Renovating a bathroom with asbestos in Sydney by Passion Built
- February 19, 2022
- Bathrooms
Dylan was very responsive to our needs as well as to our feedback and his workers were fast and professional. He completed our bathroom renovation within budget and was always available for any other job that needed attention. I would highly recommend his services.
Complete home renovation for a townhouse in Padstow
Passion Built is a licensed builder in Sydney that can renovate a bathroom in houses, apartments, townhouses, granny flats or commercial sites. For this home in Sydney the scope of work given to our renovation team was given was to demolish the old bathroom, change the layout then build a new one.
New bathroom for elderly people to use.
The owners of this property in Oatley bought it for their elderly mother so she could live closer to them. Many families in Sydney are trying to find alternative ways to care for their parents like building a granny flat, doing a house extension to add another room or paying for in-home care so they don’t need to live in an aged care facility.
The owners of this house in Oatley engaged Passion Built as their renovation company after getting our free, fixed price bathroom renovation quotation. They wanted to completely renovate the bathroom on the lower level to make it easy for their mother to use & for when the grand kids came to visit. The existing bathroom was quite dated with an old colour palette from the 1960’s. The owners also wanted to change the layout of the room so that the bath tub was at the far end & the shower in the corner with the toilet in the middle to make better use of the space available.
Old bathroom with asbestos.
One of the issues that some old homes in Sydney have is they were built using asbestos-containing materials. Back in the day they were popular because they were cheap to produce, lightweight, versatile and fire-resistant. Asbestos may be found in many homes or buildings in New South Wales or even some everyday consumer items.
Obviously the industry has learnt that asbestos can be dangerous and may put your health at risk if you are working with it. Once we discovered it in the walls we stopped the renovating work immediately to ensure none of the sheeting was damaged. Even though we wear protective masks you just never know what particles may float in the air.
We organised for a professional asbestos remover to assess the site & remove all of the harmful materials. This was a variation to the scope of work because it was an unseen item that needed to be carried out. The owner wasn’t aware of what was inside the walls and neither were we. The cost to remove the asbestos was $2,000 + GST and took a day to complete. Once it was completed it was safe to return to the site to complete the renovation.
This surprise became a variation in the quote as it was behind the existing walls so we had no visibility of it when quoting for the renovation. The owners weren’t aware of the asbestos either, so it was a good thing we discovered it as we could make the room safe.
Old concrete slab.
The second surprise was the condition of the concrete slab, it had deteriorated and was very obvious once we pulled up the old tiling. We had to do some remedial work to ensure it could be suitable to be built on & of course, we removed all the debris.
After that, the renovation work was fairly straight forward, we removed the ceiling, did all the plumbing and electrical rough ins which included moving the toilet & shower locations to open up the room space a bit more. The existing window was retained and the whole room got floor to wall tiling once the waterproofing had been signed off. The same colour tile was used on the floor and wall to create a seamless look to the room & give it a bit of interest rather than being completely white. Using a soft sandstone colour introduces some warmth to the room as well which complements the timber vanity.
We installed Caroma Urbane tapware, a new freestanding acrylic bath to wall bath, custom made 900mm vanity with stone benchtop & undermount sink, a new custom made frameless glass shower screen with new back to wall single piece toilet. The design of this small bathroom is simple, almost timeless with a very neutral colour palette using earthy textures meaning it won’t date very quickly & will easily appeal to couples or families if they decide to sell the house later.
The layout also proves how easily a bath, shower, toilet and vanity can fit into a small bathroom space. By changing the floor plan on a concrete slab by moving the toilet and shower the room is instantly opened up & light can flood the room from the window vs the old design that had the shower screen blocking the view & light.
Should you renovate a bathroom if you discover asbestos?
Yes, you can renovate a bathroom if asbestos is discovered—but only after it has been properly identified and safely removed by licensed professionals. Asbestos is a hazardous material, and disturbing it during demolition or renovation without proper handling can release dangerous fibres into the air, posing serious health risks.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of thin, fibrous crystals. It was widely used in construction and manufacturing throughout the 20th century because of its excellent resistance to heat, fire, chemicals, and its insulating properties. In Australia, asbestos was commonly found in building materials used up until the late 1980s. If your home was built before 1990, always assume asbestos might be present and never attempt to remove or disturb it yourself. Instead, contact a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist to test and handle any suspect materials safely.
Australia had one of the highest rates of asbestos use per capita in the world. It was phased out in the late 1980s, and a complete ban on asbestos use and importation came into effect in 2003. In residential construction, especially homes built before 1990, asbestos was often used in:
Wall and ceiling sheeting (e.g. fibro sheeting or “super six” cladding)
Bathroom linings (especially behind tiles or around wet areas)
Vinyl floor tiles and backing
Roofing and eaves
Insulation around hot water pipes and heaters
Fireproofing panels
Asbestos becomes hazardous when its fibres are disturbed and released into the air—often during renovations, drilling, sanding, or demolition. Once airborne, these microscopic fibres can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs, leading to serious health conditions, therefore you should;
1. Stop work immediately
If you’re mid-renovation and uncover sheeting or materials that look suspicious (especially in homes built before the late 1980s), stop all work. Do not cut, sand, or break the material.
2. Get the area tested
Engage a licensed asbestos assessor to inspect and test the material. They’ll confirm whether asbestos is present and what type it is (bonded or friable).
3. Use licensed asbestos removalists
If asbestos is confirmed, it must be removed by licensed asbestos removal professionals. In NSW, this is a legal requirement under SafeWork regulations. The area must also be decontaminated before any further renovation work can take place.
4. Adjust the timeline
Asbestos removal can add time and cost to a renovation project. Be prepared for delays, as clearance certificates must be issued before you can proceed with other trades.
5. Don’t take shortcuts
Trying to save money by doing asbestos removal yourself or hiring unlicensed contractors is illegal and extremely unsafe. Not only does it put your health at risk, but it can also expose future occupants and trades to harm.
Would you like a free in home assessment and written quotation?
Dylan from Passion Built will be happy to answer any questions you might have & also inspect the space you’d like to renovate to then provide a written, fixed price, quotation.
Renovating tips for small bathrooms
WALL HUNG VANITY UNIT
If you have read some of our other project stories you would have already seen us mention the benefit of using wall hung vanities. Here is another example where it creates a modern feel while making the room feel larger.
The visibility of the floor tiling all the way to the wall visually creates the impression of more space in the room. Using a single colour tile also creates a seamless transition from floor to wall as well. The use of timber adds warmth to these rooms vs using standard laminate cupboards & compliments the white wall tiling.
It was a bit more important for this room because it was fairly small.
Frameless glass shower screens
You can buy cheap shower screens at places like Bunnings, but look how great a custom made frameless shower screen looks. Instead of trying to fit a standard size screen into the room, you can have whatever you like made to size.
So for this bathroom they could have placed the screen on the other side of the window to create a double person shower if they wanted to.
The frameless design is easier to keep clean because there are less surfaces, edges or joins for soap scum, shampoo or other debris to collect.
Double head shower mixers
Having a double head mixer in the shower is pretty common for new bathroom renovations. In this instance the handheld shower head could be used if an elderly person is sitting on a chair or needs someone else to assist them getting showered.
If the grandchildren visit this can be a simple way that an adult can get the kids washed quickly as well.
Even more practicality comes to cleaning where you can use it to wash water onto the glass or tiles to keep them clean.
Free site inspection, consultation & quote
It’s really easy to find out the cost to renovate. We offer an obligation free site inspection, consultation & written price quote so that you can work out all the costs before you commit to renovating.
Bathroom renovation before & after examples
If you would like to see more bathroom renovation examples, below are some more of the builds we have completed in Sydney. You can look through lots of photos and our design idea explanations to get inspiration for your bathroom. As you will see, each design is very different, proof that our renovation company can renovate any style or type of bathroom in Alexandria that you can dream of.
We are a bathroom renovator in Sydney that can custom design a bathroom in any size or shape, demolish your old rooms, then build a completely new one.
Apartment bathroom renovation to replace a bath with shower
A beautiful bathroom renovation in an apartment in Coogee, Sydney where we removed the old bath and replaced it with a walk in shower and Terrazzo-look tiles
Townhouse renovation in Padstow
A complete renovation on a townhouse in Padstow including the bathroom, kitchen and living areas
Making a bathroom larger & adding a toilet in Sydney
The owner of this home in Kogarah Bay wanted a bigger bathroom & to add a toilet. Our renovation included removing a wall and using the linen cupboard space, see how we did it
Get a new bathroom designed in your apartment
Designing a bathroom today is more accessible than ever, with endless inspiration available through photos, interior design websites, and video content. Whether you're renovating a house or an apartment, a custom-designed bathroom can be created by drawing ideas from magazines, Pinterest, or in collaboration with your interior designer.
New bathroom designs
Building a new bathroom or renovating an old one can definitely add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials. When considering a bathroom renovation, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary elements to make the space functional, including a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub.
- A shower is a must-have for most people, as it provides a convenient and efficient way to get clean. Make sure to choose a shower that is large enough for two people and has enough headroom, if needed.
- Toilets are also important (no kidding right) and you should consider a model that is efficient, easy to clean and has a low profile to make the most of the space if there isn’t much room. Sometimes a concealed cistern system is a wise choice.
- Vanity units are essential for storing bathroom essentials and can be used to add extra counter space, too. Choose a vanity that matches the style of the bathroom and has enough storage space.
- Bathtubs can also add value to your home, especially if you have a larger family or enjoy relaxing in a warm bath. While they can take up a lot of space they are especially suited if the home needs to be used by a family with small children or it is placed in an ensuite to the main bedroom.
Choose your own materials
When renovating your bathroom, it is important to choose high-quality materials that are durable and attractive. This includes tiles, taps, shower heads and other fixtures. We always recommend a fresh coat of paint to give the space a new look and feel. Additionally, consider incorporating energy-efficient and eco-friendly features into your bathroom renovation, such as low-flow toilets, shower heads and taps which can help reduce water and energy usage. These features not only help the environment, but can also lower your monthly bills.
Fixed price quotations
Regarding cost, bathroom renovations can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic renovation to tens of thousands for a complete overhaul. It is important to have a budget in mind and stick to it, so you don’t overspend. Renovating a bathroom to include a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub can add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials.
Adding a bathroom with a combined laundry to a home can potentially add value to your home. However, the actual value added will depend on various factors such as the quality of the construction, the market demand in your area, and the overall appeal and functionality of the addition. Here are some considerations:
- Increased Functionality: Adding a bathroom and a combined laundry to a garage can enhance the functionality of your home. This addition provides convenience and versatility, especially if there are no existing bathrooms or laundry facilities in the garage or nearby. It can be particularly attractive to potential buyers or renters who prioritise having these amenities readily available.
- Additional Living Space: Converting a garage into a usable space with a bathroom and laundry can effectively increase the liveable square footage of your home. This can be advantageous when it comes to property valuation and appeal. However, it’s important to note that converting a garage may impact the availability of covered parking, which could be a factor for some buyers.
- Market Demand: The demand for properties with additional bathrooms and laundry facilities can vary depending on the specific market conditions in your area. Research the local real estate market and consult with real estate professionals to understand the preferences and expectations of potential buyers or renters. Consider whether the addition aligns with the needs and desires of the target market.
- Quality and Design: The quality of the construction, finishes, and overall design of the added bathroom and laundry will significantly impact its value. Ensure that the space is well-designed, functional, and visually appealing. Using high-quality materials and fixtures will also contribute to the perceived value of the addition.
- Cost vs. Value: Consider the cost of the addition relative to the potential increase in property value. Evaluate whether the expenses involved in construction, permits, and any necessary modifications are justified by the potential return on investment. It’s advisable to get estimates from reputable contractors and compare them with the estimated increase in home value to make an informed decision.
Remember that adding value to a home is not solely dependent on a single renovation project. It’s essential to consider the overall condition of the property, its location, and other factors that influence market value. Conduct thorough research, consult with professionals, and weigh the costs and potential benefits to make an informed decision about renovating your bathroom.
Bathroom renovation contractor in Sydney
Renovations done in 21 days
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Renovate houses or units
Craftsmanship
We are known for our exceptional craftsmanship in creating modern, stylish, and trend-setting bathrooms. With an extensive background in bathroom construction, Passion Built specialises in catering to the unique preferences and needs of each client, ensuring the delivery of bespoke bathroom solutions for homes and units alike.
A spectrum of styles
Our expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of bathroom styles, allowing us to adeptly handle projects of any scale and complexity. Whether you envision a compact, efficient space or a luxurious, expansive bathroom, our team is equipped to bring your vision to life using a variety of high-quality materials. We take pride in our flexibility and creativity, ensuring that each project reflects the individuality and lifestyle of our clients.
Modern features
One of the hallmarks of Passion Built is our proficiency in incorporating modern features into our designs. This includes the construction of elegant walk-in showers and the installation of sophisticated free-standing baths, among other contemporary elements. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom but also contribute to its functionality and comfort.
Design & construction
Understanding that a bathroom renovation is not just about aesthetics, we offer comprehensive services that encompass design, structural alterations, and full-scale construction. Our team works closely with you from the initial design phase, helping to conceptualise a layout that maximises space and efficiency. We are skilled in modifying floor plans, relocating walls, and even combining rooms to create a more spacious and inviting bathroom environment.
High standards
The demolition and construction phases are handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. Our commitment to quality ensures that every aspect of the renovation, from the foundational work to the finishing touches, is executed to the highest standards. We coordinate all aspects of the project, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients.
Exceeding expectations
At Passion Built, we recognise that a bathroom is more than just a functional space; it is a personal retreat that should reflect your style and enhance your daily routine. Our dedication to excellence, coupled with our experience and versatility, makes us the ideal choice for transforming your bathroom into a space that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Let us help you create a bathroom that is not just built, but passionately built to perfection.
