Planning a bathroom renovation in Melbourne in 2023? Wondering how much it will cost? This article is for you!
We’ll break down the average costs of everything from materials to labour, so you can have a clearer idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your location and the specific work that needs to be done.
DIY VS. PROFESSIONAL RENOVATION SERVICE
Let’s start by addressing this debate upfront – we assure you, remodelling your bathroom by yourself as a DIY project is not a more affordable option. By the time you purchase all the necessary materials and appliances (not to mention the time and energy spent on the project), it’s all too easy to blow out your budget. The risk is also much higher – if you make a mistake at any point during the renovation, it could cost you thousands of dollars to rectify the issue.
The secret to a successful renovation that will last for years and add real value to your home is expert planning and management of all the stages. This includes coming up with innovative and cost-effective design ideas, scheduling and managing multiple trades, and sourcing the perfect materials. Every decision needs to be made carefully to avoid delays or blowing the budget.
Renovating your bathroom can be a daunting task, but our team of experienced professionals can help you every step of the way. We’ll work with you to create a budget that fits your needs, and we’ll make sure the renovation is completed on time and on budget. We’ll also help you select the perfect fixtures and finishes for your new bathroom.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO REDO/REMODEL YOUR BATHROOM IN 2024?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, it’s recommended that you budget approximately $40,000. This price includes everything from design and demolition to trades, fixtures, fittings, cleaning and overall project management.
Other than the kitchen, one of the most expensive areas to upgrade is the bathroom. It may incredibly increase the value of your house, but it can also cost you a fortune. The full overhaul cost of a bathroom depends on what you want to upgrade.
If you’re planning to replace a few features and fixtures to revitalise the space, then you won’t have to spend a significant amount of money. On the other hand, if you want to have a full-scale renovation project, then you may have to shell out a large amount of money.
As such, thorough planning is a must to ensure the success of the project. Aside from the layout and design, you also need to consider changing the plumbing, electrical wiring, and the moisture content of the bathroom. Here’s what you should know about the cost and other techniques of bathroom remodelling.
UNDERSTANDING THE BREAKDOWN OF BATHROOM RENOVATION COSTS; FROM SHOWERS AND VANITIES TO BATHTUBS AND TAPWARE
Labour is by far the biggest expense – 70% of the total cost will go towards the labour involved in creating the new space, with only 30% allocated to materials and finishes (this analysis is approximate as the cost of particular home improvement projects can always vary).
This is why it’s so important to choose high-quality waterproofing and plumbing work if you want your bathroom to last. If you’re moving plumbing points from their original location or installing additional elements, such as separate overhead and hand showers, plumbing costs will increase.
If you’re looking to add some extra style and functionality to your bathroom, consider including a vanity unit in your renovation plans. Cabinetry costs will depend on the complexity of the job and the quality of the finishes selected, but including a stylish vanity unit can really elevate the look of your bathroom. If you’re on a tighter budget, there are some beautiful, ready-made vanity units available these days that will look incredible in your space without emptying your wallet (our designers can assist with this).
The cost of tiling can be a significant factor when planning a bathroom renovation, especially if you are looking to cover the walls from floor to ceiling. However, it is important to consider how you can use tiles strategically to create a luxurious look on a budget. For example, incorporating tiles into focal points such as around the sink basin or shower can really add drama and make a small bathroom feel larger. Tiles can also be used to create interesting patterns or designs that will catch the eye and add personality to your space.
LABOUR EXPENSES VS. FINISHED PRODUCTS
Just like upgrading a kitchen, there are considerable costs in the finished products of a bathroom renovation. From plumbing, shower surrounds, bathtubs, flooring, cabinets, and bathroom fixtures, these products have similar price tags with the kitchen cabinets, equipment, and countertop installations.
When renovating your bathroom, careful selection of products is key to keeping your budget in check. With so many choices on the market, it can be difficult to find the perfect product that meets all your needs.
However, by taking the time to consider factors such as look, feel, and budget, you can find the right product for your bathroom. Additionally, it’s important to remember that not all products are created equal – some may be more durable than others, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
There are many ways to upgrade your bathroom – adding heated towel rails, underfloor heating, and other features can really optimise the space for Melbourne living. Speak with your interior designer to explore all the possibilities and create the perfect bathroom for your needs.
SHOWER & BATHROOM RENOVATION COSTS: AVOIDING MISTAKES
Navigating the exciting yet challenging path of a bathroom renovation can be quite an endeavour, especially when mistakes are made. Avoiding these costly missteps can save you a significant amount of money, time, and stress. Here is an insightful list of expensive blunders to avoid when undertaking your shower and/or entire bathroom remodelling project.
- Skipping the Planning Stage: Diving headfirst into your bathroom renovation without a proper plan is a recipe for disaster. Adequate planning will provide a realistic estimate of the shower renovation cost, ensuring that you don’t run over your budget midway.
- Opting for a Full Renovation When a Cosmetic One Would Suffice: Full-scale bathroom renovations can have a high cost. The cost of a bathroom remodel can be significantly reduced if the existing structure and fixtures are in good shape and only need a cosmetic lift. Make sure to evaluate the condition of your current bathroom before deciding on the extent of the renovation.
- Hiring Unreliable Tradespeople: One of the most critical aspects of any renovation project is the workforce. The cost of bathroom renovation can quickly escalate if you contract dodgy or unreliable tradespeople. It’s crucial to do thorough research and check references before hiring – remember, the cheapest quote doesn’t always mean the best result.
- Choosing Trendy Over Functional: It’s easy to be swayed by the latest bathroom trends when planning your renovation – however, this can be a costly mistake. Trends change, but the functionality of your bathroom will always remain a priority. Remember, the average price of a bathroom renovation increases with complexity, so always consider utility over aesthetics.
- Ignoring Local Regulations: If you’re considering major structural changes in your bathroom renovation, you must be aware of the local building codes and regulations. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and the need for rework, which can dramatically increase the overall cost.
- Neglecting Long-term Maintenance Costs: While you might be focused on the upfront cost of your bathroom remodel, don’t forget to consider the long-term maintenance costs. Certain high-end materials might look great, but could require frequent and costly upkeep.
- Overcapitalising on Your Renovation: In locations like Melbourne, where the average bathroom renovations Melbourne cost can be quite high, it’s easy to overcapitalise on your renovation project. This means spending more on your bathroom renovation than what you could recoup in a potential sale. Always keep a balance between your renovation budget and the potential return on investment.
- Not Getting Multiple Quotes: Never settle for the first quote you receive. The price of a bathroom renovation can vary significantly among contractors – always seek multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Keeping these common mistakes in mind can help you navigate your bathroom renovation smoothly and economically, ensuring a stunning result that enhances the value and enjoyment of your Melbourne home.
WHO WILL HANDLE THE WORK?
You have to decide who will do the renovation. Are you going to hire a primary contractor? Or subcontractors to distribute work phases, or are you going to handle everything yourself?
Hiring a general contractor would be a good thing as he/she will handle all different phases of the project keeping everything in good hands. Also, hiring subcontractors will develop a fast-working environment. These professionals are essential to improve productivity and assurance.
You could go without a general contractor and hire the subcontractors yourself. In this way, you will handle all management related duties. If you know something about the project, have an organisational skill, and especially time; then taking care of the responsibility could save you more money. But you’ll need to take into consideration that the cost of labour and other decisions would be yours to decide.
THE AVERAGE COST OF INDIVIDUAL SUBCONTRACTORS FOR BATHROOM RENOS
- Handyman – $60 to $90 per hour
- Plumber – $45 to $65 per hour
- Tile Installer – $5 to $10 per square foot
- Carpenter – $70 per hour
- Electrician – $65 to $85 per hour
- Bathroom Designer – $60 to $160 per hour
It’s essential to ask your subcontractors about any milestone or deposit payments they may require and demand. In this way, you need to make sure your general contractor can handle the accounting to avoid any lapses and shortage.
HOW TO CRUNCH THE NUMBERS FOR YOUR UNIQUE BATHROOM REMODEL
When planning a renovation, it can be tricky to determine the right and exact budget. There are different factors to determine the value of your renovation project, and it will depend on the size of the area. From small to master bathroom size, the fixtures that you need to fit will vary in price depending on the type and style of bathroom you choose to have.
The accessories that you may want to change can include floor plan, faucets, showers, tubs, cabinets, lighting, and countertops. So here’s a list of options with their different approximated prices.
| Option Fixtures | Low Cost | Mid Cost | High Cost |
| Install Flooring | $800 – $2,000 | $2,500 – $3,600 | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| Install Toilet | $130 – $250 | $340 – $480 | $550 – $780 |
| Install countertops | $900 – $2,000 | $2,800 – $4,100 | $5,000 – $6,500 |
| Install sink | $190 – $900 | $1,400 – $2,300 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| Install bathtub | $400 – $1,500 | $2,600 – $4,100 | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| Install shower | $450 – $2,000 | $3,000 – $4,800 | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Install cabinets | $900 – $2,000 | $2,800 – $4,100 | $5,000 – $6,500 |
| Install lighting fixture | $120 – $900 | $1,100 – $1,700 | $2,500 – $4,000 |
How Can You Save Money?
There are lots of ways to cut up your expenses for the project. When you’re planning for your new bathroom, it’s normal to fantasise about fancy, elegant-looking, and luxurious bath. But the reality can hit you hard when you realise that the price for that perfection is out of reach.
Did you ever ask yourself if you can still revamp your bathroom even if you’re on a tight budget? Well, you don’t have to worry because yes, you can still create the most suitable bathroom for you. Here’s what you can do to cut your expenses.
Subway Tile at its Best
Sure, you can pick out the most gorgeous and elegant-looking tile in the market. But at $100 per square foot? You won’t be able to finish what you’ve started. Consider using a subway tile as your main flooring in the bathroom, and you can make a decorative tile using any expensive tile of your choice.
In this way, you can have a clean and elegant-looking bathroom with only just a $3 per square foot slab. This classic subway tile has an appeal that you harmonise with most of the decors.
Do It Yourself
Okay, now we mentioned earlier the dangers of renovating your bathroom yourself, but for those with design and construction experience, DIY projects are one of the ways you can save money.
However, you have to keep in mind that even a DIY project would require thorough planning. For example, when doing a DIY project, you need to list down all of the equipment you can use to avoid any lapses.
Also, don’t assume that when doing a DIY project, you won’t have to spend something. In addition to your equipment, you’ll need to hire or rent a skip bin to take away all of the debris, for example.
Add More Light, Not Windows
Adding windows can cost you more than adding lights. You don’t have to cut a big hole in your bathroom to add brightness to the area. Although having more windows is a favourite among homeowners nowadays, installing more light is cheaper than adding more holes.
In addition, there’s an alternative that you can install to add more brightness to your bathroom. A sun tube or a solar tube is a brilliant device which you can install between the rafters of your attic. These tubes are flexible – a range of 10 up to 20 inches in diameter can funnel natural sunlight down to your bathroom. Solar tubes are cost-effective and can range from $200-$400 compared to a $1,500 double-pane window.
BATHROOM RENOVATION COSTS: THE FINAL TAKEAWAY
Revamping a bathroom is a costly job. You have to be more realistic with your plan and don’t expect to have a fully renovated bathroom with a small budget. Evaluate everything and plan your design thoroughly. If you have the budget, then you can upgrade to the most suitable and luxurious bathroom you’ve ever had. Good luck!
Ready to get started?
As we touched on earlier in the article, the cost of a bathroom renovation varies. However, working with GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens means knowing exactly where you stand every step of the way – we pride ourselves on our transparency.
Together, our expert designers and builders will work closely alongside you to deliver tailored results on whatever budget works best for you.
From bathroom renovations and kitchen remodeling to home extensions and more; get in touch with the GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens team today.
James Scully
Operations Manager
James studied Property at RMIT University where he learnt the fundamentals of construction and project management. Over the last twelve years he’s spent time working on both commercial and residential projects, working closely with all trades to gain valuable knowledge in all aspects of construction whilst honing in the skills he studied at RMIT.
