Upgrading an old shower or tub might be troublesome, but it’s one of those chores that you shouldn’t put off eternally. When working within a tight budget, owners have fewer options. Luckily, it’s entirely possible to end up with a modern-looking and attractive shower while staying within a budgetary limit. We will present some great tips to help you accomplish this goal.
Planning and research are key
If the shower is old, the installations and piping underneath it might require more work than it first seems. Walls or flooring that have deteriorated too much will also most likely need replacement. These factors can significantly increase the renovation cost.
When planning an upgrade, research and measure how much material it would take to get everything done without a contractor. After that, consult multiple plumbers and remodeling services to determine whether DIYing the project would save a worthwhile sum. Regardless, a more extensive remodel is usually better left to the pros because owners are more likely to make mistakes.
An average shower or tub upgrade costs between $3,000 and $4,000, but the minimum price maybe a few hundred dollars less, depending on the scope of the remodel.
Refinishing vs. relining tubs
An older tub will usually function fine, but the liner and the surrounding tiles might need some refinishing touches or replacements. In some cases, a simple tub relining kit will work wonders for both the tub and tiling, allowing the owners to finish a remodel in record time. A refinishing kit is relatively straightforward to use and is an excellent short-term solution. However, it won’t change the aesthetic of the tub beyond superficial appearance like color.
Relining the tub will be necessary only in cases of severe deterioration and discoloration. A new liner improves durability since it adds a new layer of material. However, one downside of relining is that it slightly increases the tub’s overall size since the new liner fits on top of the old one rather than replacing it altogether.
Shower and tile replacement
Depending on the current shower’s appearance and owner’s requirements, a shower remodel can get pretty extensive. Some redesigns can tear out the shower tub and replace it with a walk-in shower without a sill. On average, shower upgrades cost more than relining a tub since owners must consider new tiles, drainage, and possible glass walls.
If the shower or tub needs new tiles to bring it to a modern aesthetic, there are a few decent budget options, namely acrylic and fiberglass panels. These don’t require significant installation knowledge, and their manufacturing process means owners can find designs in pretty much any style imaginable. New ceramic tiles will cost a bit more but provide a sturdier result and a classic look. However, professional tile replacement can cost up to $25 per square foot (tiles included), so consider DIYing the process if you intend to work within the budget.
New fixtures
Installing new fixtures like showerheads and faucets is an excellent way to instill new life into an outdated bathroom. Modern, sleek shower equipment can be relatively inexpensive and is typically simple to install.
When dealing with a particularly outdated bathroom, it might be worthwhile to contact a plumber. They can inspect the pipework in the bathroom and suggest possible upgrades to improve water flow and prevent deterioration.
If you need an honest, dependable plumber in the Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe or Chandler area, call Jimmy at 480-757-1273.
