The Biggest Expense of Your
Bathroom Renovation Revealed –
And How To Budget For It
Planning a bathroom renovation and wondering how to budget? The cost of a renovation can be a big stress, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting an accurate estimate and setting a realistic budget at the start can take immense pressure off of your renovation (and save you unnecessary worry and headache).
Still skeptical? Here’s our best advice for how to budget for the biggest expense of your upcoming bathroom renovation:
Big ticket item
Here it is: the biggest expense of most bathroom renovation projects is - drumroll please… the cabinets!
Cabinets account for about 34% of the overall cost of a bathroom renovation. Of course, if you can salvage your existing cabinets by refinishing or repainting them, it will make a huge difference in the overall cost of your project. Even adding a small touch of paint to your existing cabinets can really liven them up and eliminate the need for a full replacement.
However, if you are going to replace your cabinets, paying attention to the type and quality will also make a world of difference to your budget. High-end cabinets (such as ones that are glazed instead of stained) can inflate costs, so try to avoid anything top-of-the-line or overly intricate if you’re on a strict budget. If you can’t swing the most luxurious cabinets out there, try splurging on cabinet hardware instead. Some glam handles and hinges can make average cabinets look extraordinary.
Know what you can afford
Like any home remodel, a bathroom project requires saving. Take some time to get your bathroom renovation ideas together, figure how much you can save each month, how long you want to save for, and finally how much you’ll be able to spend. Having a number in mind makes planning your renovation much easier, and it helps you set a realistic timeline for when you’ll start your project too.
Trust your designer
Myth: designers make your bathroom renovation more expensive.
Interior designers have made a career out of studying what works, what doesn’t, and what it takes to bring it all together. They respect your bathroom renovation budget and share years of wisdom and money saving tips. Designers can tell you where to splurge and where to save (on cabinets and more), and they have plenty of advice to make your ideas more cost effective.
Find a designer that suits your style, and understands your ideas. You’ll be surprised how much easier it feels to have your own personal design sidekick to swoop in and help you find renovation savings.
Although cabinets are usually the biggest expense, every feature you choose and every plan you make affects your bottom line. Sinks, floors, showers, cabinets, faucets – everything adds up. Choosing the right elements for your needs and budget is the best way to stay on track.
Cover image: Style at Home