01

Research materials and price

Planning ahead leaves you time to conduct research on materials and where to find better prices. Some specialty stores, specifically ceramic tile stores, sell off their old stock at a fraction of the price. Carefully choose what fixtures are most important to you and save on the others. You can spend $150 on a toilet up to $3,000.

02

Easy to live with

Since bathrooms require frequent cleaning, think about how easy to clean faucets, toilets and other fixtures are when you’re shopping. 

03

The floor plan depends on your budget

If you are able to keep the same floor plan in your bathroom, you will save money on plumbing.

04

Could your plumbing/electrical be dangerous?

If your house is 30-40 years old, the plumbing and electrical may be outdated. If your house is more than 50 years old, it’s possible that it contains lead piping which may pose a health hazard. 

05

Replace or modernize?

When doing a bathroom renovation you essentially have two choices, you can either replace it completely or modernize it. If you are just going for a different look and want to save some money, you can very simply modernize your bathroom with new fixtures, a fresh coat of paint or even have the bathtub and sinks reglazed. With some research, and careful planning you can give your bathroom a stylish update at a fraction of the cost of new materials.

06

Reuse items

Another way to save some money on your bathroom renovation is to reuse items that do not need changing or updating. Even if you are going for the full bathroom renovation you can still reuse certain items, such as vanities, toilets and even tile, and incorporate them into your new design.   You’ll also be doing the responsible thing for the environment.

07

Eco-friendly rewards

There are many programs that are now offering rebates, credits or other incentives for upgrading to energy efficient products, such as installing water conserving low-flow toilets, faucets or showerheads. Taking advantage of these incentives will also help reduce your monthly utility expenses.  Just like choosing quality materials, an investment in reductions like this can save you money over the long-term.

08

Deterioration

Look for signs of deterioration before you begin your project so that there are no surprises.

• Are there water stains, or mold growth on the caulking, ceiling or walls?
• Is there any peeling or blistering paint?
• Are there cold drafts or surfaces?
• Have any surfaces rotten or buckled?
• Is the floor even or sloping?
• Is there enough water pressure?
• Does water drain slowly?
• Is there an unusual, musty smell?
• Does the van vent directly to outside?