Cramped Bathroom Got You Down? Think a CoC Geyser Installation is Impossible in that small space? Think Again! Bathroom Renovations in Cape Town done professionally.

Hey there! Riaan De Witt here, ready to transform your bathroom blahs into a spa-tastic oasis! 🛁✨

Join me on this exhilarating renovation adventure, where we'll turn your boring bathroom into the sanctuary you deserve. I've poured my heart and soul into this blog and some other original blogs by me, sharing all the tips, tricks, and insider secrets I've learned along the way over the past 20 years.

Whether you're a DIY newbie or a seasoned pro, I promise you'll discover something new and inspiring in all my blogs but more specifically in this blog. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine! 😉), get comfy, and let's dive into the wonderful world of bathroom renovations!

Before I start the explanation of the process of a bathroom renovation project, I will quickly (for the sake of small bathroom owners) touch on small bathroom renovations and quickly touch on the issue of a Plumbing CoC Geyser Installation.

Introduction: First up for discussion: Small Bathroom Renovations. Transforming your cramped bathroom into a sanctuary of style and relaxation is a dream for many homeowners. A well-designed bathroom not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your home but also adds significant value.

However, embarking on a bathroom renovation can be a daunting task without proper guidance and planning, especially when faced with limited space and seemingly impossible added challenges such as having to install a geyser in this small bathroom also.

The first section of this blog is dedicated to a recently completed bathroom renovation project we did in Milnerton in Cape Town. The images and descriptions featured here are related to this small bathroom renovation project, completed between May 13th and 23rd, 2024.

Some before images of this small bathroom:

Mr. Lewis's bathroom is a testament to the fact that even the most challenging spaces can be transformed into stylish and functional oases. If you're facing a similar challenge, or simply curious about how to maximize space in your bathroom renovation, this blog is your essential guide. Get ready to be inspired by some of my solutions, clever design choices, and the stunning before-midway-and-after transformation of some other projects to, that will hopefully leave you speechless.

Let's be honest – small bathrooms are a puzzle. Every inch count and fitting a bulky geyser into the equation can feel like trying to squeeze a square peg into a round hole. Mr. Lewis's bathroom was no exception. We were dealing with limited floor space, wall space, and headroom. Our first challenge was to find a geyser that would fit without overwhelming the room.

After careful research by the client and us, we selected a slimline 100L Kwikot geyser model specifically designed for small spaces. This type of geyser is slightly taller but narrower than traditional models, maximizing vertical space while minimizing its footprint. We also opted for an electric geyser, as it eliminates the need for ventilation pipes required by gas geysers.

Geysers aren't exactly known for their beauty. They're functional, yes, but not typically something you'd want to showcase. Our goal was to integrate the geyser seamlessly into the bathroom design, making it as unobtrusive as possible.

We decided to install the geyser in a recessed alcove above the basin and vanity. This not only saved valuable floor space but also allowed us to conceal the geyser behind a custom-built cabinet. We matched the cabinet finish to the existing bathroom vanity, creating a cohesive look that disguised the geyser's presence.

Don't let limited space limit your dreams – we'll show you how it's done!

PUT IN IMAGES

Challenges & Solutions (Mr. Lewis's Unique Case, a Cape Town Renovation Success Story)

Space: The Ultimate Constraint. - Solution: Compact Geyser Selection and utilizing every centimeter of the bathroom to the fullest. / Aesthetics: Striking a Balance. - Solution: Concealed Installation & Strategic Placement of the geyser.

The Importance of CoC Compliance (Even When Not Mandatory) but when safety comes first, a CoC ensures that your geyser installation adheres to the highest safety standards, minimizing the risk of leaks, bursts, or electrical hazards. This is particularly crucial in small bathrooms where space is limited, and any mishap can have significant consequences.

While the City of Cape Town does not mandate CoC compliance for geyser installations, it's still a wise decision to obtain one. Here's why: 

The CoC Process: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Additional Tips for Ensuring CoC Compliance 

For a specific article covering Plumbing CoC laws, please visit IOPSA's page by following this URL: https://www.iopsa.org/news/12918524#:~:text=Since%20the%20change%20of%20SANS,to%20the%20contrary%20are%20incorrect 

Benefits of a CoC Installation besides its safety:

Protect Your Investment: A CoC is a valuable document that can increase the value of your property and make it more appealing to potential buyers. It demonstrates that the geyser installation has been professionally done and meets all safety requirements.

Insurance Coverage: Some insurance companies may require a CoC to cover geyser-related damages. Having a CoC in place can save you from potential financial headaches in case of an accident. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your geyser has been installed correctly and safely can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your newly renovated bathroom without worry.

Partner with a Licensed Plumber: De Witt Bathrooms specializes in bathroom renovations and brings a wealth of experience to the table. However, we understand the importance of collaborating with licensed and PIRB-registered plumbers for all geyser installations.

This ensures that the installation adheres to the highest safety and quality standards, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Installation According to Standards: The plumber will install the geyser in compliance with SANS 10254 regulations, which cover everything from the type of piping and fittings to the location and mounting of the geyser.

Inspection: Once the installation is complete, a qualified inspector (also PIRB registered) will assess the work to ensure it meets all safety and regulatory requirements.

Issuance of CoC: If the installation passes inspection, the inspector will issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC), which serves as proof that the work has been done to the highest standards.

The CoC Installation main mandates:

Proper Earthing: Ensure that your geyser is properly earthed to prevent electrical shocks.

Drip Tray: Install a drip tray beneath the geyser to catch any leaks and prevent water damage.

Pressure Control Valve: Fit a pressure control valve to regulate the water pressure and prevent the geyser from bursting.

Geyser Size: Choose a geyser that is the correct size for your household's hot water needs.

An oversized geyser can waste energy and money, while an undersized one may not provide enough hot water.

Regular Maintenance: Have your geyser serviced regularly by a qualified plumber to ensure it continues to operate safely and efficiently.

Now let's start delving into the bathroom renovation from a general point of view, rather than a specific case study.

Before the exciting part of redesigning and rebuilding can begin, the old must make way for the new. This is where the demolition phase comes in, a crucial step in any bathroom renovation. However, it's not just about swinging a hammer; it requires careful planning and meticulous execution to protect your home from unnecessary damage and dust. 

Section 1: The Transformation Begins: Demolition and Preparation.

Protecting Your Precious Belongings & Conquering Dust: A Continuous Battle.

Preparing for the Inconvenience: A Temporary Relocation / Setting the Stage for Transformation.

At De Witt Bathrooms, we understand that your home is more than just four walls and a roof. It's filled with memories, cherished possessions, and valuable furniture. That's why we take extra care to safeguard your belongings during the demolition process. We meticulously cover furniture, electronics, and other valuables with protective tarps or plastic sheets, securing them with masking tape to create a barrier against dust and debris. If possible, we'll even move furniture to a different room and seal it off to minimize exposure to dust.

We're committed to minimizing dust during the renovation process, but it's important to be realistic about the challenges involved. While we take several measures to contain and control dust, such as sealing off the work area, using ventilation, and regular cleaning, some dust is unavoidable, especially during the wall grinding phase.

The amount of dust generated can vary depending on the type of wall material and the presence of drafts in your home. In some cases, it might be impossible to completely contain the fine powdery dust produced by the grinding process.

Therefore, while we strive to keep the work area as clean as possible throughout the project, a thorough deep cleaning is typically most effective once the major dust-generating activities are complete. This ensures that your home is left spotless and ready for you to enjoy your newly renovated bathroom. 

We understand that bathroom renovations can be disruptive to your daily routine. The noise, dust, and lack of access to your bathroom can be stressful and inconvenient. That's why we encourage our clients to consider a temporary relocation during the demolition and plumbing phases, if possible.

Staying elsewhere for a few days can significantly reduce the stress and inconvenience associated with the renovation process. It allows you to avoid the constant cleaning, noise, and lack of privacy, giving you peace of mind and a chance to relax while we transform your bathroom.

Of course, we understand that relocating might not be feasible for everyone. In those cases, we'll work closely with you to minimize disruptions and create a schedule that works best for your needs.

Once your belongings are protected, dust control measures are in place, and you've made arrangements for your comfort during the renovation, the demolition process can begin. This involves carefully removing existing fixtures, tiles, and any other elements that need to be replaced. We take great care to dispose of debris responsibly and leave the work area as clean as possible given the ongoing renovation activities.

By meticulously preparing your bathroom for the renovation, managing dust as effectively as possible, and prioritizing your comfort, we aim to create a positive and stress-free renovation experience.

With the old fixtures removed and the bathroom prepped for a new beginning, it's time for the plumbing phase to take center stage. This is where the behind-the-scenes magic happens, ensuring that your new bathroom not only looks stunning but also functions flawlessly.

Section 2: The Plumbing Phase: Laying the Foundation for Functionality.

Precision Planning: Mapping Out the Essentials. Channeling the Flow: Creating Pathways for Pipes. Connecting the Dots: A Watertight System. The 6-Hour Water Test: Ensuring Flawless Functionality. Preparing for the Final Touches: Closing the Walls.

The plumbing phase begins with meticulous planning. We carefully mark the precise locations for all new fixtures, including the shower mixer, shower head, basin cabinet, and any other elements. This ensures that everything is installed at the optimal height and position for both functionality and aesthetics.

For example, we strategically place the shower mixer within arm's reach when entering the shower. This thoughtful placement allows you to easily adjust the water temperature without having to endure a cold splash, especially during those chilly winter months.

Once the layout is finalized, we create channels in the walls to accommodate the new piping. This involves using a grinder with a diamond blade to carefully cut precise lines where the pipes will run. We then chisel out the channels to create the necessary space for the pipes to be laid.

This process, while essential, can generate a significant amount of dust, which is why we take extensive measures to contain and control it, as discussed in the previous section.

With the channels prepared, we proceed to lay the new pipes, connecting them to the main water supply lines – hot water from the geyser and cold water from the mains. This intricate network of pipes ensures that water flows smoothly to your shower, basin, and any other fixtures you have installed.

To guarantee a leak-free system, we perform a rigorous 6-hour water test. This involves filling the pipes with water and leaving them pressurized for an extended period. During this time, we closely monitor the joints for any signs of leaks or "sweating." If any issues are detected, we promptly address them to ensure that your new plumbing system is completely watertight.

Once the water test is successfully completed, we close up the channels in the walls with cement and plaster, creating a smooth surface for the next phase – tiling. This step not only conceals the pipes but also prepares the walls for the tiles to be laid. 

Section 3: The Tiling Phase: Precision and Expertise

Precise tile installation is crucial to a successful bathroom renovation. Here's how we approach this essential phase: 

The Art of Tile Layout and Cut-Outs:

Before laying a single tile, we meticulously plan the layout, especially around the shower mixer. We consider the mixer as the central reference point, ensuring tile lines align perfectly with its center. This creates a visually pleasing and balanced design. 

Cut-outs are an unavoidable reality due to varying wall dimensions and layouts. We strive to minimize these and prioritize using full tiles whenever possible. While some walls may boast perfect 90-degree corners, others present challenges with uneven plaster work. Our skilled team compensates for these imperfections by adjusting tile adhesive thickness, ensuring a level finish.

To account for unexpected cut-outs, we recommend ordering 10-15% more tiles than our volume calculator suggests. This precautionary measure helps avoid delays and ensures sufficient materials for a seamless installation.

Prioritizing the Floor...Usually

A common question is whether we tile the floor or walls first. Generally, we prioritize the floor after establishing our starting reference line. However, certain situations may necessitate tiling the walls first, depending on the specific layout and design. 

The Importance of Tile Adhesive Selection:

Standard Adhesive: Cures in 48-72 hours, commonly used and cost-effective. 12-Hour Adhesive: Sets enough for foot traffic within 12 hours (weather permitting). 6-Hour Rapid Set Adhesive: Our preferred choice for its quick setting time, though it can be pricier.

Choosing the right tile adhesive is vital. We offer three options: 

We've found "Pro Grip" to be a superior brand, followed by CTM and Tile Africa house brands.

Rectified vs. Non-Rectified Tiles: Making the Right Choice

Understanding the difference between rectified and non-rectified tiles is key:

Non-Rectified: Cut once before firing (baked in the furnace), leading to slight size variations. Rectified: Cut twice, before and after baked, ensuring precise uniformity in size.

We recommend rectified tiles, as their consistent dimensions allow for smaller grout lines (1mm-3mm), resulting in a more polished aesthetic. Non-rectified tiles often require wider grout lines (5mm), which can detract from the overall look.

Finishing Touches: Tile Trim Selection

After tiling the floor and walls, we frame windows and other edges with tile trim. Choosing the right trim is as important as selecting the right tiles and adhesive. We'll guide you through this process to ensure a cohesive and elegant finish.

Selecting the right tiles is a crucial step in any small bathroom renovation, as it can significantly influence the overall look and feel of the space. A well-thought-out tile selection can visually enlarge the room, create a sense of openness, and even elevate its aesthetic appeal.

Contrary to what you might expect, larger tiles are often a better choice for small bathrooms. Opting for tiles ranging from 400mm x 400mm to 600mm x 600mm, or even as large as 800mm x 800mm, can create a seamless look with fewer grout lines. This minimizes visual clutter and makes the space feel more expansive. Smaller tiles, while charming in some cases, can create a busy look with numerous grout lines, which can make a small bathroom feel even smaller.

For a polished and harmonious aesthetic, consider using the same size tiles for both the floor and walls. This creates a consistent visual flow throughout the bathroom and avoids the jarring transitions that can occur when different tile sizes are used. For example, if you choose 600mm x 600mm tiles for the floor, aim to use the same size for the walls as well. 

When choosing tiles for your bathroom, keep the following factors in mind:

Tile Selection: Optimizing Aesthetics and Space in Small Bathrooms

Tile Size: Think Bigger for a More Spacious Feel Matching Tile Sizes for a Cohesive Look. Important Considerations for Tile Selection. Tile Colour: Light and neutral colours, such as whites, creams, light greys, or soft pastels, are excellent choices for any bathroom. They reflect light and create an airy, open feel. Darker colours can add drama but use them sparingly as accents to avoid making the space feel cramped.

Tile Pattern and Texture: Simple patterns and textures are most effective in small bathrooms. Classic subway tiles, herringbone patterns, or a stacked layout are all great options. Avoid overly busy patterns or textures that can overwhelm the limited space.

Practical Considerations: Choose durable tiles that can withstand the moisture and humidity of a bathroom environment. Porcelain tiles are a popular choice due to their water resistance and durability. Additionally, consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance, opting for smooth, glazed tiles whenever possible.

At De Witt Bathrooms, we understand the intricacies of tile selection for small bathrooms. Our experienced team can guide you through the entire process, helping you choose the perfect tiles that align with your style, budget, and the specific dimensions of your bathroom. With our expertise and attention to detail, we'll ensure that your small bathroom renovation is a success.

Section 4: The Fitment Process: Precision and Expertise Image of Geberit Cistern Installation Diagram 

The final phase of the project, known as the 'Fitment Process,' involves installing all new bathroom fixtures and products. This stage is where the design truly comes to life. During the previous plumbing phase, the fitment team collaborated closely with the plumbers to ensure the precise placement of plumbing points. This careful coordination, taking into account the exact dimensions and specifications of each chosen product, now guarantees a seamless and functional fitment process.

Once the tiling process is complete, with all tiles securely in place and grout applied, the bathroom is ready for the finishing touches. This is when the ceiling tradesperson steps in to install cornices, adding a decorative frame to the room. Often, this same tradesperson will also handle the painting of the newly fitted cornices, especially in smaller bathrooms with straightforward ceiling designs.

This is because many ceiling specialists begin their careers as painters before mastering the art of installing ceilings, bulkheads, and cornices. While not quite carpenters, these professionals possess a unique set of skills that contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic and completion of the bathroom renovation.

Once the cornices are installed, any downlights fitted, and both ceiling and cornices painted, the bathroom is finally ready for the much-anticipated product installation phase. This deliberate sequence is essential for several reasons. Working at height, as required for cornice installation, always carries a risk of accidental damage. Tools or materials could fall, potentially harming new fixtures.

Additionally, even the most meticulous painter can't always prevent minor spills. A single drop of white paint on a black finish, for instance, might leave a subtle but noticeable mark. By completing these overhead tasks first, we safeguard the new products from any potential harm, ensuring a pristine result.

The installation process kicks off with the toilet, but even this seemingly simple step offers a surprising variety of options. To simplify, toilets generally fall into two categories: wall-hung systems with a concealed Geberit cistern, and floor-standing systems with an exposed cistern.

The latter can be further divided into 'exposed waste' toilets, where the plumbing is visible at the back, and 'close-coupled' toilets, which have smooth sides that conceal the plumbing for a cleaner aesthetic. While personal preference plays a role, close-coupled toilets are often favoured for their streamlined appearance.

The Geberit cistern system, when installed correctly according to product specifications, offers a fantastic solution that exudes luxury and elevates the bathroom's overall aesthetic. However, modern standard toilets also boast impressive designs and can be equally beautiful. The choice between these options often comes down to personal preference and available space. Geberit cisterns require installation within the wall, necessitating the removal of a layer of bricks to accommodate the flat cistern, as illustrated in the diagram below.

For floor-standing toilets (excluding Geberit systems), there are two primary installation methods: using toilet brackets and silicone or cementing the toilet directly to the floor. While both methods have their merits, cementing offers superior stability, preventing any unwanted movement over time. This not only enhances the user experience but also simplifies future renovations.

Over-the-rim mixers: These mixers are designed to be mounted directly onto the floor, with the spout stretching over the rim of the bathtub, offering a sleek and integrated look. Wall-hung mixers: These mixers are installed directly into the wall, freeing up space on the countertop or bathtub rim and providing a minimalist aesthetic. Pillar-mount mixers: These mixers consist of two separate taps for hot and cold water, or a single mixer tap, mounted on the countertop, basin, or bath. They are often favoured for their traditional charm.

Standard Boxed Shower: A basic shower enclosure with a door and side panels.

Semi-Framed Shower: Features a frame around the door but not the sides, offering a more open look. Frameless Shower: Has no frame at all, creating a seamless and minimalist aesthetic. Shower Screen: Essentially a single glass panel used to partition off the shower area, typically 2 meters high but with varying widths from 800mm to 1.5m.

Next in the installation process is the bath. If a built-in bath was chosen, it would have already been installed during the plumbing phase before tiling. However, if a free-standing bath is the preference, it's now positioned according to the pre-planned layout, ensuring alignment with the existing plumbing for the over-the-rim mixer and the bath waste at the bottom. This involves connecting the bath waste to the PVC waste pipe installed in the floor, alongside the hot and cold-water points. The over-the-rim mixer is then installed onto these pre-existing plumbing points.

Before we delve deeper into the installation process, let's briefly explore the different types of bathroom mixers available, as the choice of mixer can significantly impact both the functionality and aesthetic of your bathroom. Understanding the various options will help you make informed decisions when selecting products from your local suppliers like CTM, Italtile, or Tile Africa.

Types of Bathroom Mixers:

The three most common types of bathroom mixers are: 

Each mixer type serves a specific purpose. Over-the-rim mixers, as their name implies, extend from the floor and over the rim of a freestanding bath. Wall-hung mixers, on the other hand, are commonly used for basins or showers, offering a clean and space-saving option. Shower mixers can be further categorized as built-in (concealed within the wall) or exposed. Finally, pillar-mount mixers are typically associated with basins or baths, fitting into pre-drilled holes on the fixture itself. Whether you opt for a pillar-mount or wall-hung mixer for your basin or bath often depends on personal preference and the desired aesthetic.

Following the bath installation (if included in the design), we move on to the basin. Basin installation varies depending on the chosen size, make, and model. We carefully install the basin, along with any accompanying cabinet or vanity, adhering to product guidelines whenever provided. If no vanity is used, a mirror is typically installed above the basin. 

Once the bath and basin are in place, the next major installation is the shower or shower screen.

As with other bathroom products, showers come in a vast array of styles and configurations. Before delving into specific types, it's important to understand the two main categories: off-the-shelf showers and custom-built showers. Off-the-shelf showers are prefabricated units, offering convenience and often a more budget-friendly option. Within this category, there are four main types: The choice between an off-the-shelf or custom-built shower depends on your budget, space constraints, and aesthetic preferences. Our team can guide you through the selection process, helping you choose the shower that best suits your needs and complements the overall design of your bathroom.

Custom-built showers, on the other hand, are designed and constructed on-site to fit the specific dimensions and layout of your bathroom.

They offer greater flexibility in terms of size, shape, and design, but often come with a higher price tag.

With the major fixtures in place, the final step is the installation of bathroom accessories.

These can vary widely, but typically include items like toilet roll holders, toilet brush holders, shower corner caddies, soap dishes, robe hooks, shower arms, shower heads, mixer plates, and handles.

And there you have it! A complete bathroom renovation installation, neatly divided into four main phases: demolition, plumbing, tiling, and fitment.

I hope this blog has provided you with a brief, yet comprehensive overview of the various facets involved in a bathroom renovation project. While I could elaborate on this topic endlessly, the best way to truly capture your dream bathroom is through a personal consultation. To book a consultation with me, please visit www.dewittbathrooms.co.za and complete the Online Quotation Request form. Together, we can explore your vision, discuss the possibilities, and create a space that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations.

Only our imaginations limit what we can achieve together.

Blog Footer: Disclaimer & Copyright Notice Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPI) 

All content on this blog, including text, images, and videos, is the property of De Witt Bathrooms and is protected by copyright laws. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Please note that the photographs used in this blog are for illustrative purposes and reflect the actual results of this specific project completed for Mr. Lewis of Milnerton and other clients.

Individual project outcomes may vary based on specific circumstances and client preferences.

For any questions or concerns regarding this disclaimer or the content of this blog, please contact us at dewittbathrooms@gmail.com or visit our website www.dewittbathrooms.co.za for more contact information.

By using this blog, you agree to the terms and conditions of this disclaimer.

In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPI), express permission was granted to De Witt Bathrooms by Mr. Lewis and acknowledges that De Witt Enterprises (Pty) Ltd, represented by its owner Mr. Riaan De Witt, will use some or all the information to fulfill the Act’s intended requirements, as well as utilize the information (internally only) for various appropriate business activities. Permission is also granted to store our client’s information. At any time, the signee will have the option to opt-out immediately.