How to Find the Cost Estimates for Remodeling a Bathroom
Cost estimates for bathroom remodels have the potential to balloon quickly. If you plan to do the work yourself, it is essential to know how much it will cost before you begin. Otherwise, you might find yourself with a half-finished project and no more money. When hiring a contractor, get every detail in writing. If you don't, you may end up with a beautifully finished bathroom but an unpleasant surprise in the bill. Take your time and make sure that you are making the right choices for your design and your budget. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Grid paper
- Pencil
- Calculator
- List of recommended contractors
Instructions
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1
Measure the area you are planning to remodel.
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Draw a rough outline of the bathroom space on the grid paper. Include any features that will not change. For example, you may plan on leaving the vanity in place.
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3
Make a list of features or changes you intend to make, such as replacing the tile, toilet, shower, tub and cabinets.
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4
Add your proposed improvements to the floor plan drawing.
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Visit home improvement and fixture stores to pick out the various items you wish to include in your bathroom remodel. Make notes of the manufacturer names, model numbers, item numbers and prices. Make sure the list is comprehensive. For example, if you pick out tile, don't forget you will need grout. If you are doing this project yourself, don't forget to include the cost of buying or renting any specialty tools.
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Add up the total cost of the fixtures, including any applicable sales tax. If you plan on doing the remodeling yourself, this is your cost estimate.
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Contact local contractors recommended by friends and neighbors who have had their bathrooms redone. Set up times for them to come by to give you a free estimate on your bathroom remodeling project.
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Give each contractor a list of all of the fixtures you have picked out. Tell each contractor that you are seeking bids from several different contractors.
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Ask each contractor to give you a detailed bid that breaks down each charge. You want everything in writing. Appropriate bids will include details on exactly what will be done. Look for time estimates. Make sure they have included all charges, markups and accidentals.
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Choose the contractor who best fits the work, budget and time frame for your remodeling.
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Sign a contract with the contractor. Estimates are nice, but they are just estimates. A contract will spell out exactly what the price of the job will be, at what point payments will be made and the procedures for handling unexpected developments that could add to the cost of the project.
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Tips & Warnings
Check out the contractors you interview with the Better Business Bureau.
Don't be afraid to ask for references from contractors. Also ask if they have had any problems with customers and what they have learned from those problems.
Plan for any bathroom remodel project to cost 10 to 20 percent more than the original estimate. This prevents you from having to scramble for money if something unexpected occurs.
Never work with a contractor who refuses to give you a solid estimate that outlines every step of the remodeling process.
Do not allow yourself to be pressured into an agreement if you are not ready.
Keep in mind that cheap is sometimes more expensive. The best deal isn't always the one that costs the least amount of money.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit bathroom image by Mikhail Olykainen from Fotolia.com
