Project Checklist

This checklist gives you some key things to think about to ensure your home improvement project goes smoothly. Why not print it out and keep it handy. It will remind you of what to do on the way to creating your beautiful new bathroom.

Getting started

Work out how much you can afford to spend and how you are going to finance your bathroom.
Decide on the style of bathroom suite, taps and finishes you like. Take a look at the range of bathrooms on our website, order a brochure or come and see the bathroom displays at your nearest store.
If you intend to re-arrange your bathroom, speak to a plumber to see what's feasible.
Book an appointment with one of our in store Design Consultants who can help you choose and design your bathroom.
If you're not fitting the bathroom yourself, start looking for a fitter. Good fitters are often booked months in advance. So you'll need to make a provisional booking and get them to scope out and cost the project as soon as possible. Our Design Consultants may be able to help you find local tradesmen.

Designing your bathroom

Before meeting with your Design Consultant, think about what you'd like to do with your bathroom. Are you happy to put back what's there already or would you like to change the layout? List any changes you'd like to make - like moving the suite, adding or moving radiators, changing the lighting etc.
When you meet your Consultant, take rough measurements of your bathroom along to your appointment. Also draw a simple plan to show the position of 'fixed' items like windows, doors, radiators and soil pipes.
Start thinking about the other things you need to complete the project - like tiles, lighting, flooring and paint colours. We can help you with this too if you wish.
Once you have agreed on your bathroom plan our Design Consultant can help you price and order your items. Or you can order them online. Order any other materials and decorative items you will need to complete the project at the same time.
Once you are sure of the delivery date for everything, book a firm date for your fitter to start work on your bathroom.

Before work begins

Invest in some dust sheets to help protect floors and carpets. Fitting a new bathroom will be messy.
Remove furniture or paintings in the area around your bathroom so they're not damaged when your old bathroom suite is removed.
If you are removing your old bathroom yourself, remember to book a skip or find a way to transport your old suite to a recycling centre. Why not try selling it, if it's still in good condition?
If necessary, leave time in the schedule to replace old lead or iron pipes or have the walls re-plastered once your old suite and tiles are removed.
Check your water pressure with your fitter - especially if you're having a new power shower. You may need a bigger water tank if you don't want to be left covered in soap suds just as the water runs out.
Do your laundry - you may not get another chance for a while.

When work starts

Have a regular supply of milk, coffee, tea and biscuits for you and the workmen.
Make sure you know when your water supply may have to be turned off so you can store water for cooking and making drinks.
If you've got a second WC keep one or two buckets nearby so you can fill up the cistern and flush.
Stay friendly with the neighbours - then they might let you use their bathroom or do your laundry while the job's being done. These things always take longer than you think!