How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom (Budget vs Luxury Options)

Renovating a bathroom can quickly improve comfort and add significant value to your home. However, there can be dramatic shifts in bathroom​ renovation costs between a budget project and a luxury project. This guide examines what to expect in bathroom​ renovation costs, as well as each choice in a budget and luxury renovation. This guide will also help you avoid unforeseen dangers, so you can get the bathroom of your dreams without going over budget.

The Budget-Conscious Bathroom Renovation Cost Plan

Being budget-friendly when it comes to a bathroom renovation doesn’t mean to be “cheap,” or you will not get a chance to customize according to your preferences. Generally, a budget bathroom renovation will run between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on what will be done. This is great for homeowners who want a functional kitchen along with a beautiful look. 

Here is what is practical to consider in your budget:

Vanity and Tub/Shower Addition: 

You can expect to pay between $250 and $1,000 for a standard, store-bought, pre-made vanity with a laminate countertop. But for a tub or shower, stick with a basic acrylic tub or prefabricated shower insert that usually runs $400 to $1,500.

Fixtures and Flooring: 

For your bathroom fixtures, be sure to buy off-the-shelf showerheads, faucets, and hardware from big-box retail centers, which can be found for between $100 and $600 for the whole set. On the other hand, for bathroom flooring, make sure to have affordable, waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or more basic ceramic tile that will serve you well, for as low as $2 to $12 per square foot.

Lighting and Paint Solutions

Even when you’re on a budget, updating your bathroom space can be done on a reasonable budget using variable lighting or ventilation, and finishing with lighting installation costs between $300 and $800. Entry-level fixtures and a fresh coat of paint will all provide inspiration and improvement in comfort at economical prices.

Luxurious Bathroom Renovation: The Royal Vibe

In this case, you can go all out if you want a completely different layout and high-quality materials. This will become your own spa retreat with the finishes you desire and smart technology. Bathroom​ renovation costs for these kinds of renovations begin at $50,000 and quickly exceed $100,000.

What you can expect to see in your luxurious renovation:

Improvements to Structural & Wet Rooms

Expand the area, relocate walls, or install a skylight to enhance the amount of natural light. Include a custom wet room with a soaking tub and multiple shower heads. The nature of enhancements will define whether a project of this size begins at $50,000 or more, especially if structural adjustments are made.

Custom-Built Vanities & Heated Floors

Install one or all floating, custom-built vanity options for bathroom or kitchen upgrade options to include a natural stone counter and heated floors with smart controls. Upgrades provide personalization and an elevated feel to the cost that adds in the range of $10,000 to $20,000, depending upon the options selected.

Designer Fixtures & Artisan Tile Designs

Select luxurious fixtures that may be touchless faucets and essential oil diffusers, and also consider designer or artisanal tiles that could be handcrafted and mosaics or zellige. Premium finishes and artisan qualities, depending upon options selected and noted, would add approximately $15,000 to $30,000 to the overall cost.

Integrated Smart Technology

Additions could include Smart toilets, mirrors that may include a smart display, or voice-activated lighting. Smart tech may enhance comfort and convenience with smart technology to add cost related to design and technology/brand selections in the range of $5,000 to $15,000.

Hidden Traps in Renovation Budgets

Knowing hidden costs is essential for any bathroom renovation, since unexpected costs can run your budget up quickly. Regardless of your price range, it’s advisable to set aside 10% to 20% of the funds for unforeseen problems.

By thinking ahead and setting aside a contingency fund, you will be less surprised financially.

• Water Damage: Keep aside the extra estimated cost of $3,800 for hidden water damage like mold, mildew, or leaks.
• Electrical issues: Most modern bathrooms require new electrical wiring for the smart technology, heated floors, and even outlets. This could mean you will be paying $50 to $130 every hour for an electrician.
• Cost of permits and inspections: Depending on the project and your area, permits can run from around $100 to well over $1,500.
• Demolition and disposal: Even tearing out the old bathroom (the demo) and getting rid of all that waste isn’t free. The average fee for demolition and disposal is $800.

Conclusion

Renovating a bathroom can fit any budget, from simple updates to a touch of glamour. While thoughtfulness and prudence will help you achieve the bathroom of your dreams without unexpected financial pitfalls, whether you are looking for useful, beautiful, or spa-like comfort, knowing the bathroom​ renovation costs, ranging from basic updates to high-end options, helps us provide you with the results you expect and contribute to home value in accordance with your goals. 

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