You’re thinking about a bathroom remodel for your investment property, but you’d like to keep costs down. Fortunately, there are plenty of attractive options for a low end bathroom remodel. Whether you’re refinishing your existing bathtub or working with repurposed materials, your property can have a sparkling bathroom without breaking the bank.
Choose Budget-Friendly Copycat Materials
Many popular bathroom trends come with a hefty price tag. A new stone countertop or real wood floor looks impressive, but the cost can be pretty steep. Fortunately, there are less expensive alternatives for a low end bathroom remodel that can still add an elegant flair:
- Luxury vinyl flooring or plank vinyl instead of real wood
- Laminate countertops instead of granite
- Ceramic and porcelain imitation marble for backsplashes
If you have your heart set on the real thing, look in a store that sells repurposed building materials. The prices are lower and the proceeds often help a charitable cause.
Paint the Existing Floor
Is your wood or linoleum bathroom floor looking dingy or simply outdated? The good news is that you don’t have to rip out and replace an already existing floor. You can save tons of money by painting the floor instead of replacing it. Plus, you’ll be adding some pizzazz to your bathroom décor. Here are some creative options:
- Paint existing wood floor with protective enamel
- Refresh linoleum with chalk paint and polyurethane sealer
- Paint stenciled designs on the flooring
- Choose a paint color for the floor that contrasts with fixture colors
Repair and Refinish Fixtures
Before you remove an old bathtub or fixtures, consider repairing or refinishing them instead. Why pay more to replace a yellowed or peeling tub or shower when you can refinish it for less? You can even update the color of the surrounding tile with tub and tile refinishing products. These products usually work well on ceramic, fiberglass and porcelain tubs.
An acrylic bathtub liner is more costly than refinishing but less expensive than installing a new tub. Unlike removing and replacing a tub, a liner installation does not require the removal of the adjacent flooring. You can even include a new surround if you are not happy with the existing wall. A liner cannot be installed, however, on an acrylic, fiberglass or freestanding tub.
Update Hardware
A simple change in hardware can make a big difference in your bathroom’s appearance. New towel racks, robe hooks or cabinet knobs can update the whole room quickly and inexpensively. For example, you can refresh an outdated bathroom by replacing an old brass faucet with a chrome faucet and crystal knobs.
Try looking in thrift stores or antique shops for your bathroom hardware. A unique vintage or statement piece can add a creative touch.
Bathroom hardware is available in a variety of materials:
- Glass
- Crystal
- Brass
- Oil-rubbed bronze
- Wood
Hire a Professional Contractor
For more than a decade, Boston-area investment property owners have relied on RH Blanchard for remodels and renovations. Our experienced professionals provide top-quality service for large and small projects. When you’re ready to begin your bathroom remodel, contact us for a free quote.
