How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
A bathroom remodel is one of those projects that can improve your daily life. Better lighting, efficient fixtures and colors that suit your personal style can make your mornings more positive and your evenings more calming. And if you’ve been wishing for a double vanity to split with your partner, making that wish a reality can reduce stress and tension.
Homeowners typically spend between $6,000 and $15,000 to remodel their bathrooms, as reported in the Angie’s List Pricing Guide. And the average project falls around $10,000. Of course, mid-range to upscale bathroom remodels can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000 or more.
Here’s a look at what factors into the final price tag.
The Extent of the Remodel
The extent of your remodel will go a long way in determining its cost. A partial remodel will allow you to maximize an existing layout and tap into existing infrastructure. But with a full-gut remodel, there are more cost factors like electrical, plumbing upgrades and structural changes. If you’re only doing a partial remodel now, you’ll also want to take future plans into account and work with a professional so that each step is done in the right order.
The Existing Bathroom
The age of your current materials and fixtures, the size of your bathroom, and whether or not you’ll make changes to the room’s layout will all affect your costs. Remodeling a smaller bathroom with minor upgrades will cost much less than remodeling a large bathroom and installing high-end countertops, a high-efficiency toilet and a brand-new shower.
Materials and Labor
Materials and installation rates can significantly impact your final cost. But it doesn’t always pay to use low-grade materials to save money. It’s important that you do your homework and learn which materials will have the best value for your budget. And it’s equally important that you hire a reputable contractor for the most quality outcome.
Materials
Materials play a big role in overall costs, and they also determine how much maintenance your bathroom will need and how long it will endure. Bathrooms see a lot of activity and moisture, and your remodeling efforts will go further and last longer if you install durable materials. Plumbing fixtures and hardware are part of your material costs, and it’s worth it to explore your options here. Toilets, faucets and showerheads are extremely efficient these days, and you can save money down the road if you upgrade to more efficient fixtures now.
Hiring and Labor
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, labor and design costs account for roughly 20 to 25 percent of a bathroom remodel’s total cost. This is an area in which you don’t want to skimp. Quality installation can make all the difference in your project. As you’re interviewing pros, look for a remodeler with the following:
A portfolio with examples of projects similar to yours.
References who will attest to their skill and process.
Good communication skills and a positive attitude.
Willingness to make, and stand by, a thorough contract.
A team and/or network of contractors that they trust and can vouch for.
Proper licensing, bonding and insurance.
