Planning a bathroom renovation in Preston: steps, choices and timing

Preston is full of bathrooms that are ready for a change: original rooms in older weatherboards and brick houses, tired ensuites in postwar homes, and builder basic bathrooms in newer townhouses. Whatever you are starting with, a good renovation follows the same logic. This guide sets out the steps, the choices that matter most for Preston homes, and how our showroom near Preston can help.

Step 1: Decide what you are changing

Before you look at a single tile, write down what bothers you about the current room and what must stay. Common goals we hear from Preston homeowners:

• Replacing a shower over bath with a walk in shower, or the other way around for young families.
• Adding storage with a larger vanity or a shaving cabinet.
• Fixing leaks, drummy tiles or failed waterproofing.
• Making a small room feel bigger and brighter.

Keeping the toilet, shower and basin in the same positions usually keeps plumbing work simpler. Moving them is possible but adds work, so it is worth discussing during the measure.

Step 2: Book a free measure

We offer a free measure for Preston homes. We record the room size, ceiling height, window and door positions, and the location of existing plumbing. That information shapes everything that follows, from vanity width to tile quantities. Our showroom in Reservoir is about 5 to 10 minutes from most of Preston, so a showroom visit can follow easily.

Step 3: Choose products in the right order

1. Layout and tiles. Floor tile first, then walls. A matt porcelain in 600x600mm is a dependable floor choice, and 300x600mm wall tiles suit most rooms.
2. Vanity and basin. A wall hung vanity keeps a small floor clear. Larger bathrooms can take a double vanity. See the vanity size guide.
3. Tapware and shower. Pick one finish for everything. Warm or cool brushed nickel and matte black are popular, and our finishes guide explains how each wears.
4. Bath, toilet and accessories. A back to wall bath suits many Preston bathrooms, and a toilet suite with a slim profile saves space.

Choices for different Preston homes

Older houses

High ceilings and timber floors call for tiles that feel at home in an older house. Vertical wall tiles, finger mosaics and soft marble looks all work, with brushed gold or chrome tapware.

Postwar homes and units

These bathrooms are often compact and square. Large floor tiles, a mirror cabinet and a frameless screen make them feel bigger. Matt finishes are forgiving for everyday use.

Townhouses

Newer homes may only need an upgrade: new tapware, a better vanity, a LED mirror and a feature wall. Check the existing wall mixer bodies and tap holes so new products fit.

Step 4: Get a quote, with or without installation

Once your selection is clear, we prepare a quote. You can order products only and use your own trades, or ask us to include installation by our qualified trades. Installation is a paid service and is quoted for your project, because every bathroom is different.

Spend where it matters

A renovation is a balance of priorities. Waterproofing, plumbing and a well laid floor are worth doing properly because they are hard to fix later. Tapware you touch every day and a vanity with good storage come next. Feature tiles and accessories are easier to change down the track. Allow a contingency for surprises behind old walls, such as rotten framing or old pipes, which are common in older Preston homes.

Ventilation and light

Many original bathrooms have a small window and no exhaust fan. Adding a ducted fan and better lighting during the renovation helps prevent mould and makes the room more pleasant. Plan these with your electrician before the walls are sheeted.

Step 5: Ordering and timing

Mixers, the vanity and the toilet need to be on site before rough in, and tiles before the tiler starts. Tiles are call to order, so allow supply time. Orders are usually ready for pickup from Reservoir in 2 to 4 days, or we can deliver. Use our renovation checklist to keep decisions on schedule.

Common questions

How long does a bathroom renovation in Preston take?

It depends on the size of the room and the work involved. We can give you a clearer idea of timing with your quote after the free measure.

Do you provide the trades?

Yes. Installation by our qualified trades is available as a paid service and quoted for your project. You can also use your own trades.

Where can I see products near Preston?

Our Reservoir showroom at 214 Broadway is about 5 to 10 minutes from most of Preston.

Close to Thornbury, Preston and Northcote

Our Reservoir showroom is minutes from the inner north. See our local pages for bathroom tiles and tapware near Thornbury, bathroom renovations near Preston and the tile shop near Northcote, or browse all areas we serve.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.