Remodeling your bathroom is a big undertaking. And it’s a project you need to be prepared for – otherwise, you could run into unexpected problems, high costs, and potential design disasters. That’s why it’s so important to search online and do your research about bathroom remodeling before you begin a project of your own.
If you’ve never remodeled a bathroom before, you need to know what to expect. You need to understand what you’re facing. And with an online search, you can uncover plenty of important details about remodeling your bathroom.
The following are a few critical details you need to know before you begin a bathroom remodel.
Expect to Spend Thousands of Dollars
The most important piece of any bathroom remodel is the cost. And while you might think you can remodel your bathroom on a budget, you’ll need to be aware of what this job could wind up costing you. Otherwise, you might be shocked at how much you wind up spending.
The average cost of a bathroom remodel is $10,000 – and that includes minor and partial remodeling projects. Completely overhauling your bathroom will likely cost you $15,000 or more. And if you’re remodeling a large master bathroom, the job can cost upwards of $50,000.
However, there are ways to save on these high costs. First and foremost, you should prepare for the job by creating a list of what needs to be done. You can then assess which items on your list can be done for less. For example, high-end shower doors can cost as much as $3,000, but you may be able to find a low-end option around $300. Bathtubs can cost as much as $8,000, but if you look for budget-friendly options, you can pay as little as $400.
Make sure you plan a remodel that’s within your budget, making adjustments where needed to scale back. And don’t forget to plan for overages or unexpected costs like the cost of labor or installation fees. Projects like this have a tendency to go over budget, especially if you forget to budget for the individuals who’ll be installing or doing the hard labor parts of the job.
Be Practical Instead of Trendy
It’s tempting to redesign your bathroom with modern styling and on-trend items. When you think about remodeling, you likely want to update your bathroom to include the latest colors, design cues, and items that you see online, on Pinterest, or in interior design magazines. But being trendy can wind up leading you to another remodel project in just a few years.
A bathroom remodel is a huge investment, which is why it’s important to make sure the changes you make will keep you happy for years to come. If you have to redo your bathroom because it’s outdated every few years, you’ll wind up wasting money.
Instead, try to choose neutral or classic styling for your bathroom. Skip the dramatic freestanding bath or sink; instead, choose a set of cabinets that offer storage and functionality. Pick a tub with clean lines and neutral style so it’ll suit your bathroom for decades. Try to avoid any colors or aggressive fads that can quickly become cringe-worthy.
Small Details Can Make a Big Difference
You might think that the biggest aspects of your bathroom are the most important. But the opposite is actually true – the little details can make a significant difference in how your bathroom looks and feels.
It’s important to create a bathroom that’s both functional and attractive when you’re doing a remodel. You want your bathroom to meet your needs and look great doing so. And that’s where paying attention to the little details can really make a difference.
Don’t forget to consider elements like where you’ll place electric outlets, where you’ll install items like towel racks or holders, and what kind of grout you’ll use. For example, do you need outlets on each side of the vanity? Where do you usually plug in items like electric toothbrushes or hairdryers? Where will you reach when you want to dry your hands or grab a towel after a shower? Do you want your grout to stand out or blend in with the tile? Considering these questions can help you design a perfectly accommodating bathroom.
There Are Ways to Cut Costs and Save Money
Although bathroom remodels are expensive no matter how small in size and scope they may be, there are still ways you can save money. The key is knowing where you can cut costs and where you can’t.
There are certain aspects of a bathroom remodel that don’t need to be done by a professional. And there are plenty that should absolutely be handled by experienced professionals. Consider tackling projects like the following on your own to save some money:
- Doing your own demolition, such as tearing out old cabinets or flooring.
- Shopping for items like tubs, tile, or faucets at a recycling or resale center.
- Painting walls and doors.
- Replacing switches or switch covers.
If you’re even a little handy, you may be able to save money on some of the costs of your remodel. Additionally, it’s a good idea to search online to see if you can find an affordable contractor. You can get free quotes and estimates for your bathroom remodel, and you can compare those prices before the job starts. Hiring a contractor may be able to help you keep your remodel within your budget while still getting quality results.