The bathroom can be one of the most expensive areas in your home to remodel. This is because bathrooms contain numerous features and fixtures that professionals must install such as a plumber or electrician. In addition, you must budget for the cost of plumbing, waterproofing, tiling, lighting, sink, shower, and toilet accessories.
The cost of upgrading a bathroom can range from $ 6,500 for a small 2m2 bathroom to $25,000 ++ for a larger 25m2 customized bathroom. The cost will be dictated by the size and quality of materials used in the renovation. It might be substantially higher if you add lavish bathroom fittings and marble flooring.
However, be cautious since it is easy to overspend. Investing in a bathroom renovation generates a large return on your investment if done correctly, however you need to keep into focus the end goal of your renovation whether it be for you to enjoy, to rent your house out, or to sell it to a high-end buyer.
Bathroom renovation upgrades can significantly increase the value of your property. However, it’s wise to invest your resources into the parts of your bathroom renovation that have the highest ROI, which requires planning and researching. You can focus on the following areas to maximize your ROI.
1. Wall and Floor Tiles
Replacing broken and worn-out tiles improves the appearance and value of your bathroom dramatically. There are a variety of floor and wall tile alternatives. Porcelain and ceramic tiles can both provide you with the desired styles and decors for your bathroom.
Porcelain tiles do not wear quickly, they require little upkeep, and with so much variety in choice, you will be able to find a tile that perfectly suits your home. They can have the look of natural stone and can be installed closer together for fewer grout lines. This can be a much more cost-effective way to create the illusion of stone flooring without the price tag. Consider that textured tiles are important for flooring choices, especially in areas prone to moisture such as bathrooms, this reduces the risk of slipping.
The one element that translates across all flooring types is that you need to get your bathroom waterproofed. This is the make-or-break factor that will determine the longevity of your renovation. In the end, it doesn’t matter how lavish and stunning your expensive new bathroom is if you have leaks and you need to rip it all up and waterproof it again.
2. Bathtub
Bathtubs are one of the most important bathroom fixtures. Nothing beats a calming bubble bath after a long and challenging day. However, even bathtubs degrade over time. The glaze deteriorates, and it is no longer as effective at keeping dirt and grime from its surface.
A bathtub will always provide a higher ROI than a shower. So you might be tempted to replace your bathtub with a shower enclosure, but you should think twice. Data from the National Association of Home Builders showed that 74% of respondents desired a shower stall and a tub.
While some purchasers want a shower enclosure, bathtubs are chosen by families with young children. If you’re renovating to improve resell value, consider keeping your tub and investing in restoring it or replacing it with a modern free-standing tub.
3. Vanity
A vanity unit is a bathroom fixture that typically includes a countertop, sink, and mirror. A vanity will give you a secure area to place the sink and usually has a storage component.
You can pick among a traditional, modern, or free-standing vanity. Choose one that is both fully functional and visually appealing. Items like extra lighting and trendy designs can also be added to vanities.
Vanities can be an excellent investment with a high return on investment. The ideal vanity is one with plenty of storage and counter space. Vanities can be a focal point in the bathroom while also storing the products we use daily. Compared to regular cupboards, vanities are more expensive due to the materials that are used. The used materials need to be water-resistant due to the amount of moisture the vanity will be continuously subjected to.
If you’re remodeling the main bathroom, a full-sized vanity will provide the highest return on investment. On the other hand, pedestal sinks are ideal for small spaces such as ensuites and powder rooms.
4. Water Proofing
Water damage caused by leaks in the bathroom can be costly. Therefore, the highest quality waterproofing in your bathroom is one of the best investments you can make during renovations. Waterproofing will be the foundation that the rest of your bathroom will be built upon.
If a pipe bursts or the tub overflows, proper waterproofing can mitigate the damage to your home. Whilst investing in adequate and quality waterproofing will not be a value-adding feature in your home, it will provide peace of mind that all the resources you are investing into your home will be there for the long haul. It will also minimize maintenance costs in the long run making it a worthwhile investment.
The minimum criteria for waterproofing in residential bathrooms are outlined in the Building Code of Australia and the waterproofing standards. It entails waterproofing the entire shower floor, walls, and vertical angles between the shower walls.
5. Lighting
Lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to raise the value of your property. A well-lit room makes it appear larger, cleaner, and brighter. For example, dimmable lighting over the bathtub can help to create a spa-like atmosphere, whilst you want adequate warm and bright lighting over the mirror and vanity.
You can create a pleasant spa-like ambiance with optimal lighting. You can also add value by installing wall-mounted fixtures to offer a touch of warmth. These can help create a calming environment, which can boost the value and ROI of your bathroom.