Aside from the kitchen or the room with the big screen TV, the bathroom is one of the busiest centers of activity in a normal house. The term “comfort room” is used in some cultures to describe this most important area and most people certainly want to be in comfort while using it. So, if the bathroom comfort level is beginning to wane due to wear and tear, leaks, mold and stains a decision to remodel must be made.
Its estimates that the average cost of large bathroom remodeling project cost about $17,000. The primary factor in determining the actual remodel costs would be the size of the bathroom. A small half bath will cost around $4,500 while a 150 square foot Master Bath remodel will cost roughly $15,000. The current condition of the bathroom as well as the quality of materials and fixtures used in the remodel will be a cost consideration. $110 per square foot is a good figure to use when estimating the remodel costs
Phases of bathroom remodeling
Pre-construction planning
A qualified contractor can make plans for a small simple bathroom. For a larger more complex bathroom a reputable bathroom designer can optimize the available space. Depending on the size and scale of the remodel this service can cost from $1,200 to $4,500. The designer, however, might be able to find savings in other areas to help recoup his or her fee. It is advised to take ample time to select the materials and fixtures and to review the designer drawings to make sure that the desired design will be what the bathroom will eventually look like.
Demolition / tear-out of existing bath
If an alternate bathroom is available the homeowner can begin to remove items in preparation for the remodel while awaiting the arrival of the new materials. If not, the homeowner should wait until the materials arrive to minimize the bathroom down-time. At this time any problems with mold, water leaks or other hidden issues may arise adding to the cost of the project. Mold treatment begins at about $500 and addressing water damage can cost up to about $2700.
Actual construction of the bathroom
Work includes electrical and plumbing to match the new design. Then new backerboard and subflooring are installed. Next is the floor and wall tiling followed by the installation of the lights, fixtures and bath accessories. Allow two to three weeks for the job to be completed. The hourly costs for a plumber will be in the $46 to $66 range, for an electrician the rate will be $65 to $85. Flooring and tile preparation will be in the $6 to $11 per square foot range.
Choosing a bathroom design can be a daunting task as there are possibly millions of different options to choose from. Those with an eye for style should choose a design that matches the rest of the home, its architecture and the lifestyle of the occupants. Those lacking in design skills may want to ask for help but almost everyone will have a favorite color and a personal preference that can help with the decision.
Keep in mind that the choices in design will likely affect the cost of the product. Natural stone will cost more than ceramic tiles, custom made fixtures are more expensive then standard fixtures to cite some examples. Costs will vary for each design.
Other things to consider before remodeling your bathroom are the following:
- Installing a sink
- Installing a vanity
- Installing a toilet
- Installing a shower
- Installing a bath tub
- Installing a countertop
- Installing tile
- Installing lighting
- Installing bathroom fan
- Installing cabinets or shelfing
Labor considerations for bathroom remodeling
The primary contractor will act as an overseer to subcontractors with the various skills needed to complete the job. The following list gives the per hour rate one can expect to pay:
Note that large contractors may not handle smaller jobs like a half bath or a small bathroom under 100 square feet. In this case the use of a handyman skilled in the various crafts might be a good option. The handyman per hour rate is likely negotiable but expect to pay from $30 to $50 per hour.
We, at Fidelity & Designs, pride ourselves on being professional, reliable, and affordable. We can help remodel your bathroom or any part of your home. We are fully licensed and fully insured. Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation at 1-877-405-0409