How to Calculate Cost of Bedroom Remodel

Remodeling your home is not a task to undertake without preparation. But a bedroom remodel is relatively simple compared with renovating other rooms. From expanding a closet to painting a faux finish accent wall, estimating your expected costs is simply a matter of preparing a list.

Instructions

1. List the changes you'd like to make. Measure the room so you know the square footage and calculate the square footage of any changes you're planning, such as adding a closet, so that you can estimate framing materials and drywall.

2. Obtain quotes from local contractors. Even if you're planning on doing the work yourself, they can give you a rough estimate of what the project would cost and perhaps give you some ideas you haven't thought of. They should give you an itemized list of materials and labor.

3. Use the estimate from the contractors to figure out which supplies you'll need. Visit home improvement stores to get prices. For example, if you're adding or expanding a closet, you'll need to price the appropriate amount of lumber and drywall. If you're painting, talk to the paint department to find out how far a gallon of paint will go. To install new flooring, simply price the flooring and multiply the price per square foot by the square footage of the bedroom, then add 10 percent for waste.

4. Price any additional supplies you might need, including drywall tape and joint compound, paint brushes and drop cloths or padding for new flooring. Also think about any other fixtures you plan to include. Popular items to include in a bedroom remodel are fans, light fixtures, switch plates, outlets, window coverings and doors. The only way to estimate costs for these things is to pick out a specific item and price it, but this can easily be done online using home improvement store websites.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your local permit department to see if you'll need to pull any permits for your bedroom remodel. These departments are run by the county or city, depending on your location. They can tell you the cost of the permit, if one is required.

• Cost varies by location, so the easy square footage method of calculation doesn't work very well. It will give you a ballpark, though. Multiply the cost per square foot to remodel a bedroom by the square footage you plan to remodel. That will give you a rough figure.

Resources

• Use the calculators on Home Depot's website for help with costs.