How much does a bathroom renovation cost?
Expectations and reality are often on different shelves, especially when it comes to home remodelling.
So… how much does remodelling a small bathroom really cost? 5k? 15K? 30K?
It’s challenging to give an exact amount because cost does vary based on the interior structure, spatial plan, material selection, plumbing, HVAC, lighting, install cost and designer fees. In some cases, you may be required to pay for an engineer or consultant. However, I can give you a ball point so you can reframe your expectations before your bathroom remodel.
Below you will find a great example of a project I worked on. Note that I am only pricing material cost. The space plan, plumbing reconfiguration, accessories, ceiling lights, HVAC, door, baseboard, grout, labour cost, other fees, were not counted for.
Ok, if you’re wondering, where can you save a buck and where to invest, well, that will require you set a budget and do proper research. Below you will find a price comparison. You will also see the value and quality in what you’re paying for.
Example:
Designer Toilet: $500
Metro White.
Fireclay ceramic.
Translucent glaze finish.
Siphonic One-piece toilet.
EcoMax™ Dual Flush (6.0 LPF / 4.0 LPF).
Soft-closing Seat.
Concealed S-trapway.
300mm Rough-in.
-vs-
American Standard Toilet: $150
Includes colour-matched solid plastic toilet seat
Elongated siphon action bowl with direct fed jet and excellent rim wash
Fully glazed 2" trapway
2-inch flapper flush valve
12-inch rough-in
Chrome Trip Lever
Non Slow-Close Toilet Seat
From the specifications, you can see the major differences in the quality of the product. Remember, your home is an investment, a better toilet may help you save on water bills in the long run.
Charlie Jones from the “Best Toilet Guide” shares why you may want to opt-in for a one-piece vs. your traditional 2-piece American Standards toilet.
There are many features and quality that follows a price point, therefore, try to invest in your fixtures and cut cost on other minor aesthetics. Installing a proper toilet can help you save long-term on your water bill, and reduce your weekly maintenance.
Now, when renovating your bathroom, you must keep in mind that it’s an investment and it adds value to your home.
However, you do need to ask yourself a few questions before getting started. I found this amazing article from The Appraisal Institute of Canada that shared the top home renovations that generate the highest return on investment, and the bathroom was second on the list, right after the kitchen.
The Appraisal Institute of Canada guideline takes you through several steps to identifying your needs and the proper steps to start the remodel project.
According to the National Bank of Canada,
Like the kitchen, the bathroom influences buyers’ decisions. The maximum cost of a bathroom renovation is estimated at 5%, which is $12,500 for a $250,000 house. The improvements could generate a recoverable value of about 85%. A new coat of paint on the walls and some cosmetic changes can work wonders to create added value at a low cost.
If you think about it, most of us when purchasing a home, we take a look at the kitchen and bathroom to help the decision-making process, and in the end, these spaces are major determining factors.
If it’s your first time renovating your bathroom, you may want to invest in an interior designer. The task may seem fairly easy but every remodelling project has its own complexity that may require a professional. Plus, who wants to deal with space planning, sourcing for proper fixtures, procurement, and installs when you have a full-time commitment and responsibilities?
If you’re interested or want more info about how to go about starting a bathroom reno, click the button below!