Bathroom Remodel Costs

Bathroom remodeling is an investment in your home and a great way to save money long-term. The right bathroom can help make your home more valuable, just like any other remodel. But it's also an opportunity to relax and feel special, no matter how large or small your budget is. The cost of remodeling your bathroom can vary widely because homeowners often have different needs and preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for bathroom remodeling. Understanding your needs and how they will affect the cost of remodeling your bathroom is essential.

Factors That Affect Bathroom Remodel Costs

1. Bathroom size and layout

A larger, more oddly shaped space will cost more to renovate than a smaller, more traditionally shaped room. Oddly-shaped rooms often have plumbing and electrical systems that need rerouting and reconfiguration, which can be tricky and costly. It may also cost more because remodeling work on such a room requires more time and labor to finish the space.

2. Materials used

Laminate, tile, stone, and ceramic tiles contribute to a bathroom's cost. Whether the room is updated to look like it did when it was first constructed or completely redone with new materials, the materials used will determine the final cost. Make sure to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the room's materials when remodeling. 

3. Labor and contractor costs

The labor and contractor costs required to complete your bathroom remodel are not fixed. How long it takes the pros to do the work and the materials used will contribute to the final price. Weigh the cost of the materials against the time and labor required.

4. Permits and fees

You will need a plumbing or electrical permit before remodeling work can start. You may also be required to pay for a design permit if needed. Additionally, if you want to install a heating or cooling system in the remodeled room, you may also need to pay an energy-efficient HVAC unit permit fee. Depending on where and how the remodel is done, you may also incur utilities and taxes.

5. Unexpected expenses

Unforeseen costs related to your renovation will drive up the project's cost. Unexpected costs are often unavoidable, but a contractor can help reduce them by planning and completing due diligence to ensure that all materials and labor are appropriate for your project. They can also advise you on ways to cut costs, such as using leftover materials or discovering less expensive ways to complete a task, when possible.

Average Bathroom Remodel Costs

The national average cost to renovate bathrooms is $13,750. This number is an average, so the actual cost of a bathroom remodel will vary depending on location (urban vs. rural), the age of the home, materials used, and many other factors. Costs may also vary depending on whether the renovated bathrooms are for personal use or resale. The basic cost of remodeling a bathroom can fall between $8,500 and $20,000.

Tips for Budgeting Your Bathroom Remodel

1. Determining your priorities

Start by determining what's most important to you in a bathroom. Are you looking for a simple remodel or a complete makeover? Will adults use it mostly, or will you need to accommodate children? These factors and others will contribute to the final cost of your project. You should also consider how much time you can dedicate to planning, purchasing materials, and working on the bathroom.

2. Setting a realistic budget

Once you've determined your priorities, you can create a budget. Including all possible costs in your budgeting process is essential to avoid surprise costs beyond your control. A contractor can help you estimate the cost of your project and identify potential challenges so you're ready to provide for them when making final decisions about hiring labor and creating your budget.

3. Researching costs

Costs in your area will differ, so it's important to research the costs of previous projects. You can also look for information about products and professional fees online and in magazines. If you're planning a complete bathroom remodel, consider hiring a pro to help update your budget and plan the project.

4. Considering financing options

Financing options such as bank loans and home equity may be available to help cover the cost of bathroom remodels. However, these types of financing require a cosigner and can carry higher interest rates than traditional financing.

5. Planning for contingencies

You can plan for contingencies after purchasing a home to budget for unexpected expenses. If you're remodeling your bathrooms, also plan for the possible removal or repair of old or unwanted bathroom fixtures that may affect the cost of your project.

How to Save Money on Your Bathroom Remodel

1. Choosing affordable materials

Choosing materials with a low cost per pound will help your bathroom remodel cost stay under budget. Using wood in the flooring, cabinets, countertops, and walls instead of more expensive options like ceramic tile or stone will save money while creating an aesthetically pleasing space. 

2. Using DIY techniques

Do-it-yourself projects are a great way to add personality to a bland space and save money. You can add style by using the color schemes or accessories you love in your home and choosing inexpensive types of laminate, tile, and mirror to update aging spaces without breaking the bank. Creating affordable bathroom accessories using faux plants, frames, vases, and unique lighting is also possible.

3. Keeping the plumbing where it is

If your remodel plan calls for changing your plumbing, consider keeping the original plumbing where it is instead. Otherwise, you may need to spend extra money replacing or relocating existing piping and fixtures for the new space.

4. Hiring a qualified contractor

A qualified contractor will help ensure the job gets done according to your wishes and concerns. A contractor will also take the time to explain your options and advise you on ways to make your project more affordable.

5. Avoiding overdoing remodeling

If possible, focus on a simple update rather than a complete move and remodel. Spending too much money makes it hard to stick to a budget. A bathroom can cost $15,000 or more without considering unexpected costs. Plan for how much you can spend, how long your bathroom will take, and other factors before starting the project.

Bottom Line

From choosing flooring and countertops to reflecting on the hardware in a bathroom, transforming your bathroom is a great way to make it look new while saving money. A savvy remodeler can help you avoid unforeseen expenses, control costs, and still add the personality you want to your space. A remodeled bathroom can help you update a room while keeping with the style and feel of your home. If you're considering remodeling a bathroom for a home sale, discover what not to fix when selling a home with Redy.

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