5 Common Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them in Kansas City)
Bathroom remodels are one of the most rewarding projects a homeowner can take on. They can completely transform how you use and enjoy your home but they also come with challenges. Over the years, we’ve seen the same mistakes pop up again and again. Avoiding them can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.
Here are five of the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes we see in Kansas City, and how to make sure you don’t fall into them.
1. Underestimating Plumbing or Electrical Work
Behind the walls is where costly surprises often hide plumbing and electrical updates are easier to handle during a remodel than after the fact.
A fresh coat of paint and new tile are great, but what’s behind the walls matters just as much. Old plumbing or outdated wiring can derail a remodel if it isn’t addressed up front. Skipping these updates may save money short-term, but it often leads to leaks, circuit issues, or costly rework later.
What to do instead: Budget for necessary infrastructure updates. A remodel is the perfect time to modernize pipes, wiring, and fixtures.
2. Choosing Trendy Over Timeless
It’s easy to get caught up in the latest Pinterest trends. But what looks stylish today may feel dated in just a few years. We see this most often with bold tile patterns, bright paint colors, or oversized fixtures.
What to do instead: Blend timeless choices (neutral palettes, classic materials) with a few trendy accents that are easy to swap out down the road.
3. Skipping Ventilation Upgrades
Kansas City humidity can wreak havoc in a poorly ventilated bathroom. Mold, mildew, and peeling paint are the result of ignoring airflow during a remodel.
What to do instead: Install a high-quality vent fan, ideally vented to the outside. Consider upgrading windows or adding natural light to improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.
4. Overlooking Storage and Space Planning
Bathrooms are high-traffic spaces, and poor storage planning is one of the biggest regrets we hear about. If you don’t account for towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, you’ll feel cramped from day one.
Without proper storage planning, bathrooms quickly feel cramped and cluttered, even after a remodel.
What to do instead: Plan for custom cabinetry, built-ins, or creative shelving solutions. Even in smaller bathrooms, smart design can maximize every inch.
5. Hiring Without Vetting Contractors
Not all contractors are created equal. The fastest way a remodel goes off track is by working with someone who cuts corners or lacks clear communication.
What to do instead: Check reviews, ask for references, and make sure your contractor is licensed and insured. A good remodeler will walk you through the process clearly and keep you informed every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom remodel is an investment in both comfort and home value. Avoiding these five mistakes can help you protect that investment and enjoy your new space for years to come.
Ready to remodel smarter? Contact Five Fold Solutions today to start your bathroom project plan.
