How to Transform Your Bathroom with a Shower Remodel
At Cameron Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how a bathroom showers remodel can completely transform your space.
A well-designed shower not only enhances your daily routine but also adds value to your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to plan and execute a successful shower renovation.
How to Plan Your Perfect Shower Remodel
Evaluate Your Current Bathroom
Take a hard look at your existing bathroom. What works? What doesn’t? Measure your space carefully, noting the location of plumbing and electrical fixtures. This step determines what’s possible within your current layout. If you plan to move plumbing or expand the shower area, factor in additional costs and time for these changes.
Define Your Budget
Your budget will guide many decisions throughout the remodel. On average, a shower remodel in Australia can cost between $2300 and $4600 per square metre for a bathroom, depending on the scope of work and materials chosen. Set aside 10-20% of your total budget for unexpected issues that may arise during the renovation process.
Identify Your Must-Haves
Make a list of features you absolutely want in your new shower. This might include a rainfall showerhead, built-in shelving, or a bench seat. Prioritize these items to ensure you allocate your budget effectively. Some features (like custom tilework or high-end fixtures) can significantly impact your overall costs.
Choose Your Shower Style
Your shower style should complement your overall bathroom design and meet your practical needs. Popular options include:
- Walk-in showers: These offer easy accessibility and a modern look.
- Tub-shower combinations: Great for families with young children.
- Double showers: If space allows, consider this luxurious option for added convenience and indulgence.
Consider Water Efficiency
In Australia, water conservation is increasingly important. Look for water-efficient showerheads that carry the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating. These can help you save on water bills without compromising on shower quality. The WELS scheme helps Australians compare the water efficiency of a range of appliances and fixtures.
Careful planning of your shower remodel sets the stage for a successful renovation that enhances your daily life and adds value to your home. Now, let’s explore the key design elements to consider for your new shower.
Designing Your Dream Shower Space
Choosing the Right Shower Enclosure
The type of shower enclosure you select sets the tone for your entire bathroom. Frameless enclosures offer a sleek, modern appearance and can make small spaces feel larger. They also reduce cleaning time, with fewer nooks for mold to grow. Semi-frameless options provide a similar look at a lower price point, while framed enclosures (the most budget-friendly choice) can complement traditional bathroom styles.
Selecting Tiles and Materials
Your choice of tiles and materials impacts your shower’s durability and aesthetics. Large-format tiles are popular due to their luxurious look and easier maintenance (fewer grout lines to clean). Porcelain tiles excel as an all-rounder, offering excellent water resistance and a wide range of design options. For a touch of luxury, add a feature wall with mosaic tiles or natural stone.
Grout selection matters too. Epoxy grout, while pricier, offers superior water resistance and durability compared to traditional cement-based grouts. This can save you money and hassle in the long run by preventing water damage and mold growth.
Incorporating Smart Storage Solutions
A well-designed shower combines looks with functionality. Built-in niches provide a sleek way to store your shower essentials without cluttering your space. Consider a double-tiered niche to separate your products from your partner’s. If space allows, a built-in bench not only provides a spot to sit but can also double as additional storage.
For those who prefer a minimalist look, try installing a sliding shower shelf system. These can be easily adjusted or removed for cleaning, offering flexibility that built-in solutions can’t match.
Lighting and Ventilation
Proper lighting enhances the shower experience and adds to the overall ambiance of your bathroom. Consider installing waterproof LED lights (either recessed or as part of a showerhead) for a spa-like atmosphere. Don’t forget about ventilation – a good exhaust fan is essential to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
The next step in your shower remodel journey involves addressing practical considerations that ensure your new shower not only looks great but functions flawlessly for years to come.
The Nuts and Bolts of Shower Remodeling
Waterproofing: Your First Line of Defense
Water damage threatens every bathroom. Proper waterproofing is essential. In Australia, waterproofing must comply with Australian Standard AS 3740-2010. This standard provides detailed requirements for waterproofing in wet areas, including shower areas, areas outside showers, and areas adjacent to baths and spas.
We suggest a liquid membrane waterproofing system. It offers flexibility, seamlessness, and applicability to various surfaces. Don’t cut corners on this step – poor waterproofing leads to expensive repairs later.
For shower floors, a pre-sloped shower pan improves drainage and reduces water pooling risks. Combine this with a linear drain for a sleek look and better water flow.
Plumbing: The Hidden Hero
Upgrading your shower’s plumbing improves more than leaks. It enhances water pressure and temperature control.
Install a thermostatic mixing valve to maintain constant water temperature, prevent scalding, and improve comfort. This valve provides essential safety for families with young children or elderly members.
Digital shower systems offer the latest in shower technology. These systems provide precise temperature control and even allow operation via smartphone apps.
Efficiency: Save Water, Save Money
Water efficiency matters in Australia. The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme helps consumers choose water-efficient products. The WELS standard details the criteria for testing, rating, and labelling products regulated under the scheme. Select showerheads with a high WELS rating – they reduce water consumption significantly without compromising your shower experience.
Low-flow showerheads have evolved. Modern designs use air-induction technology to maintain strong water pressure while using less water. Some models save up to 40% of water compared to standard showerheads.
For eco-conscious individuals, shower systems with pause buttons offer additional water savings. These systems allow temporary water flow stoppage while lathering up, further reducing water waste.
A well-executed shower remodel involves more than aesthetics – it requires quality work behind the tiles. Focus on these practical considerations to create a shower that looks great and functions flawlessly for years.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom shower remodel transforms your daily life and boosts your home’s value. You’ll enjoy increased functionality, better water efficiency, and potentially lower utility bills with a modernized shower. A well-executed remodel turns your daily routine into a spa-like retreat, providing a more relaxing and luxurious bathing experience.
Professional expertise often proves essential for complex shower remodel tasks. At Cameron Construction, we bring decades of experience to every project (including bathroom shower remodels). Our team of skilled designers, engineers, and craftsmen ensures your vision comes to life while adhering to Australian building standards and regulations.
A shower remodel invests in your home and daily comfort. Quality materials and professional execution create a shower space that meets your immediate needs and delights for years to come. Whether you want a sleek, modern walk-in shower or a luxurious double shower setup, the right remodel can turn your bathroom into a true oasis within your home.
