Early Design Stage
- During the design phase, the location of waste pipes will have already been determined, which is crucial for efficient plumbing. Moving waste pipes is generally avoided, as it often involves extending the system, which can be costly and complicated.
- At this stage, you'll need to select specific sanitaryware, as well as floor and wall finishes that align with the overall design style you're aiming for.
Visiting Showrooms and Getting Quotes
- As with kitchens, it's recommended to visit at least three bathroom showrooms to gather quotes and explore a range of products.
- Each supplier will offer different advice, products, and ideas, even though many bathroom products follow current design trends, so expect to see some similarities.
- If you’re looking for something bespoke or unusual, you may need to explore options from mainland UK or even further afield. Specialized items or unique design features can often be sourced from niche suppliers.
Maximizing Savings
- Discounts: Buying from the same supplier can often result in discounts, and you can look out for end-of-line products or sales to save on costs.
- Thrifty Approach: Opting for a more budget-friendly route, such as purchasing taps and sanitaryware from a plumber’s merchant, can reduce expenses but remember that these suppliers won’t offer design expertise. It’s crucial to ensure your final design is something you’ll be satisfied with long-term, as bathrooms are typically renovated infrequently due to the mess and disruption involved.
Wall-Hung Sanitaryware
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Wall-hung basins and toilets are a popular choice for their modern look and practical benefits, such as making cleaning easier. However, they require forward planning:
- The waste pipe needs to be carefully positioned during the early stages.
- Provisions must be made for a bracket, which a joiner will need to install to secure the sanitaryware. This bracket will likely need to be boxed in to hide the structural elements.
Tile Selection and Tiling Costs
- Tile Sizes and Costs: Different tile sizes come with different installation costs. Large-format tiles typically require more work, as they need perfectly flat and even walls or floors for a proper fit.
- Always check with your tiler before purchasing tiles, as they will have valuable insights into the material, adhesive, grout, and even the tools needed for a smooth installation.
- Minimizing the amount of cutting can save time and costs; wall-hung sanitaryware can help with this as well.
Bathroom Gadgets
- Gadgets, like Bluetooth mirrors, are becoming increasingly popular. Shopping around can yield savings on these items, as prices and availability vary widely.
Renovation Considerations
- If you're renovating an existing bathroom, clarify in advance who will handle the demolition and waste removal. This includes any preparatory work that needs to happen before the installation can begin, such as plumbing and structural adjustments.
Final Thoughts
- While sourcing products for a bathroom can take time, it's important to invest in items that you’ll be happy with in the long term. Settling for lower-quality or less-desirable items with the intention of replacing them in a few years often leads to regret, and bathroom renovations are messy and disruptive. Make sure the design and materials you choose will meet your needs and tastes for years to come.