Sweeten https://sweeten.com/ Renovation stories, tips, and inspiration Fri, 10 Feb 2023 20:39:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://sweeten.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/cropped-sweetenlogo-pinterest2-1-1-150x150.png Sweeten https://sweeten.com/ 32 32 Travel Inspires a Small Bathroom Remodel in Washington DC https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/small-bathroom-remodel-washington-dc-travel-inpsired/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/bathroom-renovations/small-bathroom-remodel-washington-dc-travel-inpsired/#respond Fri, 20 Jan 2023 15:18:20 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57177 An interior designer’s bathroom cost $23,000, featuring a new shower and a special black and white floor tile Homeowner: Interior designer Chelsea Albright posted her small bathroom remodel in Washington DC on Sweeten Where: The Kalorama neighborhood Primary renovation: Remodel the bath in a 550-square-foot unit, replacing the old tub with a modern, glass-enclosed shower […]

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An interior designer’s bathroom cost $23,000, featuring a new shower and a special black and white floor tile

white square shower tile with wall mount faucet
  • Homeowner: Interior designer Chelsea Albright posted her small bathroom remodel in Washington DC on Sweeten
  • Where: The Kalorama neighborhood
  • Primary renovation: Remodel the bath in a 550-square-foot unit, replacing the old tub with a modern, glass-enclosed shower
  • With: Sweeten general contractor in DC
  • Homeowner’s quote:We were in a pinch regarding the timing of our renovation—every other contractor was busy during the timeframe when we needed the project to happen,” said Chelsea. “I felt confident in our choice thanks to Sweeten having already vetted this contractor.”
  • Our role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free. 

Written in partnership with homeowner Chelsea. “After” photos by Tyler Hooks for Laura Metzler Photography.

Bringing boutique style to a bathroom

Our condominium in the Historic Kalorama neighborhood is in an old hotel, built in the 1920s. There was a vision for this small bathroom remodel in Washington DC: to make it feel like a hotel bathroom. We love staying in boutique hotels and have been gathering inspiration from our travels for awhile. We wanted something that felt dimensional.

Portrait of interior designer for a bathroom remodel in Washington DC

The fixtures and other features of the bathroom were worn down; it felt ready for an upgrade. A renovation by the previous owners had been poorly done—the tile was incomplete, the toilet was mounted improperly, the flooring wasn’t level and the fixture finishes didn’t match. We wanted it to feel luxurious and new.

a photo of a bathroom before a remodel in Washington DC
small bathroom remodel washington dc with plum walls, wall mount faucet and white square tile

I am the principal interior designer at Places Studio. I live with Corey, my spouse, and Milo, our child, in the 550-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bath unit. Since moving in, the bathroom was the one space we hadn’t yet renovated.

Finding the right contractor in the nick of time

I was excited to use Sweeten’s remodeling services for the first time after meeting the team at a trade show in New York. We were in a pinch regarding the timing of our renovation—every other contractor was busy during the timeframe when we needed the project to happen. After posting the project on Sweeten, I got connected with our contractor right away. We reviewed our quote through the platform and the G.C. was able to get us on the calendar quickly. I felt confident in our choice thanks to Sweeten having already vetted this general contractor in DC.

small bathroom remodel washington dc with black and white Moroccan floor tile

Plans for our small bathroom remodel in Washington DC

Our goal was to make the space feel bigger and more open by replacing the bathtub with a tile-and-glass shower. Hallelujah! I am just not a tub person. We otherwise planned to maintain the layout, but to change the current swing door to a pocket door to gain space. More than anything, we felt excited about getting rid of the shower curtain.

I had some contractor questions but, as a designer and an experienced renovator, I mostly wanted to be clear on how the construction team was going to work in and around the space, and how our personal items would be protected during construction. The biggest challenge for us would be having to move out during the project, and for the contractors, it would be just navigating a renovation in the small space.

"Our contractor was amazing and we worked well together to solve problems as they arose."

Nostalgic touch: patterned black-and-white shower tile

We got started choosing materials, which needed to arrive before construction started. The most notable pick was the concrete black-and-white tile for the floor, which has a sentimental association for us. When we got married, we stayed in an historic home in the heart of Panama City’s Casco Viejo. This pattern was on the floors and was something we’d wanted to use.

We decided on a white Zellige tile to line the shower walls, and we extended it out into the main space on the lower half of the wall so we would have tile behind our toilet and sink. It was a perfect opportunity to double it up as a sink backsplash, and we decided to do a wall-mounted sink faucet to call attention to it.

small bathroom remodel in Washington DC with white sink bowl and black wall mount faucet

I remember that tile delivery arriving. We were literally hiding tile boxes in every nook and cranny around the apartment so they weren’t in the way. Installed, the tile brings back memories of our wedding for me. Once it was finished, it was so cool to see how it transformed the space. Sometimes a sample piece of tile just doesn’t do it justice.

A snafu leads to a perfect accent finish

Our contractor was amazing and we worked well together to solve problems as they arose. Being a designer, I was able to tap into my sources when we needed to get missing items quickly. When we made a mistake and needed to locate and buy the schluter—or edging—midway into the job, our Sweeten contractor and I worked together to find the dream finish—brass!—in stock. It was a miracle but we kept our schedule.

Throughout the bathroom, we mixed two metal finishes, that brass and matte black. The shower and sink faucet are in black and the light fixture, towel bars and our tile edge is in brass. While we love a modern style, the black and white tile is already bold—it needs a warm accent to add character and balance out the graphic tile. We went with a dark plum paint color to add depth to the mostly white tiled room.

Our cost to remodel a small bathroom in Washington DC

In the end, we did not stay within our bathroom renovation budget. The contractor’s renovation quote was for $13,000 and we ended up spending $17,000, due to a few unforeseen electrical items. We also spent about $6,000 in material costs outside of the contractor’s price, so the total was approximately $23,000, while we had budgeted $20,000.

Despite the extra expense, our contractor was transparent throughout the process, so we felt comfortable with our overall costs. 

bathroom with plum walls, brass hardware, and white square tile
white square bathroom shower tile with black shower fixtures

Designer tip: Pad the schedule

My biggest tip for other renovators is to budget an extra week or two into your job, because it’s hard to avoid shifts in your schedule. Even being extremely prepared, we had some problems that added a few days here and there throughout the project. Leaving a little buffer helps you guarantee the project will be finished well. Being adaptable when things change also goes a long way. And we love our new bathroom. It feels luxurious, clean, and spacious. Just like one at a cool hotel.

Thank you, Chelsea and Corey, for sharing your new bathroom with us!

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Renovation Materials

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Expert Guide to Basement Remodeling in Chicago https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/renovating-in-the-midwest/expert-guide-to-basement-remodeling-in-chicago/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/renovating-in-the-midwest/expert-guide-to-basement-remodeling-in-chicago/#respond Wed, 18 Jan 2023 14:54:05 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57167 The level below is ripe with possibilities. Here is a roadmap—from materials and costs to the contractor’s role. Basement remodeling can be a great way to add extra living space to your home, especially if you live in a city like Chicago where space is at a premium. Whether you want to turn your basement […]

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The level below is ripe with possibilities. Here is a roadmap—from materials and costs to the contractor’s role.

home office with cement floors on article on basement remodeling in chicago

Basement remodeling can be a great way to add extra living space to your home, especially if you live in a city like Chicago where space is at a premium. Whether you want to turn your basement into a family room, home office, or even a rental unit, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, a basement upgrade can also be a complex and challenging project. Sweeten lays out how to do your research and plan carefully before getting started.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free. 

Safety comes first in plumbing, electrical, and structural

First, you’ll need to consider the layout of your basement and how you want to use the space. Do you want to create a single large open space, or divide the basement into smaller rooms or areas? Will you need to add or relocate electrical outlets, plumbing, or other utilities? Consult with your contractor or engineer to ensure that any changes you make to the layout are safe and structurally sound.

The best time to install new plumbing and electrical wiring is during a remodel of an existing space. Doing DIY work around the house is a great way to save money. However, installing plumbing and electrical wiring can be tricky. The risks are much higher if you don’t have the required skills or all of the proper tools. The same goes for plumbing. Pipe connections should be airtight, properly insulated, and clearly identified. A thorough test prior to use should be completed to avoid potentially hazardous situations. So it’s best to leave these trades to the professionals for safety reasons.

Permits and codes for basement remodeling in Chicago

One important aspect of updating subterranean levels is planning out the space to meet all relevant building codes and regulations. This includes the space having proper ventilation, fire sprinklers, and egress windows in case of emergencies. Obtain the necessary permits from the city before starting any work, and make sure to follow all code requirements to avoid any problems down the line.

Materials for a basement upgrade

Next, think about the finishes and materials you want to use in your basement remodel. If your basement is prone to dampness or flooding, choose water-resistant materials such as waterproof drywall, sealed concrete flooring, and moisture-resistant paint or wallpaper. Pay attention to the lighting on this lower level. It may be darker and require additional lighting fixtures or windows to bring in natural light.

Finding a general contractor in Chicago

Finally, understand the cost of your basement remodel. This will depend on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the materials and finishes you choose. Be sure to get multiple estimates from contractors before making a decision. We suggest setting aside a contingency fund in case any unexpected issues arise during the renovation process. 

Your contractor should be licensed and up-to-date on local code requirements. Sweeten can put you in touch with vetted general contractors in Chicago, who service your neighborhood, by posting your renovation project with us

Costs in basement remodeling in Chicago

The most significant factors that affect the budget include:

  1. Labor: The cost of labor will depend on the complexity of the project and the hourly rate of the contractors or workers involved.
  2. Materials: The cost of materials for a basement remodel will depend on the type and quality of materials you choose. For example, using high-end materials like granite countertops or custom cabinetry will likely be more expensive than using standard materials.
  3. Permits: Depending on the scope, you may need to obtain various permits from the city of Chicago. The cost of these permits can vary widely depending on the nature of the work being done.
  4. Finishing: If you are finishing your basement to make it a livable space, you may need to install electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. These can add to the overall cost of the project.
  5. Special features: Adding special features like a home theater or a wet bar can also increase the budget.

It is difficult to give a precise estimate for the cost without knowing more about the specific project. But it is not uncommon for the costs to range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more. Schedule site visits with a few Sweeten contractors and request bids from those you’d like to hear more from.

New functions for extra square footage

When you’re ready to get started on your basement upgrade, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Chicago. The right professional renovation team will guide you toward a rewarding and cost-effective way to add extra living space to your home.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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A Country-style Kitchen With Rustic Modern Looks https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/a-country-kitchen-remodel-with-black-cabinet-paint/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/a-country-kitchen-remodel-with-black-cabinet-paint/#comments Fri, 06 Jan 2023 14:15:44 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57054 A renovation in Westchester County, NY reenergizes with black cabinet paint and a new mudroom Homeowners: A family, after closing on their 1930 Colonial-style home, posted their project on Sweeten Where: Westchester County, New York Primary renovation: In addition to gut remodeling the kitchen, the owners wanted to transform a breakfast area into a mud- and […]

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A renovation in Westchester County, NY reenergizes with black cabinet paint and a new mudroom

Yellow country kitchen with open top shelving
  • Homeowners: A family, after closing on their 1930 Colonial-style home, posted their project on Sweeten
  • Where: Westchester County, New York
  • Primary renovation: In addition to gut remodeling the kitchen, the owners wanted to transform a breakfast area into a mud- and laundry room
  • Sweeten Westchester general contractor
  • Homeowner quote: “We’d heard so many horror stories of half-finished projects and contractors who dropped off the face of the earth, but ours was responsive and took our concerns seriously.
  • Our role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free. 

Written in partnership with homeowners Jennifer and Nick. “After” photos by Michael Hnatov Photography.

Surveying a new home purchase

Years of working in small apartment kitchens taught us that if you know what you’re doing, you can cook in any space. So we knew that our new kitchen’s 10’x12’ footprint was sufficient. 

The kitchen wasn’t decrepit, but it had been built for another time. It was closed off from the dining room by a narrow swinging door. Its cabinets were cramped. And the stove was crammed into a corner—you could not fit four pots on it, despite its having that many burners.

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kitchen with dark bottom cabinets and hexagon tile backsplash with black grout
Colonial exterior of the renovator's Westchester home

The awkward layout also led to limited counter space. But we wanted to be able to roll out pie dough or chop vegetables without clearing things out of the way. It was the kind of situation we’d worked around in various apartments, but with 2,700 square feet, there was no reason to sacrifice in a house with plenty of space. 

We are Jennifer and Nick, and we have two children under the age of 6. Our jobs are Manhattan-based and we’d lived in New York City apartments for 15 years, but as our kids grew, we needed space. Reluctantly, we decided to leave the city in pursuit of square footage.

A project plan materializes

Our budget allowed us to make a one-time large expenditure on renovations, so we looked for a fixer-upper that would have an affordable mortgage payment. We found it, eventually, in Westchester, and of course, it came with that closed-off, dated kitchen.

Even if the 12’x10’ size was workable, there was a flow problem. The home’s back door was in the center of the kitchen’s rear wall, so kids with dirty feet would tromp right through the main workspace. We envisioned not only reworking the kitchen, but moving the exterior egress to an adjacent eating area. It would make a great mud- and laundry room.

yellow country kitchen with elongated hex tile and black grout backsplash tile
black pantry door outside kitchen

The contractor search begins

We posted our project on Sweeten, including the current floorplan and our proposed one. The plan was to gut-renovate the kitchen and replace cabinets and appliances. The gas range would be swapped out for an induction model and relocate across the room.

We explained in our request for bids that we wanted to wall-off the back door and install windows. Our scope would include new plumbing and electrical lines and a new wood floor in the kitchen. With Sweeten, we had the ability to access multiple general contractors in Westchester County, NY with one query, and that was invaluable.

Identifying a look we loved

When our GC was chosen, we got serious about an aesthetic. We loved the English country kitchen trend. We were aiming for a warm, sophisticated space with a focus on subtly feminine details that would look great in 20 years. The walls would be a soft neutral to keep the kitchen grounded in that old-fashioned country feeling.

"It was the kind of situation we’d worked around in various apartments, but with 2,700 square feet, there was no reason to sacrifice in a house with plenty of space."

Black cabinet paint inspired by art

Jen was inspired by a photo of the supermodel Carmen Dell’Orefice—her bone structure while dressed in black and a pair of statement earrings. We researched black pre-fab cabinets but also realized that dark uppers would take away from the airy feeling we wanted. Open shelving on top was a better decision, but that meant we needed to wring every last inch out of the lower storage. Custom cabinets would maximize all usable space where pre-fabs would not. Our Sweeten contractor’s cabinetmaker mocked up several plans to consider. At the end, we applied a black cabinet paint called Black Beauty.

The maple butcher block countertops were customized with an ogee edge for softness. We used an elongated hexagon tile for the backsplash that could be found at any tile shop but it was the dark grout that made it a feature that we loved. 

black kitchen cabinets and maple countertops

Removing the back door freed up the wall, and we put a long stretch of counter space there. For the lower storage, we chose drawers over cabinets—we wanted to see our things, not have to stoop or reach for them. We inventoried and measured every kitchen item we had so everything had a place.

A tip in expanding a space

We didn’t want to fully demolish the wall between the kitchen and dining room because that would have gone against the style of the house. However, we did remove the tiny doorway and widened the pass-through so the two rooms can share light. People keep asking if we enlarged the room. The simple answer: it’s just the broadened sightline through the new doorway that makes it look huge.

With every change, we considered function. In the new utility room, we originally intended to have our laundry space out in the open, but our GC suggested hiding it behind doors. We designed the laundry closet with an area for storage and folding. The area looks so sleek now.

Laundry and mud room behind closet doors

Living with a renovation

Living with kids and without a kitchen during the renovation was a feat. We sprang for an induction cook plate and a convection toaster oven and were able to maintain a fairly normal dinner routine. But, hauling dishes up and down stairs and washing them in the bathroom was miserable. Our kids got used to seeing workers around. Post-job, our two-year-old came downstairs one morning, threw her hands in the air and said, “Where’s the man?”

An English country kitchen comes alive

The most magical moment of the renovation was after the black cabinet paint was applied and the walls were painted beige with golden undertones. That was when the electrician put in the sconce light fixtures. Until that moment, none of us were sure how it would turn out. With the crew and the GC standing there with us, all at once, it became a room. The group got quiet. Then Jen said, “It looks mad good.” Everyone agreed!

Kitchen with black shaker cabinets and yellow walls

Sincere contractor gratitude

Our Sweeten contractor told us from the beginning that he was available 24/7, and he meant it. We’d heard so many horror stories of half-finished projects and contractors who dropped off the face of the earth, but ours was responsive and took our concerns seriously. We received well-timed emails and phone check-ins from Sweeten, and felt supported in our project.

Intensive planning helped us avoid major snafus. We had collected inspiration photos and sample materials, and priced out and selected appliances. Many of our early decisions changed in small ways from the beginning to the end of the project. But when we had to pivot, we were never starting from scratch. 

In the end, the cost of our renovation surprised us. It was not a budget project. But we invested in architectural changes that improved the functionality of the home, and we are so proud of our result.

Thank you, Jennifer and Nick, for sharing your home with us!

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Westchester County.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES:

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A Guide on Apartments with Hardwood Floors https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/a-guide-on-apartments-with-hardwood-floors/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-materials-101/a-guide-on-apartments-with-hardwood-floors/#respond Wed, 04 Jan 2023 15:13:01 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57000 A look at your options when this wishlist feature is well-worn: repair or leave it alone? If you’ve been shopping for your next home, you’ve probably seen some apartments with hardwood floors. If you’re buying anything other than new construction, though, you might be faced with hardwood floors that need some professional attention. Sweeten takes a […]

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A look at your options when this wishlist feature is well-worn: repair or leave it alone?

Apartment with hardwood flooring

If you’ve been shopping for your next home, you’ve probably seen some apartments with hardwood floors. If you’re buying anything other than new construction, though, you might be faced with hardwood floors that need some professional attention. Sweeten takes a look at what you can expect when viewing apartments and their floors that can potentially be your new home. How do you decide whether they need repairing and how much does replacing hardwood floors cost? 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Carol Wang works in real estate sales in New York City and has helped scores of clients with their home purchase and renovation options. The most-prevalent flooring type she comes across is hardwood floors. “In New York City, very rarely do you come across a property that doesn’t have hardwood floors,” she said. The rest is “a mix of just the different types of engineered or manmade flooring. And then a very small percentage would be carpeted.”

Visual inspection before purchase

When she sells an apartment with carpet, she noted, nearly everyone wants that carpet gone, but they want to know what the floor underneath looks like. Often, she said, they can find a corner or edge where they can pull the carpet back a bit to see the wood floors and judge if they’re salvageable. 

“More often than not, they are because they have been covered for so long,” she said. “They have that nice protection from the ugly carpet.”

So it’s mandatory to have a visual inspection of the floors to know what steps to take next. Some people insist on a full refinishing of their floors, and some will opt for complete replacement. “Neither is required, though,” Carol said. “A lot of times it’s just part of the charm of living in a home with hardwood floors.”

Old floors, as Carol noted, may have a certain charming patina, and you might find that you can easily live with the imperfections. Will you even notice the existing wear and tear when you have rugs and furniture in place?

Solid planks are the hardiest

That said, some floors do need refinishing, and this is one of the major points in favor of traditional hardwood floors. Traditional solid-wood planks can be sanded heavily and refinished multiple times, making them easily last for several decades. Not all floors need heavy sanding to look fantastic again, though. It depends on the overall condition of and wear on the wood itself. Your general contractor can inspect the floors and determine if just a light sanding and new finish can do all you need, or if it does need heavy sanding.

More recently-built apartments with hardwood floors, from the last two decades or so, will often have composite or engineered materials that may or may not be refinishable. This type of plank has just a thin layer of wood on top with a factory-applied finish. They’re stable, install quickly, and work well, but probably won’t last for decades like old-school hardwood planks, unless they are top-quality products.

Is replacing hardwood floors a good idea?

In some cases, you’ll find it best to replace the whole floor. If you loathe the aesthetics of the existing floor, for example, replacing the whole thing is the only way to be satisfied. “People have really strong feelings about parquet, for example,” Carol said. “Some people love it and other people hate it. And so if it’s a parquet floor, there’s nothing you can change about that. You have to replace it.” The next question is whether replacing hardwood floors costs are within your budget. More on that below. 

Wood floors in apartment with murphy bed

Also, if any portion of the floor has developed a crown, or “hump” anywhere, you might notice a squeaky spot. This sort of problem could be due to water damage, which often occurs near the windows. Condensation drips off the windows and onto the floor and can cause real trouble over time.

Water damage anywhere, in fact, could be real trouble. If there was a plumbing leak in the apartment that caused water to reach the subfloor, there could be rot in the subfloor. The only way to rectify this is to pull some planks and inspect visually. You can also opt to live with some surface water stains, but most of us don’t want to endure warped and squeaky floors in our new home.

In some buildings, the main structure is concrete and/or masonry. In that case, the wood floors in each apartment might be sitting on a concrete subfloor, which means there’s no wood in the subfloor to rot. As a result, you might be able to repair sections of the flooring.

Is repairing hardwood floors an option?

Repairing floors can be done, but it’s challenging. First, do you have access to materials that can be made to match the existing flooring? A skilled professional can get the finish and color close, but it’s unlikely to be perfect. In some buildings, if you’re lucky, the builder will have left the extra flooring in the basement or elsewhere so it’s available for repairs. You or your contractor can also visit salvage material shops and perhaps get lucky. Oftentimes, replacing some planks and then sanding and refinishing the entire floor is the only way to get a consistent result. At that point, it’s a good idea to get a quote for a brand new floor as well as for the repair and refinish. A good rule of thumb is that if more than 30 percent of the floor needs repair, you should replace the entire floor.

Old apartments with hardwood floors

If you happen to buy into an historic building, you might be in for a different set of challenges. Original materials from the 19th century and earlier were made from trees that are no longer available. Those trees from times past grew slowly in the dense forests, which created tighter rings and denser wood. An oak floor from 150-year old trees that was installed a century ago will be tough to match. There is, however, a robust salvage industry that pulls salvageable materials from demolition projects, but matching remains challenging. A full floor replacement may be your best option in that case, as is working with a knowledgeable contractor.

Apartment with hardwood floors with Dining area with open shelving unit after renovation

How much does refinishing, repairing, and replacing hardwood floors cost?

Refinishing floors is fairly straightforward, and contractors usually charge from $3–8 per square foot, according to This Old House. In New York City, a Sweeten contractor included a refinishing job for an apartment with hardwood floors. The cost was $12,800 for a 1,600-square-foot apartment, which comes to $8/square foot.

Repairing floors will usually involve some work at the contractor’s labor rate, plus refinishing. You can go with the figure above, $3–8/square foot for the refinishing and get a rough estimate. Plus, have your contractor check it out in person for the number of hours of labor required for repairs.

What do replacing hardwood floors cost? Here, you’ll have some variables for tearing out the old floor, if necessary, as well as a great variety in the cost of the new floor. Here’s a recent example of a Sweeten project in Fairfax County, Virginia:

  • New 5” wide red oak planks: $14.91/sf
  • Vapor barrier: $0.50/sf
  • Sanding and finishing: $4.75/sf
  • Apply 2 coats of clear coat finish: $2.15/sf
  • Install new base shoe: $2.85/sf
  • Professional labor rate: $82.98/hour

So in this case, for new red oak planks, you’re looking at just over $25/square foot, plus labor. New oak planks are a standard, mid-range product, and you can spend double that if you choose.

We also have a couple of recent examples of new installations in New York City. Here is how much replacing hardwood floors cost for these Sweeten homeowners. One client supplied the engineered wood floor and soundproofing and spent $3,300 for labor in a 475-square-foot studio.

Another client spent $8,770 for 3 mm soundproofing, glued-down engineered flooring, moldings and reducers, and cleaning in a 616-square-foot, one-bedroom apartment. That works out to $14/square foot for materials and labor.

Apartment with hardwood flooring and ceiling beams

How to upgrade an apartment with hardwood floors

For most of us, bringing a tired hardwood floor back to life is not a do-it-yourself endeavor. The job requires specific tools and machinery as well as meticulous attention to detail, such as rigorous cleaning and dust removal before applying the new finish.

If you are already planning on a renovation project in your home, this is the ideal time to include your hardwood floors in your scope of work. You’ll have the advantage of a renovation crew already on-site with your contractor’s access to flooring subcontractors saving time and money. 

Sweeten can put you in touch with top general contractors for your remodeling project. If you post your renovation project with us, you can schedule site visits and request bids from each firm.

How long do hardwood floors last?

As usual, it depends, but if it’s properly installed, most hardwood floors should last more than 50 years. It really depends so much on the wear and tear, the foot traffic, the objects that get dropped on it, and so on. The number one cause of damage is water. If a floor can avoid major water damage, it can get a periodic refinish and look great again for another decade or more.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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Natural Wood Throughout in an Amagansett Beach House https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/a-weekend-home-in-amagansett-remodels-in-minimalism/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/a-weekend-home-in-amagansett-remodels-in-minimalism/#respond Thu, 29 Dec 2022 15:03:13 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=52971 Nature’s colors and tranquil views turn this beach house into the ultimate chill space Homeowners: An NYC couple posted their project to renovate a 2,000-square-foot Amagansett beach house on Sweeten Where: Long Island, New York Primary renovation: A complete redo of the kitchen and bathrooms, floor refinishing, and wall resurfacing and painting throughout Sweeten general […]

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Nature's colors and tranquil views turn this beach house into the ultimate chill space

Kitchen island looking out to dining area amagansett beach house
  • Homeowners: An NYC couple posted their project to renovate a 2,000-square-foot Amagansett beach house on Sweeten
  • Where: Long Island, New York
  • Primary renovation: A complete redo of the kitchen and bathrooms, floor refinishing, and wall resurfacing and painting throughout
  • Sweeten general contractor in the Hamptons area
  • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

“After” photos by Lena Yaremenko

Gathering the renovation team

When the homeowners of this wood-shingled house in the Hamptons began their renovation journey, their main goals were to update the kitchen and bathrooms, along with an overall aesthetic modernization, including some minor changes to the existing floor plan.

To start, they hired designers, Charlotte Sylvain and Shikhar Thakur of Studio Fauve in Brooklyn. The couple then hired a general contractor to turn their vision into reality, and “help maximize the impact of dollars spent,” their Sweeten post read.

Portrait of the Sweeten homeowners in amagansett beach house
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Living area with white fireplace in amagansett beach house
natural wood Kitchen cabinets and dining area

Charlotte took charge of the interior design for the four-bedroom, two-bathroom Amagansett House, which had been purchased as a summer home. In addition to a more modern feel from room to room, they wanted to update the home’s color palette.

A minimal interior with natural materials would connect with the property the home sits on, which is wildly populated by maple, oak, beech, and sycamore trees. The designer’s goal was to create a neutral, light-filled space with a subtle beachy feel where the homeowners could watch the seasons change outside.

natural wood Kitchen cabinets white island with bar seating
natural wood Kitchen cabinets with island and raw wood ceilings
Breakfast nook between the kitchen and doors to the deck
natural wood Kitchen cabinets and white range

Natural wood kitchen cabinets, regionally sourced

To accomplish this, she looked to design wide, open spaces in the Amagansett beach house. Beginning in the living room, with its spacious layout and high ceilings, Charlotte used inspiration from the Hamptons’ oceanside.

White textures and blonde plank-wood detailing combined with soft, comfortable furniture in quiet colors. Designs were kept minimal; its warmth would come from different materials in natural tones. The designer chose and sourced the materials regionally when possible, and chose small furniture designers and builders.

Living area with white fireplace and woven leather chairs

The kitchen has an airy feel but is solid with its Douglas fir joinery and cabinetry, and matte-finish white countertops. A stain-proof quartz was a perfect work-surface choice to top the natural wood kitchen cabinets; the homeowners wanted a durable kitchen for entertaining.

The home needed to be a relaxing place, a weekend and summer-season escape from the owners’ primary residence in New York City. To this goal, Charlotte painted the natural-wood window framings white to make them disappear.

Master bath with wooden floors and white tub
White marble double vanity with storage underneath
Free standing tub with matte black hardware

Installation of additional new windows as well as vertical columns of glass at the top and bottom of the enclosed staircase offer views-as-art glass framings throughout the house.

Waterproof bathroom materials

The centerpiece of the upstairs is in the master bathroom—a giant picture window that overlooks the house’s rear woods and flanks a giant soaking tub. Waterproof tadelakt plaster walls and teakwood planking allowed use of the same surfaces in the bathroom’s wet and dry areas.

The designer pulled more tadelakt plaster into the guest bathroom for the vanity, pairing it with handmade zellige tile. Accoya wood plays a key role in this bathroom as well. 

Terracotta bath vanity with storage and a floating toilet
The front door from the exterior

Throughout the home, hints of black connect with the white canvas for a modern feel. Original oak floorboards received a color-corrective refinishing to lessen the honey tones. Additional teak and Accoya wood accents round out the natural wood hues in various interior spaces.

The biggest challenge of this renovation was working on it remotely. Despite this, Amagansett House was completed giving the homeowners the serenity they were looking for.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN: Douglas fir cabinets: Reform. Flooring: Dinesen. Bertazzoni professional induction cooktop and electric oven in Bianco: Appliances Connection. Puccio 712 stool: Billiani.

MASTER BATHROOM: ​​Natural large wicker ball lamp: HKliving. Vivid slimline fixtures: Phoenix Tapware. Wheat Fields flooring: Royal Oak Flooring

LIVING AREAS: Vertigo suspension lamp: Constance Guisset. Mags soft sofa: HAY. Sand, natural, and black rug: Pampa Paloma.

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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring General Contractors in NYC https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-general-contractors-in-nyc/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-general-contractors-in-nyc/#respond Mon, 19 Dec 2022 22:05:11 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57107 Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor in NYC Kitchen remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, NYC Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in!  At Sweeten, […]

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Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor in NYC

Remodeled kitchen with wood kitchen cabinets and sage green backsplash
Kitchen remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, NYC

Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in! 

At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work we closely with hundreds of general contractors in NYC every day. So, we’ve tapped our internal expertise to bring you this guide. 

Skip to: How to hire a general contractor in NYC

What is a general contractor? 

General contractors, also known as contractors or “GCs”, are the lead professionals on major construction and remodeling projects. They oversee teams of subcontractors who carry out the various specialized aspects of each construction job. Contractors are responsible for procuring materials, obtaining permits, and ensuring that a project is completed according to plan. If your project requires, they may also coordinate with additional parties such as your architect or designer, or your NYC coop or condo board. 

The term “general contractor” can be used interchangeably to refer to an individual person or a general contracting company. These companies come in all shapes and sizes, from one- and two-person operations, to mid-sized companies of 10-20 employees, and even large firms of 50 employees or more. 

What makes a great general contractor? 

At Sweeten, we’ve been vetting and working closely with general contractors for over a decade. In addition to our 7-step contractor vetting process, here’s what we think gives some contractors that extra edge and a reputation of satisfied clients:

  • Communication: There are a lot of variables in the construction process. A great general contractor understands the dynamic environment in which they work, anticipates potential issues, and is proactive in communicating all of this with their clients. They can provide clear instructions to subcontractors and are open to feedback. 
  • Realism: The best general contractors are honest with clients about what their budget can realistically achieve, and will work with them to create a feasible scope of work, so that they can adhere to budgets and timelines. 
  • Agility: When the unforeseen inevitably happens on a major project, great contractors can think critically on their feet and approach their clients with proposed solutions. They can handle a variety of tasks and adapt to changes.
  • Eye for detail: A great contractor does not make excuses for shoddy work. They scan their jobs with a fine tooth comb, regularly looking for imperfections in craftsmanship and addressing them head on —  not avoiding them and hoping their client doesn’t notice!
  • Tidiness: A great GC will clearly spell out the ways in which they intend to protect your home and personal belongings in their estimates & contracts. If your GC doesn’t have a game plan for protecting your beloved possessions, look the other way!

Traditional general contractors vs design-build contractors

A traditional general contractor manages the construction process, including procuring materials and hiring subcontractors. Some traditional contractors may also offer creative solutions or very basic design services, but the level of input varies from firm to firm.  

A design-build company, on the other hand, is a company that takes responsibility for both the design and construction of a project. They typically have in-house architects, designers, and construction experts that work together to create the plans and then carry out the construction. This is often the most efficient option when architectural design services are required.

The firms we work with at Sweeten cover the full spectrum from build-only traditional contractors to full-service, design-build contractors in NYC. So, whatever your needs are, we’ve got you covered! Post your project to start connecting with a selection of our trusted contractors today.  

Typical remodeling projects

In NYC, you’ll probably need to hire a general contractor if you’re planning a project like renovating a kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, finishing a basement or attic, adding a deck or patio, remodeling an entire home, or converting a garage into an accessory dwelling unit. They focus on transformative projects that involve multiple trades, which is why you’ll typically only hire a general contractor for projects that cost $15,000 and up. 

Browse Sweeten projects in NYC on our blog to see some of the amazing homes New Yorkers have created with Sweeten and our trusted contractors. 

If you’re planning to start your own home renovation within the next 6 months, it’s time to post your project on Sweeten and start making your vision a reality!

How much does remodeling cost in NYC? 

A combination of service level, experience, and factors like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. General contractors make money by charging a fee for their services, which may include a commission or markup on any materials purchased and labor costs. They may also charge additional fees for project management or other services. The general contractor’s fee, whether a flat rate or a percentage of the total project cost, is usually negotiated with the client prior to the start of the project. 

We have an extensive library of remodeling cost guides to help you plan your project budget, plus hundreds of additional renovation process and planning guides. Below are a few of our most popular NYC pricing guides:

When you post your remodeling project on Sweeten, you’ll get matched with a selection of contractors for competitive bids, so that you can feel good about the balance of cost and value that you’ll get from the contractor you ultimately select to work with. Learn more about how Sweeten works.  

Risks of remodeling without a qualified contractor

Because remodeling projects are so expensive, you may be tempted to save money by making yours a DIY project or hiring unqualified labor at a discount, but cutting these types of corners carries major risks, including:

  • Inferior workmanship: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the necessary skills or experience to complete the project to a high standard. This can result in poor quality work that may need to be redone or repaired, which can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Code violations: Building codes and regulations exist to ensure the safety and stability of structures. A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not be familiar with these codes and could potentially make mistakes that violate them, leading to problems and costly repairs down the line.
  • Increased liability: If an accident or injury occurs on the job site and the contractor is found to be at fault, the homeowner may be held liable for any damages. This can be particularly risky if the person doing the work does not have the necessary insurance.
  • Delays and cost overruns: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the knowledge or resources to accurately estimate the time and cost of a project. This can result in delays and unexpected expenses.

General contractors are there to ensure that your project is completed in a safe, efficient, and code-compliant manner. Additionally, contractors can tap their vast experience to provide valuable advice and guidance on how to best complete your project, including, importantly, helping to identify potential issues before they become major problems. 

New York City contractor licensing requirements

The Department of Buildings (DOB) issues licenses for general contractors in NYC, while the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) issues Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) licenses — more on the differences below.

Both DOB and HIC licenses have specific experience and insurance requirements that contractors must meet in order to qualify for a license. Once licensed, contractors must also complete continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their license.

Note that the requirements for obtaining and maintaining a general contractor license may vary depending on the specific type of work being performed and the location of the project. It’s always a good idea to check with the appropriate licensing agency for specific requirements in your area.

NYC Department of Buildings license

A DOB license is required for contractors who perform construction, alteration, or repair work on buildings in NYC. This includes new construction, renovations, and repairs to existing structures. General contractors may also be required to hold additional licenses or certifications for specific types of work, such as electrical, plumbing, or asbestos abatement.

To qualify for a general contractor license, individuals must have at least seven years of experience in the construction industry, with at least two years in a supervisory role. Alternatively, they may qualify by completing a four-year apprenticeship program or by holding a bachelor’s degree in engineering or architecture. Additionally, contractors must carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, and must comply with all local building codes and regulations

NYC Home Improvement Contractor license

An HIC license, on the other hand, is specifically for contractors who perform home improvement work in NYC. Home improvement work includes repairs, alterations, renovations, or modifications to any part of a residential building, including single-family homes, multi-family homes, and apartments. HIC licensees are not permitted to perform new construction or work on commercial or industrial buildings.

To obtain a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) license in New York City, contractors must have at least two years of experience in the home improvement industry with at least one year in a supervisory role, carry liability insurance, register with the Department of Finance and pay any applicable fees, complete a pre-license education course, pass a written exam, and meet bonding requirements by having a surety bond or cash deposit.

How to hire a general contractor in NYC 

You’ve come to the right place — helping people hire the right contractor for their remodeling project is exactly what we do at Sweeten! Here’s a breakdown of the process. 

1. Source 3-5 contractors who are fit for the job 

This is so much easier said than done! You’ll want to research and narrow down a handful of qualified general contractors, with the right experience, who work in your area, who provide the services you need, at your budget level, and who are available and interested in the job. You could start by asking friends or researching online, and making some phone calls — however, if you’re in one of Sweeten’s service areas, we highly recommend that you save yourself the legwork and start meeting trusted contractors on Sweeten!

2. Hold site visits

Schedule and hold a separate meeting at your project site with each of the contractors you’d like to get a bid from. This is your chance to learn more about their firm and evaluate how well you think you’d work together with them. Come prepared with questions! (Hint: we made you a list below.) 

3. Collect estimates

After your site visits — unless otherwise discussed — each contractor should prepare an estimate, or bid, for your project. This process can usually take 1-2 weeks, since they’ll need to coordinate with their subcontractors to prepare the document. 

4. Compare the bids

There’s no standard form for contractor estimates, so it’s rare that you can truly compare them apples to apples. Instead, you’ll need to comb through to get an idea of what is and is not included in each bid, ask some questions, and do your best to evaluate those differences. This is the critical decision-making stage, which is why we offer a free bid-leveling call to help you make the best hiring choice for your project.

5. Conduct negotiations

At this point, you should have a good idea of who you’d like to work with, but is there one or two items you’d love tweaked on their proposal before you’re ready to commit? This is your chance for that final conversation. 

6. Sign a contract and pay your deposit

You’ll seal the deal with a formal contract and deposit, which allows the contractor to begin acquiring the necessary materials ahead of your agreed-upon start date. We’ve made that process more convenient for you by offering secure, electronic deposits when you sign with a Sweeten contractor. 

If you’re ready to hire a contractor, check out Sweeten’s service locations to see if we can get you connected with our trusted contractors today. Our personalized contractor matching service is totally free!

Sample questions to ask at your site visits

  • How long have you been a general contractor in NYC?
  • How many projects have you managed simultaneously? How many do you plan to manage while working on my project? 
  • Are you familiar with the local building codes and regulations?
  • Who will be in charge of my project and who will be working on it?
  • How will you handle any unexpected challenges, delays, or changes during the project?
  • What is your policy for communication and updates during the project?
  • What potential challenges could you foresee with my project? 
  • How do you plan to protect my home during the course of my renovation? 
  • How does your payment schedule work?
  • What is your insurance coverage?
  • Do you provide a warranty for your work?
  • Do you have references from previous clients?

How does Sweeten connect me with the best general contractors in NYC for my remodeling project? 

Our purpose at Sweeten is to help homeowners transform their homes as seamlessly as possible — so you can stop living at home, and start thriving! And we’ve helped over 2,000 renovators do just that. Here are some of the ways we bring value to your renovation experience (for free!):

  • We only work with thoroughly vetted, trusted general contractors 
  • We carefully select the best contractors for your unique remodeling projects and connect you with them
  • You’ll get a set of competitive bids to ensure fair, market pricing for your project
  • You can take advantage of a bid-leveling call with someone from our team to help you through the toughest part of the decision-making process
  • Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in renovations, and we’re available to you for support from start to finish!

If you’re planning to start your own home renovation within the next 6 months, it’s time to post your project on Sweeten and start making your vision a reality! 

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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a General Contractor for Your Remodel https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-a-general-contractor-for-your-remodel/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-a-general-contractor-for-your-remodel/#respond Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:55:21 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57077 Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor Home remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in. At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors […]

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Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor

amagansett beach house remodel with wood floors and pitched ceilings
Home remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten

Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in. 

At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work closely with hundreds of contractors every day. So, we’ve tapped our expertise to give you everything you need to know when it comes to hiring a general contractor. 

Skip to: How do you hire a general contractor?

What is a general contractor? 

General contractors, known more simply as contractors or “GCs”, are the lead professionals on major construction projects. They oversee teams of subcontractors such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and painters, who carry out the various specialized aspects of each construction job. They’re responsible for procuring materials, obtaining permits, and ensuring that a project is completed according to plan. Depending on the specific requirements of a given project, they may also be responsible for coordinating with architects or designers, coop or condo boards, engineers, expediters, or inspectors. 

The term “general contractor” can be used interchangeably to refer to an individual person or a general contracting company. These companies come in all shapes and sizes, from one- and two-person operations, to mid-sized companies of 10-20 employees, and even large firms of 50 employees or more. 

Depending on your area or region, general contractors may also be known as home improvement contractors, builders, renovation contractors, or remodeling contractors. 

What makes a great general contractor? 

At Sweeten, we’ve been vetting and working closely with general contractors for over a decade. In addition to our 7-step contractor vetting process, here’s what we think gives some contractors that extra edge and a reputation of satisfied clients:

  • Communication: There are a lot of variables in the construction process. A great general contractor understands the dynamic environment in which they work, anticipates potential issues, and is proactive in communicating all of this with their clients. They can provide clear instructions to subcontractors and are open to feedback. 
  • Realism: The best general contractors are honest with clients about what their budget can realistically achieve, and will work with them to create a feasible scope of work, so that they can adhere to budgets and timelines. 
  • Agility: When the unforeseen inevitably happens on a major project, great contractors can think critically on their feet and approach their clients with proposed solutions. They can handle a variety of tasks and adapt to changes.
  • Eye for detail: A great contractor does not make excuses for shoddy work. They scan their jobs with a fine tooth comb, regularly looking for imperfections in craftsmanship and addressing them head on — not avoiding them and hoping their client doesn’t notice!
  • Tidiness: A great GC will clearly spell out the ways in which they intend to protect your home and personal belongings in their estimates & contracts. If your GC doesn’t have a game plan for protecting your beloved possessions, look the other way! 

Typical remodeling projects

You’ll probably need to hire a general contractor if you’re planning a project like renovating a kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, finishing a basement or attic, adding a deck or patio, remodeling an entire home, or converting a garage into an accessory dwelling unit. They focus on transformative projects that involve multiple trades, which is why you’ll typically only hire a general contractor for projects that cost $15,000 and up. 

Traditional general contractors vs design-build contractors

A traditional general contractor oversees all of the build-related aspects of a given job. They are responsible for procuring materials, hiring subcontractors, and managing the construction process. While general contractors are not responsible for design work, some are happy to offer creative solutions to smaller-scale design challenges, or even produce basic renderings where advanced design services are not necessary. The level of creative input you can expect from a traditional contractor varies greatly from firm to firm. 

A design-build company, on the other hand, is a company that takes responsibility for both the design and construction of a project. They typically have in-house architects and designers, as well as construction experts, that work together to create the plans and then carry out the construction. Where architectural design service is required, design-build companies are often the most efficient option, as they can take responsibility for the entire project from start to finish.

At Sweeten, we work with both traditional and design-build contractors, and with so many firms that we cover a broad range of service offerings to meet your needs. Post your project to start connecting with our vetted, trusted contractors today!  

Why hire a qualified general contractor for your remodeling project?

Because remodeling projects are so expensive, you may be tempted to save money by making yours a DIY project or hiring unqualified labor at a discount, but cutting these types of corners carries major risks, including:

  • Inferior workmanship: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the necessary skills or experience to complete the project to a high standard. This can result in poor quality work that may need to be redone or repaired, which can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Code violations: Building codes and regulations exist to ensure the safety and stability of structures. A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not be familiar with these codes and could potentially make mistakes that violate them, leading to problems and costly repairs down the line.
  • Increased liability: If an accident or injury occurs on the job site and the contractor is found to be at fault, the homeowner may be held liable for any damages. This can be particularly risky if the person doing the work does not have the necessary insurance.
  • Delays and cost overruns: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the knowledge or resources to accurately estimate the time and cost of a project. This can result in delays and unexpected expenses.

General contractors are there to ensure that your project is completed in a safe, efficient, and code-compliant manner. Additionally, contractors can tap their vast experience to provide valuable advice and guidance on how to best complete your project, including, importantly, helping to identify potential issues before they become major problems. 

What kind of training do contractors have? 

General contractors typically have a variety of training experiences, including classes, certifications, and on-the-job experience. Many general contractors have a degree in construction management or a related field, and may also have industry certifications from organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders or the American Institute of Constructors. Additionally, many general contractors gain experience through apprenticeships or hands-on experience working on construction sites. With such a wide range of training, they are able to bring a variety of skills and knowledge to the table, ensuring that any project they undertake is completed professionally and to the highest standards.

What are the license requirements for contractors?

The licensing requirements for general contractors in the United States vary from state to state, and often between local municipalities, so it’s important to look up your local requirements if you want to be sure what is required in your area. 

Most states have a state-wide license requirement for general contractors. The exact requirements vary by state, but usually include passing a written exam, providing proof of financial responsibility, and providing proof of experience in the construction field. In most cases, applicants must also provide proof of insurance, as well as a bond to guarantee their work. In some states, general contractors may also have to complete additional training or courses in order to obtain their license. 

For example, in California, general contractors must pass a written exam that covers state laws, construction codes, and business practices. They must also provide proof of financial responsibility and experience in the construction field. In addition, they must complete a 16-hour pre-licensing course and a 4-hour exam prep course in order to obtain their license. In contrast, in Texas, there is no statewide license required for general contractors. 

Generally, if you’re in a major metro area that metro may issue a license, which may also correspond with a county license. Or, you may live in a town or city that has specific licensing or permitting requirements that general contractors hold for a set amount of time or on a per-job basis.

How much does it cost to remodel with a general contractor? 

A combination of service level, experience, and factors like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. General contractors make money by charging a fee for their services, which may include a commission or markup on any materials purchased and labor costs. They may also charge additional fees for project management, risk management, or other services. The general contractor’s fee, whether a flat rate or a percentage of the total project cost, is usually negotiated with the client prior to the start of the project. 

We have an extensive library of remodeling cost guides to help you plan your project budget, plus hundreds of additional renovation process and planning guides. Below are a few of our most popular guides:

When you post your remodeling project on Sweeten, you’ll get matched with a selection of contractors for competitive bids, so that you can feel good about the balance of cost and value that you’ll get from the contractor you ultimately select to work with. Learn more about how Sweeten works.  

How do you hire a general contractor? 

You’ve come to the right place — helping people hire the right contractor for their remodeling project is exactly what we do at Sweeten! Here’s a breakdown of the process. 

1. Source 3-5 contractors who are fit for the job 

This is so much easier said than done! You’ll want to research and narrow down a handful of qualified general contractors, with the right experience, who work in your area, who provide the services you need, at your budget level, and who are available and interested in the job. You could start by asking friends or researching online, and making some phone calls — however, if you’re in one of Sweeten’s service areas, we highly recommend that you save yourself the legwork and start meeting trusted contractors on Sweeten!

2. Hold site visits

Schedule and hold a separate meeting at your project site with each of the contractors you’d like to get a bid from. This is your chance to learn more about their firm and evaluate how well you think you’d work together with them. Come prepared with questions! (Hint: we made you a list below.) 

3. Collect estimates

After your site visits — unless otherwise discussed — each contractor should prepare an estimate, or bid, for your project. This process can usually take 1-2 weeks, since they’ll need to coordinate with their subcontractors to prepare the document. 

4. Compare the bids

There’s no standard form for contractor estimates, so it’s rare that you can truly compare them apples to apples. Instead, you’ll need to comb through to get an idea of what is and is not included in each bid, ask some questions, and do your best to evaluate those differences. This is the critical decision-making stage, which is why we offer a free bid-leveling call to help you make the best hiring choice for your project.

5. Conduct negotiations

At this point, you should have a good idea of who you’d like to work with, but is there one or two items you’d love tweaked on their proposal before you’re ready to commit? This is your chance for that final conversation. 

6. Sign a contract and pay your deposit

You’ll seal the deal with a formal contract and deposit, which allows the contractor to begin acquiring the necessary materials ahead of your agreed-upon start date. We’ve made that process more convenient for you by offering secure, electronic deposits when you sign with a Sweeten contractor. 

If you’re ready to hire a contractor, check out Sweeten’s service locations to see if we can get you connected with our trusted contractors today. Our personalized contractor matching service is totally free!

Sample questions to ask at your site visits

  • How long have you been a general contractor?
  • How many projects have you managed simultaneously? How many do you plan to manage while working on my project? 
  • Are you familiar with the local building codes and regulations?
  • Who will be in charge of my project and who will be working on it?
  • How will you handle any unexpected challenges, delays, or changes during the project?
  • What is your policy for communication and updates during the project?
  • What potential challenges could you foresee with my project? 
  • How do you plan to protect my home during the course of my renovation? 
  • How does your payment schedule work?
  • What is your insurance coverage?
  • Do you provide a warranty for your work?
  • Do you have references from previous clients?

How does Sweeten connect me with the best general contractors for my remodeling project? 

Our purpose at Sweeten is to help homeowners transform their homes as seamlessly as possible — so you can stop living at home, and start thriving! And we’ve helped over 2,000 renovators do just that. Here are some of the ways we bring value to your renovation experience (for free!):

  • We only work with thoroughly vetted, trusted general contractors 
  • We carefully select the best contractors for your unique remodeling projects and connect you with them
  • You’ll get a set of competitive bids to ensure fair, market pricing for your project
  • You can take advantage of a bid-leveling call with someone from our team to help you through the toughest part of the decision-making process
  • Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in renovations, and we’re available to you for support from start to finish!

If you’re planning to start your own home renovation within the next 6 months, it’s time to post your project on Sweeten and start making your vision a reality!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a General Contractor for Your Remodel appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in New York City https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-nyc/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-nyc/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:57:25 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56089 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in NYC? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in New York City. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in NYC? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

NYC Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in New York City. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in New York City:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $18,000
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $28,000
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $40,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in NYC graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in NYC.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in NYC

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in NYC

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in NYC

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in NYC

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in NYC

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in New York City will range from $18,000 to $74,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $39 per square foot in New York City, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In New York City, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in New York City. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in New York City ranges from $26 to $82 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a bathroom vanity in New York City ranges from $440 to $3,800, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in New York City, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In New York City, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,500-$27,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $18,000-$74,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in New York City, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Read more cost guides below:

NYC Bathroom Remodel Costs

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Washington DC https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-washington-dc/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-washington-dc/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:47:43 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56126 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Washington DC Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Washington DC:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $26,000
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $38,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Washington DC.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Washington DC

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Washington DC

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Updated December 14, 2022

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Washington DC

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Washington DC

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Washington DC will range from $16,500 to $70,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $36 per square foot in Washington DC, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Washington DC, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Washington DC. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications. 
 

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Washington DC ranges from $25 to $80 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Washington DC ranges from $430 to $3,700, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Washington DC, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.
  

In Washington DC, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$25,500 and up; whereas the cost for a rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $16,500-$70,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Washington DC, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Washington DC appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Westchester County https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-westchester-county-new-york/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-westchester-county-new-york/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:46:33 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56096 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of […]

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Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Westchester County bathroom remodeling costs cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Westchester County:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $17,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $27,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $40,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Westchester County.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Westchester County

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Westchester County

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Westchester County

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Westchester County

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Westchester County will range from $17,500 to $72,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $38 per square foot in Westchester County, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Westchester County, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Westchester County. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications. 

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Westchester County ranges from $26 to $81 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Westchester County ranges from $430 to $3,700, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Westchester County, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Westchester County, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,000-$26,500 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a standard full bathroom can range from $17,500-$72,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Westchester County, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Westchester County appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Houston https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-houston/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-houston/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:41:59 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56138 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Houston? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Houston. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Houston? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Houston Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Houston. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Houston:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $15,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $24,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $35,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Houston graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Houston.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Houston

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Houston

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Houston

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Houston

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Houston

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Houston will range from $15,500 to $66,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $34 per square foot in Houston, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Houston, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Houston. In many places, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Houston ranges from $25 to $77 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Houston ranges from $410 to $3,500, and for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Houston, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Houston, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,000-$24,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $15,500-$66,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Houston, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Houston appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs National Edition https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-national-edition/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-national-edition/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:40:14 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56058 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs, based on national averages. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

national-bathroom-remodeling-costs-guide-cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs, based on national averages. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like, according to national averages:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,000
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $22,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $31,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

If you live in a major metropolitan area, prices will be higher than national averages, so we’ve compiled local bathroom remodeling costs for major cities and the New York tri-state area

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling projects:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with only your locally-qualified general contractors

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design or architectural services, permitting, and locally-qualified general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. If you’re planning on converting your bathtub to a shower, these rules apply. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you will receive guidance, tools, and support during your project. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive!

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. According to national averages, for a typical, full bath, a full rip-and-replace bathroom remodel will range from $16,000 to $56,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage.

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $34 per square foot, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. According to national averages, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements. Often, permits are needed for bathroom projects if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications. 

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom ranges from $23 to $68 per square foot.

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The average cost ranges from $370 to $3,000, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10%. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs.

Vinyl flooring is a solid option for bathroom flooring with its budget-friendly, waterproof, and durable qualities. Also called resilient flooring, vinyl has some give to it when standing for long periods of time or when little ones fall. Vinyl flooring comes in planks or as a sheet with no seams—a plus for messy wet bathrooms. The material is easy to install and can be laid over an existing floor. The total cost to install sheet vinyl flooring in a bathroom is approximately $59-$65 per square foot. 

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

According to national averages, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$20,500 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a standard full bathroom can range from $16,000-$56,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in your area, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example.
 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Updated December 14, 2022

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Boston https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-boston/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-boston/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:37:42 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56107 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Boston? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Boston. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Boston? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Boston Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Boston. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Boston:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $17,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $27,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $39,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Boston graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Boston.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Boston

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Boston

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Boston

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Boston

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Boston

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Boston will range from $17,500 to $72,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $38 per square foot in Boston, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Boston, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Boston. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Boston ranges from $26 to $80 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Boston ranges from $430 to $3,700, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Boston, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower).
 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Boston, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,000-$26,500 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $17,500-$72,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Boston, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Boston appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Los Angeles https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-los-angeles/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-los-angeles/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:37:26 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56141 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Los Angeles Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Los Angeles:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $18,000
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $28,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $40,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Los Angeles.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Los Angeles

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Los Angeles

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Los Angeles

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Los Angeles will range from $18,000 to $74,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $39 per square foot in Los Angeles, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Los Angeles, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Los Angeles. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Los Angeles ranges from $26 to $82 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a bathroom vanity in Los Angeles ranges from $440 to $3,800, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Los Angeles, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Los Angeles, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,500-$27,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $18,000-$74,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Los Angeles, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Los Angeles appeared first on Sweeten.

]]>
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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Atlanta https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-atlanta/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-atlanta/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:31:54 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56123 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Atlanta Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Atlanta:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $26,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $38,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Atlanta.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Atlanta

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Atlanta

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Atlanta

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Atlanta

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Atlanta will range from $16,500 to $70,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $36 per square foot in Atlanta, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Atlanta, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Atlanta. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications. 
 

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Atlanta ranges from $25 to $80 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Atlanta ranges from $430 to $3,700, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Atlanta, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Atlanta, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$25,500 and up; whereas the cost for a rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $16,500-$70,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Atlanta, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Atlanta appeared first on Sweeten.

]]>
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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Miami https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-miami/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-miami/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:26:06 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56147 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Miami? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Miami. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Miami? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Miami Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Miami. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Miami:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $26,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $38,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Miami graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Miami.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Miami

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Miami

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Miami

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Miami

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Miami

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Miami will range from $16,500 to $71,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $36 per square foot in Miami, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Miami, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Miami. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Miami ranges from $26 to $81 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a bathroom vanity in Miami ranges from $440 to $3,800, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Miami, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Miami, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$26,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $16,500-$71,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Miami, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Miami appeared first on Sweeten.

]]>
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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in New Jersey https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-new-jersey/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-new-jersey/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:22:43 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56114 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

New Jersey Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in New Jersey:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $26,000
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $37,500
Full bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in New Jersey.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in New Jersey

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in New Jersey

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in New Jersey

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in New Jersey

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in New Jersey will range from $16,500 to $69,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $36 per square foot in New Jersey, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In New Jersey, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in your part of New Jersey. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you do need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in New Jersey ranges from $25 to $79 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a bathroom vanity in New Jersey ranges from $420 to $3,600, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in New Jersey, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In New Jersey, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$25,500 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $16,500-$69,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in New Jersey, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a rip-and-replace renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. A monetary cushion will help keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in New Jersey appeared first on Sweeten.

]]>
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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs on Long Island https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-on-long-island/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-on-long-island/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:21:38 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56099 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Long Island bathroom remodeling costs cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like on Long Island:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $17,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $27,000
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $39,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors on Long Island.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs on Long Island

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation on Long Island

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs on Long Island

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs on Long Island

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel on Long Island will range from $17,500 to $71,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $37 per square foot on Long Island, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. Based on Long Island averages, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in on Long Island. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom on Long Island ranges from $25 to $79 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity on Long Island ranges from $420 to $3,600, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 on Long Island, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

On Long Island, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,000-$26,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $17,500-$71,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel on Long Island, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs on Long Island appeared first on Sweeten.

]]>
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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Fairfield County https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-fairfield-county/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-fairfield-county/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:17:34 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56103 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number […]

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Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Fairfield County bathroom remodeling costs cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Fairfield County:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $17,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $27,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $39,000
Full bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County graphic

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Fairfield County.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Fairfield County

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Fairfield County

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Fairfield County

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Fairfield County

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Fairfield County will range from $17,500 to $71,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $38 per square foot in Fairfield County, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Fairfield County, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Fairfield County. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Fairfield County ranges from $25 to $79 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on finish level will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Fairfield County ranges from $420 to $3,600, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Fairfield County, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower). 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures. 
 

In Fairfield County, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $7,000-$26,000 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $17,500-$71,000 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Fairfield County, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Fairfield County appeared first on Sweeten.

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2023 Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Philadelphia https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-philadelphia/ https://sweeten.com/renovation-cost-guides/bathroom-remodeling-costs-in-philadelphia/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:16:27 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=56117 Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia. The main variables are: Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom […]

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]]>

Researching your bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia? The key factors are size, finish level, scope, and services needed

Philadelphia Bathroom Remodeling Costs Cover

How much should you budget for your bathroom remodel? Here’s how to make a rough prediction of bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia. The main variables are:

  • Size of your bathroom, typically determined by the number of bathroom fixtures and the room’s square footage.
  • Finish level — from budget to luxury, of all the materials, fixtures and finishes for your renovation.
  • Scope — Are you just replacing fixtures and finishes? Are you changing the floor plan, including moving walls and utilities? Are you adding a new bathroom, or moving your bathroom to a different part of the house?
  • Services — Do you just need construction work? Do you need professional design or architecture services?

We’ll discuss these variables below, but for now let’s start with an example. 

For a full renovation (without layout changes) of a standard full bathroom, with basic general contracting services, here’s what you can expect starting costs for your project to look like in Philadelphia:

  • Budget full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $16,500
  • Mid-grade full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $26,500
  • High-end full bathroom renovation costs: Starting at $38,000

We want you to be completely prepared for the cost of your home remodeling project, so our pricing estimates are inclusive of all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor’s margin. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors in Philadelphia.

Size: How dimensions affect your bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia

This may sound obvious, but the larger your bathroom, generally the more expensive your renovation project will be. However, it’s not a totally straightforward calculation, because what matters most isn’t the footprint, it’s the fixtures and finishes that will fill that space — more plumbing fixtures, in the form of sinks, showers, toilets, etc., means greater costs. Here’s how you can think about sizing up your bathroom remodeling project:

  • Half bathrooms, or powder rooms, usually have just a sink and a toilet. The typical fixture count for a half bath is 1-2.
  • Full bathrooms usually have a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a full bath is 3-4. 
  • Primary bathrooms, also called master bathrooms, usually have a generous vanity area with two sinks, plus a toilet and bathtub or shower. The typical fixture count for a primary bath is 4-5.
  • Deluxe primary bathrooms usually have two sinks and an extended vanity, an extra-large shower or a shower and separate bathtub, and a toilet, which may be enclosed separately. The typical fixture count for a deluxe primary bathroom is 5+. 

For any size bathroom, a wide range of bathroom fixtures is available, from budget to ultra-luxury. Your style preference, budget, and the space’s size will determine the suite of fixtures needed, including a sink, vanity, faucet, toilet, shower head, bathtub, and accessories. The low end of fixtures for a small bathroom is $1,500, and fixtures can run upwards of $15,000.

bathroom-remodel-size-reference-graphic

Finish level: How bathroom design affects remodeling costs in Philadelphia

Finish level refers to the general quality and price level of fixtures, materials, and finishes. These include wall treatments, vanity materials and fabrication, flooring choices, and the brands and models of sinks, faucets, and fixtures you choose. The higher the finish level, the faster your costs will increase. 

  • Budget finish: Budget materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA. This includes stock vanities; various tiles under $5/square foot such as Pergo and Daltile; and fixtures by Delta, Moen, and Pfister.
  • Mid-grade finish: Mid-grade materials balance cost efficiency with material quality. This includes vanities by Design House, Fresca, and Signature Hardware; tile by TileBar; and fixtures by American Standard, Hansgrohe, and Kohler.
  • High-end finish: High-end materials take quality and craftsmanship above standard, and this category introduces custom work. This includes tiles by Clé Tile, Ann Sacks, and Artistic Tile; vanities by Duravit, Robern, and DXV; and fixtures by Kallista and Brizo.
  • Luxury finish: Luxury means the sky’s the limit, where customization, craftsmanship and materials truly go above and beyond. Think brands like Lefroy Brooks, THG Paris, and Samuel Heath.
bathroom-remodel-finish-level-reference-graphic

Scope: Rip-and-replace vs. gut bathroom renovation in Philadelphia

Project scope refers to the amount and type of work that needs to be done, and can have implications on which professionals you’ll need to hire. We divide scope into the following broad categories (when a contractor prepares an estimate for your renovation, it will be much more detailed, and will include costs of the exact fixtures and finishes):

Full renovation (also called “rip-and-replace”)  

A full renovation means that you’re replacing all old fixtures and finishes with new ones, while leaving everything in place. So, effectively, the layout is the same before and after the renovation (hence, the nickname “rip-and-replace”). This is the more straightforward way to reimagine your space, and can often be done with just a licensed general contractor partner. 

Gut renovation

For a gut renovation, you’ll be dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines and rewiring electrical — generally stripping the room to the studs and subfloor (or, even removing these!) in order to change up the layout of the space. This kind of transformational project will require professional design and architectural services,  permitting, and licensed general contractors, which ensures the work is done safely and to code. 

bathroom-remodel-before-and-after

Services: Bathroom remodeling services, and how they affect costs in Philadelphia

The two main services to consider for your bathroom renovation are build service and design service. Depending on your needs, you have some options for what types of firms to hire.  

Build service with a general contractor 

Build service would include demolition and construction services, and would be carried out by your general contractor. Some general contractors are considered build-only firms, which means that they do not offer full professional design. Even within the build-only category, there are a range of different service offerings a contractor might provide — some will strictly work with finished plans from a professional designer, some will work with you to carry out the vision you conceive, and others are more willing to offer creative suggestions and advice on material and fixture choices, or even rough visualizations for spatial layout. 

A combination of service level, experience, and things like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. We generally recommend to connect with a few different contractors to feel out what level of service best suits you. 

Design service with an architect or interior designer

Design service can be broken down into creative design and technical design. For creative design service, which is almost always optional, you’ll work with an architect or interior designer to reimagine the space. This added layer of service will generally cost between 10-20% of your construction budget, depending on the level of service included in your design package (though, not all firms determine their fees based on cost of construction — some may charge a flat fee based on project scope and anticipated duration, for example). So, for a $40,000 bathroom renovation, you might expect to pay your architect or designer $4,000 to $8,000. 

Technical design expertise is needed in the form of an architect (or sometimes structural engineer) for projects like gut renovations where permitting is required. Their main role is to ensure that the project is done safely and to code. 

What is a full-service, design-build firm? 

If you need both design and build services, you can choose to hire a professional designer or architect, and separately, a general contractor. But there’s another option that comes with some distinct benefits: you can hire a design-build firm — a general contractor with dedicated professional design under one roof. This means you work with the same firm from planning and design through construction. In addition to the continuity, which can often save time in the process, some clients appreciate that the working relationship means more seamless coordination, which can even help to keep your project on budget. 

Bathroom-double-vanity-with-wall-mounted-matte-black-faucets

Updated December 14, 2022

Frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling costs in Philadelphia

The process of remodeling a bathroom brings up endless questions, so we’re answering some of your most common curiosities about the costs of bathroom renovations here. Have more questions? Leave them in the comments section below! 

The final cost of a bathroom remodel will depend on the size of your bathroom, the quality of fixtures and finishes, and whether any plumbing fixtures will be moving or changing. For an average, full bath, a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel in Philadelphia will range from $16,500 to $70,500 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin. 

A major gut bathroom remodel would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor for the same square footage. Also keep in mind that a half bathroom with fewer fixtures will cost less, while a primary bathroom with more fixtures will cost more. 

Demolition signifies the start of a renovation and is one of the quickest parts of the process to complete. Bathroom demolition costs are typically tied to the square footage of what is being removed. Usually, bathroom demolition costs start at $36 per square foot in Philadelphia, but can be more depending on what needs to be removed.

The cost of labor for a bathroom remodel goes towards the renovation crew, behind-the-scenes administrative employees, and subcontractors. Generally, the cost of labor is dependent on a project’s complexity, size, and location. In Philadelphia, the labor portion of a bathroom remodeling project usually adds up to around 25-35% of the total project cost, give or take. 

Generally speaking, labor will make up a larger portion of total cost for a bathroom project with budget-grade materials, and a lower portion of the total for high-end materials. The addition of any highly specialized labor (beyond standard) will cost more.

Permit requirements vary between states and local municipalities, so be sure to check your local requirements in Philadelphia. Often, permits are needed for bathroom remodels if any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements will be moved, or if load-bearing walls are being moved or coming down. This can also include converting a tub to shower, or vice versa, due to plumbing implications.  

If you need a permit for your bathroom remodel, the costs can be calculated as a flat rate for specific scopes of work or as a percentage of the cost of the project. In some areas remodeling permit costs might be as high as 10%, but it’s usually less. 

The purchase of tile is only part of the budget to tile a bathroom. There is cost to prepare the space for tiling where items such as baseboards and the toilet are removed. Raw materials, such as subflooring and thin-set, are required for the job. Installation and labor costs factor into the final tiling budget. The total average cost to tile a bathroom in Philadelphia ranges from $26 to $80 per square foot. 

The cost to replace a bathroom vanity includes preparation of the worksite, raw materials, and labor. Depending on the scope of work, the cost increases if plumbing and electrical systems are relocated or if they need to be brought up to code. The materials chosen based on price point will also factor into the budget. The total average cost to replace a vanity in Philadelphia ranges from $430 to $3,700, however, for high-end and custom work, the total cost of replacing a vanity can run even higher. 

A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $2,000-$15,000 in Philadelphia, and can run even higher for high-end and custom work, or major layout changes. This includes installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Leaving the plumbing where it is will be less expensive than if water sources are moved (like when converting a tub to a shower).
 

The cost to remodel a shower will also vary depending on the price point of the tile chosen. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot while marble tile is closer to $50 per square foot. Add a standard overage amount of at least 10% of raw material. Running short of tile will cause delays and incur more costs

The bulk of your bathroom remodeling costs will be tied to the total number of fixtures, and the quality of the fixtures and materials you choose. A small full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures and a large full bathroom with 3-4 fixtures, might cost close to the same because the only difference will be in square footage of flooring and wall treatments. On the other hand, a half bathroom with only 2 fixtures, a sink and toilet, will cost considerably less than a full bath renovation with 3-4 fixtures.  

In Philadelphia, the cost for a typical half bathroom remodel can range from $6,500-$25,500 and up; whereas the cost for a full, rip-and-replace remodel of a small full bathroom can range from $16,500-$70,500 and up, depending on finish level of the materials used. A major gut renovation for a bathroom of the same size would add an additional 15-25% to the total cost of materials and labor. 

Your general contractor can give you an idea of possible issues that may arise during a bathroom remodel in Philadelphia, based on the age and type of home they’re working on. However, a contractor cannot price out every possible problem, as things can arise after walls are broken into. They may discover an issue with your plumbing or electrical, for example. 

Major projects often involve permitting fees, and change orders after a contract has been signed can also add to the overall cost. To protect yourself from unseen costs, set aside a 10-15% contingency budget for a non-gut renovation. If you are planning a gut remodel, set aside 15-20% for issues that come up along the way. Having a monetary cushion will keep your remodeling project on track. 

Are you ready to start your own bathroom remodeling project?

Post your remodeling project on Sweeten and we’ll connect you with a curated list of trusted contractors, matched to your project. Our service is free for homeowners, and hiring your contractor with Sweeten means you’ll also have access to advice, support, and secure payments. Check out our service locations to see if we cover your area. 

Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive! Learn more

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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