DIY Bathroom Repair or Pro Help? The pros and cons
A newly renovated bathroom can change everything—from updated aesthetics to form and function. According to Angi, “The average cost for a bathroom remodel ranges from $6,623 to $16,873, with a national average of $11,476. Expect to pay even more if you choose high-end materials or change your bathroom layout.”
In the current cultural DIY phenomenon, it may be tempting to think that the average weekend warrior can take on a bathroom remodel (the YouTube video makes it look so easy!). And while that may be true for some experienced homeowners, many would benefit from the expertise of a well-trained technician.
It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of how long and how much effort your project will take to complete, the cost of materials, and the peace of mind that comes from doing a job yourself vs. knowing the job has been done right.
Before you see your money go down the drain, we’ve outlined the most popular bathroom repairs and which ones you should handle personally or professionally.
- Changing out Fixtures & Paint
Small projects, like replacing a faucet or toilet, or painting cabinets or walls, are more cost-effective if you do them yourself. According to HomeAdvisor, “You can save on the $380 to $800 cost to paint your bathroom.” Buying your fixtures can also save you the estimated 10% markup an expert would charge.
Blue Dot recommends: DIY. With a little research and a lot of patience, you can save on these small repairs that make a big impact.
- Structural Changes
The best way to save money is to keep your layout exactly as it is. Moving around walls, sinks, or tubs is like opening Pandora’s box and may affect things like plumbing, wiring, and meeting county inspection requirements.
Blue Dot recommends: Hire a professional. The extra cost upfront could save you a lot of money in the long run.
- Plumbing & Electrical
Not only could improper installation of pipes or faulty wiring lead to potential water damage or fires but also, you usually need a permit to make a major change. Pro tip: when having bathroom electrical work done, make sure to have a bath fan professionally installed or upgraded to keep humidity, moisture, and mold at bay.
Blue Dot recommends: Hire a professional. The peace of mind alone is worth it, not to mention ensuring your reno is up to code.
- Shower or Bathtub Installation.
Installing a tub or shower is a much more intricate project than it may seem at first glance. You need everything to be sealed tightly, with just the right slope, for proper drainage and to prevent water damage. It is also essential to ensure the tiling and plumbing work is on point because, if properly installed, it should last for decades.
Blue Dot recommends: Hire a professional. Your tub or shower will be the workhorse of your bathroom as well as a focal point—give it the attention it deserves right from the start.
When contemplating a bathroom remodel, it’s important to think about everything you hope to achieve. A DIY project can be fun and save you money, but only if it doesn’t cost you time, quality, and headaches in the process.
As with any renovation, bathroom renovations are prone to the domino effect; one simple swap can quickly lead to a major overhaul. Talk with a professional to consider all of your options. They may have insights you haven’t considered or don’t know to include. They can also give you an itemized budget and timeline to compare to your own.
Want to get a free home estimate for a new bathroom upgrade? Ask a Blue Dot professional! We’re happy to answer your questions and provide multiple options for you to review. Reliable home renovation is just a call or click away.
Call 785-272-1633 or request a free consultation here to connect with a Blue Dot expert!
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