One of the most rewarding home improvement projects is usually bathroom renovation. It enhances the overall aesthetics of your house and boosts the functionality of the most vital component i.e. bathroom, in your place.
However, before starting the bathroom renovation, it is essential to understand the overall costs involved to avoid any hassle later. If you are looking for a clear understanding of Bathroom renovation cost, here you are at the right place.
Reasons for bathroom renovation and the importance of budgeting
Regarding home renovations, renovating bathrooms is considered one of the most significant aspects. There are many reasons behind this. For instance, it is one of the key factors in adding to the resale value of your property. It does not only enhance functionality and comfort but also creates a striking and aesthetically pleasing space.
A well-planned budget is a crucial foundation for any project, and so is equally important for renovation of bathrooms. It lets you avoid overspending and keep your expenses within your budget. It assures you get the most value for your money. Therefore, budgeting is essential and should be done as the top priority.
Important factors influencing complete bathroom renovation cost
Several factors can significantly affect the bathroom’s full renovation cost. Let us have a look at a few important ones:
- Size and current condition
The size of your bathroom and its current condition plays a crucial role. Small bathroom renovation cost will be less. Larger bathrooms requiring significant structural changes will naturally cost more.
- Materials and fixtures
Your choice of materials and fixtures can have a substantial impact on costs. High-end materials and custom fixtures will be more expensive than budget-friendly alternatives.
- Labour costs
Labour costs can vary depending on the location and the skill level of the professionals you hire. Skilled workers or labourers typically command higher wages.
- Units to be installed
Obviously, the more units you desire to install, the more it will cost to renovate your bathroom. It may include a shower, bathtub, toilet, tiles, countertops, décor components, etc.
- Location and permits
Local building codes and permit requirements can affect your project’s cost. Be sure to research and budget for any necessary permits.
How do you create a sensible bathroom renovation budget?
Setting a sensible budget for renovations seems simple, but it is not easy. It requires comprehensive research from your end and setting reasonable goals in advance.
Let us look at a few essential considerations that will aid you in setting a proper plan that is within your budget, practical, and easy to stick to.
- Set realistic goals and expectations
In the beginning, one must set realistic goals and expectations. It will not make sense if you are tight on budget but expecting a luxury bathroom. Make sure to set a total budget you can spend easily and then decide on the renovation goals and stick to them.
- Research average local renovation cost
Again, the area or location in which you live can significantly affect the complete bathroom renovation cost. If you live in an expensive coastal area, labour prices will be higher than in the Midwest. Doing advanced research in this regard will help.
- Set your boundaries to define the limit
Before starting the bathroom renovation project, it is essential to set your boundaries. It means that if you are clear with what you can spend on, it will let you decide on many things easily. Diving into the actual work before figuring out the budget can end up creating a mess.
- Know the difference b/w MUST HAVES and NICE TO HAVES
Well, it is essential to consider that one must know the difference between Must Haves and Nice to Haves. It is not necessary to retouch every part of the bathroom if you are on a tight budget. It is not vital to have many fancy things inside that you can live without.
- DIY bathroom renovation cost vs. hiring professionals
While DIY bathroom renovation cost may be less, it is essential to be realistic about your skills and the project’s complexity. Hiring professionals ensures quality workmanship but may be more expensive. Therefore, you need to make a sensible decision here.
If you are skilled and confident enough to opt for DIY bathroom renovation, it may cost you around $ 5,000 to $10,000 for an average-sized bathroom. However, on the other hand, hiring contractors may cost you from $ 10,000 to $25,000 and above. Still, the costs may significantly vary based on your location, the bathroom size, the material quality used, and the estimated time and budget you have to complete the project.
The last but not the least thing to mention here is that you must have a little cushion for some sudden expenses. Unexpected costs always pop up when it comes to renovations. A lot of unforeseen problems are discovered after demolition gets started. Therefore, setting aside at least 20-30% of overall budget is always recommended. It will save you from a lot of hassle that may arise later.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can save money by:
- Doing some tasks yourself if you have the skills.
- Comparing prices from multiple suppliers for materials and fixtures.
- Timing your project during off-peak seasons when contractors may offer lower rates.
- Being flexible with your design and material choices.
It depends on your skills, the complexity of the project, and your budget. While DIY can save money, complex tasks like plumbing and electrical work are best left to professionals. Hiring experts ensures quality workmanship and adherence to building codes.
Always include a contingency fund in your budget, typically around 10-20% of the total project cost. This fund is crucial for covering unexpected expenses or changes in plans that may arise during the renovation.
The duration of a bathroom renovation can vary depending on the project’s complexity. On average, a moderate renovation might take 2-3 weeks, while a more extensive repair could take 4-6 weeks or longer.
Common mistakes include underestimating costs, not factoring in permit fees, not having a contingency fund, and overspending on non-essential upgrades. It is crucial to plan thoroughly and seek professional advice if needed.
Conclusion
A well-executed bathroom renovation project can improve your home’s value significantly. Bathrooms are one of the most frequently used spaces in a house, and potential buyers often pay close attention to their condition and features when considering a purchase. Upgrading bathroom can make your home more attractive to buyers, leading to a higher resale value.
Key improvements that can boost your home’s value include modernizing fixtures and finishes, increasing energy efficiency with updated plumbing and lighting, and expanding storage space.
Creating a spa-like atmosphere with luxurious features, such as walk-in shower or a soaking tub, can significantly appeal to potential buyers. However, it is essential to balance investing in quality renovations and not overspending for your neighbourhood, as you will want to recover most of your costs in the increased home value. Ultimately, the renovations done right can be a wise investment, improving your home’s marketability and, in turn, its overall value.
If the reason behind the renovation is not reselling your house, you can always stick to your budget to make things run smoothly.