During the COVID-19 pandemic, many homeowners chose to invest in their spaces. They added home offices, updated kitchens, transformed formal dining rooms and upgraded outdoor spaces. Post-pandemic, homeowners are spending more time and money on minor remodels and major renovations than ever before. Angi's 2021 State of Home Spending Report found that while maintenance spending held steady, "Home improvement spending rose 25% year-over-year." According to this report and the 2022 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, homeowners are giving their bathrooms a lot of attention. In fact, "guest bathrooms and other non-primary bathrooms are the second-most-frequently updated rooms." Houzz's study found that nearly a quarter of all homeowners who renovated in 2021 either remodeled a guest bathroom or a primary bathroom. In 2022, primary suites are now private sanctuaries where Washington State homeowners retreat after a long day of remote work. No space is more serene than a beautiful bathroom with a standing tub, steam shower and gorgeous vanity. But how much does it cost to remodel a bathroom in Snohomish County? Though costs vary, working with Snohomish County bathroom remodelers helps ensure homeowners have the best Washington bathroom remodeling experience. From a few cosmetic fixes in your powder bath to a major primary suite overhaul, we answer all your FAQ's about bathroom remodels. Follow below to learn all you need to know and download our free Home Remodeling Cost Guide for more information!
What is the Cost of Washington Bathroom Remodeling?
When remodeling the bathroom in your Everett, Lake Stevens, Marysville or Mill Creek home, you can expect to pay thousands. However, the exact cost of your remodel depends on the scope of your project, the location of your home and much more. Zonda’s 35th annual Cost vs. Value Report outlines the average cost and return on investment for different types of bathroom remodels.
However, homeowners should be encouraged to learn that, according to this report, they can expect to recoup 59% of their investment after selling their home. Updating a bathroom according to universal design standards – i.e. improving its accessibility for seniors and persons with disabilities – costs an average $42,105 USD. Homeowners can expect to recover 57% of that investment. An upscale bathroom remodel costs quite a bit more. The average cost of an upscale bathroom remodel is about $82,000, with a 54% ROI. Homeowners who choose to add a bathroom instead of remodeling an existing bathroom can expect to pay between $63,989 and $114,773 USD. Bathroom additions typically deliver an ROI of 52%.
Why Are Bathroom Remodels Popular in Washington State?
Of course, the financial return on investment is not the only reason homeowners remodel their bathrooms. As noted above, accessibility is one reason homeowners remodel their bathrooms. To this end, homeowners might choose to relocate their primary suite to the ground floor or lower the height of their vanity.
Installing a walk-in shower is particularly popular amongst homeowners hoping to age in place. This is because the majority of falls at home (up to 80%) occur in the bathroom. In fact, a 2014 study found “falls in the bathroom were almost 2.5 times more likely to result in injury” than in other rooms. Because of this, designers often recommend homeowners eliminate tubs, which can be difficult to climb in and out of. They suggest installing walk-in showers with benches, treads and grab bars.
Bathroom remodels are also popular because they allow homeowners to personalize important spaces they spend a lot of time in. Homeowners who purchase fixer-uppers often opt for bathroom remodels because the bathrooms are either too small, stylistically outdated or in poor condition.
What Impacts Bathroom Remodel Cost in Snohomish County?
But what do Snohomish County bathroom remodelers charge? As noted above, cost varies significantly from project to project. The current condition of your bathroom will impact the final total. A bathroom in poor condition will require more extensive work from the Snohomish County contractors you hire.
The quality and craftsmanship involved in your project will also impact the final total for your bathroom remodel. Whether you choose designer finishes or builder-grade materials will either increase or reduce your bill. The scope of your project – i.e. whether you want to build an addition or cosmetically update an existing space – is another determiner of cost.
Below, we explain how the age, location and condition of your home, the project's scope and the design team you choose impacts cost. Keep in mind that the scope, quality and craftsmanship of your project also impacts your bathroom remodel ROI.
Size, Scope and Scale
The size, scope and scale of your bathroom remodel will contribute heavily to the cost of your project. A minor cosmetic remodel costs less compared to a major structural remodel. Repainting walls, replacing an old tub and updating countertops costs far less than adding a walk-in shower, moving plumbing or extending the space. The scale of your project will likely depend on how old your home is and how well the bathroom currently functions for your family.
As such, homeowners must first determine whether they want a bathroom refresh or a bathroom redesign. A fresh coat of paint, brand-new hardware and gorgeous floor tile might be enough to update your space. For inspiration as you consider a powder bath remodel, click through a few recent projects here. However, some homeowners need a bigger bathroom, a more accessible bathroom or a completely relocated bathroom. If you are planning a major bathroom remodel, check out a few primary bathroom remodel ideas here.
Location
Next, the cost of your bathroom remodel will depend heavily on where your home is located. If you are planning a structural remodel that involves demolition or construction, local ordinances will restrict when you can work on the bathroom. Whether you need permits and how long the permitting process takes in your area could also impact the cost of your remodel.
Availability of experienced labor – e.g. contractors, designers, specialty trade partners – will also impact the cost of your bathroom remodel. Last but not least, choosing imported materials over local materials can drive-up costs too. Local materials typically cost less than imported materials because shipping, handling and VAT fees are lower. If you live in a remote area of Washington State, you can expect to spend more to source materials and labor.
Thankfully, homeowners who choose to work with Snohomish County bathroom remodelers need not source their own labor or materials. To find the right remodeler for your project, check out our recent post “How to Find a Reliable Remodeler in Everett, WA.”
Structural Changes Requiring the Help of Snohomish County Bathroom Remodelers
Another element that impacts the final cost of a bathroom remodel is whether structural changes or updates to essential systems are required. Building an addition or significantly altering the layout of your bathroom will often require structural changes. In such cases, you will likely need the help of a structural engineer, architect or other expert. Costs increase with the complexity of your project and the number of experts needed to consult on said project. Working with a design/build remodeler helps keep cost down and ensures streamlined communication among the various experts.
Finishes and Selections
Of course, the quality of finishes and other selections will contribute to the cost of your bathroom remodel. Luxury finishes – like marble countertops, ceramic tile flooring and VOC-free paint – will cost more. If you opt for a custom-designed steam shower or fancy clawfoot tub, you should also expect a higher sticker price. Smart technology can also cost, but is worth the high price for many homeowners. Some bathroom smart tech -- like smart valves -- can actually save homeowners money by preventing floods and reducing water waste.
Age and Condition of Your Home
The age and condition of your home could also impact your bathroom remodel cost. In addition to building a bump-out or knocking down a wall, you might also need to extend or reroute certain systems. This is more common in older homes, many of which have outdated or faulty electrical and/or plumbing. In some cases, your remodeler might need to bring these systems up to current Washington State building codes.
You might need to work with an electrician or plumber to complete a complicated bathroom remodel in which updates to essential systems are required. Working alongside Snohomish County bathroom remodelers or a general contractor Snohomish County provides access to the best electricians, plumbers and subcontractors in our area.
Craftsmanship and Quality
Lastly, the craftsmanship and quality of your bathroom remodel will impact its total cost. Washington State homeowners often assume that a DIY bathroom remodel will cost far less than hiring Snohomish County bathroom remodelers. However, DIY projects often end up costing a lot more in the long-run. This is especially common when homeowners lack the experience, time and/or resources to complete the project.
Professional remodelers can identify problems before they derail a project. They will provide an accurate budget and timeline while advising on the best layout and materials. Plus, experienced contractors and remodelers have access to quality vendors and highly skilled tradespeople. Remodelers apply for permits, ensure your project meets current building codes and keep the project on schedule.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovations WA
How Much Does it Cost to Remodel a 100 Sq. Ft. Bathroom? 50 Sq. Ft?
Cost per square foot varies significantly both nationally and across Washington State. For example, this cost estimate from Patch.com says Seattle homeowners can expect to pay around "$125 per square foot". While HomeAdvisor by Angie claims one might pay as little as "$70 per square foot for low-end fixtures with DIY labor and around $250 per square foot for high-end fixtures installed by a licensed contractor."
Fixr remodeling expert Edgar Gualoto explains, “Top-of-the-line appliances and high-end features may increase the overall cost. Cabinets built to your specifications, spa-like shower fixtures, frameless glass shower, curbless shower, freestanding soaker/jet tub, hydronic heat flooring, natural stone or quartz countertops, double vanity, recessed shower storage, ample storage space and tile material are just some examples of attributes that will alter the overall cost and can go as high as $100K." However, they also warn homeowners that because the demand for siding and other building materials has grown over the past year, manufacturers are increasing materials prices. Prices have gone up 5% to 10% this year, and many parts of the country are experiencing long delivery times. If you're planning a building project, we recommend starting as early as possible in the season, preparing for potential price fluctuations, and allowing extra time to order materials.
Is a Bathroom Remodel Worth It?
As noted above, the value of your bathroom remodel far exceeds its monetary return on investment (ROI). Is your bathroom remodel worth it? That depends on how much it improves your daily life. Will you feel more relaxed if you update your primary bath?
Do you think guests will feel less cramped and more comfortable if you redo the powder or guest bath? Will a lower vanity and a curbless shower protect older members of your household from dangerous accidents? Asking yourself these questions will help determine whether a bathroom remodel is worth the money and time it takes.
What is the ROI of a Bathroom Remodel in Washington State?
How much money homeowners can recoup on their bathroom remodel depends on the scope of their project. It also depends on the quality of finishes and the location of their home. According to Michael Kolomatsky in a New York Times article, you can expect an ROI "of roughly 60 percent" for a full remodel. Kolomatsky notes that "an average bathroom makeover increased a home’s resale value by more than enough to pay for the renovation."
Writing for House Method, Elisabeth Beauchamp writes that a "bathroom remodel can up your home’s value by 3%," which is substantial for many homeowners. According to Beauchamp, the average ROI for a bathroom remodel in Washington State in 2022 is 75.80%.
Working with VanderBeken Remodel on Your Snohomish County Bathroom Remodel
Are you planning a bathroom remodel in Snohomish County? The team at VanderBeken Remodel can help. With decades of experience, many awards and passionate team members, our design-build firm can create the perfect bathroom for your family. Click here to see what our past clients have to say about their experience with us. Learn more about our remodel process here. Do you have more questions about bathroom renovations WA? Contact our team here. We're happy to help!
