The toilet leaks. The wallpaper is outdated. The tile needs to be replaced. Does this sound familiar? A bathroom remodel can add resale value to your house, but it can also cost upwards of $15,000 for a full bathroom remodeling.
If you’re on a tight budget, that’s way too much money. Below are a few cost-effective remodeling suggestions that will improve the look of your bathroom without breaking the bank.
First, avoid relocating the sink, tub, shower, and toilet. You’re increasing your costs and extending the time it takes to complete the project by moving the plumbing. Instead, consider leaving the shower, bathtub, sink and toilet in the same location.
Next, skip the tile. Tile is beautiful, but laying tile in your bathtub or shower is time consuming and complicated – and more expensive. Instead, consider using prefabricated showers or bathtubs made of acrylics or fiberglass. Prefabricated units can be very attractive and will save you a bundle. Consider replacing your floor with a vinyl or laminate, both of which can be self-installed to save you additional money.
Wallpaper that looked great back in the 1970’s is probably looking pretty tired. Replace it with a more updated look and instead of wallpaper, paint it with a bright or neutral color. It will look great and you’ll save money.
Premade countertops cost less and are less labor-intensive than custom made countertops. Laminates are the least-expensive option. If you want to spend a little more, you can consider cultured marble, granite, or solid surface countertops.
You can still have a terrific modern updated bathroom without paying $15,000 or more. Choose your fixtures and materials wisely, and avoid structural changes and re-routing plumbing lines. Hire a professional plumber to handle replacement of plumbing fixtures and appliances, but do as much of the painting and other labor yourself as you can.
