Does your bathroom need a makeover? If so, you may be frustrated with the amount of money bathroom remodeling can cost. Luckily, it is possible to lower your remodeling costs, and you may be wondering, “How exactly can you remodel your bathroom on a budget?” In this article, we will explore how some thoughtful planning and smart shopping can keep you within your budget!
Remodeling Your Bathroom on a Budget
First, let us talk about the most important part: the budget!
- Set the Budget: Clearly define how much you are willing to spend on your remodel. Figure out your priorities – what needs fixing first? Is it the floor and its tiles, the outdated fixtures, or the coat of paint?
- Stick to the Budget: Keeping your priorities straight and using them to guide building a budget will help you avoid any unnecessary expenses. Also, it is a good idea to include a buffer of approximately 10-15% in case of any surprise costs. You never know, you may face some unexpected repair or plumbing costs.
If you stay strong on your budget, it will serve as the foundation that guides how you proceed through your remodel decisions.
Focus on High-Impact, Low-Cost Changes
There are ideas that can reset your area and not take too much out of your budget, such as the ones below:
- Paint: A fresh coat or a new color is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make a space look brand new. Keep in mind that moisture-resistant paint can prevent mildew or peeling.
- Hardware Swap: Adding modern pieces for drawer pulls, cabinet handles, and towel racks can accent your bathroom’s design immediately!
- Mirror Makeover: The entire vanity can feel different if you frame the mirror or replace it with a new, affordable, or thrifted piece.
- Lighting: Your bathroom space will instantly feel more modernized and open with a brighter or stylish light fixture.
Any of these changes will be sure to transform your space!
Save Big with DIY Projects
In any remodeling task, labor is one of the bigger expenses. By working on smaller projects yourself, you can eliminate the need to dive into that budget for every single labor cost. You may save a lot with some of the DIY-friendly upgrade examples below:
- Painting walls or cabinets
- Installing peel-and-stick backsplash tiles
- Swapping faucets and showerheads
- Adding extra shelves
These simple improvements can be done without being a contractor! That being said, do not take any shortcuts when doing your research; measure carefully and follow safety precautions. Also, know when to give that contractor a call. More complicated tasks, such as rewiring or plumbing, are worth consulting a professional to stay safe and avoid any costly mistakes.
Repurpose What You Already Have
Look for ways to work with what you have already got, for example:
- Keep your existing plumbing in place if possible. If you move your sink, toilet, or tub, you can increase your cost significantly due to the plumbing changes.
- Refinish instead of replace – you can give new life back to the space by reglazing the tub or painting the old tiles.
- Repaint or reface cabinets – Sanding and a new coat of paint can really enhance the look of outdated cabinets!
You may not need to get brand-new things for every aspect of the remodel; some of what you have may be more than enough! Just by updating some finishes, you will be surprised how great the bathroom can look instead of starting completely from scratch.
Shop Smart
Here are some ideas of where to shop if you are on a budget:
- Local building supply warehouses
- Online marketplaces
- Outlet stores and clearance sections
- Thrift stores or Habitat for Humanity ReStores
These can give a good balance of items that are affordable and give your bathroom some character, all while leading to big savings!
Think About the Long Term
Consider investing in water-saving fixtures or LED lighting. This may sound counterintuitive because they can cost a little bit more upfront. However, these items can save you more money in the long term with reduced utility bills. Consider fixtures like low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and motion-sensor lights.
Luxury on a Budget
As we have outlined above, remodeling your bathroom does not have to break the bank. Your space can be elevated to feel luxurious even on a budget remodel. If you have questions for a professional about any plumbing or wiring needs, get started today with a remodeling contractor. Make your bathroom come to life, even on a budget!
