Bathroom remodels may look small an inexpensive, however, the price tag can increase quickly. Most clients I have come across have bathrooms that are 10-30 years old and everything in between. When bathrooms are this outdated, it makes the most sense to completely gut the bathroom and bring everything up to code, otherwise problems can occur.
Your average standard full bathroom remodel can run between $13,000 – $18,000 and $3,000-$5,000 for a half bathroom, depending on size, plumbing fixtures, tile and accessories. This is not including any extras which could include: soaking tubs, heated floors, sauna and more. Below is a breakdown of what exactly goes into remodeling a bathroom with a complete gut.
This average cost includes the following basic items:
Securing permits for building, electrical and plumbing trades
Providing a dumpster for demolition (you would be surprised how much debris is generated from a full demo)
Removing all plumbing and electrical fixtures
Demolishing all walls, floor and sometimes the ceiling
Updating the electrical and plumbing to code
Installing new insulation & walls (Hardiback in the the tub/shower area and Greenboard on the walls)
Installing shower pan and doors
Tiling floor and walls
Installing new plumbing & lighting fixtures, vanity
Installing new accessories (toilet paper holder, towel racks/hooks, etc)
As you can see there are 3 separate trades involved in a complete bathroom remodel/upgrade. Obviously, this is assuming that you are looking to do the work legally with permits and inspections from your town and municipality.
In today’s economy many people are feeling the financial pressure and are looking to save money wherever they can, and as well they should. A word of advice – if the quote you receive sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Unfortunately, there are many contractors that aren’t honest. You will be presented a low ball price only to find out afterword’s that a change order is needed when the contractor knew of it from the beginning. Keep in mind that change orders are part of the process and sometimes there will be an unforeseen issue.
At Temprano Construction, we build in a 5-10% reserve budget for these unforeseen issues. If all goes smoothly, these funds can be returned to the client or used for high end upgrades.
Some clients try to save money by purchasing the items themselves.
This can be a benefit if you are construction savvy, but also keep in mind that you will spend many hours procuring materials, trying to understand specifications and you will be responsible for any defects and delays.
You should only deal with a contractor who is licensed and insured. Ask for references and testimonials, or better yet, see if the contractor will offer to take you to see his work (of course only after some sort of commitment). Temprano Construction can provide you with a worry free bathroom, or basement remodel, at a fair price and with excellent results.