How much does remodeling cost?

A wise old college professor liked to answer questions like this by asking, “How long is a piece of string?” Of course the answer is that it depends, but we can start to answer this question by looking at some average costs. Because the possible range of costs is so wide, experienced remodelers begin by setting a budget before embarking on a journey of discovery into the dazzling world of remodeling options.

Beginning with what would be considered a small remodeling project, consider a bathroom measuring eight feet long by five feet wide and 7 feet high. Remodeling this bathroom will cost approximately $8,000 to $19,000 depending on material selections. Of course it can be higher or lower with some exceptional choices. The cost of a kitchen remodel averages $18,000 to $65,000 also varying with material selections and several other factors. The most common variables that affect the cost are the scope of work, the quality of materials selected and the amount of special added details.

The most expensive remodeling projects involve removing, moving or changing walls and moving the position of plumbing fixtures. Right away these items involve engineering or architect fees and city building department approval which can run into the thousands before any materials are purchased and any work begins. Projects at the higher end of the cost scale also include some of the following: professional design fees, custom cabinetry made out of solid wood, counter tops fabricated with natural or man-made stone, premium plumbing fixtures, full tile showers with detailed features and premium quality tile floor coverings. Homeowners doing these projects usually invest several thousand dollars in the planning and design stages before any demolition begins and sometimes have separate contracts for the design/planning phase and the actual construction. Materials are usually selected from specialty or boutique suppliers with appliances being purchased through commercial or specialty outlets. Larger bathrooms and kitchens are also cost more to remodel.

At the other end of the cost scale the most economical remodeling projects are done within the boundaries of the existing floor plan using materials that are selected by the homeowner with some assistance from the contractor. The cost of kitchen and vanity cabinets is reduced by selecting prefabricated units manufactured to standard lengths using particle board. Bathroom vanities that are prefabricated with sink, faucet and top are also a cost saver. Bathroom showers made with a fiberglass enclosure (rather than tile) and shower rod/curtain (rather than a shower door) are common cost saving choices as well. Materials, appliances and fixtures for more moderate remodeling projects are usually found at big box stores like Home Depot, Lowes, Costco, Best Buy and local department stores.

Ultimately, the cost of remodeling depends on your budget. With some research and the help of a good contractor you will be able to select materials and choose a scope of work that will bring the most value for your budget and result in a finished space you love.