Maximize Your Budget When Remodeling a Bathroom
If you’re investing your hard-earned money in fixing up your bathroom, you’ll also likely want to know what the return on investment might be — and how to maximize it. Before you begin remodeling your bathroom, consider these tips to help you get more for your money.
Find Ways to Save
Looking to save money on a bathroom remodeling project? Here are some strategies:
Refinish an Old Bathtub
The price tag on a new bathtub may look affordable, but the cost can quickly rise when you account for hiring a contractor and plumber to install it and fees to dispose of the old tub, among other expenses, The Spruce says. Instead of ripping out a worn down cast iron tub, you may save money by refinishing the old one, according to BobVila.com. The Family Handyman suggests hiring a professional to resurface a bathtub, but you can also purchase a DIY kit.
Get Creative with the Vanity
Thinking outside the box could result in savings and a one-of-a-kind vanity. Instead of buying a new vanity, look for individuals or local shops with old dressers for sale, The Family Handyman says. Cut openings for the sink and plumbing, seal drawers and apply paint to give the old piece a new purpose. To save money on a new sink top, ask granite shops if they have any remnants available for a discount.
Do Your Own Painting
One way to cut down on contractor costs is to paint your own bathroom, The Family Handyman says. Make sure you have the proper supplies and complete any necessary prep work before giving your walls, ceiling and trim a fresh coat of paint.
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Lower Utility Bills
Some of the choices you make for your bathroom remodel can help conserve electricity and water, which can translate to lower utility bills in the long run. For example:
Choose Water-Efficient Fixtures
If you’re shopping for new fixtures, look for models with a WaterSense label. An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program, WaterSense designates products that save energy and use at least 20 percent less water while performing as well as traditional models. WaterSense products include showerheads, faucets and toilets. They can reduce water use by thousands of gallons per year, which also translates into lower water bills, the EPA says.
Save on Electricity
If you’re changing lights or the ventilation fan as part of your bathroom remodel, consider buying ENERGY STAR®-certified replacements. ENERGY STAR designates items like light bulbs and fixtures that use less energy than their counterparts. Bathroom vanity lights are among those most used, according to the government-backed program. Replacing just five frequently used standard fixtures or bulbs with ENERGY STAR versions may help you save up to $70 per year, according to the program.
A bathroom remodel comes with many decisions and expenses. By making strategic choices, you may be able to make your money go further during the project and beyond.