Bathroom remodels are some of the most expensive remodels in the whole house. And if you can get away without a bathroom remodel, then you’re lucky. If you can’t, well either be prepared to break the bank or start looking for ways to save money on the bathroom remodel.
To help you out and spare you the search, we gathered a couple of ideas that can reduce the costs of your remodel. Without further ado, here are a couple of ways to save money on a bathroom remodel.
1. Stick to the current layout
We know how cool it would be to have a big spa-like bathroom. However, before you bite out more than you can chew, think about how expensive it would be to resize the bathroom and rearrange the whole layout.
The most expensive part of such a feat would be moving the plumbing. Rearranging and moving pipes, especially sewer and toilet discharge pipes is pretty expensive. Additionally, moving the tub and shower can also come with a pretty hefty price tag.
You can easily improve the look of your bathroom by sticking with a current layout and only tweaking things you don’t like.
2. Also, keep the existing electrical circuits in the place
Unless there is something seriously wrong with it or it doesn’t meet the standards, don’t mess with existing electrical wiring. Many huge bathroom remodels require complete rewiring because the old ones can’t meet the current electrical standards.
Don’t do that to yourself, don’t complicate your life and spend more money on redoing the electrical wiring if there’s nothing wrong with the existing one.
However, if you’re not sure about the current electrical circuits in your bathroom and whether they are functional and up to code, you can always hire a professional who will help you out and tell you if you need to make changes.
3. Tiling is not the only option
Tiles can be pretty expensive, especially if you want to go with those of better quality. So, it’s important that you know that you have other, more affordable options.
Instead of tiling your whole bathroom, you can use board and batten, beadboard, or even reclaimed wood panels. Wood trim or panels can give your bathroom a nice, rustic, and warm feeling.
If you, however, really like the tile look, try looking into tile replacements such as luxury vinyl tiles.
4. Bathroom flooring options
The same goes for the flooring. Installing tiles isn’t cheap but thankfully, it’s not the only option. As mentioned, luxury vinyl is not only much more affordable but installing it is much simpler and cheaper, as well.
On top of all this, vinyl flooring is much warmer than tiles. It’s durable and waterproof, so it will last you a long time. If you’re not a fan of vinyl, there are always other options.
5. Don’t replace everything
Another thing that you don’t need to do is replace every fixture in the bathroom. For example, replacing a tub can be a lot of work, and it can only add to the cost of a bathroom remodel. Instead, why not refinish the tub? There are easy ways to update your current bathtub without losing too much money.
When it comes to other fixtures such as toilet bowls or bidets, you can get away with replacing those. If you don’t already have a bidet in your bathroom think about getting one. Having a good bidet can be very beneficial.
A vanity is yet another thing that you don’t have to splurge on. You can either reuse your old one or visit a thrift store and DIY a pretty great vanity for your remodeled bathroom.
6. Cosmetic updates
Don’t disregard the cosmetic bathroom remodel because even that kind of remodel can have a huge impact on the overall look of your bathroom. If you have a limited budget, cosmetics updates can be your only option.
Just a fresh coat of paint can completely transform the whole bathroom. New shower curtains, new rug, bathroom accessories, all of these little changes can make a huge difference. Many people swear by peel and stick tiles. So, why not try those, too?
Doing any big changes in your bathroom can cost you a pretty penny. Many times all our bathrooms need is a bit of decluttering and deep cleaning to shine again. Don’t just jump head first into bathroom remodels – assess the bathroom situation, check out what should be replaced and what can stay, and then consult with your budget.
