accessories.

• Check if you need planning permission. Planning permission isn’t usually required for a bathroom renovation unless you are adding an extension. Still, it’s best to double-check you can go ahead with your project before you begin.
• Design and layout. Consider the design and layout of your bathroom and decide exactly what you want to change. For example, you may want to make your bathroom more eco-friendly by using recycled materials or add a modern look with a brand-new digital shower. Think about the available space and whether you’ll need to replace any plumbing.
• Ventilation. Ensure your bathroom has adequate ventilation to prevent mould growth. This could be in the form of an extractor fan, an openable window, or trickle vents.
• Take measurements. Take accurate measurements of your bathroom to avoid purchasing the wrong fixtures and furniture. Measure everything from the toilet height and sink placement to the door entry width.
• Book skilled tradespeople. Make sure to research and book skilled tradespeople for the best results on your bathroom remodel. There are several types of tradespeople you might need, including an electrician, a tiler, a builder and a plumber.

1. Purchase the materials and products. Once you’ve planned your renovation, it’s time to order the products and materials you need to revamp your bathroom. Browse our range of showers and accessories to find the right designs for your space.
2. Dismantle the bathroom. Next, you’ll need to remove all fixtures and fittings. Start with the electrical appliances, including lights and heated towel rails. Make sure to switch off the power before you begin. If your bathroom doesn’t have much natural light, it might be safest to leave the light fittings until last. Then, dismantle any furniture like shelves and cabinets, followed by your toilet, bath, sink and shower, making sure to turn the water off at the mains. The last step should be removing the floor and wall tiles.
3. Add the new walls and floors. Once everything is removed from your bathroom, the next step is to add the new wall and floor tiles. You can hire a professional to do this or tackle it yourself. Explore our guide to tiling your bathroom for tips and advice.
4. Position the new fittings and fixtures. Then, it’s time to add in your brand-new fixtures and fittings. For the best results, we recommend hiring a professional to install these for you.
5. Add the final touches. Once the fittings have been safely installed, you can add the finishing touches to your new bathroom. You may want to refresh the walls with a lick of paint or incorporate accessories like mirrors and shelves.

Depending on the size of the project, a bathroom renovation usually takes around six weeks to complete, but it can sometimes take as little as two weeks.

Whether you’re hoping to modernise your bathroom with some new paint, tiles, fittings and accessories or need tips for making a family bathroom more space-efficient, we’ve got plenty of design ideas to help you get started.

A fresh coat of paint can instantly revive a tired bathroom. Painting is a cost-effective way to transform your bathroom, whether you’re brightening up the existing shade or going for a complete change. Follow these steps to achieve a neat and long-lasting finish:

1. Once you’ve chosen your colour, clean the walls thoroughly before painting.
2. Check for damp, then lightly sand the area before getting the roller out. If your wall is damp, check for the source of the moisture and opt for paint with a mildew inhibitor to prevent it from recurring.
3. Apply masking tape to fittings you do not want to paint, as paint splashes on other fixtures and appliances can make your bathroom renovation look rushed.

Discover the best colour ideas for small bathrooms to make your space feel bright and airy.

Whether they’re dated, stained or broken, replacing your tiles can significantly improve your bathroom’s appearance. Tile colour is down to personal preference, but size and shape can make a difference to the room’s look and feel. For a small bathroom, opt for large, light tiles, as fewer grouting lines will make the space look bigger.

Alternatively, you could remove the old tiles and choose wall panels instead. These prefabricated panels have the same aesthetic effect as tiles. However, they are much quicker to apply and often more affordable, and there is no risk of uneven tiling if you’re planning a DIY renovation.

From cabinets and towel racks to improved lighting and new taps, updating the fittings can modernise your bathroom design and improve its function. If your current shower loses pressure, fluctuates in temperature or looks outdated, explore our range of digital showers.

Mira digital showers have sleek, modern design features and the latest technologies to enhance your showering experience. Whether you have a corner shower or a shower over bath, you can find the perfect model for your home and lifestyle.

From shower enclosures to taps, discover our stylish range of fixtures and fittings and kickstart your renovation today. Or, head to our blog to find more decorating tips and advice.