If you’re on a tight budget but looking to renovate your bathroom, there are numerous inexpensive fixes that can make an enormous impactful statement. But other projects should be left to professionals.
Plumbing can be one of the costliest aspects of remodeling. Installing new bathtubs, toilets or showers requires changing plumbing hookups and pipelines which can increase costs into the thousands.
1. Refinishing the Floor
Repainting your floor is an inexpensive way to refresh the appearance of your bathroom, yet can take more than one coat for optimal results. Before making this decision, it’s essential that you carefully consider all potential implications before committing.
Hardwood flooring is an extremely popular choice in bathrooms, yet it can be susceptible to water damage if left uncovered or not sealed with polyurethane sealant.
Moisture from showers or tubs can seep into seams between flooring and wallboard, leading to mold growth and other complications. Therefore, it’s crucial that your bathroom be thoroughly inspected for leaks, with all plumbing pipes caulked properly; should any leaks or caulking issues arise quickly addressing them can prevent costly mold removal expenses or remodeling costs down the line.
2. Refinishing the Cabinets
Refinishing can be an economical and time-saving solution when updating your bathroom vanity cabinet’s look with fresh paint; by only replacing doors and drawer faces rather than replacing an entire box.
Refinishing can also be seen as an eco-friendly solution, since you are recycling existing cabinets rather than cutting down trees for new ones. But this process may be more expensive if an entire cabinet box needs replacing.
Refinishing cabinets involves stripping and sanding them before applying a finish; your choice of finish will affect its cost.
3. Refinishing the Walls
If your bathroom features flaky paint or plaster, drab walls, or an outdated ceiling, it may be time for an upgrade. While this could be costly in terms of money and effort spent, the results will last much longer.
Before painting, an experienced pro will use drywall compound to fill in cracks and holes as well as remove old texture from walls using scrapers, then sand the wall to ensure an even finish.
If you want to save money, investing in a refinishing kit that includes everything necessary will likely be worthwhile. These packages typically contain everything from sanding and cleaning equipment, primer, rollers, brushes and paint for the task at hand; most kits typically range between $50 and $100 in cost.
4. Installing New Flooring
Putting in new floors may be necessary if your current ones have become worn-down and damaged, though this project will incur a high upfront cost.
Your choice depends on the size and type of bathroom flooring being installed as well as personal preference.
No matter which choice you make, it is necessary to first prepare the subfloor by thoroughly cleaning and inspecting for water or mold issues.
Before installing new tiles or laminate, it is also advisable to level your floor. This will ensure that the new flooring looks its best while being easier to maintain.
5. Installing New Fixtures
Refreshing your bathroom with new sink, toilet or shower head updates is an affordable and straightforward solution that won’t break the bank.
Over time, fixtures deteriorate, leading to plumbing problems and increasing repair costs while also wasting a great deal of water.
Replacement faucets that are WaterSense labeled can help you use less water, benefiting both the environment and your wallet.
Installing new toilets equipped with dual flushing systems and aerators may also save money by reducing water consumption – leading to lower bills and rebates!
