Budgeting a Bathroom Remodel – Tips to Save Some Cash
Bathrooms are that part of a home that we could never do without. This makes them the perfect candidates for your remodeling plans.
The issue is that bathroom remodels tend to be very pricy. So, unless you come up with a good budgeting plan, you can create a big hole in your budget. Here is what you can do when planning your bathroom remodel financing. You can actually save some money while you are at it.
- Focus on Space and Lighting
A bathroom does not need to have fancy tiles or use expensive materials to look luxurious. You just need to focus on the right materials. Light-colored tiles can give the impression of more space, and consistency can also have a similar effect.
“Large-format wall tiles in neutral shades can make the room look larger and more luxurious. Using the same tiles on the walls as you do on the floor can also create a seamless look. A well-placed wall-to-wall mirror can give the illusion of more space,” says Sian O’Neill, interior designer at Topps Tiles.
- Buy the Materials Yourself
It might seem like the best idea to let the contractor buy all the materials, but there is a catch. When you do that, even if they get you a “good deal,” they will charge a commission for it. This is why you may want to browse through the materials and prices yourself.
You may still let the contractor buy some of the materials if you do not know how to pick them. As they are experts in the field, they will know exactly which ones will last the most. This applies especially to materials such as drywall and insulating materials.
- Choose a Good Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
When you are budgeting a bathroom remodel, you must give some thought to who does your work. Someone experienced in the field may ask for higher fees in the beginning. On the other hand, “cheaper” contractors may not offer the quality you are looking for. Depending on how the work is done, you may pay more in the long term.
“A specialist company will be qualified in all aspects of the installation, including tiling, electrics, and carpentry. But check whether the company has experienced tilers and plasterers, or whether it contracts this work out – an inexperienced tiler or plasterer may take three times longer. Will your installer take responsibility for all the work and oversee the quality? Check for recommendations from friends; ask for quotes before signing contracts, and don’t be afraid to request references,” says David Smith, interior designer at Ripples.
- Consider What You Can DIY
By hiring a skilled contractor, you save money on a job well done. You may think that you can do all of the work by yourself, but a poorly done job may be even more costly. Consider doing the contracting work only if you are qualified to do so.
With that in mind, the more you can do by yourself, the more you can reduce the costs. Even if you are not doing any contractor work, you can still reduce costs by moving the cabinets yourself. Think about any miscellaneous tasks that you can take care of, as it may help you make up for unforeseen costs.
- Consider Alternatives for Walls
When remodeling bathroom walls, many people opt for replacing the current tiles with new ones. If this is your preference and you do not mind the potential cost, it should not be an issue. However, if you are planning a remodel on a budget, you could consider alternatives.
If the tiles are still in good condition but you want a change, you should consider painting them. Tile paint is available at almost every construction store, and it is quite durable. You may also consider using fiberglass or acrylic panels for the shower area.