Bathroom remodeling is similar to the labyrinth of possibilities. You may want a minimalistic design or a rustic countryside feel; whatever you choose, the budget is indispensable. How to budget your bathroom remodeling project? Calculating the budget is a vital aspect of remodeling. It is essential to get the budgeting done before starting the project. Not only do you want budgeting done, but it is rightly done to avoid any inconveniences later.
Let’s discuss a few strategies to help you budget your bathroom remodeling project, ensuring a smooth process that aligns with your vision. As you embark on this journey, consider seeking out local experts for guidance, such as those specializing in bathroom remodeling near me, to make the most informed decisions.
Average Cost of Bathroom Remodel
According to the cost vs. budget report for 2023, a mid range bathroom remodel costs around $ 25,000. It includes updating an existing 5×7-foot bathroom. Replace everything in the bathroom, but keep everything midrange.
Likewise, an upscale bathroom remodel costs approximately $ 77,000, which includes enlarging the existing 35-square-foot bathroom to 100 square feet. It has heated floors, a luxurious bathtub, fancy lighting, and oversized tiles.
The average cost of bathroom remodeling near me depends on the bathroom size and the renovation level.
How to Budget Your Bathroom Remodeling Project?
Now, you know the average cost of a bathroom remodel, but that does not specifically apply to your case. Your minor decisions can make a major impact on the renovation cost. Around two-thirds of renovation projects go over budget. To avoid this scenario, you need to follow the following steps to establish a clear budget.
-
Set Realistic Goals
You need to understand the scope of remodeling. Do you want to tear down the whole bathroom and start from scratch? Or will replacing a few items do the task?
Refrain from getting swayed by Pinterest ideas. Splurging is one thing, and breaking the bank is another. We advise you to set realistic goals for a bathroom redo.
Also, define if it’s an upscale remodeling or midrange. Are we altering the existing bath or adding another bathroom altogether?
These points should be clear from the beginning to evaluate the cost.
2. DIY or No DIY?
Decide if you want to pitch in your handy skills in the renovation project. Doing it yourself reduces the labor cost to some extent and saves you money. It is not necessary that you DIY it completely. You can do part of the renovation yourself and leave the other part to the expert.
Doing the tear-down part yourself or moving the cabinets can cut costs and avoid unnecessary labor. On the other hand, if you want to hire a professional for the complete project, that will add cost to your budget.
3. Estimate Labor Cost
Understand how labor works. You may hire a general contractor who will hire subcontractors for specialized work. A general contractor usually has a team of subcontractors like plumbers, electricians, etc. The general contractor is responsible for project management and the work performance of others. You will pay the general contractor, who will use that amount to pay off his subcontractors.
The second option is to hire subcontractors individually. Now, you are the project manager. Handling the workflow and keeping the project moving is your responsibility. You will pay everyone separately. If you have organization skills and time to supervise them, then hire subcontractors. It might save you some money, but it is a lot of responsibility.
Let us give you an idea of the per-hour labor cost of major subcontractors in any project:
- Plumber – $45 – $65
- Electrician – $65 – $85
- Carpenter – $70
4. Pitch in Unexpected Expenses
The bathroom is an area that can have hidden challenges. So when we tear the bathroom or start doing one alteration, we realize a leakage or broken pipeline that was not part of the plan. This means unexpected problems may arise that need to be tackled and cannot be left alone.
The bathroom is prone to mold or has intricate plumbing lines, so the chances of hidden damage are high. Keeping a cushion in your budget for hidden damages and repairs spares you from going over budget. Another advantage is that you are mentally prepared for any unexpected expenditure and are not startled easily.
Keep 20% of the estimated cost in your budget for unexpected expenses.
5. Material Cost
Consider the cost of materials in your budget. You can procure the material yourself rather than buy it from the contractor since the contractor charges a minimal commission on materials. You can find materials from high-end to low-budget. However, the cost of materials varies drastically depending on your choice. Let’s give you a rough idea of material cost:
- Standard ceramic tiles – $1 – $5 per square foot
- Ornamental mosaics – $100 per square foot
- Low budget countertop – $4 per square foot
- Quartz countertop – $100 per square foot
- Granite countertop – $200 per square foot
- Low-range cabinets – $40 – $90
- Mid-range cabinets – $200 – $700
- Custom-built cabinets – $2000+
- Sinks – $50 – $1000
- Hardware and accessories – $10 – $270
- Showers and bathtubs – $900 – $2000
- Lighting – $40 – $800
The given material cost varies depending on the material’s quality, size, and features. Also, it does not include installation charges.
Conclusion
Conclusively, if you want to know how to budget your bathroom remodeling project, we have given detailed steps to calculate the budget. Firstly, set realistic goals. Secondly, decide whether to hire a general contractor or subcontractors or do it yourself. Thirdly, select the materials and include their cost. Lastly, remember to include the unforeseen expenditures that might arise during the project. Doing so will give you an estimated budget for your bathroom remodeling project.