How to Do a Bathroom Reno on a Budget
A bathroom remodel is an excellent way to add value to your home. However, the cost can quickly add up.
Keep these tips in mind to save on remodeling costs.
The first tip is to work with a professional designer. They can make sure your plan is realistic. Then you can budget for the right items.
1. Don’t Change the Layout
Bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to renovation projects, but a well-done reno can increase resale value and make a home feel fresh. However, changing a bathroom’s layout can be more expensive than homeowners realize.
For example, it’s usually more cost-effective to simply install new tiles rather than relocating your bathtub or toilet. It is also a good idea to install ventilation to keep humidity at bay.
Also, consider the location of any bulky items that will be difficult to relocate, such as hot water tanks and electricity fuse boxes. These can add to the cost of your project and limit layout options.
2. Don’t Change the Utilities
Changing the location of a sink, toilet or shower can drive up renovation costs exponentially. That’s because moving plumbing is a major job that requires professional help.
It is also best to keep existing load-bearing walls in place as this will also save on significant costs. Load bearing walls are those that hold up the floor of your home’s second floor and roof.
Another way to cut costs is by shopping secondhand for bathroom materials. This isn’t always easy but with time and patience, you can find amazing gems like a vintage bathtub or reclaimed faucets. Adding greener technologies to your bathroom like low-flow fixtures can help you save water, money and the environment as well.
3. Do Your Research
Bathrooms can be tricky to redo without breaking the bank. Whether you’re redoing a small guest bathroom or revamping your master suite, it is important to know your budget and stick to it.
Homeowners should also consider installing greener, water conserving technologies like low-flow shower heads and toilets. This not only saves homeowners money in the short term, but it can help improve a property’s EPC rating and add value for future buyers.
Finally, it is crucial to make sure you choose quality materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. You can avoid costly mistakes by doing your research before starting a renovation project.
4. Don’t DIY the Demolition
While it might be tempting to swing a sledgehammer like they do on home renovation TV shows, bathroom demolition is a complicated job. Incorrect demolition can lead to significant problems that increase project costs and even cause irreversible damage.
This can be especially costly if you accidentally hit an electrical wire or water pipe during demolition. Not only will this damage your bathroom’s plumbing, it can also significantly affect your entire house.
It’s best to enlist a professional for bathroom demolition to avoid any unnecessary expenses. It’s also a good idea to rent a home dumpster for waste disposal during the reno. This way, you don’t have to make multiple trips to the dump for trash that could otherwise be reused or recycled.
5. Don’t Waste Materials
A bathroom redo can be expensive. From a few thousand dollars to spruce up a basic powder room to six figures for an upscale master bath, it can cost you big time.
Poor planning is the leading cause of budget overruns on a bath remodel. A few smart changes can cut costs and save you money over the long term.
Installing a dedicated recycling bin in the bathroom can help reduce waste. It can also make the bathroom more eco-friendly and improve your EPC rating which buyers do look at. Avoid wish-cycling (dumping items into the recycle bin that may or may not be recyclable) and make sure to compost all organic materials such as paper towel rolls, cotton swabs and hair.
6. Don’t Go Overboard
The most common causes of budget overruns during a bathroom renovation are poor planning and adding unnecessary features. Stick to a general design and sketch out your plan before you start buying materials.
Don’t move plumbing unless absolutely necessary. Doing so can blow your entire renovation budget, as you may have to redo all of the new pipes in order to fix a leak.
Also, try to use common brands of fixtures for your reno. This way, they’ll be easier to find when you need replacement parts down the road. Plus, they’re less likely to fail due to corrosion.
from Canberra Bathroom Renovations Specialist https://ift.tt/FijzDE3
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