Top 5 Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Among home improvements, bathroom remodeling provides some of the highest returns. It boosts property value, improves energy efficiency, and transforms a daily-use space into a peaceful retreat. Many real estate agents believe that renovating a bathroom is a smart choice. It can provide homeowners in the United States with a good return on investment.

At ADS Building and Remodeling, we have done many high-quality bathroom renovations in Illinois. We work from Glen Ellyn to Lombard and beyond. Along the way, we’ve seen both successful remodels and costly mistakes.

To help you avoid overspending and a poorly designed space, here are the top five bathroom remodeling mistakes. Get practical tips to prevent these issues.

1. Skipping the Planning Stage

It might sound obvious, but many homeowners jump into a remodel without a clear plan. Successful bathroom remodeling requires more than aesthetic decisions. It includes layout, plumbing, lighting, and water supply. You also need to follow local building codes.

Our tip:

Start with a professional design consultation. Even a small bathroom can feel spacious and functional when properly designed. We help homeowners create detailed layouts before any demolition begins, giving them peace of mind from day one.

2. Choosing the Wrong Materials

Bathrooms require specific considerations. High humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and constant water exposure mean that not every material will last. Cheap products may look good initially, but they often fail long term.

Our tip:

Select durable, moisture-resistant products:

• Walk-in showers with slip-resistant tile for safety.
• Quality water heaters to ensure consistent comfort.
• Solid light fixtures that hold up in humid conditions.
• Finishes that balance interior design style with longevity.

At ADS Building and Remodeling, we guide clients toward materials that combine beauty, durability, and energy efficiency.

3. Overlooking Ventilation

It is easy to focus on visible upgrades like tile or faucets, but overlooking ventilation can cause major issues. Without proper airflow, bathrooms quickly develop mold, mildew, and poor indoor air quality.

Our tip:

Swap out outdated fans for a high-performance model. Modern systems are quiet, powerful, and can even include humidity sensors or built-in lighting. Proper ventilation ensures good indoor air quality and helps protect your investment.

4. Ignoring the True Cost of Remodeling

Bathroom renovations often cost more than homeowners expect. Hidden plumbing issues, outdated water supply lines, or structural damage can add unplanned expenses.

Our tip:

Always include a 10–15% contingency in your budget. Work with a contractor who provides clear estimates, explains valuation tools for cost breakdowns, and communicates openly. At ADS Building and Remodeling, we keep transparency from start to finish, so you never feel caught off guard.

5. Hiring the Wrong Contractor

Hiring an unqualified or careless contractor can be the most expensive mistake of all. Clients have called us in to fix leaky walk-in showers, incorrectly installed fixtures, and incomplete tiling jobs.

Our tip:

Conduct a thorough contractor review. Check references, confirm licensing, and make sure your contractor understands building codes and local requirements. At ADS Building and Remodeling, we deliver high-quality workmanship that gives you peace of mind and lasting results.

Final Thoughts:

A successful bathroom remodel is about more than appearances. It is about energy-efficient design, good planning, and quality installation. This keeps your home functional and beautiful for years.

No matter the size of your bathroom, ADS Building and Remodeling can help. Whether it's a small bathroom or a large master suite, they have the skills and experience to do the job right.

We serve Glen Ellyn, Elmwood Park, Bolingbrook, Lombard, and more. We make your bathroom remodeling project easy and stress-free.

Ready to begin? Contact us today for a free consultation. Learn how to boost your home’s value and enjoy peace of mind.