Tight On a Budget? Here’s How You Can Properly Budget Your Bathroom Remodel

So you’re finally ready to make some changes and give your bathroom the remodel it desperately needs. A bathroom remodel is no easy task, even under the best circumstances, but when you are on a budget, you need to pay much more attention to how you plan your project.

You probably know you have to consider certain costs from the beginning, such as materials and the bathroom remodel contractor you’ll use. What you might not know is how to put together accurate estimates of every aspect of your project and make the most of the budget you have at your disposal. If you need help with any step of your bathroom remodel project, our team at Bluegrass Haven can alleviate some of the stress. We have 10+ years of experience in the field and know how to calculate all expenses for a bathroom remodel. Stick around to learn how to plan everything and stick to your budget!

Unavoidable Bathroom Remodel Costs

Most of the costs associated with a bathroom remodel can be attributed to three main features: material selection, the scope of the project, and the labor costs of the company or individual you hire to do the remodel.

Material Selection

The materials you select for your new bathroom will take out the largest chunk of your budget. Since a bathroom consists of many different materials incorporated into different functional elements, let’s take a short look at each of them:

Tiles: When you remodel a bathroom, most of your costs go towards the tiles. Simpler designs delivered on larger tiles are much more affordable than picking smaller, decorative custom tiles, which might not even be in stock.
Bathtub and Shower: These essential pieces of your bathroom can cost upwards of $15,000 if you want stream or smart features and premium materials. If you’re on a budget, stick to functional shower and bath options.
Sink: The material determines the price of the sink, with natural stone being significantly more expensive than ceramic options.
Cabinets and Vanity: Since these are the most prominent and used features in a bathroom, aim to incorporate style and design using standard materials, such as plywood or PVC.
Countertops: Granite should be crossed off your list when doing a bathroom remodel on a budget. Opt for laminate or ceramic instead.
Lighting: Go for functionality with simple, minimalist fixtures that set the tone rather than over-the-top recessed lighting or different colored wall sconces.
Extras: Everything from towel racks and soap dishes to light switch covers falls into this category. Pay attention, as these small items can add up quite the cost if you choose premium materials.

It is easy to fall for shiny, multi-functional bathroom fixtures that will quickly drain your budget. Consulting a bathroom remodel contractor with vast experience, such as Bluegrass Haven, can help you filter out the non-essentials.

Project Scope

Unless you’re fully remodeling your bathroom, you’ll likely need only a few of the fixtures above. However, if you’re doing a complete remodel, you can expect every one of these items to be on your shopping list. The bigger the scope of your bathroom remodel project, the more you’ll have to opt for budget-friendly and practical fixtures to stay on budget. If your budget allows it and you’re only doing a part remodel, you can opt for mid- or even high-level options, such as a custom-made vanity.

Labor Costs

You’ll need a professional bathroom remodel contractor to handle your project, regardless of how small or big it is, so enlisting the help of companies such as Bluegrass Haven is a cost you must consider. Do not even attempt to begin a remodeling project on your own, as it will likely cost you more than hiring a contractor from the start.

Creating a Realistic Budget for Your Bathroom Remodel

When you first start defining your bathroom remodel project, you’ll need to use all your knowledge of different materials, contractor costs, and project demands to form an estimate. There are a few key steps to coming up with a realistic budget:

Start with an Estimate

A quick search online or a consultation with your contractor will provide you with all the information you need on the prices of different fixtures and the contractor’s fee. These two items are your initial project estimate, setting the tone for your budget. However, sticking to this early estimate is not enough, as it often falls short of the realistic final tally.

Set Aside for Contingencies

In most cases, despite your best efforts and your contractor’s local knowledge and experience, you’ll run into surprise expenses once your bathroom remodel is underway. A couple of obstacles that homeowners often deal with include hidden water damage or compromised electrical installations, which are not apparent beforehand.

A good rule of thumb is to allocate 10-20% of your bathroom remodeling budget for contingencies. That way, if you don’t need it, you can repurpose the funds for finishing details like lighting or accessories.

Needs vs. Wants

The most challenging restraint you’ll have to demonstrate, particularly if you have a knack for design, is to filter out what you need vs. what you want for your bathroom. It is much better to complete the project using only what you need rather than trying to do it step by step and end up with a bathroom you can’t fully use for months.

A Few Pro Tips for Staying on Budget During a Bathroom Remodel

If you are careful about your estimates and budget planning, there are several ways you can make the most out of the funds you have available and not sacrifice your dream idea:

Reuse or Refinish Existing Features: Refinishing your existing cabinets and bathtubs is a better option than buying new ones.
Avoid Mid-Project Changes: Stick to your initial project design and avoid making impromptu changes unless necessary.
Focus on Layout Over Expansions: Optimize your existing bathroom layout rather than expanding it.

When used to their maximum potential, these tips can save you so much that you’ll be able to switch your attention to more specific fixtures once your initial estimate, including the contingency funds, is done.

Let Us Help You

Embarking on a bathroom remodel with a tight budget doesn’t mean compromising on quality or style. With careful planning, smart choices, and a bit of creativity, you can achieve a stunning transformation of your bathroom. At Bluegrass Haven, we bring over a decade of experience to every project, helping you navigate the complexities of budgeting and remodeling. From initial estimates to the final touches, we’re here to ensure your project stays on track and meets your expectations without exceeding your budget.