5 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Bathroom Remodel
A bathroom remodel can completely refresh your home—if it’s done right. Whether you're
updating a primary bath in Fargo, renovating a guest bath in Moorhead, or upgrading a
lakeside retreat in West Central Minnesota, there are a few common missteps that can turn
your dream project into a nightmare.
Here are the top 5 mistakes we see homeowners make—and how to avoid them:
Mistake #1: Not Setting a Realistic Budget
What happens: You fall in love with high-end finishes, only to realize halfway through the
project that the budget doesn’t stretch that far.
How to avoid it:
● Decide early what your must-haves are.
● Set aside 10–15% of your total budget for unexpected costs (especially important in
older lake homes where surprises behind walls are common).
● Ask your contractor for transparent pricing and clear estimates before you start.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Function for Style
What happens: You choose a trendy sink or tub, but it’s uncomfortable or hard to clean.
How to avoid it:
● Think about how you actually use the space.
● Prioritize functionality: storage, water pressure, slip-resistant flooring, and good lighting
are more important than ultra-trendy fixtures.
● In cabins or lake homes, opt for materials that stand up to humidity and seasonal use.
Mistake #3: Poor Ventilation Planning
What happens: Your beautiful new bathroom develops mold or peeling paint.
How to avoid it:
● Always include a quality exhaust fan, even in small or half-bath remodels.
● In homes near lakes, where moisture hangs in the air longer, this is especially crucial.
● Pro tip: Look for fans with timers or humidity sensors for a smarter setup.
Mistake #4: DIY-ing Beyond Your Skillset
What happens: You try to save money by doing it all yourself—only to end up with leaky
plumbing or crooked tile.
How to avoid it:
● Hire licensed professionals for plumbing, electrical, and structural work.
● Do your own painting or fixture shopping if you’re comfortable—but let the experts
handle the rest.
● A bad DIY job can cost more to fix later than it would to do right the first time.
Mistake #5: Overlooking the Little Details
What happens: You focus so much on big items (tub, vanity, tile) that you forget practical
details like towel bars, outlets, or toilet paper holders.
How to avoid it:
● Walk through your new space mentally—where will you plug in a hair dryer? Where will
wet towels go?
● Your contractor can help you plan these out ahead of time so the room feels finished
and intentional.
Build It Right the First Time
At Cornerstone Remodeling, we help homeowners across Fargo, Moorhead, and the Lakes
Area avoid these common pitfalls by guiding the entire remodeling process—from initial design
to final walkthrough.
Whether you’re tackling a cozy powder room or a full primary bath overhaul, we bring local
expertise, trusted craftsmanship, and a commitment to doing it right.
Ready to remodel smart? Contact us for a no-pressure consultation and let’s make your
bathroom remodel smooth, stylish, and stress-free.
