Costs of Adding a New Bathroom

Adding a new bathroom usually involves reworking your home’s existing plumbing and electrical wiring. It is generally best to leave these tasks to a licensed professional, who can ensure the work is up to code and safe.

Thoughtful decorative touches can add a personal touch. Designer Kate Marker Interiors added framed mirrors and built-in sconces to the inset arches above this double vanity.

Costs

Adding a bathroom typically increases your home’s value, but the cost of doing so can vary significantly. The type of bathroom you build and the materials you choose play a role in the total cost, but other factors can also affect your costs.

Work with your remodeler to plan your project for the most efficiency. For instance, if possible, try to add the bathroom in a room that already has plumbing, like a laundry room or basement. Otherwise, your remodeler will need to add new plumbing lines, which can drive up costs.

It’s important to hire licensed contractors for electrical, plumbing and general construction work. These professionals typically charge by the hour and can add 10% to 20% to your project’s overall cost. You should also budget for a general contractor to oversee the various subcontractors.

Materials

Stylish bathroom building materials create a comfortable and elegant space. They also help to prevent water damage and other problems. For example, the flooring material should be water-resistant to avoid mildew and rot. A natural stone tile floor is a good choice, but vinyl and hardwood floors are also available.

In addition, energy-saving materials like low-flow toilets and water-saving faucets can save you money on utilities and contribute to a green lifestyle. Other eco-friendly options include radiant heat, solar panels, and LED lighting. When choosing materials for your new bathroom, visit a specialty design showroom to see what’s available. This will help you find a design that suits your style and needs. Also, consider using recycled products. For example, cast polymer is made from a blend of polyester resin and ground stone. It is suitable for sinks and vanities and has a low odor.

Labor

In any construction project, labor is typically the most expensive component. This is especially true for bathroom remodels. High-end materials and fixtures can drive up the cost, and structural changes like moving a load-bearing wall can significantly increase costs as well.

Framing involves measuring, cutting, and nailing wood pieces together to create the walls of your new bathroom. This is a job best left to the pros. Any mistakes could result in expensive structural damage.

It’s important to compare contractors’ estimates based on the specific details they provide, including labor breakdowns. This will help you identify any discrepancies. Also, consider the contractor’s experience and reputation when evaluating their estimate. This will help you avoid overpaying for labor. You should also set aside an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.

Permits

Many renovations, such as removing walls and changing plumbing, require work permits. However, some low-difficulty projects, like painting or replacing a faucet, do not need a permit. It is always best to consult with a professional to determine if a permit is needed.

It is also important to understand that there are scheduled inspections during the remodel to ensure that all regulations are being met. If the work is not done correctly, the authorities can halt progress or even require it to be redone.

Hiring a general contractor who is familiar with renovations and can navigate the permitting process can save you time and money. At Sweeten, we help homeowners find vetted contractors, obtain permits, and navigate building board approvals.

Design

The design phase includes architectural development and total design planning, along with establishing rough budgets for the project. It also involves installing drywall and waterproofing. It’s important to have this done properly to prevent water damage, especially if you’re using a natural stone tile in the bathroom.

Think about your lifestyle when choosing colors, materials and other aesthetic elements. While style fads can change quickly, a neutral palette and timeless fixtures will hold up well in the long run.

Consider how you’ll use the bathroom in the future, too. For example, if you plan to stay in your home as you age (a process known as universal design), consider adding blocking to the walls for future grab bars. This is an affordable way to ensure that your bathroom will be able to accommodate your needs down the road.



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