Are you thinking about remodeling your bathroom but are worried about the cost? Are you wondering how much you should budget for your bathroom remodeling project?
Don’t worry–we’ve got you covered!
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about the cost of bathroom remodels, how to allocate your budget, and tips to save money.
By the end of this blog post, you will understand the various factors that can affect the cost of your bathroom remodel so you can make informed decisions when it comes time to budget for your project.
Let’s get started!
Cost Of A Bathroom Remodel
Let’s start with the basics: the cost of a bathroom remodel.
Per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, most people spend an average of $27,000 for a midrange bathroom remodel, and around $82,000 for an upscale bathroom remodel. A DIY or low-end bathroom renovation will typically run from a few thousand dollars for very minor upgrades up to $20,000-plus for more extensive renovations.
The midrange bathroom remodel cost estimate is based on a 5′ x 7′ small bathroom space and includes new bathroom fixtures, a porcelain-on-steel tub, a standard toilet, a ceramic floor, a solid-surface vanity counter with sink, and approximately 16 square feet of tiling.
The upscale or luxury bathroom remodel cost estimate is based on a 10′ x 10′ space and includes a frameless glass-enclosed shower, body-spray fixtures, ceramic tiles with an accent strip, a freestanding soaker tub with high-end faucets, a vanity with stone countertops and two sinks, and other luxury additions.
As you can see, the final cost of a bathroom remodeling project can vary greatly depending on various factors, such as the bathroom’s square footage, shape, material quality, and scope of work.
Keeping your bathroom’s existing layout or making modifications to it can also impact the overall cost.
Lastly, opting for high-end materials and finishes can also significantly increase your final cost.
Bathroom Remodel Budget Allocation
Now that you have an idea of the cost of a bathroom remodel, it’s time to allocate your budget. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), here is the cost breakdown for a typical bathroom remodeling budget.
Keep in mind that this cost breakdown is a rough guide.
Your bathroom remodeling budget may work out differently based on the materials you select, as well as the size and extent of your project.
- Cabinetry & Hardware: 16%
- Countertops: 7%
- Bathroom Design: 4%
- Doors & Windows: 4%
- Faucets & Plumbing: 14%
- Fixtures: 15%
- Flooring: 9%
- Labor: 20%-65% (per Bob Vila)
- Lighting & Ventilation: 5%
- Other: 1%
- Walls & Ceilings: 5%
DIY vs. Contractor Costs
One of the most significant factors that can affect your bathroom remodel cost is whether you hire a contractor or do it yourself (DIY). While doing it yourself may save you money, it can also be time-consuming and stressful.
Deciding whether to DIY a bathroom remodel or hire a contractor is also about more than just money.
You’ll need to determine if you have the necessary skills to complete the project safely, efficiently, and with a level of quality that satisfies you. Consider your skills, time, and budget before deciding.
On the other hand, while hiring a reputable contractor will cost you more upfront, they will ensure that the job is done right and on time.
Many bathroom remodeling tasks require specialized knowledge and skills that most DIYers simply don’t have.
Other construction project tasks require professional licenses and insurance–such as electrical and plumbing work.
Determine Scope
Before you start budgeting for your bathroom remodel, you need to first determine the scope of work for your project. Figuring out the scope of your remodel is crucial because it will make a big difference in determining the size and allocation of your budget.
Will you be making small changes, such as a fresh coat of paint or updated plumbing fixtures, or will you be doing a complete gut renovation with a reconfigured layout to maximize space?
If you’re planning a full remodel, you may need to budget for costly modifications, such as rerouting plumbing and electricity or changing the bathroom layout by moving or removing walls.
These bathroom remodeling services can add significant expenses to your budget, so it’s essential to plan for them early on.
Lastly, you should also consider whether you need to hire an interior designer or architect to help you bring your vision to life.
We at TEKRA Builders recommend consulting with a designer if you are planning a luxury bathroom remodel.
Not only do designers help you with aesthetic decisions, but they can also help you optimize the functionality of the space.
Budget For Contingencies
No matter how well you plan, unexpected expenses can arise during a bathroom remodel. Unexpected problems can arise–like plumbing, insulation, or wiring upgrades–that require more time and money than originally planned.
Budget for contingencies, such as plumbing or electrical issues, to stay within your budget. We recommend setting aside at least 5-10% of your total budget for contingencies.
And if the home was built before the 1920s, we recommend setting aside 10-20% of your budget since older homes will typically require more upgrades to bring it up to modern code.
Average Costs Of Materials
Here are some average costs of materials to give you a rough idea of how much you should budget for your bathroom remodel. Just remember that these are averages!
The cost of individual elements for your bathroom renovation can vary widely depending on the style, quality, and material.
Vanity And Cabinetry
For many people, the vanity is the single most important component in their bathroom. A vanity can cost anywhere from $100 for low-end, ready-to-assemble pieces, such as those sold at IKEA, to over $6,000 for a custom vanity with quartz countertops and linen towers.
For high-end remodel projects, the bathroom vanity and other cabinetry can often end up being the most costly element of a bathroom renovation.
Countertops
The final cost of countertops for a bathroom remodel is mostly determined by the materials you select, as well as the size of your space.
For example, budget-friendly options like laminate can cost as little as $4 per square foot, while more upscale materials, such as quartz or granite, can cost $200 or more a square foot.
Tile
Again, similar to countertops, the final cost of your tiles is determined mainly by the materials you select.
Standard subway tile can cost as little as $3 per square foot, while ornamental tiles can run $100 per square foot or even higher.
Sink
Sinks can often be the centerpiece of a bathroom renovation, so they are available in a wide variety of styles–from natural stone designer vessel sinks to standard ceramic under-mount sinks.
Basic sinks made of standard materials like ceramic can cost as little as $50. On the other hand, you can easily spend over $1,000 for a premium designer sink.
Bathtub And Shower
A basic, no-frills shower or bath installation costs between $900 to $2,500. This price point will get you a functional shower or bath constructed of standard materials.
However, mid-range to upscale shower or bath installations with premium materials can cost $15,000 or more–especially if you get additional upgrades such as massaging water jets, multiple shower niches, and built-in benches.
Lighting
From multi-bulb vanity fixtures to wall sconces and recessed lighting, bathroom remodeling calls for an eye-catching light-fixture upgrade.
Basic lighting can cost as little as $40 dollars per fixture, while premium statement lighting pieces can cost thousands of dollars per fixture.
Hardware And Accessories
When it comes to bathroom renovation, small items such as hardware and accessories are typically the most affordable components.
Hardware and accessories include items such as towel racks, soap dishes, toilet paper holders, and light switch covers.
The cost of these components will depend on the materials you choose, but generally, you can expect to spend between $100 to $300 or more.
Flooring
The cost of flooring for a bathroom remodel depends on what materials you select, as well as the overall square footage.
That being said, most homeowners spend about $20 per square foot for low-cost vinyl flooring, while premium stone tile flooring can easily run over $100 per square foot.
Other premium upgrades, such as heated floors, can easily push the cost thousands of dollars higher.
Bathroom Remodeling Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when planning your bathroom renovation:
Make a plan and stick to it. Resist making changes to your bathroom renovation plans after the work has already started. Changing the scope of work disrupts your bathroom remodeling timeline and also adds to your final cost.
Make a list of your “needs” vs. your “wants.” When planning your bathroom remodel budget, it’s essential to distinguish between your needs and wants. To get started, research the costs of various products and materials, beginning with the most necessary and expensive items down to those you can do without. Needless to say, it’s best to prioritize your budget by starting with the things you need.
Prioritize your list of “needs.” After you’ve made a list of the most essential things you need to change or replace in your bathroom remodel, you can organize that list in order of most important to least important. This will help you determine the most important aspects of your bathroom renovation. For example, if you have a family member with mobility issues, an ADA-compliant bathroom design may be at the top of your list.
Research a general contractor before you hire them. Before you make a decision on who to hire for your bathroom remodeling project, it’s essential to research multiple general contractors. Just keep in mind that the lowest bid doesn’t necessarily equal the best value.
In fact, a general contractor who quotes you an unusually low price will often cut corners when it comes to materials, finishes, and the overall quality of their work.
Instead, the best strategy is to aim for the highest quality within your budget.
Let The Experts At TEKRA Builders Help You Create Your Perfect Bathroom
A bathroom renovation can be an excellent investment for your home, but it’s important to budget wisely. Consider your needs, wants, and budget before starting your project, and don’t forget to allocate funds for contingencies. With the right planning and budgeting, you can have the bathroom of your dreams without breaking the bank.
If you live in the Hudson Valley area of New York and still have any questions or uncertainties, then the experts at TEKRA Builders are here to help. Feel free to fill out our contact form today or give us a call so we can start partnering with you on your next exciting renovation project!