Many homeowners naturally equate “renovation” with “expensive.” This doesn’t have to be the case. You can update and improve the functionality of your home without breaking the bank. Although the typical cost range for a bathroom remodeling project falls between $6,000-$17,000, many budget-friendly bathroom renovations are affordable and beautiful.
Tips for Keeping Costs Low
Keep Your Existing Layout
Changing or moving your plumbing and electrical is expensive. If you decide to alter your bathroom layout, lines will need to be moved, which automatically increases the costs. Moving your toilet just a few feet can cost thousands of dollars in framing and plumbing costs. If you keep your existing layout, you’ll save money for other upgrades. When you change the location of a sink, shower, toilet, or bathtub, you’ll have to do new waterproofing and retiling. Labor costs will increase accordingly.
Develop a Comprehensive Plan
Poor planning contributes to budget overruns. By taking sufficient time to consider your wants and needs, create a solid design plan, and establish a comprehensive budget, you’ll significantly increase the likelihood of a renovation success. Anytime you renovate, it’s common to run into unexpected problems. Including a reasonable contingency budget to accommodate surprise costs for plumbing, electrical, or other hidden issues is always recommended by professional contractors and designers.
Repair Anything That’s Broken
It should go without saying that repairing any broken or leaking plumbing fixtures should be a top priority. Have your bathroom thoroughly inspected by a qualified plumber before starting a renovation project. It’s also essential to ensure that the bathroom’s electrical system is up to code and working properly. If you have old outlets, you should upgrade to GFCI outlets. They are designed to work in moist environments and protect you from electrical shock.
Update Fixtures
In bathroom renovations, small changes can have a significant design impact. Updating your fixtures and fittings can instantly update an outdated bathroom. Updating handles, faucets, towel racks, and toilet roll holders is a quick and relatively inexpensive way to improve the look of any bathroom.
Choose Tile Carefully
Tile costs can quickly add up. Quality tile can be found at all price points from $3 to $300 per square foot. The type of tile you select is essential as well. Some patterns and designs are more expensive to install than others. Selecting a herringbone or basketweave tile can result in much tile waste and increased labor costs. Accent tiles are often much more expensive per foot than standard wall tiles. Use expensive accent tiles where they provide the most visual impact.
Replace Outdated Flooring
Select flooring that is durable, low maintenance, and water-resistant. If you’re a tile fan but don’t like the cost, luxury vinyl tiling (LVT) is one of the best water-resistant bathroom options. LVT imitates higher-end flooring, is easy to install, and is low maintenance. Luxury vinyl tile mimics the natural look of expensive porcelain, ceramic, or wood without the cost.
Update Lighting Fixtures
New light fixtures are a great way to update any room in your home. Consider updating your existing fixtures by adding decorative sconces to complement your faucets and hardware. New fixtures with LED lights will save energy and lower your utility bills.
Focus on the Vanity
The bathroom vanity is a central part of any bathroom design. If you like your current vanity, but it’s ready for an update, you can change the countertop, update it with a fresh coat of paint, and replace the hardware. If it’s time for a new vanity, there are numerous styles to choose from, many of which are affordable. Choosing a new vanity that increases the storage and functionality of your bathroom is always a good idea.
Replace the Toilet
Today’s models offer improved efficiency and styles that were unavailable even a few years ago. Choosing an economical, high-efficiency, or ultra-low-flow toilet offers substantial water savings without sacrificing performance. Choose a chair-height toilet for added comfort and accessibility.
Minor Upgrades Can Make a Huge Impact
Replaced old, outdated, or broken fixtures, including sinks, toilets, faucets, and countertops, is a relatively inexpensive way to update a bathroom. Updating the lighting and a fresh coat of paint are other budget-friendly bathroom renovations that make a big difference. An experienced bathroom remodeler can offer many affordable suggestions to improve the aesthetics and functionality of even the smallest bathroom.
What is the ROI of a Bathroom Remodel?
Before updating a bathroom, it’s essential to consider the ROI or return on investment. This is especially important if you are considering selling your home in the next 2-5 years. If you are in the process of putting your house on the market, it’s critical to get expert advice. While a remodeled bathroom is likely to help attract buyers and boost your home value, ensuring you invest in the right upgrades is essential. Many budget-friendly bathroom renovations will add value and beauty to your home that potential buyers will appreciate. An experienced real estate professional can advise on what renovations will offer the best return on investment in your neighborhood.
Call R. A. Guinner for Your Next Remodeling Project
When you’re ready to change, upgrade, or improve your bathroom, R.A. Guinner Plumbing Company can help. We’ll help you create the custom look you want – even in a small space. We provide complete remodeling services and guide our clients through every step of a bathroom renovation or remodeling project. We understand the importance of budget-friendly bathroom renovations and help our clients spend their budgets wisely.
Our company is family-owned and operated, and we pride ourselves on “top-of-the-line” service. All our plumbers are licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection. No project is too big or too small for us to handle, and we always hold ourselves to the highest standards to ensure you are delighted with the results. Call us today at 314-752-9850 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.