The term ‘bathroom renovation’ can sometimes set alarm bells ringing as people often wrongly assume that this will cost the earth. Adam Chard bathroom specialist from Victoria Plumb explains that this needn’t be the case: with only a small budget, it is possible to really transform your bathroom and give it a new lease of life. Here’s how:

1. Freshen up!
A fresh paint job and bright new tap fittings can make all the difference – for a fraction of the cost. Alternatively, fittings can be re-chromed.

2. Clean from top to bottom
Ensure you clean thoroughly, including the removal of surface limescale. So long as tiles aren’t cracked and in generally good condition, a little elbow grease is all that’s required to transform their appearance. Mix bleach water in equal proportions and – being sure to wear gloves and goggles – use the scrubber side of a two way sponge to scrub the tiles and joints, before polishing with the soft side.

3. Work from the bottom up
The floor area can be reinvented with inexpensive vinyl, and a continental touch can be added through fitting a venetian-style blind.

4. Loosen up
Those that live in hard water areas may notice the build up of limescale on their showerheads. To remove this, unscrew the head, disassemble the spray plate and soak all the parts in a pot of descaler. Once the limescale has dissolved, reassemble, polish and you’re good to go.

5. Lighten up
Placing the mirror opposite the main window helps brighten up your room by reflecting the natural light, creating the effect of a bigger and brighter bathroom.

6. Never underestimate accessories
Small finishing touches can make all the difference, especially after a new paint job. This could be something as small as a new soap dish, towel rail or tumbler.

7. Keeping on top of the tiles
When considering retiling your bathroom, the most important thing to remember is that bathroom tiles must be fitted in a way that creates a watertight seal – but how can you guarantee this and not end up having to start from scratch? Simply…

– Plot how the tiles will appear on the wall as this allows them to be applied more accurately

– Secure a batten to the wall. This is a long flat strip of squared timber or metal that provides support when applying the tiles

– Apply adhesive to the marked out area the tiles will be applied to for an accurate finish

– Apply the tiles to the wall – use a spacer to ensure the result is as even and smooth as possible

By following these simple steps, you can really welcome the Summer into your home at a fraction of the cost and in record time! This is one room where you can really make a statement so don’t let a tired bathroom hold you back – best of luck!