Are You Ready for a DIY Bathroom Remodel?
Bathroom makeovers are about more than just looks. Due to the level of skill involved, most cities and counties require permits for remodeling projects. Some even require homeowners to pass proficiency exams before starting the work, so know what the norm is in your area before you start.
Poor bathroom remodeling jobs waste money, make your home less attractive to future buyers and create safety and structural problems that are expensive to repair. The questions below are an excellent way to make sure you're prepared and able to complete a do-it-yourself bathroom remodeling project.
Before You Start a Bathroom Remodel
- Do you fully understand the entire scope of the job from budget to materials to building codes?
- Do you have the knowledge, experience and tools necessary for a bathroom remodel?
- Do you have the time to deal with both your day job and the bathroom remodel?
- Is the time investment worth the cost savings?
- Can you obtain the necessary permits, licenses and can your work pass inspections?
Bathroom Remodel Cost Estimates for DIYers
If you’re wondering how much a bathroom remodel costs when you do the work yourself, we have price ranges to help you plan. But actual costs vary based on factors including the size of the bathroom, the type of work you’re doing and the products you use.
If you decide to sell your home, an updated bathroom is an attractive selling point. You can look for a return on your investment for a major remodel, but the amount will depend on factors such as your location, the products and materials you use and how recently you completed the remodel.
Keep in mind the price ranges below are just estimates. Your actual expenses might vary. For example, even a minor refresh can exceed these estimates if you choose custom products or high-end materials and finishes. Use these ranges to begin planning a budget.
Bathroom Refresh Cost
A bathroom refresh can typically range between $200 and $5,000. Projects that might be part of a refresh include:
- Painting
- Updating a vanity
- Replacing a countertop or sink
- Refinishing a bathtub
- Replacing light fixtures
- Installing new window treatments
- Updating bathroom cabinet hardware
- Installing bath, shower and sink fixture upgrades
- Installing a new medicine cabinet or bathroom mirror
Mid-Level Bathroom Remodeling Cost
If you’re planning a moderate level of changes, the average DIY cost of a bathroom remodel for a full bathroom typically ranges between $5,000 and $15,000. Projects that might be part of a redesign include:
- Installing a new bathroom faucet, sink and toilet
- Installing a new bathtub and shower or combination tub and shower.
- Moving bathroom fixtures
- Adding new bathroom water supply lines, drain pipes and electrical wiring
- New or additional bathroom cabinets or vanities
- Building dividing walls
- Replacing bathroom flooring
Major Bathroom Remodeling Cost
Major DIY bathroom remodel costs typically exceed $15,000. In addition to the changes above, projects that might be part of a large remodel include:
- Creating a new bathroom cabinet and fixture layout
- Adding or removing doorways
- Moving and/or expanding a bath
- Rerouting bathroom plumbing and electrical systems
- Upgrading bathroom surfaces and finishes
- Adding skylights and/or windows
Some major work, like electrical, plumbing and structural changes, is best suited for professionals, so consider labor costs for any work you need a pro to handle. These expenses depend on the complexity of the work, your location and even the time of year.
Tips for Saving on Bathroom Remodeling Costs
Handling the bathroom remodel yourself is one of the most obvious ways to potentially save on bathroom remodeling costs but we’ve got other bathroom remodeling tips that help you make the most of your budget:
- Research homes in your area. You might not want to create the ultimate home spa if it’s not in line with your home’s potential value. You’re less likely to recover your investment on this type of remodel if you sell your home.
- Keep your plans in line with your home’s value. It might not make sense to create the ultimate home spa if it moves your home’s potential resale value out of line with similar homes in the area.
- Create your plan before you shop. Decide which features are important and which ones you can scale down if necessary.
- Create a budget and stick to it. Going even slightly over budget in a few areas adds up to large overruns.
- Plan for surprises. Dedicate at least 10% of your budget for unexpected problems like mold behind a wall or subfloor damage. Designate economical alternatives to your products. You can swap out more expensive options if you need to save money or you start to go over budget.
- Carefully consider changes that require moving electrical wiring and plumbing lines. The work is expensive, and you typically need to hire licensed professionals to make the changes.
- Make sure you can handle the work. Hiring a professional to fix mistakes or repair damage quickly consumes your budget.
- Make sure the work complies with local codes. Failed inspections require you to redo the work, wasting materials, money and time.
- Plan for the future. Think about what your needs for the bathroom might be in a few years, especially in terms of accessibility. Making changes now might prevent another remodel in the future and save you money in the long run.
Bathroom Remodel Timeline
Every project is different, but this timeline for a bathroom remodel gives you an example of what you need to think about as you approach your start date.
Six Months Before a Bathroom Remodel
Research local building regulations and find out which permits and rules govern your DIY project plans. Some communities require homeowners doing their own work to pass tests before taking on renovation projects. Create a design workbook and open a Lowes.com account to save examples of products you like. Need help getting started? Refer to our Bathroom Ideas & Inspiration page.
Four Months Before a Bathroom Remodel
Draw an accurate floor plan of your bathroom or hire a professional to draw one. Make copies. Create a list of all the things you need to buy or secure, project by project, including tools and equipment. Bring your floor plan and visit your local Lowe's and Lowes.com to check out options and products. Make a detailed budget for the project.
Three Months Before a Bathroom Remodel
Decide on bathroom materials and products, and place orders at your local Lowe's or on Lowes.com.
One Month Before a Bathroom Remodel
Find a secure place to store materials, tools, products and equipment. Make an audit of what you store. Arrange for a dumpster if needed. Set up a contingency plan for bathroom use during the project.
One Week Before a Bathroom Remodel
Take before pictures of the bathroom. Empty the bathroom of all items. Make secure arrangements for pets, children and power tools. Arrange a workspace for cleaning tools. Alert neighbors of the remodeling plan and give them your contact information in case of noise or other concerns. Put up coverings to protect floors, nearby rooms and air vents.
While we gear the article toward working with a professional remodeler, our guide on preparing for a bathroom remodeling project helps you plan the work. We also show you how Lowe’s can help with your project.
When the Bathroom Remodel Is Complete
Make sure all work meets code requirements and passes inspection. Ensure the site, including your air vents, are thoroughly clean. Scan warranties for your materials and products and store them in a safe place. Make sure you’ve paid all bills and keep copies of the receipts.
Try to plan your bathroom project so it doesn’t take place at a busy time of year. Consider work and school schedules, children’s activities, holidays, travel plans and visits by friends or relatives.
Get more bathroom and bathtub ideas with these inspirational articles.
Find Everything You Need for a Bathroom Remodel at Lowe’s
Lowe’s has what you need for any bathroom project, from the paint you want for a quick refresh to the tools you need install a new shower. Shop Lowes.com for the latest bathroom fixtures and furnishings and browse our library of bathroom how-tos, guides and ideas for tips and inspiration. Or visit your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate. They can guide you to the tools, materials and fixtures you need for your bathroom remodel and help you design the perfect space. And if you decide you don’t want to take on the remodel yourself, take a look at our bathroom installation services for your area and see how we can help with your bathroom project.