Bathrooms and kitchens are the rooms that cost the most and require the most technical skill to renovate.
However, it is possible to upgrade a tired-looking bathroom without committing to major repairs, such as changing the hardware or tiles. Here are 11 suggestions to help get you started.
- If your bath is slightly damaged, all you need to refinish it yourself are a few products from the hardware store . . . and a little patience.
- Paint over outdated bathroom tiles. Make sure to use the right product and follow the instructions, otherwise the final result might be disappointing.
- Change your faucets. When it comes to bath and shower fittings, I suggest investing in a good-quality product.
- Paint a damaged vanity using melamine paint. When applied to a properly prepped surface, melamine paint can make your dated cabinetry look brand new.
- If the ceiling fixture in your bathroom doesn’t provide ample lighting, change it for track lighting. Track lighting lets you swivel the lights in any direction, for the perfect bathroom ambience, plus it has an overall effect similar to recessed lighting. And finally, don’t opt for just any old light bulb; opt for a colour that’s right for you, that way your reflection in the mirror will always be optimal!
- Install a dimmer, perfect for creating a subdued atmosphere when you want to relax.
- Thoroughly clean your ceiling fan, and replace it if necessary.
- Sand and repaint your mouldings. Make sure to use bathroom paint to help reduce mildew and mold.
- Remove damaged or moldy silicone caulk. Wipe clean and reseal.
- If need be (and space permitting), increase your storage by installing hooks, shelves, or cabinets. A well-organized bathroom is airier and more luminous.
- And, of course, repaint your walls!
On my show, you see me demolish and start over from scratch. But depending on your budget, that isn’t always an option. With these 11 tips, you can refresh your bathroom yourself without spending a fortune. When properly executed, the final result can be stunning.
That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that these kinds of overhauls only prolong your bathroom’s life span; we’re not talking about full-on renovations here. More thorough repairs will be needed in the mid to long-term.
