Four of the most common washroom problems…and how to fix them
Over the 22 years that we have been refurbishing washrooms, we’ve seen a few things. We often get asked to solve problems and we always try to include intelligent and practical features when designing a new washroom for you.
Here are the top four washroom problems and how to fix them:
Vandalism
Solution
Update the lighting and include sensor operation where possible.
Low energy lighting which does not cast shadows is recommended.
Install sensor operated flush, taps and soap dispensers.
Use stainless steel dispensers instead of plastic.
Ensure correct fittings are used and that the substrate is appropriate for the installation. ie chipboard cubicles will be more likely to suffer damage due to misuse of attached equipment.
Replace tiled walls with hygienic wall cladding. Add an image to enhance room appeal.
Cause
Poor lighting. Dark, dingy washrooms are more prone to vandalism than bright, clean washrooms.
Broken flush/taps/dispensers.
Missing tiles.
Mould
Cause
Water seepage into chipped tiles and grout.
Standing water on vanity tops, basins and floors.
Condensation.
Solution
Install hygienic wall cladding. Waterproof and easy to clean with great longevity.
Install wash troughs with effective drainage so soap and water are not left stagnating.
Ensure appropriate floor drains are installed to allow water to escape.
Provision of proper heating and ventilation will help to reduce the amount of condensation.
Rust
Solution
Clip-on duct and vanity unit panels allow easy access to repair leaks.
Ensure the correct cleaning products are used, as recommended in the Operation and Maintenance manuals for your products.
Ensure drainage is appropriate and install mechanical ventilation if natural ventilation is not sufficient.
Cause
Leaks.
Use of incorrect cleaning products.
Standing water and lack of ventilation.
Smells
Solution
Install floor drain and tap so that floors can be washed and scrubbed down.
Make sure the washroom has adequate ventilation. Install mechanical ventilation is natural is not sufficient.
Install sensor flushes.
Urine and grey water can soak into unprotected panelling. Check joints and install new panelling, if appropriate.
When renewing panelling, consider a product which is impervious to fluids, such as Solid Grade Laminate.
Cause
Standing water and lack of ventilation.
Urinals.
Old duct panels/cubicles.
If you’re experiencing any of the problems mentioned in this article, then contact us for more advice or to arrange for your free site survey.