Mike Holmes' tips for realistic renos

Another example of a so-called quick job is a tub and shower cover-up kit or "the new shower in a box." They actually put an acrylic cover over your tub and new acrylic walls right over your walls. This is a huge mistake. It's a sure thing that you'll be covering up problems. This product -- like a ton of others I could name -- is a great money-grabber. People think a quick fix is going to save them money, but it doesn't work that way. You do get back what you give. If, instead of one of these quick fixes, you spend your money wisely and you put the right planning process into it, you'll likely get your investment back.

So do it right the first time. Almost every time, that means gutting your bathroom. Take it down to the studs so you can do a visual inspection of the structure, plumbing, electrical, and insulation, then bring it up to the way it should be -- not just to the minimum code requirements, but better. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Be realistic and plan carefully. You'll be spending your money wisely, and you'll have a bathroom that works right, lasts for years, and maintains its value.

Make it Right™. Text copyright © 2006 by Restovate Ltd. Photograph copyright © 2006 The Holmes Group Published by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. All right reserved. Reprinted by permission of HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.

Read more in Homes and Renovating