Home 101: How to Tackle a Small Bathroom Remodel

Bigger isn't always better — especially when it comes to remodeling the bathroom. Small bathrooms are often considerably less expensive to remodel than larger bathrooms because there's less square footage to work with. This means fewer materials are needed to make the space look brand new. And most of the time, the cost of labor will be lower as well.

But what is there to do with that half-bath, and will it be expensive? Let's take a closer look at the possibilities and pricing for your small bathroom remodel.

Maximize the Space

Cut the clutter: A bathroom needs a toilet, a sink, and some type of small shelving unit. Everything extra (spare toiletries, hair dryer, etc.) belongs in the linen closet.

Open up on the floor: A cabinet underneath the sink not only takes up space, but it can also look clunky. Consider replacing the entire unit with a pedestal or wall-mounted sink.

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Accessorize: Small decorations can majorly enhance your space. Just make sure they don't overwhelm the bathroom or feel intrusive. Also, stick with soft colors for the walls — they're easier on the eyes and can help a small space appear larger.

Illuminate: Lighting fixtures that jut out from walls or the ceiling take up precious space. Recessed lighting makes your bathroom feel much less cramped and can still effectively illuminate specific areas.

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Fix the Fixtures

Start with the shower: Some half-bathrooms are actually large enough to accommodate a small standing shower. Opt for clear glass doors on the shower to give the impression of more floor space. If you're installing a new shower, replacing an existing one or doing anything that involves modifying the plumbing, you should enlist the help of a professional.

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Take on the tub: If your small bathroom already has a bathtub, consider swapping it out for a shower or a walk-in tub. This usually frees up a considerable amount of floor space.

Now for potty talk: Your existing toilet may be fine, but there often smaller toilets available that work just as well. Low-profile toilets can create the illusion of more space and aren't any more difficult to maintain than a standard-size toilet, but they may not be suitable for homes with elderly or handicapped residents. Tankless toilets and wall mounted toilets tend to take up less space than a standard toilet, but the more complex plumbing associated with these types of toilets may deter homeowners from installing them.

Time to vent: Bathtubs and showers big and small need adequate ventilation to resist the buildup of mold.

Consider Your Costs

The average homeowner spends in $9,548 on a bathroom remodel, but with a small to medium-sized bathroom, you can typically fix up the essentials for between $3,500 and $7,000. Below is a more specific breakdown of what you can expect to spend on each part of your small bathroom remodel.

Installing a bathtub
Average cost: $400 to $1,500
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Installing cabinets
Average cost: $1,200 to $3,500
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Installing countertops
Average cost: $900 to $2,000
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Installing flooring
Average cost: $800 to $2,000
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Installing a lighting fixture
Average cost: $120 to $900
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Installing a shower
Average cost: $450 to $2,000
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Installing a sink
Average cost: $190 to $900
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Installing a toilet
Average cost: $130 to $250
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Any issues with plumbing or electricity that become apparent during the remodeling will add to the costs of your renovations. These extra costs will vary depending on the nature and extent of the problem found.

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More Home & Garden:

• Home 101: When Is the Best Time To Remodel?
  
• The Ultimate Guide To Home Improvement: 57 Common Project Costs
  
• 6 Simple Fixes To Boost Your Home's Value
  

First Photo Credit: The Sash Window Workshop via flickr