Before you decide to go ahead with a renovation, it's critical to have a good idea of any underlying problems that could cause unwelcome and costly surprises. Taking time to find problems before you start your renovation will save you money, protect the indoor air quality and preserve the durability and structure of your home.

Common Situations
A bathroom renovation is one of the most common home improvement projects. Bathroom renovations come in all types and sizes-from a simple update of the flooring, to enlarging the room and replacing all fixtures and finishes.

Your project is unique, but your reasons for renovating will probably fall into these common categories.
Size and design - The room may be small or poorly designed.
Fixtures - The fixtures may be outdated, small, hard-to-clean, leaky, cracked or inefficient.
Structural - There may be problems that require structural changes or repairs.
Moisture - Excessive bathroom moisture may have deteriorated the bathroom surfaces, affected the indoor air quality or jeopardized the structure.
Plumbing and electrical - If your house is 30-40 years old, the plumbing and electrical services may be outdated and need upgrading. Houses built prior to 1950 often have lead piping that may pose a health hazard.
Heating and ventilation - Bathrooms are often cold because of poor insulation or poor heat delivery. Ventilation is often inadequate, non-existent or causing secondary problems that need to be fixed.

Bathroom renovations often include changes to HVAC equipment that can improve moisture management in the house. Structural changes may improve air sealing and insulation, resulting in increased occupant comfort and house durability.

Avoid Surprises
Before you start renovating, you'll want to think about your bathroom, your needs and your budget. Look carefully for signs of deterioration and the possible causes. This will save you money and also help you to be better informed when dealing with the contractor. There are many reasons why your project may require the services of a professional. Being unsure of what needs to be done, recognizing that the job is very complicated, or that you don't have the time or energy to do the work, are good reasons to hire a professional renovator.