A bathroom renovation can quickly become expensive if you don't have your budget under control. In this guide we walk through typical costs, materials and contractor expenses so you can set a realistic budget from the start.
The price varies greatly depending on scope. A minor upgrade with new tiles and fixtures can run around $5,000–$10,000, while a full renovation with new floors, walls, plumbing and fixtures often costs $15,000–$30,000 or more. The final price depends on your choice of materials, whether you do the work yourself or hire contractors, and whether walls need to be stripped back to the studs.
Typical materials include floor and wall tiles, grout, waterproof drywall or cement board, fixtures (toilet, sink, shower/bathtub), faucets, pipes and fittings. Don't forget a waterproof membrane, trim profiles and possibly underfloor heating. Use a construction material list to gather everything and avoid forgetting items.
Plumbing and carpentry work is often expensive but necessary if you lack experience with water installations or tiling. Typical hourly rates for contractors range from $50–$100 depending on your area. Consider doing simpler tasks yourself (e.g. painting, mounting accessories) and hiring professionals for waterproofing and plumbing. Always get multiple quotes before choosing.
Experienced renovators recommend adding 10–15 % extra for unexpected expenses. Old pipes may be corroded, the subfloor may be uneven, or you might discover damage behind the tiles. A contingency buffer ensures you are not caught off guard. MyPlanDIY's renovation budget tool supports buffer items so you always see the total including reserves.
With MyPlanDIY you can combine materials, contractor costs and extra line items in one budget. Update prices as you receive quotes, and generate a bank report for renovation if you need to apply for financing. Also see the renovation budget, bank report and material list for the full overview.
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