Your Guide to Stress-Free Bathroom Renovations in Wellington
A bathroom renovation is an exciting opportunity to transform what we think is one of the most important spaces in your home.
At Ka Pai Plumbing, we know that homeowners want their renovations to be completed to a high standard and delivered stress-free.
Here’s our take on a step-by-step guide to help you plan your dream bathroom and avoid common mistakes we’ve seen before.
Step 1: Set a Budget
Start by deciding how much you want to spend on the whole renovation. Are you going for a quick facelift? Or are you shifting things around that require the plumbing to be moved and a builder to put new walls in?
We think the biggest decision in a bathroom is deciding if and how much of the room will have tiles. Tiling (when done correctly) is heavenly but it can be very expensive.
Here’s a checklist we’ve prepared of things to consider.
Budget Checklist
Materials
Wall coverings - tiles, acrylic shower box, painted walls.
Flooring - tiles, wood, vinyl
Fixtures - basin, basin tap, slide shower, showerhead, shower mixer, bath, bath taps, bath mixer,
Cabinetry - vanity, cupboard
Heated towel rail or bars
Trades
Plumber
Builder
Electrician
Tiler or acrylic shower installer
Sometimes simple is best. A classic tiled shower we completed for a customer with chrome fixtures, white subway tiles and a glass return.
Step 2: Define Your Style and Functionality
Think about how you use your bathroom daily. Do you need extra storage for a growing family and a bath for the kids? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a luxurious retreat with a big monsoon shower and brushed brass fixtures? Collect inspiration - we love a good Pinterest board!
If you want us to suggest anything or provide recommendations, just let us know. We often source fixture options for customers based on pictures or descriptions of what they’d like along with the budget they have.
Our preferred plumbing supplier is Zip Plumbing who have a great selection of popular brands but we’re happy to work with another supplier if they don’t have what you’d like.
Step 3: Choose the Right Team
The success of your bathroom renovation hinges on having the right team.
Ka Pai Plumbing offers a comprehensive plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting service. Our experience and attention to detail mean your bathroom will be both functional and beautiful.
We’ve also got a bunch of trade partners who we completely trust and are happy to recommend. We work with this team of specialist builders, tilers, electricians regularly on similar projects so we all know what to expect of each other.
Step 4: Plan Your Timeline
Renovations can disrupt your daily routine, so it’s important to have a clear timeline. A typical bathroom renovation takes 2-6 weeks, depending on the complexity. We’ll work with you to schedule the plumbing stages efficiently, minimising downtime. Not a huge issue if you’ve got a spare bathroom but if this is the main bathroom, it could be out of action for a few weeks.
Step 5: Focus on the Details
It’s the small things that make a big difference. Consider:
Energy-efficient fixtures to reduce water and power bills.
Smart storage solutions for a clutter-free bathroom.
Quality fixtures and finishes that stand the test of time.
A hot water system upgrade if your shower pressure isn’t great.
Step 6: Prepare for the Unexpected
We don’t like surprises in our renovations but sometimes they’re unavoidable especially if you’re in an older home. Like a pipe that needs replacing that we didn’t see until we took off your old wall linings.
At Ka Pai Plumbing, we’re equipped to handle these challenges and keep your project on track. When we complete our initial site visit to quote your renovation we’ll be as through as possible to minimise any potential surprises for everyone.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovations in Wellington
1. How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Wellington? Costs vary depending on size, materials, and scope. A full renovation typically ranges from $15,000 to $30,000.
2. Do I need consent for a bathroom renovation in Wellington? Simple upgrades usually don’t require consent, but structural changes, tiling or moving plumbing may.
3. How long will my bathroom be out of action? On average, 2-6 weeks. We’ll coordinate with other trades to keep the project moving smoothly.
4. Can I save money by doing some of the work myself? We love a good DIY and DIY can save costs on cosmetic updates, but plumbing and electrical work should be done by licensed professionals to ensure safety and compliance.
Ready to Start Your Bathroom Renovation?
Ka Pai Plumbing is here to make your bathroom renovation in Wellington seamless and stress-free. Fill out our website form today, and let’s bring your dream bathroom to life!