Remodels don’t go off the rails because of one big decision—it’s a pile of small ones. After 35 years in tile, stone, and remodeling, I’ve watched simple choices turn into thousands of dollars in rework, delays, and frustration. Here are the seven mistakes I see most—and exactly how to avoid them.

Mistake #1 — Not Budgeting for Surprises

Problem: The plan only covers “perfect world” costs.

Cost: Unplanned change orders, delays, and stress when the demo reveals issues.

Fix:

• Add a 10–20% contingency line in your budget from day one.
• Prioritize must-haves vs. nice-to-haves so you can shift quickly if needed.

Mistake #2 — Choosing Materials Too Early (or Too Randomly)

Problem: You fall in love with a tile/slab with long lead times or poor performance for your space.

Cost: Project stalls, or you end up with the wrong material for water, traffic, or heat.

Fix:

• Decide function first, finish second (traffic, moisture, heat, cleaning).
• Confirm lead times before committing; get a backup choice you also love.

Mistake #3 — Hiring the Wrong Installer

Problem: Assuming any “tile guy” or fabricator can handle your material and layout.

Cost: Lippage, cracked grout, uneven seams—on a $10k job that looks like $1k.

Fix:

• Ask for photos of recent, similar projects (large format, natural stone, curbless shower, etc.).
• Confirm they follow industry standards and manufacturer instructions.
• Get clear scope + written expectations before a deposit.

Mistake #4 — Skipping Waterproofing (or Doing It Wrong)

Problem: “Moisture-resistant” ≠ waterproof. Showers and wet areas need actual systems.

Cost: Hidden water damage, mold, failing grout/caulk within months.

Fix:

• Use a complete waterproofing system (pan, walls, corners) that works together.
• Flood-test showers before tile.
• Document which products were used and where.

Mistake #5 — Not Understanding Lead Times

Problem: Cabinets, slab, tile, glass, and fixtures often arrive on different timelines.

Cost: Subcontractors sit idle; schedules slip; you pay for rescheduling.

Fix:

• Build a materials timeline (order → ship → receive).
• Don’t schedule installation until everything critical is on site and inspected.

Mistake #6 — Underestimating Labor & Prep

Problem: Budgeting for the pretty part but not surface prep, floor leveling, or substrate work.

Cost: Tile failure, cracked grout, visible seams, or warranty issues.

Fix:

• Plan for prep: leveling, underlayment, backer board, membranes.
• Large-format tile? Budget extra for layout, cuts, and coverage.

Mistake #7 — No Clear Plan or Decision Owner

Problem: Decisions happen on the fly with five people “kind of” in charge.

Cost: Rework, finger-pointing, blown budget.

Fix:

• Create a one-page project brief: measurements, selections, layout notes, photos, final decisions.
• Name one decision owner (you) and document changes.

How to Avoid These Remodel Mistakes (Quick Recap)

• Add a 10–20% contingency to your budget.
• Choose materials for performance first; verify lead times.
• Hire qualified pros for your exact material/system.
• Waterproof correctly and test.
• Don’t start until key materials are on site.
• Budget for prep and substrate work.
• Keep a one-page plan and a single decision owner.

Your Next Step

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