How to Upgrade Your Bathroom On a Budget

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(Newswire.net — September 17, 2022) —

Keeping the costs low while updating your bathroom is possible with the right plan.

Bathroom renovations average under $10,000, which is out of range for many homeowners. Taking on projects yourself can help you save on labor costs, but there are more ways to save money on your bathroom renovation. You can still get the results that you want without breaking the bank. 

For design style ideas, you can visit this website and follow some tips to help save money on your bathroom renovation. Let’s take a closer look at a few ways to upgrade your bathroom while sticking to a strict budget. 

Set a Strict Budget

No matter your budget, you have to decide what you want to accomplish by remodeling your bathroom. Make sure you focus on projects that will significantly impact your bathroom without draining your budget too much. 

When taking on any home renovation, it doesn’t take long for your expenses to add up. Start by pricing out the features and supplies you will need for your project, and then add labor costs if you aren’t doing the work yourself. Plumbers and electricians may be needed for your project.

Staying within your budget requires planning for the unexpected. To avoid overspending, make sure your budget allows for some unforeseen expenses. 

Lighting

Most bathrooms are designed with minimal lighting. This often means that the overhead lighting is bright and harsh. You may be surprised by the difference it can make to the overall look of your bathroom to upgrade your lighting. Whether you swap out your domed lights for a subtle set of recessed spotlights or to frame your mirror in theater lighting, there are dozens of lighting designs to choose from.

Shop for Deals

It would help if you compared prices for different designs regardless of your choice to get the best possible price. Material costs should be compared from multiple sources to get three to four quotes from contractors before you begin your renovation project. Comparing the prices of department stores online would be an excellent place to start. Shop at bargain stores and thrift stores to find the best deals. You can also visit your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. 

Paint, Don’t Replace

If your vanity looks worse for wear, you may consider replacing the whole unit. Instead, think about giving your current vanity an upgrade with paint or stain. This simple DIY project can be done cheaply but will still look great. All you need is a hand sander, your choice of paint or stain, and some more modern-looking hardware. You will have a brand new-looking vanity while staying on your budget. 

Keep Your Layout

Ensure that you work within the confines of your current plumbing system. It’s not a good idea to move major plumbing or install new water pipes during a bathroom renovation because you will have to exceed your budget, so don’t move your water supply and drainage unless necessary. Instead of replacing your essential items like your toilet or shower, you can try these more affordable projects to get a new look:

  • Instead of replacing the entire toilet, change the seat and lid

  • Walk-in showers can be converted from bathtubs

  • Install a prefab shower instead of a tiled one

  • Put a liner in your tub or shower to refinish it

  • Install a glass shower door or a new shower curtain

Consider Re-Enameling

If you have an enamel bathtub, it may have seen better days. Enamel bathtubs often chip and scratch as they age, making them look dingy. If you love your tub but want a new look, you should consider re-enameling your current one. Re-enameling can be done DIY, or you can hire a specialist to come in and take care of the job. Once your tub is re-enameled, it will look as good as new, and you can save money by not buying a newer model.

Focus On Fixtures

It is often the most minor details that make the biggest impressions. These inexpensive renovations can completely transform your bathroom:

  • New sink faucets, drains, and handles should be installed

  • To make your vanity counter space more usable, install open shelving

  • Match your new hardware to your floor registers

  • Plugs and plates need to be replaced

  • You must caulk your shower, sink, and tiles or re-grout them

  • Energy-efficient bulbs should be installed in place of outdated track lighting

  • Brass, copper, or brushed nickel hardware will freshen up your vanity

Keep It Simple

If your budget is tight when you plan your bathroom remodel, you should keep things simple. Using paint to freshen up the walls, changing out fixtures, and upgrading your lighting can give your bathroom a new look for less money. While a full bathroom remodel can cost you a fortune, you can upgrade it on a budget by keeping it simple. Take advantage of the features that are already existing instead of planning on replacement. 

Minimize Tile

A floor-to-ceiling tile installation might seem like a great idea, but the costs can quickly mount up. Choose a durable flooring material, such as linoleum or vinyl, if you want to save money. 

There are numerous alternatives to wall tiles that are less expensive, including reclaimed wood panels, paint, or decorative wallpaper accents for a more sophisticated look. 

DIY

The cost of tile installation, bringing in plumbers, electricians, and other laborers, can quickly add up. If you know a bit about renovations and decorating, there are many types of projects that you can try yourself instead of shelling out more money to have them done professionally. If you aren’t that handy, you can try looking up some tutorial videos on YouTube to help you find DIY projects for your bathroom that you can handle. 

Bathroom renovations can be time-consuming and costly. Take advantage of these tips if you have a limited budget to get the bathroom of your dreams.