How Much Will It Cost?
This is always one of the first questions clients want an answer to, and I don’t blame them. Even in Red Deer, everyone is dealing with the cost of living going up and up. As a result, more people are looking at ways to make their property more valuable. Realtors constantly tell people how much a renovation can add to the value of their home. However, if a renovation costs so much that you need a loan, it doesn’t really make sense, does it?
Below are my suggestions for creating a beautiful bathroom renovation that you, and your bank account will love.
Why Start with the Bathroom?
When it comes to renovations, I always like to start with the bathroom. From an investment perspective, this is where you get the most for your money. Yes, kitchens are probably more popular and arguably more impactful on a home’s value, but they are also much more expensive. When it comes to measuring impact-to-cost ratio, bathrooms are a clear winner, especially if you do it right.
Updating your bathroom is a manageable way to transform the feel of your home without taking on the cost and complexity of a kitchen remodel. Bathrooms are also the first place many buyers check for upgrades, so even a few changes can make your home much more attractive if you’re considering selling.
Don’t Alter the Plumbing or Wiring
One of the biggest budget mistakes people make with bathroom renovations is changing the location of plumbing fixtures. Anytime a customer wants to move a sink, shower, or toilet, the cost jumps up. When you start moving around piping and wiring, it often means opening up the wall or floor, which requires extra materials and labour.
Not all tradespeople are qualified to handle complicated electrical or plumbing work, so moving fixtures may mean hiring specialized help. Specialized labour is not only more expensive, but it can also extend the timeline of the renovation, leading to further costs.
Instead, consider keeping fixtures where they are and updating them within the existing setup. For example, replacing a faucet, showerhead, or toilet can give the space a fresh appearance. Updating your vanity to a double sink or swapping out an old tub for a newer, more modern model can also make a big difference—without the need for any plumbing or wiring adjustments.
Why It’s Smart to Be Selective
Choosing the right materials and fixtures is another critical step in managing your renovation budget. High-end items are tempting, but they can quickly add up. Fortunately, many affordable alternatives deliver a similar style and quality without the steep price. Here are some ways to stay selective and save money:
Shop Second-Hand or Wait for Sales
Check out second-hand stores or online marketplaces where you can often find lightly used bathroom fixtures at a fraction of retail prices. Websites like Facebook Marketplace have everything from sinks to lighting fixtures at great deals. You may even find unique vintage items that add character to your bathroom.
Hardware stores also run seasonal sales on bathroom essentials, so if you can time your purchase, you could save a lot. End-of-season sales, holiday promotions, or clearance sections are great places to look for marked-down items.
Go for Quality Lookalikes
Many affordable materials provide the same visual impact as high-end options. Love the look of marble but not the cost? Consider quartz or solid-surface materials that give you a similar aesthetic for less. For floors, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) can imitate wood or stone without the high price and upkeep.
These materials are not only affordable but also durable and easy to maintain. By choosing quality lookalikes, you’re saving money without sacrificing style or longevity.
Try DIY Kits for Small Upgrades
There are plenty of DIY kits on the market that allow you to tackle small projects without professional help. Kits for refinishing countertops, painting cabinets, and even recoating tiles are widely available. These can be a budget-friendly way to get a fresh, modern look and add a personalized touch to your bathroom.
DIY kits are especially helpful for small bathrooms, where you can make a big impact without spending much. Just make sure to follow the instructions closely, and take your time to get the best results.
Less is More
When it comes to bathroom design, sometimes the smallest changes bring the most noticeable improvements. Focus on upgrades that really stand out and give your bathroom a fresh feel without the need for a full remodel.
Refresh the Hardware
Replacing drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, or towel bars with more modern styles is an easy and affordable way to update your bathroom’s look. Choose finishes that match your overall decor and add a cohesive, polished feel to the space. These small upgrades are budget-friendly yet have a high visual impact.
For a more cohesive look, consider coordinating your hardware with your faucets and showerheads. Matching finishes, like brushed nickel or matte black, can add a modern and sophisticated touch to your bathroom.
Upgrade the Lighting
Swapping out old lighting for softer, more energy-efficient fixtures can completely change the room’s ambiance. Lighting plays a huge role in making a bathroom feel brighter, warmer, and more inviting. Opt for LED lights, which are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in a wide range of designs.
When selecting lighting, consider adding a dimmer switch to control brightness. Adjustable lighting is a nice luxury, especially for a bathroom, where you may want different lighting levels depending on the time of day or activity.
Add New Accessories
Accessories are a simple way to update your bathroom without spending much. New items like shower curtains, bath mats, towels, and wall art can make a big difference in the room’s feel. Try selecting a cohesive colour scheme or choosing a few coordinating patterns to bring a fresh look to the space.
Greenery, like small potted plants, can also brighten up a bathroom and add a calming, natural touch. Just be sure to choose plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns or pothos.
Invest in High-Impact Upgrades
Not all upgrades are equal, so it’s important to invest in changes that bring the highest return. Here are some high-impact, budget-friendly changes to consider:
New Showerheads and Faucets
Replacing old showerheads and faucets is an affordable way to refresh your bathroom while improving water efficiency. Choose low-flow options, which reduce water usage without sacrificing water pressure. This small upgrade can lead to long-term savings on your water bill and is eco-friendly as well.
Modern Tile Accents
While tiling an entire bathroom can be costly, adding a new tile backsplash or accent wall is a budget-friendly way to update the room. Consider adding tiles in a single, impactful area, such as behind the vanity or along the bathtub. Patterned or textured tiles can add a lot of personality to your space, giving it a high-end feel without the high-end cost.
Final Thoughts
Renovating a bathroom on a budget comes down to making smart, selective choices. By keeping plumbing and wiring where they are, focusing on small impactful changes, and choosing affordable materials, you can transform your space without overspending. Even small upgrades, like refreshing hardware or adding modern lighting, can make a big difference, allowing you to maximize both your budget and creativity. This approach not only helps you stay within budget but also ensures a stylish, comfortable bathroom that you’ll enjoy for years to come.