06 November 2024
Watch time: 4 minutes / Read time: 2 minutes / Updated: November 6, 2024
There are often hidden costs in modern washroom design that can catch you off guard, and being aware of these costs is crucial to making informed decisions before bringing your vision to life.
Watch our video to uncover the hidden costs in modern washroom design, learn what to watch out for, and discover how to avoid common mistakes.
Browse our Learning Hub for more washroom design tips and insights.
Hidden Costs of Washroom Aesthetics
Attempting to match finishes and special coatings from different washroom suppliers can lead to significant expenses.
If the finishes do not align, you may need to replace washroom products, resulting in higher costs than anticipated.
Hidden Costs of non-compliance
Hidden costs in modern washroom design include failure to adhere to washroom regulations which can result in significant expenses.
For instance, water companies, such as Thames Water, South East Water etc., require the installation of WRAS approved fittings on some projects. If you install washroom fittings that are not WRAS approved, the water company may mandate costly corrective actions, leading to substantial unforeseen expenses.
Hidden Costs of Useability and Washroom Suitability
If the public or commercial washroom is not properly prepared to accommodate certain products, unexpected costs can arise.
For example, in an accessible washroom, if the walls are not constructed to support weight-bearing items like grab rails, structural modifications will be required.
This can lead to costly rework to ensure proper installation.
Hidden Washroom Maintenance Costs
Developing your commercial or public washroom design with future maintenance in mind is essential.
A common oversight is forgetting to include access panels. After the project handover, facilities teams may need to access areas behind taps or concealed cisterns for repairs.
Without pre-installed access panels, the walls will need to be broken into, resulting in additional costs for installing the panels and repairing or redecorating the washroom afterwards.
Washroom design mistakes to avoid
Planning your new build or refurbishment requires careful consideration of various factors to avoid hidden costs in modern washroom design down the line.
From aesthetic choices and ensuring compliance with washroom regulations to preparing for product installation and future maintenance, each decision can significantly impact your budget.
By addressing these potential pitfalls early, you can ensure a smoother, more cost-effective project outcome.