Home & Garden
California Homeowners: Should You Remodel Your Own Bathroom?
If you're deciding whether to DIY or hire a pro bathroom remodeler, we can help you decide.
Here in California, remodeling your bathroom can add a great deal of value to your home. But if you aren’t looking to sell right away, it can feel like a splurge. Of course, the cost of new plumbing, a new sink/bathtub, tiles, and more can add up.
You might be wondering if you can do the job on your own to cut costs. If you’re quite handy, you may be able to save on some labor. Here’s what you need to consider before heading to the home improvement store.
Should You DIY Your Bathroom Remodel?
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Before you hit up Home Depot, take a serious look at your skill set. A bathroom remodel requires advanced home improvement skills, and you’ll want to think hard about if you can make the results look professional. Otherwise, you might be staring at uneven tiles for many years to come.
You’ll also want to take time into consideration. A professional bathroom remodel can take between four and five weeks, so you’ll probably want to double that when doing it yourself. Ask yourself if you can live without this bathroom for that length of time.
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To ensure these high-value rooms retain and even increase the value of your home, it’s really best to leave big renovations up to the pros. That said, there are many ways you can save on your next bathroom remodel.
Looking for a contractor to remodel your bathroom? Find a pro nearby.
How To Save On Your Bathroom Remodel
Even with professional help, there are ways you can save money on your next bathroom remodel. You can purchase fixtures yourself and save on the contractor’s 10 percent fee.
You can also do some of the grunt work, like removing tiles before your contractor arrives. If you’re a decent painter, tell your contractor you will handle this phase of the job as well — just be sure to ask them when is the best time to do so during the overall remodel.
If you have a little bit of experience in home improvement, there are other small tasks you can do yourself as well. You can install a toilet, faucet, or sink without extensive expertise. This can save between $150 and $500.
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