Remodeling your bathroom is an exciting process—but what’s not exciting is breaking the bank. Being constantly worried about your budget can damper the anticipation you have for your new bathroom, and at Washington Marble Works, we want you to get the most out of your project that you can.
That’s why we put together this article. We’ve compiled five hacks that can help you save money while still getting the best bathroom remodel possible.
If you’re remodeling on a budget, keep reading. This article is for you!
1. Make a Plan
One of the worst things you can do in any situation is go in without a plan. Have you ever been to the mall during the holiday season without specific gift ideas? Or at the grocery store without a list? A mission without a plan will fail faster than it can get off the ground.
Working with a designer when remodeling your bathroom is never a bad idea—this is the person who can help you make your plan and stick to it. Doing so might seem pricey, but designers are worthy investments, and their knowledge and advice will serve you throughout the process of remodeling. They can help you make sure that your design, timeline, and budget are all realistic, which will help you end up with the best results possible.
2. Get Thrifty
There are quite a few ways that you can get thrifty when you’re in the midst of bathroom remodels. Take tile, for example—that can get pricey. But before you fork over the cash at a big box store, take some time to check out Craigslist and eBay to see if anyone is selling leftovers. Many people buy more material than they need and have no use for it after they’re finished working.
You can get thrifty when it comes to bathroom furniture too. Check out flea markets and antique stores for dressers—the prices will be lower, and the pieces will be super unique.
Salvage yards aren’t a bad idea either. Once you get good at browsing antique stores and flea markets, you’re on your way to becoming a salvage yard master as well. You can find great items like iron tubs, light fixtures, and sinks there—and you have the freedom to make those pieces your own.
3. Leave Plumbing Alone
This is where working with a designer comes in handy—they’ll let you know that using plumbing that already exists in your bathroom will save you a lot of money, and they’ll help you figure out how to do it while still getting an updated look. Trust us—keeping plumbing where it is will save you a big chunk of change. Every time you move plumbing fixtures, it can cost up to $5,000.
And there’s no need to toss your toilet in favor of a new one either. Unless the entire thing is damaged, replacing the toilet seat can do wonders in updating its look—and it’ll save you money on plumber installation fees too.
4. Be Open to Alternatives
There are plenty of options for bathroom designs that can make the space look bigger and save you money on furniture. For example, using open shelves instead of cabinets is a much more economical choice, and it also allows you to show off your bathroom decorations in a classy, understated way.
Another tip we have for sprucing up your bathroom with what you already have is to add a frame to your mirror. If your mirror has wear and tear from age, all you have to do is add a frame instead of buying a whole new one. It gives the mirror an updated look and saves you cash along the way.
And don’t forget about tile! We know that tile is all the rage for bathrooms right now, but it’s not the only option for your walls. It can strain your budget, while alternatives like wood panels, board and batten, or beadboard won’t.
5. Be Smart with Countertops
Going with a simpler countertop design will always be less expensive than something ultra-elaborate.
But if simple isn’t your game, there’s still a way to save money—by making your vanity the focal point of your bathroom. By implementing the countertop material that you want only on the vanity, it brings the eyes there—and you only have to worry about paying for that material for a small space instead of for the entire room.
Your Bathroom, Your Budget
We’re passionate about bathroom remodels at Washington Marble Works, and we would love to help you with yours. If you have questions or would like to schedule a free consultation, give us a call at (253) 891-1823.
