Are You Planning a Bathroom? Know where to Splurge and Where to Save

Planning a bathroom ? whether you're renovating, refurbishing, or planning from the start ? is often considered a very difficult project, for many reasons. First of all, you're dealing with an area that everyone uses to perform the necessities, so having it out of operation for even a short time is a great inconvenience. Secondly, there are many factors to consider (for example: plumbing, solidity and structure, electrical wiring, and space considerations). Thirdly, and very importantly, there's the budget to consider.

Here's the good news: when it comes to the budget, there are many ways in which experts can guide you. It's all about priorit'sing. Are you planning a bathroom? Find out where to splurge and where to save.

Where to splurge

Think of the following as great investments:

• Sanitary ware. You may be able to find cheap alternatives, but when it comes to the truly important items ? the toilet, the basin, and so on ? you want to make sure they are made of quality materials.
• Brassware. It's one of those tricky things. Brassware always looks good when it's new, but you can easily distinguish between the low and high quality over time. Beware of cheap brassware.
• Heating. Heating is a vital point, for the water and for the room. I'vest in it.

Where to save

Here's where you can watch the budget:

• Accessories. They need not be high-priced, especially when you're the kind who likes to change them once in a while. Adding a splash of colour with variously-coloured towels can do wonders for the atmosphere.
• Tiles. Tiles are great, but they are expensive. There are some very realistic stone or wood effect floors available on the market that you might want to consider. The only true requirement is that it is safe and waterproof.
• Showers and baths. The shower, like the bath, needs to be a great one; it's only proper that it brings value to your house and that it provides luxury. However, there are many brands and models of shower cabins out there, and by looking around carefully, you can certainly stay within budget.

It'should be mentioned, however, that'saving does not equate to cutting corners or choosing the cheapest available on the market. You have to make sure that you get what you want ? and when it comes to bathrooms in particular, there is no excuse for not putting quality at the top of your list. You don't always need not have the most expensive model available, but it'should be functional and comfortable. Your bathroom is important. Make it the best it can be.