7 Signs Your Bathroom Needs an Upgrade & What To Do About It

This comprehensive Big Bathroom Shop guide highlights seven key signs your bathroom needs an upgrade, including visible wear and tear, outdated fixtures, inefficient layouts, unruly and unsightly mould and more.

It provides practical solutions and tips for combatting each sign, ensuring your bathroom becomes more functional and luxurious and expert tips to help you plan your renovation effectively and boost your home’s value.

Knowing when to upgrade your bathroom

Upgrading your bathroom can dramatically improve your home’s functionality, aesthetic, and overall value.

But how do you know when it’s time to give your bathroom the makeover it deserves? 

Here, we explore seven signs your bathroom needs an upgrade and what you can do to make the improvements.

7 sure signs that you need a bathroom upgrade

1. Visible Wear and Tear

Cracked tiles or grout

Cracked tiles or deteriorating grout can lead to significant water damage over time. Water can seep through any cracks, reaching the underlying layers and cause mould growth, wood rot, or more serious structural damage. 

This can result in expensive repairs, compromised indoor air quality, and potential health hazards for you and your family.

Furthermore, it can negatively impact your bathroom’s aesthetics, reducing your home’s overall appeal and value. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for preventing more extensive damage and preserving your home’s integrity.

What’s the solution?

To fix cracked tiles or deteriorating grout, start by carefully removing and replacing any damaged tiles. 

Choose replacement tiles that match the existing design or consider upgrading to newer, more durable (or maybe colourful) options. 

For deteriorating grout, remove the old material using a grout saw or rotary tool, then apply new grout – using either a waterproof epoxy grout or a polymer modified grout for improved longevity. 

If water damage has already occurred, inspect the subfloor and replace any compromised sections before installing your new tiles. 

Finally, apply a high-quality sealant to protect the grout and tiles from future damage, to ensure your bathroom remains watertight and visually appealing.

Peeling Paint or Wallpaper

Peeling paint or wallpaper is often a sign of excessive moisture and poor ventilation in a bathroom. 

Moisture can cause paint to bubble and wallpaper to peel, creating unsightly blemishes and leaving surfaces exposed to further water damage. 

This can lead to the growth of mould and mildew, compromise air quality and lead to health risks. 

In severe cases, moisture may penetrate deeper, causing wood rot or damage the drywall beneath. 

The overall effect is a bathroom that looks neglected and unappealing, potentially diminishing the room’s value and desirability. 

Addressing the issue promptly is critical to maintaining your bathroom, preventing structural damage, and ensuring a healthy environment for you and your family.

What’s the solution?

To fix peeling paint or wallpaper in a bathroom, start by improving the ventilation of the space.

Install or upgrade your extractor fan to reduce moisture levels and ensure proper air circulation. 

For peeling paint, scrape off the damaged paint using a putty knife or paint scraper, then sand the area till it’s nice and smooth. 

Apply a high-quality primer designed for high-moisture areas before you repaint the wall with a moisture-resistant paint with a semi-gloss or satin finish.

For peeling wallpaper, carefully strip away the damaged section using a putty knife and wallpaper remover solution – or a simple spray of water should help. 

Clean the wall surface to remove any leftover adhesive residue and repair any cracks or damage that you may come across. 

Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a mould-resistant primer – as these are ideal for a bathroom wall. 

Reapply the wallpaper using a strong adhesive designed for high-humidity environments, or consider switching to a moisture-resistant paint to prevent future issues.

Ultimately, the higher the quality of paint or wallpaper you use in your bathroom, the less chance there is of issues occurring. So, if you can, don’t scrimp on these items to ensure long-lasting use and durability.

Check out our guide to removing bathroom mould for more tips and tricks for fixing this common bathroom problem.

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2. Persistent Plumbing Problems

Leaky taps and pipework

Leaky taps or pipes in a bathroom can have significant consequences – and not just for your eardrums!

Continuous dripping often leads to wasted water and higher utility bills, while water stains around dripping fixtures are unsightly and suggest potential damage to underlying structures. 

Left untreated, leaks can cause mould and mildew growth, which compromises indoor air quality and poses health risks. 

Over time, water infiltration can lead to wood rot, warped flooring, and structural deterioration, resulting in expensive repairs that you can just live without. 

Additionally, the persistent sound of dripping water can be irritating, reducing the comfort and appeal of your bathroom. 

What’s the solution?

Addressing leaks promptly is crucial for preventing extensive damage and maintaining a functional, attractive bathroom environment.

For fixing dripping taps, you can visit our guide to fixing a leaky tap, or try any of the tips below.

Replace worn-out washers or cartridges

For compression taps, worn-out washers are often the culprits of a leak. Replace them with new ones of the correct size.

For cartridge based bathroom taps (single-handle or dual-handle), replacing the cartridge is usually effective in preventing a drip.

Re-tighten loose parts

Check the tap’s handle and spout for any loose screws or connections and tighten them.

Sounds simple, but the most effective things often are.

Buy a new tap

If internal corrosion or severe wear is evident, replacing the tap might be more cost-effective than making smaller repairs – particularly if you’ve made the repairs over and over again.

Check out our full range of bathroom taps and brassware for an inspirational new look.

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Fixing leaky pipework

For fixing a leaky pipe, there are a few steps to take – and many you can complete yourself before consulting a professional.

Identify the source of the leak

Examine the joints, fittings, and pipe lengths to locate the exact source of the leak. This should give you a good idea as to whether you can get the job done yourself, or whether you will need to call a plumber. 

Tighten loose connections

Loose compression fittings can often cause leaks. Tighten the nuts securely but avoid over-tightening as this can cause more damage and lead to greater expense. 

Use pipe sealants or tape

Apply plumber’s tape (PTFE tape) or a pipe joint compound to threaded joints for a watertight seal.

Replace damaged sections

If the pipe or fitting is cracked, replace it entirely. For copper pipes, use compression fittings or soldering. PVC pipes can be replaced using solvent cement and couplings.

Install a pipe patch kit

For temporary fixes, use a pipe patch kit or an epoxy putty to seal small cracks.

Consult a professional plumber

For extensive leaks or inaccessible pipes, or for anything you’re even a little unsure of fixing yourself, consult a plumber to ensure comprehensive and accurate repairs.

Slow drains or clogged toilets

Slow drains or clogged toilets can significantly impact a bathroom’s functionality and hygiene – not to mention just how annoying they can be.

Improper drainage leads to standing water, creating the perfect environment for foul odours and mould. 

Clogged toilets can also overflow, causing water damage to flooring and other bathroom fixtures – along with a hell of a mess to have to clean up. 

Frequent blockages may also suggest ageing pipes or potential blockages in the plumbing system, which could require costly repairs or even replacements if left untreated. 

Moreover, dealing with these issues regularly can be frustrating and inconvenient, reducing the overall appeal and usability of your bathroom. 

Addressing any problems promptly will ensure a hygienic, pleasant, and efficient bathroom environment while preventing any further structural damage.

What’s the solution?

Slow drains can sometimes be fixed very easily. Try the tips below to get the job done. 

Plunger

Use a plunger to create suction and dislodge any blockage in the pipework.

Drain snake

Insert a drain snake into the drain to break up or retrieve the blockage. You can pick up a drain snake or ‘plumbing auger’ from some local supermarkets or a specialised DIY store. 

Baking soda and vinegar

This is a classic home made remedy for fixing slow drainage and many other things too. Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water to dissolve any clogs.

Chemical drain cleaner

If your home made solution doesn’t do the trick, you can use a commercial drain cleaner to dissolve grease and hair buildup. Caustic soda may be a good option, but care should be used when doing so, and you should try to use it sparingly due to potential pipe damage.

Clean the bottle-trap

Remove and clean the bottle-trap (U-shaped pipe) under the sink to clear any accumulated debris. Oftentimes giving this a clean out will fix drainage issues right away. 

Clogged toilet cleaning

Clearing clogged toilets can sometimes be a messy business, but there are a few things you can try to get the job done before calling in the experts. 

Plunger

As with your basin or bathtub drain, using a flange or cup plunger to create a seal and dislodge the blockage with strong, consistent plunges may do the trick.

Toilet auger

Similar to the basin drain snake, you could insert a toilet auger into the drain to break up or pull out any blockage causing an issue.

Hot water and washing up liquid

Pour hot water and dish soap into the toilet to soften the clog and make plunging more effective.

Baking soda & vinegar

Pour baking soda and vinegar into the toilet bowl to help break up any problematic material causing the clog.

Chemical toilet cleaner

Use a specialised toilet cleaner to dissolve away any organic blockages. 

Visit our helpful guide

Take a look at our “how to unblock a toilet” guide for extra help with getting your toilet unblocked.

Consult a Plumber

For persistent or severe clogs – and if everything you try fails – consult a professional plumber to identify and resolve the root cause, particularly if you think it may involve sewer line blockages or ageing pipes.

3. Outdated fixtures and features

Old toilets, baths and basins

Older toilets, basins and bathtubs can significantly affect a bathroom’s appearance and functionality. 

More dated models will often lack modern water-efficient features, leading to higher water consumption and increased utility bills. 

Stains, discolouration, and outdated designs can all make the bathroom look shabby and unappealing, diminishing its overall aesthetic and appeal.

Furthermore, older fixtures might not provide the same level of comfort or hygiene as modern ones, potentially affecting user experience. 

If left unaddressed, these issues can reduce your bathroom’s desirability, ultimately impacting the overall value of your home and its attractiveness to potential buyers – not to mention your enjoyment when spending time in there. 

Upgrading to modern, efficient fixtures can enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of your bathroom space, and make it a more pleasurable place to be.

What’s the solution?

Improving Toilets

To improve the look and operation of your toilet, there are several options to consider. Some cost more than others, but however you may go about it, all will enhance the look and feel of your space.

Replace with a low-flow toilet

Modern low-flow toilets use significantly less water than older designs, helping to reduce water usage and lowering bills.

Dual-Flush toilet installation

Dual-flush toilets offer two flush options: a half-flush for liquids and a full-flush for solids, saving water based on how you use the toilet.

Upgrade your toilet seat and flush

For a lower cost upgrade, you can easily replace old toilet seats with soft-close seats and update outdated flush handles for a fresh look.

Fix stains and leaks

For an even lower cost way to instantly update your toilet, you could clean mineral deposits with vinegar or use specialised cleaning products to remove more stubborn stains. You could also repair or replace worn-out flappers, washers, or fill valves to stop leaks and ensure smoother operation too.

Old bath upgrades

Old bath upgrade solutions are perhaps more varied than many people may think, with options ranging from a complete refinish or reglaze, converting the space or installing a liner to improve the look. We review these in a little more detail below. 

Refinishing or reglazing

Professional refinishing or reglazing can restore the surface of your bathtub, making it look new again.

Replace with a new bath

Consider a modern bathtub that fits the bathroom’s design and is more water-efficient.

Convert to a shower

If your bath rarely sees any use, you could convert it into a walk-in shower to save space and improve water efficiency, as showers use far less water than a bath.

Upgrade fixtures & brassware

Replace old basin and bath taps and showerheads with more modern, water-efficient models that enhance the appearance of your bathtub space and offer more functionality.

4. Lack of Storage Space

Insufficient storage in a bathroom often leads to cluttered countertops and overstuffed drawers, creating a disorganised and chaotic environment. 

This frustrating and messy clutter can make daily routines less efficient and more time consuming, as essentials like toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies become harder to find. 

A lack of organisation also ruins your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal, making it look untidy and often smaller than it actually is. 

And the absence of proper storage can also worsen any hygiene issues, as products left on counters are exposed to moisture and bacteria. 

Overall, a lack of storage space impacts your bathroom’s functionality, appearance, and user experience, potentially reducing the room’s appeal for you and your visitors, while also affecting your home’s value.

What’s the solution?

Inadequate bathroom storage can be frustrating, as the UK has some of the smallest bathrooms in Europe, but you can introduce several integrated solutions that optimise space and enhance the overall functionality of your bathroom. 

If you have a pedestal sink, the installation of a vanity with built-in drawers and shelves can quickly create a central hub for storing a variety of bathroom essentials. 

This can be particularly beneficial in larger family bathrooms, where a more substantial double vanity won’t overpower the space. 

Drawer organisers within your vanity can further enhance this additional storage by providing space for smaller items, making them easy to find and keeping countertops clear.

Adding floating shelves and wall-mounted cabinets makes use of vertical space very effectively and is ideal for bathrooms of any size. 

You could quickly install these above the toilet or next to the shower, providing convenient access to towels and toiletries without taking up floor space. This is particularly useful in smaller bathrooms where floor space is at a premium. 

Combining the installation of floating shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and a medicine cabinet with a mirror can all be done in one go to save time and effort.

Over-the-toilet storage units and corner shelving are another practical solution for making use of overlooked spaces in the bathroom. 

These options are cost-effective and can be installed quickly, offering immediate relief from frustrating bathroom clutter. 

For more temporary solutions, a rolling cart can provide mobile storage that can be moved as and when you need it, making it perfect for part time solution while you plan a more permanent fix. 

Shower caddies and built-in alcoves are excellent for organising shampoos and soaps directly in the shower area and are an ever growing addition to the more modern shower spaces we see. 

Installing these alongside larger projects like vanity replacement or during minor renovations can maximise efficiency, ensuring that all storage needs are addressed in a single project.

Lastly, adding towel racks, hooks, or bars can be one of the most cost-effective and simple changes to enhance bathroom storage.

Placed on the back of the bathroom door or on available wall space, they offer convenient towel storage and can be installed quite easily, or perhaps an upgrade to your bathroom accessories could be the answer to giving your space a facelift. 

Combining these smaller installations with larger projects not only saves time but also drastically improves the functionality and appearance of your bathroom, making it a more enjoyable space.

By planning these improvements together, you can create cohesive bathroom storage solutions that not only saves time during installation but also provides a cost-effective way to enhance your bathroom’s usability and aesthetic.

To find vanity unit storage, take a look at our bathroom furniture page for a wide range of solutions for small and large bathrooms alike.

5. Poor ventilation and mould growth

Excessive Humidity

Excessive humidity in a bathroom can lead to several issues that affect both the structure and the usability of the space. When ventilation is inadequate, humidity builds up and can impact the space in a number of ways. 

Fogged Mirrors

Excessive moisture in the bathroom causes condensation on cooler surfaces, like mirrors, making them foggy. This can be inconvenient, requiring frequent wiping and cleaning to maintain visibility.

Persistent mould growth

Perhaps the most serious issue associated with high bathroom humidity is the growth of mould and mildew. These fungi thrive in moist environments and can spread on walls, ceilings, and grout. 

Mould presents health risks, particularly respiratory issues, and can emit unpleasant odours too. And while it may look harmless enough, it can cause permanent damage to surfaces, resulting in costly repairs.

Wood and structural damage

Excessive bathroom moisture can also penetrate into your woodwork and other structural components, causing warping, swelling, and deterioration over time. This compromises the integrity of your bathroom’s structure and can lead to significant repair costs if left to fester.

Decreased comfort and hygiene 

High humidity levels can make your bathroom feel clammy and uncomfortable. It can also extend drying times for towels and bathmats, contributing to a musty smell and reduced hygiene. You can learn more about the importance of cleaning bathmats in our guide.

What’s the solution?

To effectively combat excessive moisture and humidity in your bathroom, several strategies can be used to ensure a dry and comfortable environment. 

Firstly, improving bathroom ventilation is crucial. 

Installing a high-quality extractor fan that vents to the outside is essential for removing moist air efficiently during and after showers and hot baths. 

For bathrooms that lack adequate ventilation or are without windows, a portable dehumidifier could also be a valuable addition that will help to lower humidity levels by extracting moisture directly from the air.

You might also consider upgrading bathroom fixtures to include low-flow showerheads and taps. These reduce the amount of water used and with it the volume of moisture released into the air. 

Complementing this with moisture-resistant materials can further safeguard your bathroom to damage. 

Applying moisture-resistant paint to walls and ceilings and using vinyl-coated wallpaper can prevent water absorption and discourage mould growth, while sealing tile grout can also reduce the risk of unwanted fungus too. 

Regular maintenance routines play a pivotal role in managing your bathroom’s humidity too. 

This can include promptly fixing any leaks and ensuring surfaces are kept dry and regularly cleaning your exhaust fan to sustain its efficiency. 

Additionally, heated towel rails and underfloor heating can aid in quickly drying out the space, further limiting moisture buildup.

Being smart and consistent with your bathroom habits can also make a significant difference. 

Keeping shower doors or curtains closed during use will localise moisture release, and wiping down walls with a squeegee after showers can drastically reduce the water residue that contributes to humidity. 

Lastly, you should run your extractor fan for an extended period after you bathe or shower is finished to ensure all excess humidity is thoroughly vented from the space. Leave it on for a good 20 minutes to make a difference. 

By implementing these strategies collectively, you can dramatically enhance the durability of your bathroom fixtures and surfaces while maintaining a more hygienic and pleasant bathroom environment.

6. Inefficient bathroom layout

An inefficient layout, cramped space, and incorrectly sized bathroom furniture and fixtures can significantly detract from the overall functionality and aesthetic appeal of your bathroom. 

Layout inefficiency can also make it difficult to use the bathroom effectively. For example, if the toilet is placed too close to the wall or the door, it can make access uncomfortable. 

Similarly, large vanity units in a small space can hinder movement and make the bathroom feel cramped and claustrophobic. This can lead to daily frustrations and a less user-friendly experience.

In cramped spaces, the risk of accidents increases. People may easily bump into furniture or slip if there’s insufficient room to manoeuvre, especially in wet conditions. This is particularly concerning in households with elderly residents or children, where safety is paramount.

A bathroom that’s cluttered with oversized furniture or has a layout that doesn’t use space efficiently tends to look disorganised and smaller than it actually is. This can affect the overall visual appeal, making the bathroom less inviting and relaxing.

Inefficient bathroom layout often fails to meet the needs of all users too, particularly for those with mobility issues. This can include insufficient space to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers, or fixtures that are not within easy reach for all users.

Bathrooms are a significant factor in a home’s value and appeal too. A bathroom that appears too small, cluttered, or awkwardly laid out can be a turn-off to potential buyers and could lower your home’s marketability and resale value.

Homeowners may face higher costs when needing to modify or completely overhaul a poorly designed bathroom. Changing the layout, replacing oversized furniture, and making the space more functional can require substantial investment.

To avoid these pitfalls, it’s advisable to focus on smart planning and design. This might include choosing space-saving fixtures, optimising the placement of elements to enhance flow of the space, and selecting furniture that is proportionate to the size of the bathroom. 

Using reflective surfaces, adequate lighting, and cohesive design elements can also help make the space feel larger.

What’s the solution?

Addressing an inefficient bathroom layout can sometimes require a comprehensive approach to redesigning the space to maximise its utility, safety, and aesthetic appeal. And in some cases, a decent budget for a complete overhaul is recommended.

Start by re-evaluating the layout with the help of a professional designer or interior specialist who can suggest ways to optimise the placement of fixtures. 

For instance, introducing space-saving elements such as wall-hung toilets or corner sinks can open up the floor area, making the room feel larger and more accessible.

Incorporating a walk-in shower without a threshold can further improve accessibility while also contributing to a sleek, modern look that can enlarge the visual space.

Aesthetically, a cohesive design theme using harmonious colours and materials can unify the space and enhance its visual appeal, while adding mirrors and strategic lighting can make the bathroom appear brighter and more spacious. 

Reflective surfaces, in particular, can amplify light and create a sense of depth, while adequate lighting ensures that the bathroom is both functional and inviting.

For storage, built-in solutions like recessed shelves or cabinets can be really important in completing the look and improving functionality. 

They provide necessary storage without encroaching on the limited space. Modular and flexible design elements, such as adjustable shelving, can offer versatility and adaptability, adjusting to your needs without requiring complete overhauls.

Finally, consider the financial and logistical aspects of remodelling your bathroom. 

Establishing a clear budget with a contingency for unforeseen costs can help manage expenses effectively. If budget constraints are an issue, phasing the renovation work will allow for spreading out the cost over time, starting with the most critical improvements first. 

This strategic approach not only ensures that all elements work harmoniously together but also avoids the disruption of complete overhauls, making the renovation process smoother and more manageable.

Through these connected and strategic improvements, you can transform an inefficient bathroom into a functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing space, ultimately enhancing both the day-to-day use and the long-term value of your home.

7 – Outdated design and decor

Outdated design and decor in a bathroom, such as styles prominent in the 1970s or 1980s, can significantly impact the overall appeal and functionality of your home. 

When a bathroom features dated decor, it not only appears less attractive but can also make the entire space feel old and neglected. This perception can extend to the rest of the home, affecting how guests and potential buyers may view the property.

There are a few other important impacts to outdated bathroom decor too. 

Aesthetic Impact

Bathrooms with outdated decor often use colours, patterns, and materials that were popular in past decades but now seem out of place with contemporary design trends. 

This clash can disrupt the visual flow between rooms if the rest of the house has been updated or has a more modern feel.

Financial Impact

From a property value perspective, bathrooms are a critical selling point in homes.

An outdated bathroom may decrease your home’s market value and could potentially deter buyers who are looking for a ‘move-in-ready’ property.

Modernising the bathroom can therefore be seen as an investment that increases both your property’s aesthetic appeal and its marketability.

Functional Impact

Decor from decades ago may not just impact style but also functionality.

Older bathrooms might not be designed to accommodate modern fixtures and amenities that enhance efficiency, such as low-flow toilets or spacious walk-in showers.

The layout and functionality designed for years gone by can feel limiting and impractical today.

Emotional Impact

The state of a bathroom can significantly affect the daily experience of those using it.

A fresh, modern bathroom can make mornings more pleasant and relaxing, while an outdated one might evoke a sense of discomfort and frustration, or a desire for quick renovations.

I know that I got very frustrated when I first moved to my current home, as the bath we had just wasn’t fit for purpose (though I was probably carrying a bit too much weight to be comfortable in it!).

How we feel about the home we live in can have untold effects on our mental health and wellbeing – so making changes can be very beneficial.

What’s the solution?

You can reduce the impact of outdated bathroom decor by updating the space to align with current trends and styles. 

This can include installing new tiles, modern plumbing fixtures, contemporary lighting, and a colour scheme that reflects more modern tastes and styles.

Such updates not only enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the bathroom but also bring it in line with the rest of a modernised home, creating a cohesive look and feel that you enjoy spending time in.

Let the renovation of your bathroom begin!

Now that we’ve identified the various signs that your bathroom needs an upgrade, prioritising your next steps is crucial to ensure an efficient renovation process that improves both function and value. 

Begin by addressing any issues that pose immediate risks to your health and home, such as water damage from leaks or mould growth due to excess humidity.

These not only affect the integrity of your bathroom but can also have broader impacts on your living space.

Next, consider updates that enhance daily usability and safety, especially in homes with elderly residents or small children.

Upgrading to non-slip flooring, installing grab bars, and optimising the space for accessibility can make a significant difference in the functionality of your bathroom.

For aesthetic improvements, replacing outdated fixtures and addressing inefficient layouts should follow.

These changes not only make your bathroom more visually appealing but can also increase its marketability and the overall value of your home.

When planning these updates, think about incorporating modern, water-efficient fixtures to reduce future utility costs and support environmental sustainability.

As you plan these improvements, look to integrate solutions that can be addressed simultaneously to save both time, effort and budget. 

For example, while updating the plumbing fixtures, it might be efficient to also enhance the ventilation system to combat moisture-related issues. 

Choosing space-saving furniture and fixtures can resolve both storage issues and cramped layouts in one go.

For detailed information on products for your bathroom renovation, from stylish and efficient fixtures to space-saving solutions, visit www.bigbathroomshop.co.uk. 

You’ll find a range of options that cater to different needs and preferences, and in our helpful buying guides there is a wealth of experience and knowledge to help you make informed decisions as you upgrade your bathroom.

Good luck!

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