Articles | Understanding a bathroom remodel estimate

There comes a time in every homeowner's life when the bathroom requires remodeling. Often the fixtures become either outdated or just plain leaking and demand attention. During this period it is important that the homeowner details the items in the bathroom which need repaired or replaced. Depending on what is required the bathroom remodel estimate could range from a few thousand dollars to several thousand dollars.

As with most home repair services, contractors normally offer free bathroom remodel estimates, based on what your perceived needs may be, which is why it is important to be realistic when deciding what you want replaced or repaired. Often what drives the price of the estimate up stems from choices made by homeowners who request upgrades in the facilities in their bathroom? This often includes things like claw-foot tubs, whirlpool tubs, modern two flush toilets, pedestal sinks, or even a new area with dual sinks, especially when remodeling a master en-suite washroom.

Receiving ballpark estimates for bathroom remodel is quite a complex task. One of the first things the bathroom remodel estimate professional is going to take into account is the overall condition of your washroom. If your bathroom is in a state of disrepair, the estimate is likely to be higher than you expected, but if your bathroom has signs of water damage, the contractor has no option but to replace the damaged drywall and flooring. The reason for the higher estimate in this case is based on experience. The estimator more than likely has done many jobs like this and is taking precaution to stay within the estimated price, yet still repairing and replacing the important items that need looked after.

Since most remodeling jobs require the replacement of tub, toilet, sink, and shower these products often add a hefty sum to the overall project costs, then add in damage to walls removing old fixtures, and repairs or buildings to walls after having installed new fixtures. If new electrical outlets or lighting fixtures are installed these too will dramatically increase the bathroom remodel estimate. Often older bathrooms have outdated floors which are in need of replacing too and generally when new fixtures are added the stained floor is no longer so appealing.

If you are redoing your entire bathroom from the bare studs out you can expect the bathroom remodel estimate to run into the tens of thousands of dollars. Building codes today require estimators to include all the safety features including moisture resistant drywall and ground fault electrical outlets. These things are not luxury items and ensure that your family is safe and does not suffer from mold and mildew toxins.

As a rule, a normal bathroom remodel estimate runs anywhere from $16,000 to $20,000, based on a 35 to 45 foot square room, but this doesn't include rebuilding walls. If you are unsure what your bathroom remodel estimate should cost, or you have found the estimate you received to be a fair bit higher than you expected, call another company and ask for a free estimate, realizing that just because one estimate may be cheaper than the next one, doesn't necessarily make it a better job, nor guarantee it will come in at the estimated price.