Having unexpected expenses arise during your bathroom remodel can leave you feeling anxious and frustrated. But knowing where these hidden bathroom remodeling costs come from can help you avoid them altogether or at least plan for them.
Below, we’ll show you 5 of the most common areas where hidden bathroom remodeling costs pop up.
Be Aware of These 5 Hidden Bathroom Remodeling Costs to Keep Your Renovation Project On or Under Budget
1. Who is responsible for removing and disposing of existing bathroom fixtures?
Many homeowners choose to completely get rid of existing cabinets, showers, tubs, and other fixtures when they have their bathroom remodeled. But there needs to be a plan for who will take these items out and who will pay for their disposal. Simply make sure that this is clearly defined in your remodeling contract. Then, this will be one of the hidden bathroom remodeling costs you DON’T have to face.
2. Do you have a plan to address unforeseen circumstances that arise?
One of the biggest reasons for hidden bathroom remodeling costs is because of things that are, well, hidden! How many times have you watched a home renovation project on TV where the contractors encountered a few surprises on demo day?
When you work with a remodeling professional, they’ll work as diligently as possible to predict and address any potential hiccups before they actually happen. But the reality is that designers and builders can’t see under floors or behind walls. That means there will inevitably be a few surprises here and there, especially if you’re remodeling an older or historic home.
In this case, you may not be able to prevent hidden bathroom remodeling costs but you can certainly plan for them. That’s why we recommend adding 15-20% to your expected remodeling cost during the creation of your remodeling budget. This is your ‘contingency fund’. In other words, it’s extra money that can be used to handle any surprises that do come up without wrecking your budget or slowing progress on your project. Then, if the funds aren’t used, you can always reallocate them later or simply keep the money in the bank.
3. Will you need custom cabinets to get the bathroom storage you want?
There’s no doubt that cabinets in standard sizes are much cheaper than those that are custom built for your space. But depending on your floor plan, custom cabinetry could be the perfect solution for maximizing square footage and creating a clutter-free environment.
The custom cabinets in this Placentia bathroom remodel, for example, provide plenty of under-the-sink storage space to keep the area neat and tidy.
When you work with a professional bathroom designer, it’ll be easy to see whether you can go with standard or custom cabinets for your bathroom storage. Then, you can plan and budget accordingly so there are no hidden costs or surprises. Any custom items will take additional time to make, so this will also need to be factored into your project’s timeline.
4. Are you planning a tile design that’s especially difficult to install?
One of our favorite current bathroom design trends is creating unique tile designs either on accent walls, in the flooring, or inside walk-in showers. This single element can significantly elevate your bathroom’s look and feel while giving it a character that’s as unique as you.
This San Juan Capistrano bathroom renovation is a perfect example of stunning tile work that adds to the overall design and provides a unique look.
Just be aware that the more complex the tile design is, the more difficult it will be to install. That means higher labor costs and depending on the tile, there could be higher material costs as well. This doesn’t have to be a hidden cost of bathroom remodeling, though, if your design is well planned and executed by a remodeling expert.
5. Will your new bathroom’s layout require moving electrical and plumbing elements?
A bathroom remodel that involves a new floor plan typically includes significantly higher plumbing and electrical expenses than one where fixtures are simply being replaced in their current location. That’s because new plumbing will need to be run and different electrical setups may be required.
Sometimes, a new floor plan is exactly what’s needed to maximize the use of the space you have. So, don’t let plumbing and electrical costs keep you from doing what’s right for your overall bathroom design. You simply need to plan for the extra cost that will come with this design choice.
Avoid Hidden Bathroom Remodeling Costs by Working With an Orange County Design Build Team
One of the biggest causes of hidden bathroom remodeling costs is working with separate contractors to complete one job – builders, plumbers, electricians, painters, etc. When your designer, builder, and contractors are all handled under one contract, however, it’s often easier to not only manage the entire project, but also control costs.
Sea Pointe Design & Remodel is one of the most well known design-build companies in Orange County. The design-build process makes it simple to see and understand all of the costs associated with your remodeling project before it even begins. When you work with a design-build remodeling contractor like Sea Pointe, you get design, construction, and engineering services all combined into one, easy-to-manage remodeling contract. With everyone working together instead of separately, hidden bathroom remodeling costs are few and far between. And, you’ll be left with a space you and your family will love for years to come.
To learn more about the quality of our work, browse through our online portfolio of completed projects or visit our kitchen and bath showroom. Or, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars to learn helpful remodeling tips from the pros.
Then, when you’re ready to start planning your own bathroom remodel, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.