A bathroom remodel can be a complicated, expensive undertaking that requires planning and design. Whether you’re looking to upgrade a single fixture or redo the entire room, there are endless possibilities when it comes to color schemes, layouts, and materials. It’s important to establish a budget before starting so you have an idea of what your goals are and how much they will cost.
Even if you’re doing a small update, the costs add up quickly. A good rule of thumb is to budget for 10% more than you think you’ll need. Unexpected issues or unforeseen expenses will almost always come up, so it’s best to have extra money available just in case.
The average bathroom remodel costs between $6,800 and $14,500. This includes the installation of a new vanity, tub, shower, toilet, and sink along with new flooring and a paint job. The size of the space and the materials you choose will have the biggest impact on the price tag.
It’s also important to factor in the cost of labor and permitting when determining your budget. Hiring licensed professionals is the best way to ensure a quality job and avoid any costly mistakes. If you’re doing a major remodel, it’s also a good idea to get estimates from several different contractors to find the best price.
There are a few different types of bathrooms, and each one has its own unique set of needs. For example, a guest bathroom is typically smaller and doesn’t require as many amenities as a master bath. The type of bathroom you have will influence what you need from it and how much you should budget for it.
If you’re doing a simple makeover, it’s possible to do it on a tight budget. The most common updates are swapping out fixtures and adding color with paint or wallpaper. In this small NYC bathroom, Sweeten homeowner Erica gutted the room but didn’t move any plumbing or rework the layout. She spruced up the room with fresh white paint, a new light fixture, and a floating vanity.
A full-scale remodel is a bigger project that involves structural changes. This could include tearing out walls to expand a space, bumping out an exterior wall, or absorbing a nearby closet. It may also involve moving large plumbing structures underneath the floor and reworking the entire layout of the bathroom. This level of remodeling usually requires a permit and a professional.
You may also want to consider ADA-compliant upgrades during a full remodel. For example, installing a walk-in tub or a grab bar will increase the cost but make your bathroom more accessible for those with mobility issues. It’s also worth considering energy-saving upgrades such as low-flow toilets, a water-efficient shower head, and LED lighting, which can lower your utility bills.