Bathroom Renovation Guide: Costs, Materials, and Layout Tips

Bathroom Renovation in Singapore The bathroom is one of the most important rooms to get right during renovation. Poor workmanship here leads to leaks, mold, and costly repairs down the road. Cost Breakdown for a Typical HDB Bathroom Hacking existing tiles: $500-1,000 Waterproofing: $600-1,200 Floor and wall tiles (supply and install): $1,500-3,500 Vanity and mirror cabinet: $400-1,200 Shower screen (tempered glass): $300-800 Toilet bowl: $200-800 Shower set with mixer: $150-500 Ceiling and ventilation fan: $200-400 Plumbing labour: $500-1,000 Total per bathroom: $3,500-9,000 Waterproofing Is Non-Negotiable This is the most critical step. Waterproofing membrane must be applied to the entire floor and at least 1.8m up the walls in the shower area. A 48-hour ponding test is mandatory before tiling begins. Never skip this step. Water leaking to your downstairs neighbor is an expensive and stressful problem. Choosing Tiles Porcelain tiles are the standard choice for Singapore bathrooms. They are water-resistant, durable, and available in hundreds of designs. Floor tiles should be anti-slip rated (R10 or higher). Wall tiles can be polished or matte depending on your style preference. Popular sizes are 300x600mm for walls and 300x300mm for floors. Larger format tiles (600x600mm) create a more spacious feel but need precise installation. Layout Considerations Wet and dry separation using a shower screen is highly recommended. It keeps the vanity area dry and reduces cleaning effort. A swinging glass door or fixed glass panel are common options. Ensure the floor slopes toward the drain. A fall of about 1-2% is standard. Poor drainage leads to standing water and mold growth. Consider a wall-hung toilet and vanity to make the floor easier to clean and the room feel more spacious.