Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make During a Shower Remodel (And How to Avoid Them)
Thinking of upgrading your shower?
A remodel can improve your bathroom’s look, function, and value — but without the right plan, it can also turn into a headache.
At B&M Home Improvement Solutions, we’ve seen what works… and what doesn’t. This guide breaks down the 5 biggest mistakes homeowners make when remodeling their shower — and how you can avoid them to save time, money, and stress.
Mistake #1: Hiring the Cheapest Contractor
Why It Happens:
Homeowners often get a few quotes and pick the lowest bid, assuming all contractors offer the same service.
The Real Cost:
You could end up with:
Poor workmanship
Cheap materials
Unlicensed workers
No warranty or follow-up support
How to Avoid It:
Instead of just comparing price, compare:
Work history and photos
Google reviews
Warranty coverage
Timeline guarantees
💡 Tip: Ask about waterproofing materials, installation process, and what happens if a surprise comes up during demo.
Mistake #2: Choosing Style Over Function
Why It Happens:
Many homeowners get design inspiration from Instagram or Pinterest without considering what’s realistic for their space.
The Real Cost:
A beautiful shower that’s:
Hard to clean
Lacks storage
Doesn’t fit the space well
Requires unnecessary plumbing changes
How to Avoid It:
Think long-term. Ask yourself:
How easy is it to maintain?
Will this layout work for my family?
Are the materials durable?
💡 Pro Solution: Our Samuel Mueller solid surface kits are a great option — modern, low-maintenance, and highly customizable without the hassle of tile.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Waterproofing and Ventilation
Why It Matters:
A shower is a high-moisture area. If not properly waterproofed and ventilated, mold, mildew, and even structural damage can occur behind your walls.
The Real Cost:
Rotting studs and subfloor
Musty smells and mold
Peeling paint or cracked tile
How to Avoid It:
Always ask what waterproofing system is used (e.g., Schluter, cement board, RedGard)
Make sure a quality exhaust fan is installed or upgraded
💡 Contractor Red Flag: If a remodeler skips this conversation, run.
Mistake #4: Overcomplicating the Remodel
Why It Happens:
Homeowners sometimes want to move plumbing, knock out walls, or change layouts without realizing the complexity involved.
The Real Cost:
Extended timelines
Extra permits
Unexpected labor and material costs
How to Avoid It:
Stick to the existing layout when possible
Use a solid surface system for faster install
Ask your contractor if there’s a way to keep things simple
💡 Our Solution: We specialize in 2–3 day installs with minimal disruption and no mess. Many projects don’t require major demo or plumbing changes.
Mistake #5: Not Planning for the Unexpected
Why It Matters:
Especially in older homes, it’s common to discover:
Water-damaged studs
Hidden mold
Poor previous plumbing work
The Real Cost:
Delays, extra costs, or needing to pause work while waiting on materials.
How to Avoid It:
Build a 10–15% cushion into your remodel budget
Choose a contractor that can adapt and communicate clearly
💡 Ask This: “What happens if you find something unexpected behind the wall?”
Final Thoughts: Plan Smarter, Remodel Faster
Avoiding these common mistakes comes down to working with a contractor who knows what to look for before the demo begins.
At B&M Home Improvement Solutions, we walk you through every detail:
Solid pricing with no hidden fees
High-quality shower systems built to last
Fast installs with low disruption
Local expertise in Lancaster & York, PA
👉 Ready to Plan Your Remodel?
📍 Serving Lancaster & York, PA
📞 Call Today: 717-449-8789
📅 Book Online: Contact us Today!
Or request a Free In-Home Shower Quote now