A bathroom renovation is one of those DIY projects many of us plan to take on but often hesitate to start. The idea of handling plumbing, tiling, electrical work, and hardware installations can feel overwhelming—not to mention staying within a budget.
But don't worry, Aussie Hire is here to support you in tackling the jobs you never thought you could do yourself—yes, even a bathroom renovation!
In this DIY guide, we'll explore six tips for renovating your bathroom on a budget.
Tip 1: Define the Scope
Every successful project begins with a clear scope—determining exactly what you plan to accomplish. For your bathroom renovation, this means defining what "renovation" means to you. Is it as straightforward as updating the fixtures, or are you considering a complete makeover with new plumbing, tiling, lighting, and cabinetry?
If you're collaborating with others, it's important to get their input. Discuss what's feasible within your timeframe and budget. Make lists of desired changes and create sketches or plans to visualize the new bathroom.
Tip 2: Consider Practicalities
Once you have a rough design, think about the practical aspects. Is your dream of a spa-like bathroom with a freestanding tub and double vanity realistic? Measure your space carefully—will everything fit comfortably, including any new features?
Tip 3: Do Your Research
With measurements in hand, visit suppliers for fixtures, tiles, and cabinetry, and note down the dimensions of the items you're considering. Ask about the space required for installation and safety, and make sure to add that to your measurements.
Your shopping list might include fixtures, tiles, vanities, lighting, mirrors, and storage solutions. Ensure that your bathroom can accommodate any heavy or large items you plan to install, such as a wall-mounted vanity or a large shower enclosure.
Tip 4: Know Your Limits
While this is a DIY project, some tasks are best left to professionals because a) you may lack the required skills, and b) certain tasks legally require licensed tradespeople. This includes electrical work, plumbing, and waterproofing.
You can handle tasks like removing old tiles or fixtures yourself, but installation involving plumbing or electrical connections should be done by a qualified professional. Additionally, check if the tiling or other features you want require expert installation.
Tip 5: Budget Wisely
We've all seen renovation shows where budgets spiral out of control. In real life, there's no extra funding, so it's essential to create a budget that reflects the actual costs.
Set your budget only after pricing out fixtures, tiles, equipment rentals, and any professional labor. Add a contingency of about 10% for unexpected expenses, such as additional tool rentals or extra time needed for tricky installations.
Tip 6: Establish a Timeline
Every renovation needs a timeline. Whether you aim to finish the bathroom before guests arrive or before a significant event, a timeline helps keep the project on track.
Use a computer calendar, whiteboard, or notebook to plan out every step needed to complete each phase of the renovation. For instance, create a detailed timeline for the demolition phase to ensure that all necessary tasks are accounted for.
