How much would it cost to remodel a small bathroom? The general average for a small bathroom remodel cost will set you back around $6,500 to $10,000 for the typical 40 square foot bathroom.
With the given average, you can expect bathroom remodeling costs to range anywhere from $1,500 up to $15,000 or more. This of course will depend on the specifics of a remodeling job as well as the dimensions of your bathroom. A low end remodel averages at $70 per square foot while a more elaborate remodel can cost you $250 per square foot.
With so many factors to consider, this article will take you through a general breakdown of costs you’ll come across with a small bathroom remodel.
How Much Would It Cost To Remodel a Small Bathroom
Cost of Materials: $5-$25 per square foot
When it comes to small bathroom remodel costs, we suggest setting a generous budget for the cost of materials. You’ll find the most variation in the price of materials here.
For instance, hardwood flooring can be a popular option, but it can be expensive, with costs ranging from $5 to $8 per square foot. Ceramic tiles are another popular option, but they can also be costly, with prices ranging from $12 to $23 per square foot. Other materials to consider include vinyl flooring, which is a budget-friendly option, costing around $2 to $5 per square foot, and natural stone, which can be more expensive, with costs ranging from $8 to $20 per square foot.
Weigh the cost of materials against their durability and aesthetic appeal to make the most cost-effective choice for your bathroom remodel.
Plumbing: $750-$3000
Plumbing work is expected in a any bathroom remodel. The range of plumbing work can vary depending on the scope of the remodel and the current condition of the bathroom.
One of the most common types of plumbing work you’ll encounter in a is the installation or removal of new fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and showerheads. This can involve running new water lines and drain pipes to the new fixtures, as well as connecting them to the existing plumbing. The cost of installing new fixtures can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type of fixtures chosen.
Bathroom Fixtures: $500-$2500
Expect to have a large chunk of your remodel budget go to bathroom fixtures. You can control the pricing more on this end as you can mix and match different fixtures to different price ranges. Here are common bathroom fixtures that you’ll need to consider.
Toilet: $500
The cost of a new toilet for a small bathroom remodel can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic model to several thousand dollars for a high-end model. The cost can depend on the design, features and materials used in the toilet, such as porcelain, ceramic, or glass.
Bathroom Sink: $300
The cost of a new sink can range from $100 for a basic model to $400. Depending on the design, material, and how large your sink is, prices will vary. Keep in mind as well that the requirements to mount a bathroom sink will also vary in costs. A simple stand alone sink will cost less to install than a wall-mounted sink.
Showerhead: $75
A showerhead is another important fixture in a bathroom. The cost of a new shower head can range from $75 to $100 with a $50 installation cost. Shower heads come in a wide range of styles and designs, and can be made of chrome, stainless steel, or other materials.
Lighting Fixtures: $200
The cost of lighting fixtures can vary widely depending on the type and style of fixtures chosen. On average, a basic lighting package for a small bathroom can range from $100 to $500, while a high-end, designer package can cost $1000 or more.
As you can tell, the cost of fixtures in your bathroom will be determined by the design and material of the fixture you choose. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot to get high-quality bathroom fixtures. Many brands offer aesthetic and well functioning fixtures to suit many types of budgets.
Electricals: $500-$1000
The cost of electrical work for a small bathroom remodel can vary depending on the scope of the project and the complexity of the electrical system. On average, a basic electrical upgrade for a small bathroom can cost around $500 to $1000. This would include updating the lighting fixtures, installing new outlets and switches, and possibly adding an exhaust fan.
However, if more extensive electrical work is required such as running new circuits or upgrading the service panel, the cost can increase significantly, potentially reaching $3000 or more.
We suggest consulting with an electrician and contractor to get the best estimate for what amount of money you should set aside to set up the electricals in your bathroom.
Additional Small Bathroom Remodel Costs
As mentioned, a large working budget is needed to cover all expected and unexpected costs. As your bathroom remodel is underway, don’t be surprised at the following unexpected costs.
- Permits and Inspections
Depending on the scope of the project and your local building codes, you may need to obtain permits and have inspections done. These can add several hundred dollars to the overall cost of the remodel.
- Tear-out and Disposal
Removing the existing bathroom fixtures and materials can be a labor-intensive process, and the cost of disposing of these materials can be significant.
- Unexpected Repairs
During the remodel, it’s not uncommon to discover hidden issues such as mold, water damage, or structural problems that need to be addressed. These repairs can add thousands of dollars to the overall cost of the remodel.
- Lead Paint Abatement
If your bathroom was built before 1978, it may contain lead paint, which must be removed by a certified professional. This can add several thousand dollars to the cost of the remodel.
- Upgrades and Changes
As the project progresses, you may decide to upgrade to higher-end fixtures, tiles, or countertops or create changes.
With that said, you’d be remiss to not budget for these hidden costs. As a general rule, factor these hidden costs into your budget so you’re ready to deal with them if/when the need arises.
Overall, expect to say $6,500 to $10,000 if you are asked “how much would it cost to remodel a small bathroom?”. This should cover everything from materials, plumbing, fixtures, electricals and labor, all while giving you extra for any surprise costs. Although bathroom remodeling is a pricey project, keep in mind that it is an investment.
DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor
When considering a small bathroom remodel, many homeowners weigh the pros and cons of tackling the project themselves versus hiring a professional contractor. While a DIY approach can significantly cut down on labor costs, it comes with its own set of challenges. Bathroom remodels often involve complex tasks like plumbing and electrical work, which require specialized knowledge. Mistakes in these areas can lead to costly repairs down the road or even potential safety hazards.
On the other hand, hiring a contractor ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently. Professional contractors bring experience, expertise, and often have access to industry discounts on materials. This means that while hiring a contractor may come with an upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run by avoiding mistakes and reducing material expenses. Additionally, contractors can navigate building permits and inspections more easily, ensuring your remodel meets local codes. In short, for intricate remodels, especially those involving plumbing or electrical updates, hiring a contractor can provide peace of mind and a smoother process.
Other than the fact that a bathroom is used daily multiple times a day, a beautiful and properly functioning bathroom increases your home’s resale value. Making it the best small bathroom it can be is worth the effort and budget. Happy remodeling!
