Bathroom remodels are exciting, but they can become time-consuming and budget-draining if you’re not careful. At Valley Restoration & Construction, we’ve seen it all: hidden mold, cracked plumbing, chipped tile, and more. That’s why we always advise our clients to go in with a plan, a trusted team, and realistic expectations.
Here are our top expert tips to help you avoid surprises and get the beautiful, functional bathroom you deserve.
1. Know What’s Behind the Walls and Under the Floors
You never know what might be hiding until you start demo. Mold, decaying subfloor, or previous water damage can add serious delays and cost to your project.
Before you remodel:
- Inspect for water damage or rot around tubs, toilets, and sinks
- Look for bubbling paint, soft spots, or musty smells
- Call a certified team like Valley Restoration to assess and safely remove mold or moisture-damaged materials
2. Test for Asbestos in Older Homes
If your home was built before the 1980s, your drywall, insulation, or tile flooring may contain asbestos. DIY demo in these areas can be dangerous without proper precautions.
What to do:
- Have your home professionally tested before removing flooring or knocking down walls
- If asbestos is found, Valley Restoration is licensed to handle full abatement safely and legally
3. Tile May Be Harder to Replace Than You Think
In many older homes, floor tiles were laid directly onto concrete. Removing them often requires specialized tools and a lot of elbow grease. Sometimes, it’s just not worth the disruption.
Consider:
- Keeping older tile in place and focusing budget on updates like vanities, lighting, or paint
- Installing luxury vinyl planks or new tile over the existing floor if it’s in good condition and allows for proper clearance
4. Choose Durable, High-Performance Surfaces
Porcelain and ceramic tiles might look great, but some can chip or crack under daily wear. And glossy finishes can turn slick fast in a wet bathroom.
Our recommendations:
- Go for textured or matte finishes for better grip and fewer scratches
- Choose quartz or solid-surface counters over softer options like marble
- Invest in moisture-resistant materials for walls and cabinets
5. Don’t DIY the Plumbing (Unless You’re a Plumber)
Swapping out a faucet is one thing, but relocating plumbing lines or installing a new tub or toilet incorrectly can lead to leaks, water damage, or worse.
Hire a pro to:
- Move or update plumbing and electrical
- Ensure everything is code-compliant and properly sealed
- Avoid long-term headaches and hidden costs down the road
At Valley Restoration, we handle plumbing upgrades as part of the full remodel package, so nothing slips through the cracks.
6. Storage Matters More Than You Think
Bathroom clutter builds up fast, especially in homes with limited closet space. Smart storage solutions can make your remodel both beautiful and functional.
Storage ideas we love:
- Floating shelves above the toilet
- Tall linen cabinets for towels and bulk supplies
- Built-in shower niches for soap and shampoo
- Vanity drawers with built-in organizers
7. Stick to Your Budget (With Room to Breathe)
Remodeling costs can add up quickly, especially when you uncover hidden damage or decide to upgrade finishes. The best way to stay on track? Plan ahead and leave room for the unexpected.
Budgeting tips:
- Get a professional estimate up front
- Leave 15–20% of your budget for surprises
- Prioritize high-impact changes first, then see what’s left for cosmetic upgrades
Let’s Remodel Your Bathroom the Right Way
Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just updating a few key elements, Valley Restoration & Construction is here to help. We handle everything from demo and inspection to tile, plumbing, and final finishes—so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors. Learn more about our bathroom remodeling services or give us a call to get a quote.