10 Ways to Save Money in Bathroom Remodeling

GBC offers a free in-home estimate. Design drawings follow a signed contract; discuss the proposed design and installation scope with the showroom.

10 Ways to Save Money in Bathroom Remodeling

When planning bathroom remodeling, use the following ideas as questions to discuss for your own home. Set your bathroom priorities before selecting materials or changing the layout. Compare written estimates and decide which features matter most to your use of the room; a remodel does not guarantee a particular financial return.

1. Leave things where they are

The original article used about $5,000 as an example for moving pipes or electrical wiring when relocating a major bathroom fixture. This is a historical article figure, not a current quotation for each move. Have the proposed layout changes and the associated work assessed and itemized before deciding which fixtures to relocate.

2. Get creative with mirrors

Mirrors can make a big statement anywhere in the home, but more so in the bathroom. However, high-end mirrors can cost a pretty penny, so consider getting a plain one in lieu of that expensive Italian mirror. You can dress it up with a fancy frame or add LED lights around it to make it snazzy. You will not only save money you can spend on something else, you can express your personality.

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3. Change the seat, not the commode

The toilet is a necessary part of any bathroom, but you can’t really go very far with it, design-wise. Consider keeping a toilet in good condition in place, and simply change the toilet seat to go with your updated look. It will look just as good as a new one, and you can save some money in purchase and labor costs.

4. Scour garage sales

Retail is for suckers, so hold off on your shopping spree when preparing for your bathroom remodeling. You can score some great finds in garage sales, especially if you are going for a vintage or retro look. You might even find an Italian mirror! However, if secondhand is not your thing, you can also make the rounds of mid-year and end-of-the-year sales and take advantage of deep discounts for perfectly cool items that stores need to clear out before the new stock comes in.

5. Repurpose old stuff

There is a lot to be said for repurposing. It not only keeps great stuff from ending up in junk yards or landfills, but they can give you that unique look you’ve always wanted. For example, you can turn an old office desk or dresser into a vanity. It is easy enough to put in a sink, plumbing, and granite countertop, and you have a unique, eco-friendly, and inexpensive element in your bathroom.

6. Mix it up

Most people associate bathrooms with bathroom tiles (duh!), but that does not necessarily mean it should be all tiles all the time. Mixing it up with other materials such as wood can actually make your bathroom look more interesting, even spa-like. Consider reclaimed wood or beadboard for some parts of the walls and save some cash on tiles.

7. On the shelf

Compare open shelves with closed cabinets for the items you need to store or display. Ask about the proposed shelf material and location, and address ventilation separately; open shelving does not establish protection from moisture or mustiness.

8. Take a dim view of the matter

Compare the desired lighting at the mirror, shower and other areas with the proposed fixtures and controls. Ask the electrician to confirm compatibility between the selected lights and dimmer. Review the quoted installation work and energy information rather than assuming one dimmable fixture eliminates other lights or guarantees savings.

9. Paint it up

One of the things you can get your remodeler to do is to keep one wall free of tiles so you can put in paint. A vibrant color can brighten up the bathroom like nobody’s business if that is what you want. Alternatively, a dark or rich hue can give your otherwise ordinary bathroom a look of elegance. The best part, of course, is the savings. It is a lot easier and inexpensive to paint a wall than to tile it.

10. Go for sale items

Remodeling contractors often have a large inventory of materials you will need for bathroom renovations. Ask about any items they may have on sale, because these will still be quality goods, but for low prices. A reputable one will be more than happy to suggest cost-saving options when discussing your project if you let them know you are open to it.

Conclusion

Make the proposed work specific to your home. Confirm the scope and any site conditions with the remodeling team before choosing materials or approving installation.

Discuss your project scope, material selections and schedule with the remodeling team. Ask for the written proposal and review any exclusions before agreeing to the work.

For bathroom budget priorities, bring your priorities and product questions to GBC Kitchen & Bath. Discuss the proposed work at a showroom in Alexandria, Ashburn, Rockville or Columbia, and ask which written warranty terms apply to the selected products and installation.

Further reading

The HUD home improvement guidance covers planning and financing a project, and the bathroom reference explains the fixtures you may choose to keep or replace.