We all fancy ourselves an exclusively stylish and luxurious bathroom. After all, it’s where we soak in a soothing bubble bath, carry out our nighttime skincare routines, or simply have some much-needed ‘me’ time.
But, the cost of a complete bathroom makeover can put a damper on our plans. They can run a little high, regardless of where you are. In Jacksonville, expect to splurge anywhere between $6,600 and $38,700.
Does that mean you have to give up on your dream bathroom makeover?
Absolutely not.
How expensive your bathroom remodeling ends up being depends on how well you budget for it. If you manage things well, you can have all the fancy elements in your bathroom without burning a hole in your wallet.
Let’s check out some effective tips for a bathroom makeover that’ll make you feel like an all-powerful interior designer.
Hire Professionals to Save a Pretty Penny
Contrary to popular belief, DIY isn’t always your best and cheapest option for bathroom makeovers. While switching out faucets and showerheads may be easy, dealing with more technically complicated tasks like rerouting drain piping, installing a different shower system, or even replacing your bathtub is best left to the experts.
Sure, you may spend more, but skilled professionals will take less time and have fewer mistakes. So, it’s always a better idea to hire professionals from a Jacksonville bathroom remodel company as opposed to attempting DIY repairs yourself.
Professional handymen usually have contacts for wholesale supplies at their disposal. It means lower costs for tiles, hardware, and other essentials.
Repair Rather Than Replace
A lot of times, the plumbing and fixtures are in good condition. All they have are slight issues. Maybe they aren’t as chrome-y as they used to be. Or, the handles of taps or showerheads have some blockages, affecting their flow.
So, before you chuck things out, see if they can be saved. If you’re lucky enough, some cleaning with a mild abrasive cleaner and polishing agent may save you a few hundred dollars.
Other elements in your bathroom you must check before blindly buying replacements include:
- Tiles
- Vanity cabinet and countertops
- Glass shower doors
Shop Around for Deals
Never base your entire remodeling project on a single store or supplier. Why limit your options? Shop around for the best deals on supplies and fixtures. Who knows what you might find!
For instance, if you’re looking to change your bathroom sink, check out antique stores for vintage pieces. They may cost much lesser than their modern counterparts yet offer the same visual effect.
You can also check out discount stores, thrift shops, and online auction sites for fixtures or decorative items. What’s more? You could even buy showroom products for a fraction of what they usually cost!
Put Money in Quality
Do not be fooled by low-cost products that claim to last forever. Cheap fixtures might seem appealing, but they’ll end up costing you more over time as you have to replace them often.
Here’s a list of bathroom-friendly materials you can select from:
- Natural stone
- Solid surface
- Corian countertops
- Quartz countertops
As for faucets and showerheads, go for stainless steel and brass, as these have the highest returns on investment. If you can, stick to high-efficiency toilets and other accessories. They will help you save water (and consequently money) and also make your bathroom look uber-stylish.
Choose Classics Over Trends
Trends are tempting, but they’ve got a short shelf-life. Opt for classic and timeless designs instead of going all out on trendy elements that you’ll have to replace sooner than later.
For instance, if metro tiles are the in-thing right now, mix them with plain white or beige ones to create an interesting blend that’s still timeless.
Similarly, don’t go all out on one style or color scheme for your bathroom. Stick to a neutral palette and accentuate it with rich textures and prints. Some color palettes that never go out of style are:
- Cream and beige
- Blue and white
- Greys with light hues
Other classic bathroom elements include clawfoot tubs for a vintage touch, floating shelves for storage, and open showers.
Know How Far to Go
Sometimes it’s easy to get carried away with our ambitions and create a bathroom that looks too fancy. But, remember, too much ornamentation won’t serve you well in the long run. You need a cozy bathroom that’s also practical.
So, assess your needs before you start planning. Stick to basics, and feel free to add a few touches of luxury.
If you’re out of ideas, here are some stylish additions that are practical and useful:
- Install a bidet
- Change your showerhead to a rainfall one
- Add a heated towel rack
- Go for double sinks and a custom vanity
- Install underfloor radiant heating mats for those cold winter mornings
- Or, if you have the budget, go ahead and install a whirlpool tub
Smart bathrooms are a big hit. They might have a high upfront cost but, in the long run, are extremely cost-effective. Automated lighting systems, wall-mounted device charging stations, digital showers and faucets, and even remote-controlled air conditioners are all excellent additions.
Have a Backup Plan
It’s always wise to over-budget when it comes to remodeling projects. You never know when things will go haywire and require additional cash.
So, try to have a 20-30% contingency budget so that you can save yourself from any last-minute surprises. That way, you won’t feel the brunt of an unplanned expense and will be able to enjoy your dream bathroom for years without worrying about money!
For instance, your estimate may be $15,000, but if you’re lucky enough to score great deals or run into unexpected savings, you can use that money for other stuff like a new bathtub or lighting.
Rethinking your bathroom doesn’t have to be an expensive affair if you plan it strategically. A smart mix of budgeting, shopping around for deals, and quality materials can help you get that perfect bathroom you’ve always wanted without breaking the bank. The key is to start as soon as possible and assess your requirements carefully before you begin shopping for supplies. That way, you won’t have to rush through the process or compromise on your budget. Good luck!
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