You may think that it is not necessary to spend a lot of effort, time and money in a bathtub remodeling. That is maybe because you do not take advantage of all the time you could be in the bathroom; a place where the human rituals of purification transfigure it into a sacred space.
Those roof leaks that leave yellow spots up there in the bathroom, or that door that may not close properly are concrete facts that do not let people feel comfortable in there. This is not a place to just get a body wash, but to relax and preen. It is not just a matter of fixing it, but of making a deep reform if it does not meet these minimum requirements. In these cases, a bathtub remodeling is the best option, but how much would it cost?
If your would-be sanctuary is a major sore spot, you are not alone. Bathrooms are second only to the kitchen on people’s wish lists of rooms to remodel, especially since the current economy has pushed to so many devices go beyond their 20 year lifespan. “After some years, bathrooms start to get tired or need a bathtub remodeling,” say experts.
Given the complexity of bathrooms—multiple components in a compact space, not to mention all that water—doing the right project is a challenge. (Search for bathtub remodeling options in Internet). On a cost-per-square-foot basis, bathrooms are one of the most expensive spaces to remodel, but it does not mean you have to spend a fortune.
This is where Consumer Reports’ Bathroom Remodeling Guide becomes relevant. Our product testers have spent months rating the latest toilets, sinks, countertops and other bathroom essentials to separate the winners from the also-rans. We’ve also interviewed designers, contractors, and real estate pros nationwide to find out what to include —and what to skip— on your bathtub remodeling wish list.
What will it Cost and How to Budget?
How much should be spended on a bathtub remodeling? A rule of thumb is that the total project —including materials and installation— should cost no more than 5 to 10 percent of your home’s value. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) puts the national average at about $16,000.
Another guide is Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, which compares the average cost of various renovation projects with the value they retain at resale. In 2011-2012, mid-range bathroom remodels cost an average of $16,552 and recouped 62 percent, while upscale bathroom remodels cost an average of $52,249 and recouped 56 percent. Here’s how the NKBA breaks down the budget for a typical bathroom remodel:
- Labor: 20 percent
- Cabinetry and hardware: 16 percent
- Fixtures: 15 percent
- Faucets and plumbing: 14 percent
- Countertop: 7 percent
- Floor: 9 percent
- Doors and windows: 4 percent
- Walls and ceiling: 5 percent
- Lighting and ventilation: 5 percent
- Design fees: 4 percent
- Other: 1 percent
Have Questions about Bathtubs? Call us and we will beat your best price! You can visit our showroom at:
1387 Shotgun Road, Sunrise, Florida 33326.
Phone: 1-800-991-2284
Hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Tuesday Thru Saturday
Email: doug@dougstubs.com
