Renovating? From wall paint blunders to bathroom ceiling risks, avoid regrets with expert advice. Don’t make these costly mistakes!
Renovating your house is a big job, no kidding. There’s a lot that can go wrong, but the good news is that with a little knowledge, you can dodge most of these mistakes like a pro. I chatted with a few experts—contractors, interior designers, and even some renovation veterans—to get the lowdown on the most common blunders people make when sprucing up their space. Here’s what they had to say.
1. Wall Paint Mistakes You’ll Regret
There’s more to wall paint than just slapping on a fresh coat. A common mistake? Skipping primer or forgetting to prep the wall. “A lot of clients think primer is optional,” says Amit Bansal, a well-known interior designer. “But it’s the base that makes your paint job last.”
One tip? Use putty to fill in cracks and gaps before painting, or your walls could look old within months. Another? Be mindful of the color choices, especially for Indian homes where dust and pollution are a real concern. Darker shades tend to look fresh for longer.
2. Plumbing Problems in Bathrooms
Oh, bathrooms. So much can go wrong, especially with plumbing. A big mistake people make is not checking existing pipelines before making changes. Older pipes can’t always handle modern fixtures and fittings, leading to constant leaks. A poorly planned bathroom can be a nightmare, warns Gaurav Mehta, a contractor specializing in high-end bathroom fittings. “Always get your plumbing checked thoroughly before any changes.
Top tip: Maintain a schematic of the pipes in you bathroom, in case you plan to do some rework, these can come in handy.
3. False Ceiling in Bathrooms Can Backfire
False ceilings are all the rage, but putting them in bathrooms is tricky. With high humidity, a false ceiling can become a breeding ground for fungi and mold. “If you must install a false ceiling, opt for materials that resist moisture and get proper ventilation,” says Mehta. Otherwise, avoid it altogether in smaller bathrooms, or you’re risking both health issues and costly repairs down the line.
4. Wood for Exteriors? Think Again
Many love the look of wood on their exteriors, but India’s climate isn’t friendly to this choice. Wood can warp, rot, and attract pests if exposed to extreme weather. Instead, go for aluminum or other metal frames. They’re durable, require less maintenance, and still give a classy look. Designer Priya Kapoor suggests, Aluminum or composite wood looks just as good as real wood without the headaches.
5. Not Planning for Storage
One of the biggest regrets people have after renovations? Realizing they didn’t plan enough storage. Cupboards, drawers, and cabinets shouldn’t be afterthoughts. “Everyone wants an open and airy look, but storage is king,” says designer Sarah Jain. Plan storage cleverly around beds, kitchens, and bathrooms to keep things both functional and stylish.
6. Forgetting the Power of Natural Light
Natural light is a game-changer. A common mistake is overdoing it with heavy curtains or blocking windows with furniture. “People underestimate how much light impacts their mood and the feel of the space,” notes architect Rohan Shah. Keep windows clear, use light curtains, and let your space breathe.
7. Going Cheap on Electricals
Here’s a rule: Never go cheap on electricals. A poor quality wire or switch might save you a few bucks now, but it could lead to fires or serious malfunctions later. “Always invest in quality wiring and certified electricians,” warns contractor Harish Patel. The extra cost is worth the peace of mind.
8. Underestimating the Importance of Good Flooring
Flooring is like the backbone of your home’s design. Cheap or poorly installed floors can look terrible after just a few months of wear. Marble, tiles, or wooden floors? Each has its pros and cons in the Indian climate. For a long-lasting choice, look for materials suited to the local weather and make sure they’re installed professionally.
9. Overdoing False Ceilings
False ceilings can give a sophisticated touch but can easily become over-the-top. Not every room needs one, and sometimes, it just makes the space feel cramped. “A false ceiling should be used sparingly to accentuate, not overpower,” says Kapoor.
10. Ignoring the Quality of Bathroom Fixtures
It’s tempting to cut corners in bathrooms, but cheap fixtures rust, leak, and break. This can lead to constant repairs and increased costs in the long run. Go for stainless steel or chrome fixtures that last longer and look good.
11. Misjudging the Size of Furniture
Buying furniture without considering room dimensions is a big mistake. Oversized sofas and beds may look grand in the store but can make a room feel cramped at home. Designer Ashima Nanda shares, “Always measure your room and visualize the space before making big purchases.” Think about ease of movement, especially in compact Indian homes.
12. Not Including Outdoor Spaces in the Renovation Plan
Balconies, terraces, and gardens are part of the home too, yet many people ignore them during renovation. Neglecting these areas means missing out on potential relaxation or entertaining spaces. Even a small balcony can be enhanced with the right flooring, plants, or seating. Architect Ritu Singh points out, “Outdoor spaces are invaluable, especially in urban areas. A well-designed balcony can be a great spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation.”
13. Forgetting About Security Upgrades
Renovation is the perfect time to upgrade home security, but this step often gets overlooked. Adding high-quality locks, secure doors, and even a CCTV system can make a big difference in safety. For homes with children or in high-traffic areas, security is a must. “Security upgrades should be part of any major renovation plan,” states contractor Neha Jain.
14. Overusing Glass Elements
Glass features—doors, partitions, tabletops—add a touch of elegance but come with high maintenance. In dusty Indian cities, glass needs frequent cleaning and can easily get scratched. It’s also prone to breaking, especially in homes with kids or pets. “If you love glass, use it sparingly,” suggests interior designer Karan Patel. Consider tempered or frosted glass for areas that need durability.
Trends change, so it’s best to avoid overly trendy fixtures and finishes that could feel outdated in a few years. Pick timeless designs and durable materials that stand the test of time. Renovation is a 10-15-year decision, not something to change with every trend.
Renovation can make or break your home’s vibe. Hopefully, with these tips and advice straight from the pros, you’re better prepared to dodge these common renovation blunders!
Shilpa Ahuja is a designer and editor of Decorisk Magazine. She has worked in hotel interiors at The Park Hotels, India, and has completed several home interior design projects as a freelancer.
She completed her Masters in Design Studies (MDesS) degree from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. She also has a Bachelor degree in Architecture (B.Arch) from Chandigarh College of Architecture. Her work has been published in Indian Design & Interior magazine and exhibited at Harvard University and at Aroma Hotel, Chandigarh.
Shilpa is also the Editor-in-Chief of Shilpa Ahuja Digital Media, which includes ShilpaAhuja.com, one of India’s most-read digital fashion magazines. Originally from Chandigarh, she is currently based in Chennai, and can be reached at [email protected].