Bathroom design is not just about aesthetics—it plays a crucial role in the comfort of your home and the consistency of your overall interior style. However, many homeowners face challenges like uneven floor levels, water leakage risks, and hard-to-clean corners. These issues can be resolved with proper planning and expert guidance. But can you use individual materials in your bathroom design the same way as other areas? Let’s explore the expert advice to find out.
Key Challenges in Bathroom Renovation
Based on common questions from online users, we’ve compiled some of the most critical and complex aspects of bathroom renovation and asked experts for practical solutions. Here are their insights.
Water Pipeline Planning
Consider Future Needs
The water pipeline layout in the bathroom is typically designed by the contractor, but it's up to the homeowner whether to follow it. Cui Tao, an engineering manager at the Beijing branch of Current Decoration, emphasized that homeowners should think ahead. For example, while most people still use traditional toilets, smart toilets are becoming more popular as technology advances. "Smart toilets require a dedicated electrical outlet and water supply line, so it's essential to plan for these during initial installation," he said. If these aren’t reserved, installing a smart toilet later would require major renovations. Even if you don't plan to upgrade soon, Cui Tao pointed out that the frequency of renovations is increasing, and future changes often involve aesthetic updates. By making proper preparations now, you can save time and money in the long run. He advised homeowners to consider not only current needs but also potential future upgrades during the renovation process.
Waterproofing
Apply as High as Possible
Waterproofing is the top priority in bathroom renovation. According to construction standards, waterproof coatings should be applied at least 1.8 meters high on walls where showers are installed, and 25–30 cm above the floor on other walls. "Waterproof coating acts like a plastic bag, trapping moisture inside," explained Cui Tao. Once a leak occurs, repairs can be costly and time-consuming, requiring tile removal and reapplication of waterproofing. He suggested applying the coating as high as possible during construction, as it's relatively inexpensive and provides better protection against leaks.
Some homeowners want to apply waterproofing to the ceiling to prevent water seepage from the room above. However, Cui Tao warned that this method isn't effective and isn't recommended. He also highlighted the importance of the door threshold area. If the bathroom is adjacent to the entrance hall, it's better to install floor tiles instead of wall tiles to prevent moisture from returning to the hallway and causing damage. In cases where the door area leads into a bedroom or living room, raising the bathroom floor slightly can help prevent water from spreading.
Structural Issues
Difficult to Modify
As more old homes undergo renovation, bathroom structural problems have become increasingly common. Typical issues include uneven floors, outdated cast-iron pipes, and small spaces. Cui Tao noted that these problems are often determined by the building’s original structure and are difficult to fix without major work.
For ground level differences, if permitted by the property, it may be possible to lower the floor. However, if the house uses old cast-iron pipes, which are typically side-drained, the system is prone to clogging and leaks. Unless the pipes are damaged, homeowners should request maintenance or replacement through the property management. It's important to note that such changes cannot be made solely based on personal preferences.
Another challenge is the limited space in older bathrooms. Ni Jian, a designer at Light Boat Decoration, advised that when renovating a bathroom smaller than 2 square meters, the first step is to optimize the layout. This includes determining the placement of the toilet, sink, and shower. If expansion isn't possible, adjusting the toilet direction can help maximize space. Designers also recommend using glass or mirrors to visually expand the area. In narrow bathrooms, vertical tiling or horizontal mosaics can create a wider appearance and improve functionality.
Material Choices
Personalized Materials Are Possible, But With Caution
Want to break away from the standard look of your bathroom? Experts agree that personalized materials can be used, but they come with specific considerations due to the unique environment of the bathroom.
Waterproof Gypsum Board Ceiling
Suitable for Larger Bathrooms
While aluminum ceilings are commonly used for their moisture resistance and ease of maintenance, some homeowners prefer waterproof gypsum board for its smooth finish and versatility. It allows for complex shapes and can be used with lighting features. However, Ni Jian warned that once installed, it’s difficult to access internal pipelines, and any serious issues would require removing the ceiling, which is destructive and hard to repair. He recommends this material for larger bathrooms where the space allows for easier maintenance.
Sauna Board
Natural Look, Requires Maintenance
Originally used in saunas, sauna boards are resistant to heat and deformation. They can be used in bathrooms after being painted for waterproofing and anti-corrosion. Their natural wood texture gives a rustic feel and can be painted in various colors to match different styles. However, they are prone to cracking in dry environments, so regular maintenance is necessary if the bathroom isn't used frequently.
Waterproof Wallpaper
Limited Effectiveness, Best in Dry Areas
For those who want a more personalized touch, waterproof wallpaper is an option. It can be applied to the upper part of bathroom walls to create a unique look. Ni Jian suggested using it in large bathrooms where humidity is less severe, as excessive moisture can cause the wallpaper to dampen and deteriorate. It’s best to place it in dry zones to ensure longevity.
Waterproof Coating
Easy to Change, But Not Durable
Some homeowners wonder if they can paint their bathroom instead of using tiles. Experts suggest using waterproof coatings on the ceiling and walls, followed by a high-quality topcoat. This allows for color changes over time. However, Cui Tao warned that once the coating gets dirty, cleaning is challenging, and it has a shorter lifespan compared to tiles. Additionally, painting must be done before laying tiles to avoid gaps between the paint and tiles, which can lead to peeling.
Tile Cutting
Small Changes, Big Impact
Even if you’re sticking with tiles, cutting them into different sizes can add a personal touch. By mixing same-color or contrasting tiles, you can create a unique visual effect while maintaining a cohesive look. These cut tiles can be used along the waistline or behind the toilet to define the shower area. “This approach offers a more personalized and targeted decorative effect,†said Ni Jian. In low-ceiling rooms, long vertical cuts can create a taller, more spacious feel. However, experts recommend having the tiles processed in the factory rather than cutting them on-site to reduce dust and waste.
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