Sometimes those hidden issues are what really bite you down the road.
That’s the part that always makes me nervous about “surface” remodels. I once bought a place where the previous owner had just slapped new tile over old water damage—looked great for about six months, then the grout started cracking and the smell hit. Ended up costing way more than if they’d just fixed it right the first time. Did you end up opening up any walls, or just stick to cosmetic updates? Sometimes even a little exploratory demo can save a lot of headaches.
Did you end up opening up any walls, or just stick to cosmetic updates?
I always open up at least one wall, even if it’s just a “quick” flip. Too many times I’ve seen what you’re talking about—fresh tile hiding a mess underneath. Last place, found a half-rotted stud and some old plumbing that was barely holding together. Cost me an extra grand or so, but way better than dealing with leaks later. Surface-only is tempting, but man, it can bite you hard.
“Surface-only is tempting, but man, it can bite you hard.”
Totally agree. Every time I’ve tried to just do surface stuff, I regret it later. Last time I skipped opening a wall, the next owner found a slow leak and it turned into a whole mold situation. Not worth it. Spending a bit more upfront saves a ton of headaches down the road.
Spending a bit more upfront saves a ton of headaches down the road.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve done enough flips to know that cutting corners, especially in bathrooms, almost always comes back to haunt you. It’s tempting to just slap on new tile and call it a day, but if there’s old plumbing or hidden water damage, you’re just setting up for bigger costs later. Sometimes it feels like overkill, but man, it pays off when you don’t get those “surprise” calls months after selling.
Totally feel you on this. I used to think, “Eh, just paint over that old grout, it’ll be fine.” Spoiler: it was not fine. Ended up with a leaky shower and a very grumpy buyer. Now I always check behind the walls and under the floors, even if it adds a few days (and gray hairs). It’s way less stressful than getting that dreaded call about mystery puddles months later. Sometimes spending more upfront is just buying yourself peace of mind... and fewer angry voicemails.