Master Bathroom Remodel Costs & Planning Guide:
Master Bathroom Remodel Costs & Planning Guide: Expert Tips for Your Project
Planning a bathroom remodel? Not sure where to start? This guide will outline what you can expect when planning your primary bathroom remodel. We will cover how proper planning can help you meet your needs, and how to fit that into your investment goals.
Step 1:Determine Your Pain Points:
When considering your bathroom renovation, make note of any pain points you’re experiencing. You may have a privacy issue, a lack of storage, or perhaps sharing a vanity has turned into a daily battle. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, simply making it look “pretty” won’t solve the underlying problem so be sure to take note of any strain you notice no matter how big or small. Consider also how you may use the space in the future, are you planning to have children? Do you have an elderly parent who may be using the space at some point? Now that you have your list of pain points you can start to understand the changes you may need to make.
Taking these pain points, you can turn them into tangible changes that will begin to shape your priorities list.
Here is an example of pain points given to us by a client:
Lack of privacy- in the space, we can’t bath or use the restroom while someone is in the bedroom.
The only shower is on the 2nd floor.
The bathroom is overall disorganized.
Ability to use the bathroom as we age.
I can’t put on makeup or groom properly because it’s hard to see.
The space is not comfortable because there’s a large tub blocking most of the walkway.
The bathroom does not serve our needs: Such as showering in the morning, and easily shaving legs, and does not have a place to keep toiletries.
It’s hard to clean the tub.
The space is overall outdated.
Step 2: Priorities and Budgets
Now that you have your list of pain points, organize them from the most important to the least. You can bring this list to the Design-Build companies you are vetting who will suggest changes you can make to the space that will create solutions. If you’re going more DIY, you can brainstorm the list on your own. Here is the list of solutions and an investment range for all the things on our example client’s list.
This particular client came to us with an investment in mind. If their budget was not able to support this list of changes, we could then move down the priorities list removing the lowest priority items first. This would reduce the estimate while keeping their big-picture goals in the scope.
Bathroom Renovation Suggested Changes
Create privacy by reducing the doorway and creating a functioning door to the bathroom.
Install a functioning custom tile shower with a glass enclosure.
Improve overall use of space by removing the old tub and steps and installing a shower in its place.
Increase storage with custom cabinetry and a floor-to-ceiling cabinet.
Install can lighting in the ceiling, and update lighting over the vanity
Install a shower with low-profile entry, grab bars, and a shower seat.
Install a seat for relaxing or shaving in the shower
Install dedicated storage for toiletries in the shower
Create a bench to sit on while removing clothing or shoes in the bathroom with storage underneath
Install an extendable shower arm for hard-to-reach places, also great for cleaning.
Add toe kick lighting for style and convenience
New plywood custom vanity with under-mount sinks and updated hardware
Updated mirrors over sinks
Cambria quartz countertops for longevity and style
Add tile accents in the shower to create a personalized look
Stress-Reducing Services Included in Their Renovation:
A designer dedicated to understanding the family’s unique needs.
Several floor plan options were created with the ability to make changes as needed.
Assistance in selecting materials that fit their tastes and investment needs.
3D Renderings of the space including a material selections reference book.
Full set of construction drawings
Regular communication regarding project status, investment, and timeline.
Seamless transition between design and construction.
Coordination of all materials and trade partners keeping the project on track.
A designated project manager who will communicate regularly.
Continued support and warranty after the project is complete.
(The estimated cost to complete all requested work in this primary bathroom suite was $90,000-120,000. This estimate included minor updates to an additional bathroom which is not pictured)
Identify Your Budget
If you're not sure how much to set aside consider, what you have saved, what assets you have, or what you may be approved for at your local bank. Everyone’s needs are different and because of this, you will notice a very wide range of suggested investments. It can be tricky to find the sweet spot but if you identify your needs and a realistic budget for you and your family you can do your best to integrate the two. The current state of the market has proven that material prices are continuing to increase on a regular basis. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 20% more than anticipated for unknowns such as surprises behind the walls and material price fluctuations.
Step 3: Hiring a Professional Contractor:
Once you have your list of prioritized needs and investment intentions in hand, communicate them when requesting estimates. A reputable contractor will take your investment intentions along with your priorities list and tailor your estimate accordingly. They will be able to help you assess how many of the items you can complete on your list based on your intended investment amount. You can then use this information to determine if you need to adjust your budget or your scope. If you plan to stay in your home long-term raising your budget amount to get everything you want may be worth the extra investment. You will be improving your quality of life and reducing friction within the home which is worth its weight in gold.
You might be asking, what type of contractor do I need?
There are a lot of contractors out there who offer a variety of services, and selecting the right one can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Here are some things to consider when vetting a professional contractor.
As a good starting point, consider how much mental energy and time you would like to invest in the process. Some companies offer partial renovation services such as only replacing countertops, while others provide full design and construction services beginning with the planning stages. Keep in mind that companies labeled as design-build or full-service remodel will provide more services than just the construction of the bathroom and may not compare well with other bids you have received. Take a close look at the services provided and make sure you are comparing apples to apples. It’s also a good idea to get an idea of what services you desire from these companies to make sure you find the right fit.
What To Consider When Hiring the Right Contractor.
Have you already purchased construction materials?
If you answered yes, then you would want to look for a handyman or general contractor who does not require the purchase of their own materials. Keep in mind, that contractors often get better pricing due to the volume they purchase, and can often pass savings on to you. If you plan to purchase materials because it may be more cost-effective, ask your contractor before doing so and you may be surprised.
Do you need someone to draft a design and draw up construction plans?
If the answer is yes then you would want to look at design-build when getting quotes. There are a lot of man-hours and energy involved in coordinating a full remodel including layout planning, material selection, construction drawings, permits, coordinating trades, inspections, etc. If you are looking to save time and mental energy, Design-Build will offer all of these services while you are required to do very little.
Consider what you value.
Take a step back and consider what you value (Time, money, mental health, quality?). Often times you can save a bit of cash by doing some of these things on your own but with owner build or DIY there is a lot of mental and physical burden. You will find yourself taking on the role of many people such as Designer, Purchaser, Estimator, Draftsman, Carpenter, and Project Manager to name a few. If you don’t know where to start or prefer to leave it to a professional, consider hiring someone who will take on all or some of these roles. Want to learn more about the different types of contractors? “How To Hire the Right Contractor for The Job and Save Hours of Research”
Ask your friends and family for remodeler recommendations:
Asking friends and family who they have used in the past will give you great insight into the quality of work and integrity of a company.
Step 4: Red Flags and Other Details to Consider
Pulling Permits:
When vetting a construction company, determine if they will pull permits. When all is said and done, be wary about a company that tells you it is not necessary or asks you to pull a permit under your own name (without the business name attached). Permits, protect you on nearly every level from recouping the costs of a botched remodel to the safety of the actual completed project. If you are not sure if your contractor has pulled a permit, call your local building department before any construction begins to determine if they have been pulled and if they are necessary.
Choosing the Right Materials:
Choosing the right materials for your primary bathroom remodel can be a challenge. There are so many options available to you, and it's important to choose materials that will stand up to everyday use while still looking great in your home. For instance, you may need to consider if you would like stock cabinetry or custom. What material are they made of? Though a bit more expensive, choosing plywood over particle board will hold up better over time.
Every material that goes into a bathroom remodel comes in a wide range of styles and prices, so it's essential to understand what makes them different. You'll want something that fits with the overall look of your home while also considering daily wear and tear. If you have children who use this space often you may want to reconsider the white grout or porous marble in the shower. Consider also, the maintenance each material requires; some materials require more upkeep than others do over time. Your designer can help you understand the difference between material choices. If you are going the DIY route, be sure to do the research ahead of time so you know what you are looking for.
The materials of your primary bathroom remodel are what will make it feel like your own. However, The vast variety of paint colors, tiles, fixtures, and flooring to choose from can be overwhelming. Hiring a designer or a Design-Build firm will help you determine your stylistic needs and guide you in the correct direction. The end result is a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that you will love for years to come.
In CONCLUSION
The cost of remodeling your master bathroom can vary greatly, depending on the scope of work you want to do. Your final design, material selections, and labor costs in your area will have a huge impact on your final project costs.
Communicating your investment intentions and physical needs to your contractor can help them guide you in the right direction. They can also help you understand if your budget needs match your goals.
Look out for red flags and always do your research.
Not all contractors provide the same services so be sure you know what services you need before collecting quotes.
Remember, the more services the higher the investment however, fewer services mean a higher mental burden and more time spent.
If you're not sure where to begin, start by making a list of all of your needs and then prioritize them based on how important they are to you.
Are you interested in remodeling your bathroom? Let one of Odell’s experts guide you through the process. Odell can help you find the right layout and design features that will suit your family for years to come.