Bathroom Remodel Cost - The Full Guide
Applicable for Greensboro, North Carolina, and surrounding areas
- Rough averages:
- Basic: $12-17K
- Average: $18-35K
- High-end: $40K+
Find out exactly how much your bath remodel will cost.
When it’s time to give your bathroom a makeover, let’s face it: the budget conversation is bound to happen early on. But here at BathSafe Solutions, we like to think of costs in terms of the incredible value they bring to your home and life. It’s not just about spending; it’s about investing in your comfort and safety.
Hopefully, I will cover everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents
Published on April 19th, 2024 by
Chance Hunt
Chance is a remodeling expert and Certified Age in Place specialist. He services the counties of Guilford and Forsyth, always prioritizing quality work for clients that want to transform the way they live.
Average Bathroom Remodel Cost
Online estimates can really throw you off track. I have yet to see a full bath remodel for $3,000 in Greensboro, NC. Or a luxury makeover for just $28K?
Doesn’t quite add up, does it? That’s why it’s crucial to tap into local experts, tailored right to your specific needs. After all, a well-informed client makes better decisions when it comes to their individual needs.
Transparency in pricing is a cornerstone of our approach. We lay all the cards on the table so you can see the full scope and plan effectively.
So, let’s break down the costs from every angle—considering the size of your bathroom, specific expenses, and the undeniable value you’re adding to your home.
The Value Of A Bath Remodel
When you dive into a bathroom remodel, it’s not just a cost—it’s a solid investment in your home. And like any smart investment, it pays off.
Take the 2023 Cost vs Value report as an example. For a midscale bathroom remodel in Greensboro, you can expect to see a 70.8% return when you sell your home. That means you put the money in now, revel in your upgraded bathroom for years, and still cash in on that investment when it’s time to sell.
Let’s look at it this way. If you plan to remodel your bath for $25K and you recoup $17K, the actual investment is $8K. If you plan on enjoying it for 10 years, your actual investment is $800/year or about $67/mo. That’s cheaper than a pair of shoes!
Bathroom Cost, A Birds-Eye-View
When setting your budget for a bathroom remodel, a common rule of thumb is to allocate about 5-10% of your home’s value. So, for a $300K home in Greensboro, you’d be looking at around $15K to $30K for the project.
To dial in further, consider the size of your bathroom. Factor in the quality of materials and appliances you want to use, along with the complexity of the job, and you start to see a rough cost estimate take shape.
For the sake of simplicity, I’ve tried to bake in all costs (foreseen and unforeseen) into a project.
These include and are not limited to:
- Hidden surprises
- Age of construction
- Cost of mistakes
- Labor of employees
- Backend services
- Profit
- Material choice
- Number of fixtures
I’ll explain all of these in the article below.
Drag the sliders to adjust your values
Quality of appliances, materials, and complexity
Average job complexity may include premium shower, retiling, new floor, paint job, lighting, and plumbing fixtures.
A high-end job with custom tile selection, premium vanity, custom shower and may include changing layout or expansion.
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Your Rough Estimate Is:
Get your personalized bathroom remodel estimate
Because in reality there are many variables that go into a bath remodel, I highly recommend getting your exact estimate for your specific needs.
Weeding Out Bathroom Remodeling Contractors
When you really dig into a bathroom remodeling project, there’s more to the cost than just paying for materials and labor. Understanding the hidden costs involved can help you identify contractors who might be underbidding—and are likely to underperform. Here’s a breakdown to keep you informed:
Hidden Surprises
It’s not uncommon during bathroom remodels to uncover water damage, mold, or wood rot. At BathSafe Solutions, we insist on addressing these issues before progressing further. We believe in keeping you fully informed every step of the way.
Cost of Mistakes
Nobody’s perfect, and while you shouldn’t have to pay for others’ mistakes, mishaps do happen. Materials might arrive damaged, or other unforeseen issues may arise. To ensure we can always overdeliver, we markup materials by about 10-20% to cover these contingencies.
Labor of Employees and Subcontractors
Did you know the average construction worker earns $20 an hour? A typical bathroom remodel requires about 300 hours. To expedite your remodel, I often cover overtime costs to speed up completion. For example, with 3 employees working over 2 weeks, this equates to 240 hours at regular pay and 60 hours at overtime, totaling around $6,600 in labor costs alone.
Backend Services
Behind the scenes, there’s a slew of operational costs including accounting, legal services, insurance, truck maintenance, training, certifications, and office supplies. Marketing expenses also play a critical role, not only in reaching new clients but in delivering valuable, educational content.
Profit
As per Adam Smith’s time-tested market theory, it’s essential that all professionals charge enough to cover their overheads and risks. Profit isn’t merely about financial gain; it sustains the business, supports employee and subcontractor livelihoods, and contributes positively to the local economy. Remember, a fair profit margin is what keeps us in business and capable of serving you best.
Materials
Finally, the cost of materials can vary significantly depending on your selections and needs. For a basic estimate, placing about $6,000 on materials alone quickly adds up to over $15,000 when combined with other expenses.
Understanding these aspects helps clarify why we price our projects the way we do—ensuring we deliver quality, handle unforeseen issues, and maintain the sustainability of our business. By choosing BathSafe Solutions, you’re investing not just in a superior remodel but in a business that values transparency and quality.
Contractors Red Flags
Going through the process of selecting a contractor for your bathroom remodel can be loaded with challenges. It’s tempting to jump at the lowest bid, but a rock-bottom price can sometimes signal red flags rather than a real deal.
Dig deeper when evaluating contractors. Low pricing might initially seem appealing, but it’s essential to ask the right questions to understand why the cost is so low. Are they cutting corners on materials? Do they employ skilled labor? How comprehensive is their project management?
From my experience in the industry, I’ve seen many cases where a low price led to subpar work. This often results in the need to hire another contractor to fix mistakes, adding frustration and cost, or worse, leaving you with a bathroom that doesn’t meet your expectations or needs.
To avoid these pitfalls, ensure you discuss and clarify the following before making a decision:
- Detailed Scope of Work:** Make sure there’s a clear and detailed plan for what the project entails and the materials to be used.
- Credentials and References:** Check their credentials and ask for references. Follow up with these references to hear firsthand about their experiences.
- Warranty and Post-Completion Support:** Understand the kind of support and warranties offered post-completion. This can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Choosing the right contractor should not be based solely on price but on trust, quality, and reliability. At BathSafe Solutions, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing and high-quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time. We’re here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your bathroom remodel is a success, both aesthetically and functionally.
The BathSafe Difference
Our prices might be slightly higher, reflecting our expertise and commitment to quality. You’re also getting complete peace of mind before, during, and after working with us.
Here are two benefits that set us apart.
A Process That's Focused On You
Once your remodeling project is finished, we’ll conduct a thorough walkthrough together to make sure nothing has been missed. After our walkthrough, you have three days to inspect the work yourself and ensure everything meets your expectations. Feel free to reach out to us at any point with your feedback.
Additionally, we’ll touch base with you every six months after the project’s completion. This follow-up is part of our commitment to ensure you continue to enjoy and benefit from your bathroom remodel to the fullest.
Our Promise And Warranty
We pride ourselves on offering one of the most comprehensive warranties in the local area for the services we provide. I firmly believe that every job should be done right the first time, which is why you’ll benefit from a 5-year labor and systems warranty. Additionally, you will also receive the manufacturer’s warranty on all materials used.
Should any issues arise that are within our control and covered under the warranty and contract terms, we will address and repair them at no extra cost to you. This commitment underscores our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.
See our complete process and how it benefits you.
Budget Breakdown For Your Bath Remodel
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, there’s a standard expense breakdown that can serve as a guideline for planning your bathroom remodel. However, it’s important to remember that each project is unique. This breakdown is just a starting point to help you understand the typical costs associated with different aspects of bathroom remodeling.
Depending on the bathroom renovation type, the numbers look like in the table below. As always, these are to be used as guidelines as specifics differ from project to project.
Budgeting for Time
One of the things our clients appreciate most about BathSafe Solutions is our commitment to meeting deadlines. We understand that having contractors in your home can be disruptive, and the inconvenience of not having access to your master bathroom is significant.
That’s why making sure we return your space to you as quickly as possible is our top priority. We achieve this by staffing our projects more robustly than other contractors and meticulously planning ahead. This proactive approach allows us to anticipate and address potential delays before they become problems.
While the industry average for a master bath remodel might be eight weeks, we strive to exceed expectations and aim to restore your privacy in just about 3 weeks. We’re ready to start when you are, ensuring a swift and efficient renovation process.
Cost of Typical Bath Elements
Use the calculator below to estimate a more precise cost for your project and see the output in real-time.
Job Complexity Level
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Paint
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Flooring
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Fixtures
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Faucets
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Lighting
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Cabinets
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Countertops
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Tile
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Glass Enclosure
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Smart Tech
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Element Name
Estimated Cost
Base Cost
Permits, Site prep (i.e. floor protection, HEPA air scrubber, dust control barriers etc.), dumpster, portable toilet, demolition, project managment, cleaning. No change to layout
Permits, Site prep (i.e. floor protection, HEPA air scrubber, dust control barriers etc.), dumpster, portable toilet, demolition, project managment, cleaning. Minimal layout changes
Permits, Site prep (i.e. floor protection, HEPA air scrubber, dust control barriers etc.), dumpster, portable toilet, demolition, project managment, cleaning. Major layout changes
Paint
Minimal patch/repair drywall. Paint two top coats
Moderate dryawall replacement, remove popcorn ceiling, prime, paint with two top coats of good quality paint
Full drywall replacement with mold-resistant drywall, prime, paint two top coats of premium qulaity paint
Flooring
Ceramic tile or LVP
Premium quality ceramic tile, custom layout (herringbone etc)
Premium quality procelain tile, custom layout, optional heated tile floor
Fixtures
Replace existing fixtures (sink, toilet) with stock selections. Fiberglass bathtub.
Better quality fixtures. Replace tile shower with expanded size.
Premium fixture options (Steam shower, body sprays, bidet). Replace tile shower.
Faucets
Replace with stock faucet. No relocation.
Premium faucet selection. No relocation.
Premium faucet selections. Relocate.
Lighting
Replace with stock faucet. No relocation.
Replace with stock faucet. No relocation.
Replace with stock faucet. No relocation.
Cabinets
Paint existing vanity or replace with stock vanity
Replace with semi custom vanity
Custom vanity
Countertops
Level 1 granite/quartz
Level 2 granite/quartz
Level 3 quartz granite/quartz
Tile
Stock ceramic tile bathrub surround
Procelain tile shower, niche in shower
Natural stone or premium porcelain tile bathtub surround and shower. Niche in shower with bench
Glass Enclosure
Semi-frameless glass enclosure
Frameless glass enclosure
Smart Tech
Smart faucets
Automated lighting, fan, and smart faucets. Available wireless control for bidet and steam shower
Total
Get a precise estimate for your project
Decreasing Costs And DIY
In this era of abundant information, it’s easy to stumble upon videos that make various DIY projects seem straightforward. You might think, “How hard can it be to demo a bathroom and save $1,000?” It’s not too difficult—unless you accidentally damage the plumbing or electrical systems, which could end up costing you more in repairs.
Thinking of setting your own tile? It might sound feasible, but if the tiles aren’t aligned perfectly, you’ll be reminded of that slight error every day for the next 15 years. And installing vanities and cabinets might look simple until you’re struggling to get doors and drawers to align correctly.
Regardless of the project’s size, quality installation and meticulous attention to detail are crucial. There’s a reason why pediatricians don’t perform brain surgery—we all have our areas of expertise. What might seem like an exciting side project could turn into a prolonged, frustrating ordeal.
Before diving into a DIY bathroom remodel, consider these questions to ensure you’re making the right decision:
- Are you generally handy, and can you learn the necessary skills to perform the task well?
- Do you have the time required to complete the job properly?
- Do you have access to the necessary tools, or can you borrow them?
- Is there someone who can assist you with the project?
- Would you actually enjoy doing the work?
- Are you prepared to live with potentially costly mistakes?
I don’t mean to dissuade you with these points—I’m sharing them out of genuine concern. I’ve seen too many projects go awry, whether from DIY efforts or from hiring low-cost contractors. Ultimately, homeowners often end up paying more to rectify mistakes and lose valuable time in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much value does a bathroom remodel add?
With a joy score of 9.3, according to the National Association of Realtors, a bathroom remodel brings considerable value when it comes to better functionality and livability. 80% of homeowners have felt a major sense of accomplishment
when they think of the project.
As far as monetary value, you should expect to recoup 50-70% in resale value. On average, a bath remodel becomes outdated in about 15 years. If you’re considering regaining as much as possible from your investment, sell at the 10-year mark.
How much should a master bathroom remodel cost?
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association‘s design trends study, the average mean for a master bath is $32,000. That number is consistent with what we’re experiencing in Greensboro, North Carolina, and surrounding areas. See our bathroom remodel service page for other insights.
How much does it cost to remodel a small bathroom?
Anywhere from $5,000 up to $30,000. Although the demolition, labor costs, and the number of bath elements decrease based on bathroom size – going with luxury materials and elements will set you back considerably.
What is the average labor cost to remodel a bathroom?
20%. You should expect to pay around twenty percent of the total job cost in labor-associated fees. With the specialized workforce decreasing and salaries increasing rapidly we’re expecting the cost of labor to shoot up to 30% of the total bathroom remodeling cost in the near future.
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
The industry average is 8 weeks. At BathSafe Solutions, I made it my goal to give homeowners back their house in 3 weeks from the time everything is planned out and the contract is signed.
Does remodeling a bathroom Increase home value?
Yes. According to Remodels’ Cost vs. Value report for Greensboro, North Carolina, an upscale bathroom will increase the resale value by almost $33,858. An upscale bathroom addition adds $42,885 in resale value.
Is it worth converting half bath to full bath?
Yes. Both from a comfort perspective as well as a monetary one.
