The numbers are in – according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, the cost of the average bathroom remodel is about $10,500, or as much as $26,000 for an upscale remodelling. With the economy where it is today many people don’t have -or don’t want to spend – that much money fixing up their bathroom. Fortunately there are many ways to renovate your bathroom without breaking the bank. And even if you do go a little over budget, remember that bathroom renovations do increase the value of your house, so if and when you sell you could recoup a large portion of those costs, even as much as 100%.
Here are some of the best ways to renovate a bathroom on a budget:
Cut Down on the Most Expensive Materials. The materials used in constructing a bathroom vary widely in price, and cutting out the most expensive of these can be a great way to save money. This doesn’t necessarily mean a less fancy remodelling, either, if you are smart about it. If you have one tile that is especially expensive that you just have to have, then just use a bit of it, and fill the rest in with a cheaper tile. Or just put one strip of tile along the wall or bathtub, and paint the rest. Or tile the floor, but leave the inside of the shower.
Inversely, a bathroom can be a good place to splurge on materials. If you like fancy granite counter tops, it’s better to have them in the bathroom than the kitchen, as there is much less surface area to cover. If you do go for the granite, buying a piece with imperfections can be a good way to save, and given that the sink takes up most of the space, no one may even notice. Avoiding the most popular colors – like tan, brown, and light beige – can naturally save money as well.
Give It a New Coat of Paint. One of the most cost-effective ways for redesigning a bathroom is often just a simple repainting. Don’t try and skimp on the paint itself though, as high quality paints are best for bathrooms, due to all the moisture in bathrooms and the mold and mildew that develop as a result. Don’t underestimate the amount of time it will take, either – for their small size bathrooms take a disproportionate amount of time, due to all the taping and painting in small fiddly spaces.
While you are down there painting, you can also freshen up the caulk and grout. While this can often be overlooked, it can make a big difference – nobody likes grimy caulk – and costs very little.
Reduce, Re-use, Recycle. Many people make the mistake of buying new a new tub or shower when it is cheaper and easier just to have a professional come in and reline it (generally it is cheaper just to buy new sinks or shower fixtures though). You can also do this yourself with porcelain, cast iron, or fibreglass, if it takes a bit of time and energy. A basic DIY refinishing kit usually costs about $150, although you’ll also need tools like a sander, a spray gun, face masks, paint brushes, and others.
Money can also be saved by purchasing used fixtures instead of new ones. Websites such as eBay, craigslist, etsy, or others can be a good place to find things, as can be thrift stores, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, or even hypothetically the local dump. Building materials can also be re-used, or you could turn everyday objects into fixtures, like a mason jar toothbrush holder or even a dresser for a sink.
Install Water and Energy Saving Fixtures. Installing low-flow toilets, sinks, and shower often costs the same as less environmentally friendly options, and they can also save you on your water and energy bills. Plus you will be helping save the environment, which is no small thing.
