Scott McGillivray Is Begging You To Not Fall For This HGTV Trick With Bathroom Renovation

A well-designed bathroom can be a total game-changer. Because they are among the most frequently used spaces in a home, having one that is highly functional, durable, and able to support everyday use is crucial. An updated bathroom can also have a significant impact on your home's value. After kitchens, bathrooms are considered the most valuable rooms in a home. So while it's clear a bathroom remodel is worth the financial investment, it's important to give it a lot of thought before diving into one. HGTV's Scott McGillivray feels that demolishing a bathroom without having a plan in place is a big mistake that can have major consequences for homeowners.

According to McGillivray, a bathroom renovation is a great way to increase the value of your home, as they have a high return on investment (ROI). "While many people agree that the ROI rates range from 60-100%, I feel confident that a well-designed bathroom renovation can return as much as 150-200% — if it's done right," McGillivray says on his website. However, if you're trying to do the project yourself without properly planning it out, it can lead to big problems. McGillivray notes that there are many factors when you start working on a renovation, including electrical, plumbing, and insulation. Even ripping out flooring and removing fixtures can be more challenging than many DIYers are prepared for. These projects can be dangerous and difficult without proper equipment.

When it comes to creating the plan for your bathroom, Scott McGillivray advises not changing the layout unless it's absolutely necessary. If your layout is already usable, it will benefit you to keep the fixtures in the same spot. Once you do have an idea of what you're going to do, he suggests bringing in a pro to do the bulk of the work. Because of the complexities that go along with bathroom renovations, the cost savings of doing the project yourself are unlikely to outweigh the potential downside if you make a mistake.

Hiring a qualified professional could have other benefits as well. In addition to getting the trickier things handled properly, they also know the rules to follow when designing a bathroom, ensuring everything is functional and fits in the space. Experienced contractors may also help you brainstorm bathroom remodel ideas you may not have considered. There are some jobs, however, that McGillivray says you could DIY to save a few bucks. For instance, replacing a toilet, installing accessories such as towel bars and toilet paper holders, and possibly even detaching and reattaching water lines are some tasks most DIYers can handle