How to Renovate Your Bathroom on a Budget
Imagine your dream bathroom for a moment—the gleaming tile, a sleek new vanity, drawers just waiting to be organized, and that soaker tub you’ve always dreamed of. Does the bubble pop when you start thinking about the budget? Spoiler alert: it shouldn’t!
Bathroom renovations don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By thoughtfully planning your project, you can achieve a stunning transformation that fits your budget. Here is a step-by-step guide to help get you started.
Step 1: Define Your Goals and Priorities
This first step is to think about how you want your space to look and function. In other words, what’s most important to you and what aren’t you willing to compromise on? Are you looking for a little more storage, to make your shower bigger, or update the finishes and vanity style? Clearly defined goals will help guide your decisions and ensure the renovation meets your needs.
💡 According to Houzz, most homeowners in recent years have made the shower a primary focal point of bathroom renovations. In fact, “increasing the shower size is the second-most popular bathroom upgrade.”
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
Setting a budget is the key to avoiding unexpected costs. A good place to start is by researching the average costs of bathroom renovations in your area. A typical bathroom remodel in St. Louis can range between 5%-10% of the overall home value. Many homeowners choose to go the financing route for their renovations. At Signature Kitchen & Bath, we offer financing, with the most commonly used plan being 12 months deferred interest. It’s possible to go this route without hefty interest rates and repayment terms. To learn more about financing options, schedule a complimentary consultation with our team or visit one of our showrooms!
💡 According to Zillow, “bathroom remodels yield the biggest returns in terms of boosting your home's resale value. For minor cosmetic changes, you'll see a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1 you spend. This includes things like painting and refinishing cabinets, swapping out the mirror, or upgrading hardware.”
Step 3: Identify Your Design Style
This can be easier said than done, especially if you’re trying to agree on a style with a partner or spouse. Do you lean more toward modern or traditional? Are you drawn to minimalist designs or do you prefer a more luxurious, layered look? If you find this step particularly challenging, you’re not alone.
💡 It might help to work with a designer—we offer complimentary design consultations at all of our showrooms!
💡 Design Tip: Warm neutrals and natural wood vanity cabinets are popular choices for making any bathroom feel more spa-like.
Step 4: Hire the Right Professionals
Working with experienced professionals like those at Signature Kitchen & Bath can save you time and money. When selecting a contractor or designer, check reviews, ask for recommendations, and review past projects to ensure they align with your vision.
💡 Tempted to DIY? Keep in mind that working with professionals can help you avoid common pitfalls and save you from costly mistakes.
Step 5: Plan the Layout
An efficient bathroom layout is essential to functionality. Consider the classic bathroom layout principles—ensuring easy access between the sink, toilet, and shower or bathtub. A well-thought-out layout maximizes space and enhances the overall flow of the room. If you’re working with designers, they’ll help you find the best layout for your space and your lifestyle.
💡 Fun fact: Just as the kitchen work triangle optimizes kitchen efficiency, bathroom layouts have evolved to prioritize both functionality and comfort, ensuring everything you need is within easy reach.
Step 6: Select Materials and Finishes
Choosing the right materials is essential for both the look and durability of your bathroom. Some materials aren’t as durable or require more maintenance to keep it looking nice. For instance, granite and quartz are both popular choices for countertops, but quartz is bacteria-resistant, more durable, and lower maintenance. For tile, porcelain is known for being a highly durable option.
Here are some great questions to ask when it comes to your tiles, shower walls, vanity cabinets, and countertops:
- How easily does the material stain?
- Does it scratch easily?
- Does it require any maintenance, such as periodic resealing?
- What is the manufacturer warranty on the product?
💡 Tip: Visit a local showroom instead of shopping online to get a real sense of how certain materials and finishes will look and feel.
Step 7: Schedule and Prepare for the Renovation
Timing is everything. Consider your lifestyle and calendar when planning your bathroom renovation. A typical bathroom remodel can take anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on the scope of the project. Be sure to factor in time for unexpected delays, such as back-ordered materials or unforeseen plumbing issues. To minimize stress, choose a time of year when your family’s schedule is relatively flexible, and you can manage with limited bathroom access for a while. Keep holiday plans in mind as well.
Before the renovation begins, it’s important to plan how you’ll function without a fully operational bathroom. Most people don’t have the budget to live elsewhere while renovations are underway. A common solution is to designate an alternative bathroom in your home, or if you only have one, make arrangements with friends or family for temporary access. Having a plan in place will make living through the renovation much easier.
Take the First Step: Schedule a Complimentary Design Consultation
At Signature Kitchen & Bath, we specialize in helping homeowners achieve their dream bathrooms on a budget. With expert guidance and careful planning, you can enjoy a beautiful, functional bathroom without overspending. Ready to start planning? Contact us today for a complimentary design consultation and take the first step toward your dream bathroom.