Bathroom renovations can be costly – more costly than most rooms in your home. But it also can be a highly rewarding experience once you turn a dated, ordinary, poorly-functioning room into a beautiful spa-like retreat. The challenge often comes down to balancing a homeowner’s wants and needs on one side, and cost on the other.
Well, fear not dear reader, because you can achieve the bathroom of your dreams without breaking the bank or sacrificing style and functionality. Here’s how.
Set a Budget
Before the project gets underway, set a realistic budget that you can stick to. Sure, surprises are bound to pop up along the way so it’s smart to have a contingency fund but resist the urge to change course in mid-stream. Even small changes add time and money to the project. And that can quickly send your budget soaring through the exhaust fan.
DIY the Demo
You can save hundreds of dollars if you do the demolition work yourself or have a handyman friend or family member willing to work on the cheap. Resist the urge to swing the sledgehammer any which way and instead carefully remove countertops, sinks, cabinets, and flooring. Be extra careful around electrical wiring, HVAC vents, and plumbing pipes. Even seemingly minor damage to these can result in costly repairs, negating the money you saved (and then some) by doing the demo yourself.
Shop Around
Because most bathrooms are relatively small, they usually don’t need a lot of materials like cabinetry or tile. Look for gently used second-hand cabinets, sinks, and fixtures or pieces that are being discontinued by manufacturers. If you’re crafty, turn an old dresser into a vanity by sanding, staining, and replacing the hardware.
Avoid Trends
The hottest, latest trends are usually also the most expensive. Instead, stick with classic designs that will stand the test of time for years to come, and pull trends in with décor and accessories.
Keep the Footprint
The money it costs to move plumbing supply lines, drains, HVAC vents, and electrical wiring can add up quickly. That means you can save a bunch by keeping the major fixtures where they are and renovating around them.
Reuse What You Can
Keep what you can, especially if it’s in decent shape and still fits your style. For example, paint or refinish a wood vanity instead of purchasing new. Is the floor tile in great shape? Try replacing the grout for a clean, fresh look. And even if nothing can be salvaged, keep the drywall, paneling, and subfloor if it doesn’t need to be replaced. Every little bit adds up.
Focus on the Bling
Working with a small budget? You can still breathe new life into an old space with new fixtures and a little paint. Replace the mirror, lighting, faucet, and showerhead. Throw on a fresh coat of paint and hang a new shower curtain. A few smart accessories and you’ve got yourself a refreshed space.
Get Multiple Quotes
Sometimes it’s just wiser to hire a contractor to manage everything, soup to nuts. Ask a few professionals to quote on the job but be sure you’re comparing apples to apples. For example, will the contractor pull permits if needed? Does demo include the cost of a dumpster? Do they bring in a team of plumbers and electricians or do you need to hire them separately?
In other words, contact Pann Home Services for kitchen and bathroom renovation projects large and small. We’ll assist with the planning, and from there take the job to finish line – just the way you envisioned it, and perhaps even better.
