A bathroom remodel can be a large undertaking even if the space you are working in is on the smaller side. From uncovering mold to faulty pipes, the unpleasant surprises associated with removing a tub or bathroom vanity makes a lot of us more comfortable with not knowing. However, even though these discoveries can delay projects and increase the bottom line, the sooner they are taken care of the cheaper it typically will be.
Now that we are all thinking about what is growing behind the shower, I am sure you are wondering how to get started with your bathroom remodel project. The first step to any home improvement project, whether professional or DIY, is to make a plan. A well-thought-out remodel plan that includes work schedule, date range, and budget is more likely to come out according to your vision than randomly replacing items without end result in mind.
making a bathroom remodel plan
To get started, make a list of all the items that you would like to replace. If this is the first time you are considering a bathroom remodel, you may not where to start with replacing items or just giving them a cost-friendly update. For example, if you have a vanity cabinet, you may not need to replace the whole unit. Just replacing the cabinet doors, also known as refacing, is a great way to re-use your current bathroom vanity.
A good way to determine what you might want to replace in your bathroom remodel is to consider how the space is serving your needs. If you find yourself constantly running out of places to store your bathroom essentials, then you may consider wall-mounted bathroom cabinets. Be sure to carefully consider your storage space, because not having enough bathroom storage is not only uncomfortable but can actually also be unhygienic.
national average remodeling costs to consider
As with any large purchase, it is always important to do your research. For planning your budget, the easiest way to get a good estimate is to start nationally slowing localizing your searches. According to the financial experts Forbes, the cost of a bathroom remodel can range from as low as $2,500 to as much as $30,000, with a US-based national average of $10,000.
The best way to keep project costs down is to do the labor yourself. And so, to plan your budget you will just need to price out the items you need. The same Forbes article goes on to provide a helpful list of average costs of commonly replaced bathroom fixtures:
- Showers: $500- $5,000
- Countertops: $200- $1,000
- Cabinets: $270- $400
- Toilets: $80- $5,000
- Bathroom Vanities: $100- $2,800
- Flooring: $45- $200
- Paint: $30- $60
- Plumbing: $250- $1,500
added labor costs
Sometimes, we need to call in professionals for larger tasks or things outside our skillset. There are a variety of projects that will require a plumber or electrician to not only perform the work but also to ensure it receives the proper permits. In a recent HomeGuide article, they noted that general contractors typically charge around 10%- 20% of the total cost of the project. However, hiring a general contractor can be a great way to ensure that your project gets finished on time and within budget.
increasing your home’s value
By this point, you may be getting nervous about how quickly the numbers are adding up, but don’t worry, there is a silver lining. Since the bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the home, improving your bathroom with quality upgrades can actually increase the value of your home.
According to USA Bath, the national average for a bathroom remodel with a budget of around $18,000 is around 60%. However, it is important to note that the exact return on investment will vary depending on the quality of materials used and your local housing market.
To get the best understanding of what projects to prioritize and what you can expect, get in contact with a local real estate agent. Their knowledge of what is popular in your local market can help you craft a more precise plan.
you don’t have to break the bank
While things like cultured marble or floating modern bathroom vanity can have a stunning result in your bathroom, it is not necessary to purchase these luxury items to increase your home’s value. Sometimes, it can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint. To close, we are going to take a look at two cost-friendly bathroom remodel projects that can change the feel of your bathroom almost instantly.
- A fresh coat of paint
- Trendy wallpaper for a contemporary look
bathroom painting
A fresh coat of paint can help your bathroom feel lighter, depending on the color, and cleaner. If you want to increase the brightness in your bathroom, opt for whites and off-whites, as these colors will help reflect natural light throughout the space. To get started you will need need to source paint and primer, plus the necessary brushes, painter’s tape, and drop cloths.
While there are paint and primer combinations available, it is typically more effective to do two separate coats of paint and primer. Since the bathroom is a high-moisture space, you will want to look for primers that offer mold and mildew resistance. Without this step, you may have stains bleed through your new coat of paint.
going for wallpaper
One trend we have loved to see over the last couple of years is using bold wallpaper for your bathroom. Adding wallpaper will take more time to install and can increase costs depending on the designs chosen, but opens up a lot of unique opportunities for your design. From sophisticated and classic to something ultra-modern like an assemblage of various patterns, we are glad that wallpapered bathrooms are here to stay.
Installing wallpaper will take some time, but it is not too much more difficult than painting. The first step is to clean and prime the walls. If you have old wallpaper, that will need to be removed first. Once the walls are prepped, you will need to accurately measure the sections of the wall you plan to cover.
Once you have the wallpaper cut to size, fill a tub or small container with clean water. Fully submerge the piece and then remove it by holding the top and bottom corners. Fold the corners together lengthwise twice before re-submerging the wallpaper. Check the packaging material for the wallpaper, as the manufacturer should have instructions on how long to let each piece soak.
Finally, hang the wallpaper and use a wallpaper brush to smooth out any air bubbles or excess glue. For more on wallpaper hanging, check out the great guide made by HGTV.
wrapping up your bathroom remodel
As you can see, the amount you ultimately spend on your bathroom remodel will depend on the amount and quality of the materials purchased and the area in which you reside. It is important to also remember that these decisions will also determine the amount of money get from this investment.
If you are planning a bathroom remodel project, take a look at the homes for sale in your area. This should give you an idea of what local buyers are looking for in terms of features. Realtors in your area can also be a great resource for finding direction for your project.
If your bathroom remodel includes a new double sink vanity or new wall cabinets, our interior designers are here for you! Book a free consultation today, and you can work one-on-one with one of our cabinet experts to create your dream space today. Feel free to give us a call at 855.669.6609, an email to info@cabinethub.com, or you can fill out our design request so we can get starting helping you.