renovation of an 1975 Bathroom

[Knipe_AUS]

I have this Bathroom that I really want to get renovated in 2025. I am currently seeking ideas which won't cost an arm and a leg $5,000 or less

I wanna give most of it a go myself ,I've considered painting the tiles but I fear this will not last long. I've also got the tarrazo flooring  which I'm considering tiling over as I don't like the colour of it was plain black or white I would have keptb

Thanks in advance Tom

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @Knipe_AUS 

That older bathroom  would have seam great in its day.

To save money The easiest way is to tile over the top of the existing tiles  I use an angle grinder to score the base tiles creating glue keyways.

But you floor has curved walls and curved shower  basin.

Maybe the shower can  be a prefab fiberglass base and  matching glass shower screens.

Start pulling tiles off the floor /walls will destroy any waterproof membrain and the under floor may need re surfacing.

You can  get some great closed back loos these days that old one an eye sore,

Baths  can be repainted  with an enamal like paint or epoxy paint more expensive.

So thats  just to start the ball rolling  see what others  say too,

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Knipe_AUS. It's amazing to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about renovating a bathroom.
 

I see @Jewelleryrescue has already added a helpful reply.

To keep costs under $5,000, you might consider painting the tiles as a short-term solution. While it may not last forever, with proper preparation and quality tile paint like the Dulux Renovation Range, it can give the bathroom a refreshed look for a few years. For the terrazzo flooring, tiling over it is a practical option if you don’t like the current colour. Ensure the surface is clean and level before laying new tiles, and consider using large-format tiles to reduce grout lines and achieve a modern finish.

Other cost-effective updates could include replacing dated fixtures like taps, adding a new mirror or vanity, or updating the lighting to give the space a contemporary feel. These small changes can make a big impact without breaking the bank. You might also like to replace the toilet, remove or upgrade the bath and add a shower screen.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Knipe_AUS]

Thanks all for your speedy responses - Much appreciated!

I am in talks with a plumber to have a new toilet and vanity installed and also changing the taps in the bath & shower to mixer taps.

I just didn't want to go to the effort of putting in a new toilet just to rip it up in a few years to replace the floor hence why I thought I would try and do it now all in one go. So if I was to take the tiles off the floor and re-tile I would also have to put a new waterproof membrane? if the plumber is already taking some tiles off to change the location / style of tap would this too affect the waterproofing? Tiling over pre-existing tiles is they're and negatives to this? Obviously there is the huge bonus of not having any waste. Also do I need to worry about asbestos? The walls are solid.

Ive got in my head that I would like it tiled to the ceiling in with white tiles , tile the floor with large black tiles and install some sort of basic shower screen to prevent water splashing all over the floor which it currently does. 

[MitchellMc]

If you plan to remove the existing floor tiles @Knipe_AUS, you will most likely need to replace the waterproof membrane. Removing tiles can compromise the membrane, especially if it was installed over the original floor. When the tiles are removed, the old membrane might be disturbed, meaning it’s essential to reinstall a new waterproof layer to ensure proper moisture protection, particularly when tiling the entire floor.

If your plumber is removing tiles to change the location or style of the taps, it could also affect the waterproofing in that area. Ideally, any exposed areas should be treated and re-sealed as part of the renovation. You’ll want to confirm with the plumber whether they plan to disturb the waterproofing and if additional sealing is required after the tap changes.

Tiling over existing tiles is certainly an option, and as you mentioned, it saves you from the waste and effort of removing the old tiles. However, there are some things to keep in mind. The surface must be properly prepared to ensure the new tiles adhere well. In some cases, if the existing tiles are too damaged or uneven, it might be better to remove them. Also, you’ll want to check the adhesive and grout compatibility with both the old and new surfaces.

Mitchell

[Knipe_AUS]

Applying a waterproof membrane ,  that pretty easy to do? Searching online it just looks like a thick paint that presumably I can roller on and leave to dry then continue to tile on top of once dry? 

[MitchellMc]

Applying a waterproof membrane can certainly be done yourself @Knipe_AUS , depending on your location and the specific regulations in your area. It’s important to check your local building codes to ensure that you’re allowed to carry out the work, as some areas might require a licensed professional to apply the waterproofing, especially in wet areas like bathrooms or around showers.

While it might look like a simple process of rolling on a thick paint, I wouldn’t necessarily call it "easy." Waterproofing is a critical part of the tiling process and requires careful attention to detail. The membrane needs to be applied evenly, with particular focus on all the joins between the walls and floor, corners, and any penetrations (like taps or drains). These areas must be thoroughly sealed to prevent water from getting behind the tiles and causing damage.

If the membrane isn't applied properly or there are any breaches, it could lead to water seeping into the structure, potentially causing significant structural damage to your home, such as mould, rotting timber, or weakened foundations. Ensuring that the waterproof membrane is installed correctly and in line with building standards is crucial to the long-term integrity of your renovation.

Once the waterproofing is properly applied and has dried (according to the manufacturer’s instructions), you can continue with tiling over the top. However, make sure to allow enough drying time and follow all product guidelines for optimal results.

Here's a helpful step-by-step guide: How to waterproof a bathroom.

Mitchell