The Room In Your Home HGTV's Mike Holmes Recommends Gutting Before A Reno

Most areas of your home don't require a complete gut job before you can update and renovate them. You can paint the walls, replace the flooring, and update the lighting for a whole new look. The bathroom is a different story, at least according to HGTV's Mike Holmes. In a recent story published by The Florida Times-Union, Holmes makes it clear that the bathroom is worthy of a more in-depth, tear-it-down-to-the-bones remodel if you are going to update the space.

It's certainly possible not to do this. Just changing out the vanity or replacing a toilet can solve problems. A fresh coat of paint can also make it look a bit better. However, especially with older homes, that's not ideal. There are often numerous tasks that could benefit from an update, and tackling them all at the same time may be the best decision homeowners make.

If you're tired of the 1970s retro-feel of that bathroom, consider demoing the entire space, removing all of the flooring, fixtures, drywall, and even the plumbing in some cases, and then updating it. Doing so could save you trouble in the long run while also helping you to create a space that works better for your family.

Why is this room of the home different than most others? Mike Holmes explains that starting fresh is often the best decision for these properties for several reasons. First, this is the area of the home that is most likely to have a problem, which could be a plumbing issue such as a leak. It could also be a hidden area of mold growing beyond the bathroom vanity or a ventilation system that is not working as it should be. Often, you may not know what is occurring behind the walls that are causing that musty smell until you pull it all back and take a closer look. You could find hidden termite damage, rotting subfloors, a lack of insulation, or a drain that's no longer up to code.

Second, consider what would happen if this area of the home developed a problem. Again, this is where leaks are most likely, and that means if a problem develops in a few months or years, all of the investment you've made starts all over. This could help you to avoid costly repairs later. By starting over from scratch, you are putting your money where it is most likely needed and in an area that is going to maintain its value over the long term.