Top 5 Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Remodeling your bathroom is one of the best ways to improve comfort, fix lingering issues, and increase your home’s value. But it’s also one of the easiest projects to get wrong. A small mistake in planning or execution can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or results that fall short of what you want out of your new bathroom remodeling project.
Here are five of the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes homeowners make and what you can do to keep your project on track. AZ New Bath is a leading bathroom remodeling company that works with clients across the Valley every day to avoid exactly these kinds of problems.
1. Skipping the budget planning phase
It’s easy to focus on finishes and design inspiration, but remodels can break the bank if the budget isn’t clear up front. Too often, homeowners get halfway through the job only to realize they’ve underestimated material or labor costs.
What to watch for:
Plumbing or electrical upgrades
Floor leveling or drywall replacement
Permit and inspection fees
Unexpected issues behind walls
What helps:
A clear project scope from day one. That's why at AZ New Bath we start with a free consultation and quote where we guide clients through what’s realistic for their budget and help prioritize where to spend and where to save. You’ll know exactly what to expect before the demo begins!
2. skipping permits or code requirements
Some bathroom remodels require permits, especially if plumbing lines are being moved or walls are coming down. Ignoring these steps can cause major challenges, particularly during resale.
What to watch for:
Relocating sinks or toilets
Layout changes
What helps:
Choose a remodeling partner who handles permits and inspections. AZ New Bath manages all permit requirements for you, so nothing gets missed or delayed. You can review Maricopa County permit guidelines for more context.
3. Poor Ventilation and Waterproofing
Even in Arizona, moisture builds up fast in a bathroom. Poor airflow and improper waterproofing are two of the leading causes of long-term damage.
What to watch for:
Mold in grout lines
Bubbling or peeling paint
Musty odor
According to the CDC, poor ventilation can also increase the risk of respiratory issues.
What helps:
Install a properly rated exhaust fan and make sure the remodel includes a moisture barrier behind the tile. When you work with AZ New Bath, these steps are never overlooked. Every project includes ventilation and waterproofing solutions that meet local standards.
4. Ignoring spacing and measurements
A bathroom may seem simple, but the details matter. If the vanity is too wide or the door swings into the toilet, it can affect everyday use in a big way.
What to watch for:
Tight walkways
Doors bumping into fixtures
Not enough space for storage
What helps:
Smart layout planning from the beginning. At AZ New Bath, we build bathroom designs that fit both your square footage and how you actually use the space.
Need inspiration? View our portfolio of projects across the Valley.
5. Hiring the wrong contractor (or trying to DIY it all)
Bathroom remodels aren’t simple. Between the plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, and layout decisions, there’s a lot that can go wrong if it’s not done right. Doing it yourself or hiring the wrong contractor usually costs more in the end.
What can go wrong:
Leaks that show up after everything’s finished
Uneven tile or poor grout work
Wiring issues that aren’t up to code
A recent survey found that while most homeowners are open to tackling renovations themselves, nearly half feel uneasy about handling plumbing or electrical work without a pro. Many who try DIY projects later wish they had hired experts instead.
What helps:
Work with a team that remodels bathrooms every day. AZ New Bath has seen it all and knows how to get it right from the start. No guessing, no shortcuts. Just solid work that holds up. Don’t just take our word for it, read our Google Reviews!
when it is time to bring in the bathroom remodeling pros
Bathroom remodels don’t have to be stressful. The key is working with a team that brings experience, planning, and clear communication to every step of the process.
If you’re dealing with an outdated bathroom or just ready to make a change, AZ New Bath is here to help. We’ve worked with homeowners across Phoenix and the surrounding Valley to remodel bathrooms that feel better, function better, and last longer.
Schedule a free consultation today to talk through your ideas, get answers to your questions, and see what’s possible for your space.