What To Consider When Installing Your New Bathroom

Installing a new bathroom is a big project that requires careful planning. Whether you're remodelling an existing space or building a new bathroom, there are various elements to consider before beginning this project. This post, our bathroom fitters in Southampton, Basingstoke, Andover and Portsmouth take you through the key factors to consider when installing a new bathroom.

Things to consider when installing a new bathroom

Assessing Your Needs

Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to assess your specific needs and preferences. Consider who will be using the bathroom primarily. A family bathroom requires different features compared to an en-suite or guest bathroom. For instance, a family bathroom might benefit from a bathtub for children, whilst an en-suite could prioritise a spacious shower enclosure.

Take stock of your daily routines and habits. Do you prefer long, luxurious baths or quick showers? Is storage a priority? These considerations will guide your decisions on fixtures and layout.

Bathroom Layouts

The layout is the foundation of your bathroom design. Begin by identifying the position of the toilet, which is often determined by the existing soil pipe. This is typically the least flexible element in your bathroom layout.

Use graph paper to create a scale drawing of your space, including doors, windows, and any immovable features. This visual aid allows you to experiment with different layouts without the need for costly alterations later.

When planning your layout, consider the flow of movement in the space. Ensure there's adequate clearance around fixtures and that doors can open fully without obstruction. Pay attention to the placement of towel rails, mirrors, and storage units to maximise functionality.

Ventilation

British building regulations have strict requirements regarding bathroom ventilation, and for good reason. Proper ventilation prevents condensation-related issues such as mould and mildew. If you have a window, it should provide a ventilation area equivalent to at least 1/20th of your bathroom's floor space. Without adequate natural ventilation, you'll need a mechanical extraction fan that can achieve a minimum extraction rate of 15 litres per second with a 15-minute overrun timer. This ensures moisture continues to be removed after you've finished using the bathroom.

Practical Storage

Storage can make or break a bathroom's functionality. Wall-mounted vanity units help maximise floor space whilst providing ample storage for toiletries and cleaning supplies. Consider installing a mirror cabinet above your sink to combine two essential functions. Recessed shelving in shower areas offers convenient storage without protruding into your space, whilst tall units can maximise vertical space in corners.

Material Choices

Your choice of materials will affect both the aesthetics and longevity of your bathroom. Flooring must prioritise safety with appropriate slip resistance ratings, particularly in wet areas. Wall coverings should resist moisture and clean easily, making porcelain tiles a popular choice. When selecting fixtures, invest in quality pieces from reputable manufacturers, as these elements endure heavy daily use. Remember to use a mould-resistant silicone sealant around all joints and edges.