Technology lets us do almost anything these days. Online bathroom planning tools have become popular for homeowners to plan and visualise their bathroom renovation projects, as they’re a quick way to identify what they want in a bathroom. These tools can be a great resource for getting a sense of what your new bathroom might look like, but they also come with some downsides that should be considered before using them to redecorate alone. 

Alan Heath & Sons have a team of specialists with years of experience in CAD design, planning, and installing bathrooms. We’ve spoken to clients who have regretted not going to showrooms; it’s important to go and look at materials in person for peace of mind and confidence! The team encourages visits and working together from concept to completion. 

Lack of accuracy 

One of the biggest downsides to using online bathroom planning tools is the lack of accuracy. When you plan a room using an online planner it may show you that items fit but it won’t tell you whether there is the much-needed space required to use the item. The items may fit but is it user-friendly? 

The tools are often based on generic measurements and layouts, which may not accurately reflect your bathroom’s unique dimensions and features. This can lead to a final design that doesn’t work as well as you had hoped, or that requires costly modifications to fit the space. 

Unable to see or feel the materials and finishes until they arrive 

Another downside is that online bathroom planning tools may not be able to fully capture the look and feel of the materials you want to use. While the tools may offer a wide variety of options for flooring, countertops, and other materials, they may not be able to accurately reflect the true colour, texture, and overall appearance of these materials. This can make it difficult to envision how your bathroom will look and feel once it’s completed.  

Time-consuming and frustrating 

Another issue with online bathroom planning tools is that they can be quite time-consuming to use, especially if you’re not familiar with the interface or the various options available. It can be easy to get lost in the details and to spend hours trying to get the perfect design, which can be frustrating and may not be worth the time investment. We’ve also had clients use them and lose all their progress due to a technical fault, it’s infuriating!  

Online tools can’t replace personal expertise 

Finally, it’s important to note that online bathroom planning tools are not a substitute for professional design expertise. While they can be helpful in getting a sense of what your bathroom might look like, they can’t replace the expertise of a professional designer who can help you make the most of your space, select the best materials and fixtures, and ensure that your bathroom is functional and efficient while reflecting your own style. 

In conclusion, online bathroom planning tools can be a useful resource for homeowners planning a bathroom renovation, but they also come with some downsides. It’s important to keep these downsides in mind when using these tools and to seek the advice of a professional designer when planning your bathroom renovation. 

Take the stress away, and speak to us about your bathroom renovation needs.