What You Need to Know About the Average Bathroom Remodel Cost

Whether you’re planning to gut your bathroom and start fresh or you simply want to give it a fresh look, there are many aspects to consider. From the materials to the labor costs, here’s what you need to know about the average bathroom remodel cost.

First and foremost, it’s important to plan the layout correctly. This means thinking about where fixtures will go and how they’ll fit within the space, explains Britt Zunino of Studio DB.

Cost of Materials

The cost of materials used in a bathroom remodel can range widely depending on what you want to achieve. There are a lot of choices available, from peel-and-stick tiles to mesh mosaic tile and grout, so it can be tough to pin down what a reasonable bathroom remodel budget might look like.

Porcelain tile, for example, is an excellent choice and costs less than stone tiles. It also requires little maintenance and is resistant to chipping.

Flooring is another area that can take a lot of work and can require a wide variety of materials. The type of material you choose for the floor depends on how large your bathroom is, what its current condition is and whether there are any problems with the subflooring.

Cost of Labor

The cost of labor is typically the biggest factor in a bathroom remodel. In general, it works out to $50 to $75 per hour and makes up between 40 percent and 65 percent of a project’s total budget.

While a handy homeowner can complete most bathroom jobs on their own, large projects may need to be handled by a professional contractor or electrician. Whether you decide to hire a contractor or do the work yourself, be sure to set a reasonable budget before the project begins.

One of the biggest surprises in a bathroom remodel is mold. Small pipe leaks or grout cracks can go unnoticed for a long time and grow mold, which will cause a lot of extra plumbing and wall removal costs.

Cost of Demolition

The cost of demolishing a bathroom is no small feat, especially if you’re trying to make room for new fixtures and flooring. You may also have to reroute electrical wiring and plumbing.

The price of materials is also an important factor in determining your remodeling budget. Using high-quality, durable material saves you money in the long run.

The average bathroom remodel is a costly undertaking, but the costs don’t have to be prohibitive if you’re careful and do your research. A reputable contractor will provide you with a solid estimate and guide you through the renovation process from start to finish. For the most part, bathroom remodels should take about two to three months to complete. During that time, you’ll want to stay on top of your contractors’ schedules so you don’t have any last-minute surprises.

Cost of Permits

When planning your next bathroom remodel, consider how much you’ll need to spend on permits. This may feel like a necessary nuisance, but it can help you make sure the job is done safely and legally.

For example, if you plan to remove a non load-bearing wall, you might need a permit, as this could impact the stability of your home.

Another reason to get a permit is because it will ensure your work will last long enough for you to enjoy your new space. It also can help you sell your house when it’s time to move on, since buyers will be confident that you followed local building codes.

Permits can range in cost, depending on your city. They are typically around 0.50% to 2.00% of your total construction cost.

Cost of Plumbing

The cost of plumbing used in a bathroom remodel is a major factor that will impact the overall costs. A sink leak, cracked bathtub, or a toilet failure can lead to large and costly problems in the future.

Unless you have a background in plumbing, it’s best to leave these tasks to professionals. Professionals will have the knowledge and tools to navigate a complicated bathroom remodel and keep things running smoothly.

If you’re replacing your shower or tub, a professional will be able to ensure that it will work properly and won’t cause any damage to the wall, floor or ceilings. It’s also important to have your plumber check the electrical system as part of this process.