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- Typical Range: $70 to $250 per square foot
Remodeling a bathroom is a great way to get a fresh new look and feel for the space. It’s also an opportunity to make a bathroom more functional, efficient, and safe. But the cost of a bathroom remodel can quickly go over budget. To save money and get a refreshed bathroom on a budget, some homeowners are choosing bathroom renovations over remodels.
How much does a bathroom renovation cost? Several variables affect the final cost, including the size of the bathroom, the fixtures being renovated, and labor costs. But on average, bathroom renovation costs fall within a range of $70 to $250 per square foot, according to Angi.
Before breaking down average bathroom renovation cost by factor, it’s important for homeowners to understand the difference between a renovation and a remodel to determine which option to choose.
Renovation vs. Remodel
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Contractors, interior designers, and even homeowners often use the terms “renovation” and “remodel” interchangeably. But the truth is that there are subtle differences between remodeling and renovating that have a major impact on the final cost of a bathroom upgrade. The following explanations highlight the differences between each project type and its unique benefits.
Renovation
In its simplest definition, a renovation updates the look and feel of a room without changing its intended purpose. This can include painting, updating hardware, installing new flooring, or replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones. A renovation can also include structural rebuilding. As long as the room type remains the same, it’s likely undergone a renovation.
Renovating is more DIY-friendly for homeowners than remodeling. Adding a new coat of paint or switching out an old bathroom vanity for a new, modern model can transform a bathroom in just a few hours and with minimal home improvement skills required. Renovating also tends to offer a better return on investment (ROI), making it a great option for homeowners who know they want to sell soon for top dollar.
Remodel
During a remodel, the purpose of a room or area is changed. A bathroom remodel may include expanding the space by knocking down a wall or building an addition. A remodel could also apply to a garage converted to a living space or even a kitchen where the entire layout is reimagined. A remodel doesn’t have to involve any demolition. Simply changing the function of a room, like a bedroom into a play space, is considered a remodel rather than a renovation, since the function of the space has been modified.
Homeowners will want to be aware that a remodel is typically costlier than a renovation, especially when the physical structure of the space is altered. Remodeling will almost always require a permit, whereas renovating may not.
Factors in Calculating Bathroom Renovation Cost
The average cost of a bathroom renovation depends on the size of the bathroom, the fixtures and other elements that are being renovated, and any necessary plumbing or electrical work. Even the home’s geographic location can affect how much it will cost to renovate a bathroom. Homeowners can use the following variables as a guide to help estimate the average cost for bathroom renovation.
Bathroom Size
The size of a bathroom greatly affects the overall renovation cost. Generally speaking, the larger the bathroom, the higher the number of desired changes and potential issues. A large primary bathroom is more likely to have double sinks and a separate bathtub and shower stall, while a small powder room may need only a few large tiles to replace the original laminate flooring.
Homeowners can expect to pay $70 per square foot on the low end for a bathroom renovation and up to $250 per square foot if the focus is on upscale fixtures and high-end hardware. Certain upgrades can surpass these estimates, which is another reason it’s crucial to price out every element of a bathroom renovation before starting the work to make sure the project doesn’t go over budget.
For a small powder room measuring 15 square feet, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,250 for a quick refresh. A bathroom with 40 square feet of workable space can cost between $4,000 and $6,000 to renovate, while a bathroom renovation of 90 square feet can cost between $9,000 and $13,500.
Fixtures
The cost for bathroom renovation depends heavily on the number of fixtures a homeowner wants (or needs) to tackle. For example, replacing a toilet is likely to cost less than renovating a bathtub, toilet, sink, and mirrors all at the same time.
One option instead of purchasing a new bathtub is to refinish this existing one. On average, bathtub refinishing costs $480, with a typical range of $330 to $630. This includes materials and labor. This process is also known as reglazing or resurfacing and can make an old, worn-out bathtub look brand new at a fraction of the cost of a replacement.
A new toilet can cost anywhere from $90 for a simple model to as much as $1,500 for a high-end brand with all the bells and whistles. The cost to renovate a shower depends on several variables, but updating a shower with a simple fiberglass insert costs around $400, with upgraded models approaching the $2,000 mark.
When it comes to sinks and mirrors, it all depends on whether they’re part of a vanity set or not. If a homeowner is removing an existing sink and replacing it with an updated model, they can expect to pay between $215 and $611 for sink installation.
Vanity and Countertop
For a quick renovation with big impact, replacing an outdated vanity and countertop is an affordable transformation most homeowners can handle. The cost of a new bathroom vanity has a wide range, from $300 and $3,800. Several variables like size, materials, storage, and number of sinks affect the total price of a new vanity.
A quick way to save on a bathroom renovation is to upgrade a vanity base with new paint and simply replace the countertop. On average, this costs between $200 and $1,000, depending on the material and style of the new countertop. A simple solid-surface countertop is the most affordable option, followed by tile. Manufactured quartz offers more elegance but costs a bit more. Finally, a bathroom countertop made from granite is likely to cost the most.
Faucets and Plumbing
Water is a major feature in every bathroom, and so it only makes sense to showcase it with modern faucets that match a bathroom’s style. To improve both safety and longevity, plumbing should always be up to code and in good working order in a bathroom as well.
During a bathroom renovation, faucets and any associated plumbing may need an upgrade or repair. Both bump up the total renovation cost. Homeowners can expect to pay between $250 and $1,450 for faucet and plumbing materials for their bathroom renovation. Where costs fall within that range is highly dependent on whether homeowners choose standard or high-end features and whether their plumbing needs a slight upgrade or a total overhaul.
Lighting
Updating light fixtures is almost always on the to-do list when it comes to renovating a bathroom. It’s a simple way to change both the look and feel of the room, especially if it’s on the smaller side.
Replacement light fixtures typically fall in a price range between $100 and $400. If wiring needs to be added, updated, or moved, the cost could be higher for both the electrical work and any necessary wall repair. For homeowners who are eager to boost the lighting in their bathrooms, adding a skylight is always an option. The typical range for adding this custom lighting feature is between $1,017 and $2,632.
Walls and Flooring
Updating the walls and flooring can really help take a bathroom renovation to the next level. As long as the flooring is level and not showing any signs of mold or mildew, it can be updated with simple peel-and-stick tiles. Walls can be brightened with a can of paint or upgraded with a textured wallpaper. These are simple renovations that are typically quite affordable.
If peel-and-stick tiles don’t fit the bathroom’s aesthetic, removing and replacing the existing flooring is always an option as well. Upgrading from laminate flooring to waterproof-engineered hardwood flooring may cost a bit more but can visibly transform the space. If hardwood isn’t an option, porcelain tile flooring runs from $860 to $2,600, while stone flooring is a bit more, with a range between $900 and $2,800.
Sometimes replacing flooring or walls isn’t a matter of preference but a requirement. Mold found on the walls or the ceiling should be removed, but without proper preventative measures it will likely come back. Depending on the severity of the mold, homeowners may need to replace walls in addition to making sure the bathroom is properly ventilated to prevent further mold growth.
Labor
Hiring professionals to tackle a bathroom renovation can ensure the job is completed properly and on time. But there are a variety of labor costs a homeowner may incur in this scenario. On average, the cost of bathroom remodeling makes up 40 percent to 65 percent of the total renovation budget, with homeowners paying between $50 and $75 per hour in labor fees.
To get a bit more specific, general contractors may charge between $300 and $400 per day, while plumbers charge an average of $1,000 to $2,000 in total labor fees depending on the extent of the plumbing work. Electricians tend to charge between $50 and $100 per hour. Painters are more affordable, charging $20 to $50 per hour or $1 to $6 per square foot. Interior designers, while well worth the investment for an in-depth renovation, can charge between $150 and $500 total for their bathroom renovation planning services.
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Geographic Location
Materials and labor costs vary by location, which means that two identical bathroom renovations can have two very different costs depending on their location. For example, some of the more expensive areas of the country when it comes to the cost of bathroom remodels and renovations include Los Angeles, California, and Birmingham, Alabama. Cities that come with lower bathroom renovation price tags include Cincinnati, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The city with the lowest bathroom renovation cost is Jacksonville, Florida. Generally speaking, the higher cost of living a city has, the more it will cost to renovate a bathroom there.
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Additional Costs and Considerations
The following considerations may not apply to every bathroom renovation. However, homeowners should still be aware of how they may affect the final total of a bath renovation. Outlined below are some of the most common additional price considerations to keep in mind.
Permits
A permit helps to ensure construction work complies with the minimum standards of safety established by a local municipality. Not all types of bathroom renovations require a permit, but completing work without one when it is required can result in serious consequences.
A permit isn’t needed to switch out a vanity or add a new coat of paint to the walls. But when changes are made to the plumbing, electrical, or structural components of a home, a permit is typically required. Homeowners can contact their local municipality to determine whether or not their bathroom renovation project requires a permit. The cost of a permit depends on the location of the home but can range from $175 to $2,000. The good news is that in most cases, securing and displaying a permit are handled by a contractor, with the price built into the overall cost of the project.
Additional Plumbing or Electrical Work
An intermediate-level bathroom renovation will likely require additional plumbing or electrical work. Whether it’s to accommodate a second sink or to install a new light fixture, both of these tasks are best left to the pros.
The cost for additional plumbing or electrical work varies by job, but homeowners can expect to pay an average of $530 for an electrical update during a bathroom renovation. If a plumbing update is required, homeowners will typically pay around $770, depending on the scope of the plumbing work required. A general rule is that the larger the project, the more money it will cost to complete. Installing an additional outlet is likely to be more affordable than replacing electrical wiring that’s not up to code, and replacing a few old pipes won’t cost nearly as much as rerouting plumbing to switch the layout of a bathroom.
Universal Design
Universal design means a space is accessible to everyone. This is important for families currently living with disabilities or for those who want to age in place. Renovating a bathroom into a universal design could simply involve adding a few grab bars in the shower or installing a comfort-height toilet. Other renovations may involve a complete demo and new layout. The difference between the two scenarios when it comes to cost can be quite dramatic.
Not only does a universal design enhance safety, it can also boost home value. By renovating a bathroom to appeal to buyers in all stages of life and with varied abilities, a homeowner is growing their pool of potential buyers. It’s also beneficial to have a bathroom space that helps make a home comfortable for its owners and their friends and family. Homeowners will find that universal design in their bathroom has around a 68.6 percent return on investment.
But how much does a bathroom renovation cost when creating a universal design? Again, it really depends on the scope of the renovation. On average, building an accessible bathroom from scratch costs around $9,000. Homeowners who only need to install a few grab bars are looking at a price range between $100 and $500 each.
Customization
A bathroom is a great space for customization; homeowners are limited only by their imaginations and budget. But just how much is bathroom renovation in terms of customization? It depends on how unique each customization is. For example, bathrooms can be customized for height. This could mean installing a custom-built vanity at a lower-than-average height for shorter residents or making sure there’s plenty of overhead space in a shower stall for taller residents.
Bathrooms can also be customized with technology such as automated fixtures. Adding this kind of technology will cost homeowners between $2,500 and $7,000 on average. Other upgrades could include radiant-heat flooring at $16 to $25 per square foot or heated towel rails at a total cost of $500 to $5,000. Adding a bidet will cost between $500 and $1,500, while choosing a hot tub will set homeowners back $4,000 to $8,500. In other words, a customized bathroom will almost always cost more than one with a standard design; how much more depends on the type of customizations and size of the bathroom.
Types of Bathroom Renovations
There are several different types of bathroom renovations, all with their own unique specifications and associated prices. When trying to estimate a bath renovation cost, homeowners can benefit from knowing which of the following renovation types theirs falls under.
Cosmetic Updates
Updating a bathroom cosmetically is one of the most common renovations. Cosmetic updates tend to be simple, conducted at surface level, and DIY-friendly for homeowners who have some background knowledge, though many others will prefer to leave these updates to a professional. Cosmetic updates could include a new coat of paint, updated hardware on vanity cabinets and drawers, or updated shelving and decor.
Such simple updates can be very affordable, especially since existing fixtures are rarely replaced in this type of renovation. Most bathrooms can be transformed with just a gallon of paint and a single piece of wall art. Such simple updates are perfect for homeowners looking to sell their home for top dollar or those who want a completely new look but feel limited by a tight budget. Just a few visual changes can be all it takes to make a bathroom feel clean, new, and stylish.
Aging in Place
When a homeowner loves their home, the idea of downsizing or moving to a location that’s safer as they age can be devastating. That’s why aging in place is so popular in the renovation space right now. Aging in place improves quality of life and encourages senior citizens to remain independent. But in order for aging in place to be successful, homeowners will need to make updates to be sure their homes are safe.
That’s where an aging-in-place renovation comes in handy. This type of remodel is different from one based on aesthetics or home value. It’s also a type of renovation that may need slight modifications as time goes on. But for homeowners who wish to stay in their homes, the added cost exchanged for safety is well worth it.
The cost of an aging-in-place renovation depends on the amount of work that needs to be done. The main focus of the renovation is getting rid of accidents waiting to happen, such as removing shower curbs or tall tubs. A one-level shower is a safe replacement. Remodeling a shower costs an average of $6,576.
Other smart changes involve adding more lighting, building custom cabinetry, and designing with low maintenance in mind (like using grout-free shower wall panels).
Bathtub Refinishing
Refinishing, or reglazing, a bathtub can give it a fresh and clean appearance, even if it’s original to an older home. Compared to replacing a bathtub with a new model, this is a quick and affordable way not just to extend the lifespan of the tub but also to spruce up an entire bathroom with a fairly simple job.
The average cost to refinish a bathtub is $480, though it depends on what material the bathtub is made from. Completing renovation projects simultaneously can also help reduce costs. Many homeowners decide to install new tiling or update faucets while reglazing their bathtub.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Homeowners can expect to pay at least $1,000 when converting a bathtub to a shower, and the cost could rocket to $15,000 depending on the amount of work needed. Although a bathtub is a feature many people appreciate for relaxation, a shower is usually the quickest way to get ready and out of the house in the morning. By converting a tub to a shower, a homeowner may find that their home offers more usable space.
The final cost to convert a tub to a shower depends heavily on how big the shower is, what materials are being used, and whether or not the old bathtub is being removed or worked into the design. If the tub is being removed, the difficulty of the removal will also add to the cost. Single-piece tubs come out much more easily than tubs surrounded by tile.
Vanity and Sink Replacement
Updating a bathroom’s vanity and sink can instantly transform the space without the need for demolition. There are a couple of ways this can be accomplished. The first is to update the existing vanity and sink. The second option—and often the best approach—is to replace a sink and vanity in order to extend the vanity or expand the amount of storage.
That’s why in renovations, replacing a vanity and sink is often the best approach. There are plenty of designs available in big-box stores to choose from. Homeowners can also shop secondhand to save some of their budget. And for those who need a custom or high-end piece, there is the option of ordering a custom-built piece. While there are many variables to take into consideration, homeowners can expect to pay between $300 and $3,800 for a vanity and sink replacement.
Lighting Updates
Switching up the lighting in a bathroom is a quick way to (quite literally) brighten up the space. Homeowners can expect to pay between $100 and $400 for the materials for new lighting. Labor costs will vary depending on the scope of the job. For example, just switching out an outdated light fixture for a new model will tack on minimal labor charges. But adding new lighting will require new wiring or new outlets, which can take more expertise and time. This translates to a higher renovation cost.
Tile Replacement
Replacing a bathroom’s tile can move it forward decades in terms of style. Retiling the shower can cost between $3 and $20 per square foot, while custom tile work such as mosaics can cost up to $100 per square foot. As with any other renovation project, there are several variables that can drive this price up or down.
The first factor to consider is tile removal, which can cost upwards of $300, depending on whether there is any damage to the subsurface during removal. The cost of the tile itself also affects the price. Simple subway tiles are much cheaper than oversize, intricate designs. At the same time, tile size also affects the price. The bigger the tile, the fewer will be required to cover the space, which generally means a lower cost. Homeowners should also know that bathroom tiles tend to cost more to install than tiles elsewhere in the home, like a kitchen backsplash. That’s because they require vapor barriers and have to be sealed thoroughly to withstand heavy moisture.
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Do I Need a Bathroom Renovation?
There are many different reasons people decide to do a bathroom renovation. Some homeowners may want a more modern-looking bathroom, while others may want a bathroom that is easier to maneuver around. Bathroom renovations can be an expensive undertaking, so it is important for homeowners to consider all of their options before making a final decision on whether to move forward with a renovation. Below is a list of common reasons to take on a bathroom renovation.
Outdated Decor
Decor that once represented a homeowner’s style can become outdated as tastes and trends change over time. Updating decor in a bathroom renovation can be a simple process that is completed in a few hours or a complete overhaul that takes several days.
For example, a change to the wall color can be accomplished quickly. But updating fixtures like vanities and showers may take some more time. Upgrading out-of-style vintage tile can involve extensive demolition and precise tile cutting and laying, making it a project likely to be drawn out by a DIY homeowner.
While a paint touch-up can be a quick and inexpensive bathroom renovation, other bathroom renovations can be more costly and take longer to accomplish. Replacing outdated tile flooring, walls, and storage as well as a vanity, toilet, shower can take time and can quickly increase costs. While many homeowners will choose to tackle just a couple of projects at a time, those whose bathrooms have obvious damage may need to move forward with a more extensive (and therefore expensive) renovation. When there is obvious damage to a bathroom, a renovation can make it safe and functional again.
Examples of damage include leaks or mildew. A renovation can be as simple as a pipe replacement or a coat of paint, but when it comes to signs of damage, a more thorough investigation is usually in order. While a coat of paint may hide visual mold and the odor of mildew, the cause has been left untouched. This means it’s only a matter of time before new colonies of mold or mildew start to develop. Replacing a pipe may temporarily stop a leak, but if a homeowner doesn’t know why a leak started in the first place, a new one can quickly develop.
When a bathroom is screaming for help through signs of damage, it’s better to take action before any of the issues get worse.
Poor Lighting
Bathroom lighting is an often-overlooked part of design, especially in older homes. An interior bathroom is likely to have no windows at all, while many bathrooms only have one. This means that if artificial lighting isn’t as bright as possible and properly placed, a bathroom is likely to feel dim and uninviting. What good is a beautiful bathroom if the lighting doesn’t highlight any of its features?
A bathroom renovation focused on lighting can be as simple as updating a light fixture. In other cases, additional lighting may be necessary. This can involve new electrical outlets and wiring, which are jobs best left to the pros. Installing new features such as dimmer switches offers additional control. This can make it easier to meet the lighting needs of a bathroom at different times of the day and evening.
Lack of Storage
A bathroom lacking storage can be problematic. Luckily, adding storage is a common process in a renovation, and homeowners have several options for increasing storage space without expanding the size of a bathroom.
If a homeowner is just adding storage in the form of a stand-alone cabinet, the cost isn’t much more than materials. Adding shelving is another affordable option for bathrooms in need of more storage space. Storage-adding projects that may increase the overall budget include installing mirrored medicine cabinets with storage in the place of a standard mirror or upgrading a pedestal sink or small vanity to a model with more drawers and cabinet space.
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Bathroom Renovation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Deciding whether or not a bathroom renovation can be handled without a professional depends on a few different factors. First, what is the extent of the renovation? If it’s just a quick color change with a gallon of paint, many homeowners will choose to tackle it by themselves, though for convenience, others will choose to hire professional painters.
Installing a new vanity or toilet can be a DIY project for homeowners who have experience with such projects. But for homeowners without that experience, hiring a professional will typically be the best choice to ensure the job is done correctly and, more than likely, much more quickly than a DIY project.
When it comes to converting baths into showers, adding new electrical outlets, or replacing tile, hiring a professional can give homeowners peace of mind that their project will be completed well and on time. Professionals come with years of experience, which is priceless in any home renovation project. While a few online videos or guides may help a homeowner feel more comfortable tackling a bathroom renovation, there’s no substitute for the experience that comes with dozens of previous renovations that a professional has completed. Having a professional complete the renovation will also help ensure that the work is done correctly, which leaves less chance that the homeowner will run into issues in the future. And if any issues do arise, the homeowner can contact the professional who completed the bathroom renovation to resolve them.
Another benefit professionals bring to the table is safety. Contractors should always be insured, licensed, and bonded. That makes a potential mistake less likely to upset a homeowner’s personal finances. When a homeowner is hurt during their own bathroom renovation, they’re left to tackle any related medical costs on their own. But when a professional steps in with the proper licensing and insurance, any unfortunate mistakes are handled—from a financial point—by policies instead of people.
A final consideration for homeowners to keep in mind is the pricing of materials and tools. Contractors often have access to discounted pricing. They also have top-of-the-line tools that can be expensive for a homeowner to rent or purchase on their own for a bathroom renovation.
So, should a homeowner DIY a bathroom reno or hire a professional? For a simple job, taking the DIY approach is certainly possible and likely less expensive. But when it comes to more involved bathroom renovations, hiring a professional to make sure the job is done correctly, quickly, and safely is worth the added expense.
How to Save Money on Bathroom Renovation Cost
A bathroom renovation can cost less than a meal out when a new coat of paint is the only task on the to-do list. But more expansive bathroom renovations that involve replacing fixtures, updating tile, and replacing poor lighting can quickly overtake even a generous budget.
When it comes to minimizing cost, bathroom renovation DIY projects are a great place to start. But there are other bath renovation money-saving tips homeowners should know about, including the following.
- To save on labor costs, tackle the demo alone instead of hiring out a contractor, keeping in mind that any errors made during the process could end up costing more in the end; plan the demo in detail before picking up a hammer.
- Try to buy fixtures at a recycling center. Most resale centers have tubs, faucets, tile, windows, and flooring at a fraction of the prices at big-box stores (and sometimes in brand-new condition).
- If additional lighting is on the to-do list, consider installing a sun tube instead of a traditional window. These flexible tubes funnel natural sunlight into a bathroom from a small opening cut into the roof, lighting up a small room at a fraction of the cost compared to the cost for a double-pane window or skylight.
- Opt for cheaper techniques without compromising the quality of the room. This could mean limiting tile to the floor and shower area, going with a stencil instead of wallpaper, or using expensive design elements as a single focal-point feature instead of a constant (like expensive tile or hardware).
Photo: istockphoto.com
Questions to Ask About Bathroom Renovation
A bathroom renovation can be an exciting (and sometimes expensive) endeavor. That’s why homeowners should make sure they have the best contractor their budget can buy to plan, execute, and oversee a bathroom renovation. Questions for homeowners to ask contractors before, during, and after a bathroom renovation include the following.
- How long have you been in business?
- How did you acquire your experience?
- Do you belong to any professional associations?
- Do you have a portfolio I can view?
- Do you have references I can speak with?
- Do you provide free quotes?
- What’s included in my quote?
- What happens if a material ends up costing more than estimated or a simple part of the job suddenly becomes more complicated?
- Are you licensed?
- Do you have insurance?
- Are you bonded?
- What can I expect the timeline to look like?
- Do I need to prep anything before the job begins?
- How are your employees trained?
- Do you use subcontractors?
- What happens if a job runs late?
- Do you give written warranties?
- Will this project require a permit?
- Can I tackle the demo on my own to save labor costs?
- What happens if a worker is hurt on the job?
- Do you provide samples of different materials, or do I need to shop alone for these?
- What do I do if I notice an issue with the bathroom after you leave?
- How can I protect my investment?
- Will my bathroom renovation raise the value of my home, and if not, can you make suggestions on how this can be accomplished?
FAQs
Deciding on whether or not to renovate a bathroom takes serious consideration. Gain additional insight by exploring the following questions and answers. While there is always a cost to bathroom renovation in both DIY and professional work, it’s accompanied by room for a return on investment.
Q. How much does a bathroom remodel increase home value by?
The answer typically depends on how much is spent on the renovation itself. For example, a $20,000 midrange bathroom renovation can add over $13,000 in resale value. A home’s value isn’t just monetary, though. Having a freshly updated space also improves joy and satisfaction within a homeowner. It’s hard to put a price on that!
Q. What does it cost to refinish or retile a bathroom?
It typically costs between $450 and $10,000 to retile a bathroom. On average, materials and labor come in around $2,000. The final cost depends on whether tiles need to be removed, if damage is left behind during demo, how large the new tiles are, what pattern is being used, how difficult any cuts are, and how much the tiles themselves cost.
Q. Can I remodel a bathroom for $5,000?
The national average cost for a bathroom remodel is $10,978. This includes new floor tiling, new tub with tile surround, new toilet, and new vanity with top and built-in sink. New paint, hardware, faucets, and light fixtures are included in this price as well. If a homeowner is willing to put in the legwork and heavily research the cost of materials and labor, it’s possible to remodel a bathroom for $5,000. But it’s certainly not the norm.
Q. How much should I spend on a bathroom renovation?
A homeowner should spend only what their budget allows, so the answer to this question varies from person to person. Renovating a bathroom should be an enjoyable experience that makes the homeowner proud of their space, not a stressful one that results in doom and gloom over the debt incurred. If the homeowner’s budget doesn’t allow for the type of renovation they are after, it’s best to wait a little and save some more so that the project is a success for everyone involved.
Q. What is the most expensive part of the bathroom?
In most bathroom renovations, the most expensive part is the labor. Tile work and plumbing can also be expensive in a renovation. Other aspects can raise the budget quickly as well, like layout changes, customizations, and high-end materials. If there is a lot of hidden water damage, replacing the walls could end up being the most expensive part of a renovation. Every scenario is unique.
Q. How much does it cost to renovate a small bathroom?
Many factors can affect the total cost to renovate a small bathroom. It all comes down to the job scope, materials, and any surprises along the way. As a general rule of thumb, homeowners can expect to pay from $1,500 to $15,000 or between $70 and $250 per square foot for a small bathroom renovation.
Sources: Angi; HomeAdvisor (1, 2, and 3); HomeGuide, Fixr, Moving.com
