WHAT INCREASES THE COST OF A BATH REMODEL?
There are many, many elements that make up the total cost of a bath remodel. There are a few common factors, however, that tend to elevate the total cost of your bathroom remodel. As you build your remodeling budget, keep these factors in mind and establish your wants vs. needs list early on in the redesign process.
1. SIZE AND SCOPE:
It’s important to understand that every bath remodel is unique and no two spaces are the same – especially from a cost standpoint. Comparing bathroom sizes and scopes (the action plan and the material needed to complete your remodel) can be challenging and may be easier with the help of a qualified remodeling expert. Sure, the size of your bathroom is one part of the equation, but the scope of your remodel (think layout changes, material selections, labor required, etc) is crucial in the cost equation, which makes it difficult to compare your bathroom with someone else’s purely based on size.
2. CABINETRY SELECTIONS:
Cabinetry comes in several quality levels and with nearly endless options for style and finish. Custom storage solutions within cabinetry are in high demand, and it costs more to include custom features than builder-grade vanities. Hot tool storage, pull-out shelving, and storage towers are three popular upgrades. Most design companies partner with an array of cabinet manufacturers who offer many styles and storage options to suit your exact needs, but those extra features can definitely drive your overall investment up. An experienced designer will guide you through the cabinetry selection process to help you find the right balance between your investment goals and cabinet upgrades.
3. TILE SELECTIONS:
The choice of your floor, shower, and accent tiles (along with how much of each is needed and install materials) can greatly increase the cost of your remodel, especially if you select a specialty tile. Tile installation is a labor-intensive art; therefore, complex tile patterns or designs will require the work of a tile specialist for it to be installed effectively. Even shower niches need to be installed correctly. Find inspiration for your shower niche design here. If you want your bathroom floors or shower bench heated, make sure you tell your remodeling team early so they can source the proper tiles and installers for a radiant heating system.
4. SKILLED LABOR REQUIRED:
The more complex your project is, the more skilled labor is required. For example, adding or relocating plumbing (like your shower, tub, vanity, or toilet) often requires more extensive electrical and plumbing, which needs to be completed by a licensed expert. The complexity of cabinetry details and millwork such as crown moldings and wainscoting may require the skills of a more talented carpenter team.
5. FIXTURE SELECTIONS:
Fixtures like shower heads and sink faucets come in a variety of sizes, finishes, shapes, and materials. There are literally hundreds of options to choose from. Your preferences determine the need for upgraded fixtures like handheld shower heads, tub fillers, rain showers, etc.
6. SMART BATH UPGRADES:
Adding smart bath elements to your bathroom can greatly enhance the comfort and convenience of your home spa, but including them in your redesign will likely add to the total cost of your bath. We’ve found that smart mirrors/televisions, shower panels, speakers, and toilets are among our clients’ favorite features to add – especially for resale value down the line.
7. STRUCTURAL CHANGES:
Tearing out or pushing back a wall to expand the footprint of your bathroom can quickly add to your total project cost. Moving walls tends to have a domino-like effect requiring changes to other areas such as flooring, millwork, mechanicals, and finishes. Load-bearing walls are more labor-intensive, often requiring engineering and added care to ensure your home’s structure is unaffected by the wall removal.
