Renovating Your Bathroom: Heating and moisture management.  

Redo your bathroom. It’s just what the doctor ordered! 

Well worth it. 

We love bathroom renovations. Bathrooms and kitchens sell houses, so when it comes to bathroom reno’s, you won’t be wasting your money. A bathroom renovation should be more than a cosmetic update. For a successful renovation you need to strike a balance between temperature and humidity. 

How can you heat your bathroom? (Infrared, Underfloor, and Air Conditioning) 

A cold bathroom can ruin your day, especially during early mornings or winter months. Fortunately, several heating options are available to chose from.  

Infrared Heating 

Infrared panels work by radiating heat directly to surfaces and people rather than heating the air. These panels are energy efficient and can be mounted on walls or even ceilings. 

Benefits of infrared heating: 

• Instant heat without pre-warming 
• Energy efficient 
• Sleek, modern appearance. You can choose a heating panel, or you can opt for a hybrid heating lamp, depending on your needs.  
• Infrared heating is healthy heating.  
• Keeps things dry and cosy  

One of the main reasons we love infrared heating is because it does such a great job at managing mould and damp. When heating with infrared radiation, all solid objects in the room – including ceilings, walls and floor – are heated. This prevents damp spots from forming and without moisture.

Drawbacks of infrared heating: 

• Limited range—may not heat the whole room evenly. 
• No air circulation, so supplementary ventilation may still be needed.

Underfloor Heating 

This system uses electric coils or water-based systems beneath the floor to provide radiant heat. It’s a popular luxury option during renovations. 

Benefits: 

• Even heat distribution and an invisible comfort level for even the “coldest” floors. (tile or concrete). 
• Frees up wall space—no visible units. 
• Adds value to the home as it is a bonus luxury element.  

Drawbacks: 

• High installation cost and expensive to run all season long, although technology and energy efficiency is improving.  
• Slower to heat up – some planning needed as it isn’t an immediate fix for a cold room.  
• Can be difficult to retrofit without removing existing flooring. Best installed during initial building process or as part of major renovations.  
• Does not directly target moisture and prevent mould. A dehumidifier might be needed.  

Air Conditioning or Heat Pumps 

While typically used for cooling, reverse-cycle air conditioners can heat as well. Compact ducted systems or wall-mounted units are common in larger or more modern bathrooms. 

Benefits: 

• Dual function: heats and cools.  
• Quick temperature control. 
• Newer technology can be extremely energy efficient.  

Drawbacks: 

• Not ideal for small bathrooms 
• Requires proper installation and maintenance 
• Circulates air but may not help with residual moisture  

Take note: A separate extractor or de-humidifier is needed to deal with dampness and prevent mould.  

Why dealing with damp matters in a bathroom 

Bathrooms are naturally humid, but unmanaged damp can lead to structural issues, poor air quality, and mould growth. Signs of damp include peeling paint, musty odours, condensation on walls, and discoloured grout or plaster and mould growth. 

The Health Risks of Mould: Why You Should Take It Seriously 

Where there is moisture, there’s a chance of mould. Mould is more than an unsightly nuisance—it can be a serious health hazard, especially in damp bathrooms. 

Common Bathroom Moulds: 

• Cladosporium: A black or green mould often found on grout or wood. Can cause allergies and worsen asthma.  
• Aspergillus: Can trigger respiratory problems, especially in those with asthma or compromised immune systems. Cause aspergillosis which requires medical treatment.  
• Stachybotrys (Toxic Black Mould): Produces mycotoxins and is particularly dangerous when inhaled over time. 

Take note: Not all mould that appears black is Stachybotrys. While it is safer to address any mould, you don’t have to run in fear at the sight of that first dark spot on your bathroom ceiling.  

Health Effects of mould exposure: 

• Allergic reactions: sneezing, coughing, skin rashes 
• Asthma attacks and worsening respiratory conditions 
• Long-term exposure may lead to chronic sinus infections or fatigue 

How to deal with mould that is already present: 

• Identify the Source: Fix leaks or drainage problems causing excess moisture. 
• Clean Properly: Use mould-killing sprays (e.g., hydrogen peroxide or vinegar solutions). Bleach is effective but harsh and not always recommended for porous surfaces. 
• Remove and Replace: Severely affected materials like plywood cabinetry or ceiling panels may need removal. 
• Improve Airflow: Upgrade your fan, open windows, and consider installing humidity sensors. 
• Repaint Wisely: Use anti-mould paint and sealants, especially on ceilings and corners. 

Ways to combat damp and prevent mould: 

• Ventilation: Install a high-quality extractor fan with a humidity sensor. It should run for several minutes after a shower ends. 
• Heated towel rails: Not only do they warm your towels, but they also reduce moisture in the air. 
• Dehumidifiers: In persistently damp environments, a small dehumidifier can help maintain safe humidity levels. 
• Waterproofing: Use waterproof membranes beneath tiles and around wet areas. This will need to be done as part of your large scale “hard core” renovation. This is why moisture management is an important consideration when renovating a bathroom.  

A thoughtfully renovated bathroom combines functionality, comfort, and wellness. Heating options like infrared, underfloor, and air conditioning systems make your bathroom more enjoyable, while steam showers add a touch of spa-like luxury. However, with these comforts comes a responsibility to manage moisture and ventilation.  

Damp and mould are not just maintenance concerns—they’re health hazards that can impact your home and your wellbeing. Invest in good waterproofing, smart ventilation, and regular cleaning routines to ensure your bathroom remains a sanctuary, not a source of problems. 

Pro Tip: Regular Maintenance is Key 

No matter where you live, damp-proofing is not a one-off job. Resealing grout lines annually, inspecting for hairline cracks in tiles and plaster, and ensuring that extractor fans remain functional are all part of maintaining a dry, healthy bathroom. 

By combining sound construction practices with region-appropriate damp-proofing strategies, you can ensure that your bathroom remains free of moisture damage—and the mould and health risks that come with it—for many years to come.