FAQs for a bathroom renovation

ARTICLE Carol Watson IMAGES Scott Espie

Do I need development consent to renovate my bathroom?

When making the changes to plumbing, drainage or electrics, then you may require consent or at the very least an inspection by the relevant authority. A direct replacement of old and worn out fixtures will not need consent. All structural changes need consent. Laws vary for each state; so ensure you check with your renovation builder.

Do I need to waterproof the entire bathroom floor or just the shower recess?

Can I tile over existing tiles?

Yes, you can. You need to consider the condition of the existing tiles, the additional weight of the new tile and ensure you use the right adhesive. The existing tiles and grouting must be thoroughly cleaned, otherwise the adhesive will not bond. Remove the glaze off the existing tiles with a sander or grinder for better adhesion.

What type of paint should I use in my bathroom?

Use a low-sheen paint (also known as eggshell or satin) on the ceilings and a semi-gloss on the walls. These are washable and moisture resistant and will prevent the build-up of mould and mildew.

Will resurfacing my tiles, bath and sink produce a professional and long-lasting result?

How do I decide between a freestanding bath or drop-in bath?

A drop-in or hob-mounted bath sits in a frame usually against a wall or as an island. It must be level to ensure it drains properly and be secure enough to support the weight of the water, plus a person.

There are many styles of baths on the market, so when making your choice, test for comfort by sitting in it to ensure the size and depth are right for you.

What is the benefit of using a mixer tap instead of a separate hot and cold water tap?

A mixer tap combines the hot and cold water before it reaches the spout and allows you to adjust the water temperature as it flows, rather than adjusting it when it’s already in the basin.

How can I heat my bathroom?

Is an extractor fan necessary or can I just open a window to get rid of the steam?

An extractor fan removes steam, moisture and odours quickly and most importantly, prevents the growth of mould. Make sure you vent the air to the outside of the house and not into the attic where the moisture will damage the woodwork.

Are there any safety rules I need to consider when deciding where to place electrical switches and outlets in the bathroom?

Yes, there are rules and regulations in Australia that govern how switches and outlets can be placed in relation to water outlets. You must use a licensed electrician to carry out the work in accordance with the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000:2007). Talk to your renovation builder about assisting you with these guidelines.

Will an instantaneous or continuous flow hot water system meet the needs of my family?

How much water would our household save by installing a water-efficient toilet?

Using a water efficient dual flush toilet reduces an average households water usage by around 30,000 to 40,000 litres per annum.

How do I know I’m buying a water efficient bathroom product?

Australia uses the WELS (Water Efficiency Labels and Standards) star-rating system to indicate a products’ water efficiency and all WELS-rated products will carry the star-rating label. The maximum rating for taps is 6-stars, for showerheads 3-stars and for toilets 4-stars. The more stars a product has, the greater the water efficiency.

Have a look at our Refresh case study: 100-year old villa transformation.

Get in touch with Refresh to discuss your home renovation project

*All information is believed to be true at time of publishing and is subject to change.