Bathroom Ideas
The 7 Worst Bathroom Remodel Mistakes in DC Row Houses
By All Purpose Anytime Services LLC
In a DC row house the bathroom sits right over the kitchen or the living room. So a bathroom mistake doesn't stay in the bathroom. It shows up a year later as a stain on the ceiling below.
1. Tile without waterproofing behind it
Cement board isn't waterproofing. Without a real membrane, the shower leaks at the corners into the room below.
2. A fan that vents into the wall
The steam has to go outside. Venting into a cavity just hides the moisture.
3. A shower floor that holds puddles
Water should run to the drain on its own, or the grout stays wet and stains.
4. No blocking for grab bars
Wood behind the wall is almost free while it's open, and a tile job later.
5. One light over the mirror's head
Shadows on your face every morning. Light the vanity from the sides or front.
6. Choosing tile before the layout
Niches, benches and borders have to be planned before waterproofing, not on install day.
7. Skipping the permit
Plumbing and electrical changes generally need a Department of Buildings permit. Inside work doesn't go to historic review.
Planning a Bathroom?
We'll tell you what goes behind the tile before any tile goes up.