A bathroom renovation is a popular way to add value to a home while improving its functionality and style. But how much will it cost? Renovation costs in Australia can vary significantly depending on factors like bathroom size, materials, and the complexity of the remodel. Whether refreshing a small powder room or completely overhauling a main bathroom, understanding the costs involved is crucial to planning your renovation effectively.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the different aspects of bathroom renovation costs and offer tips to help you stay within budget while still achieving your dream bathroom.
Let’s get straight to the point.
In Australia, bathroom renovation costs range from AUD 10,000 to AUD 25,000, with small bathrooms costing AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000 and larger bathrooms AUD 15,000 to AUD 30,000. Fixtures, labour, and layout changes are key cost drivers. Sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs vary widely in price, and labour can account for 20-30% of the budget.
To save money, homeowners can tackle DIY tasks like painting and demolition, buy materials smartly, and avoid unnecessary layout changes. They should always plan for unexpected costs and avoid rushing the renovation to prevent costly mistakes.
Average Costs For A Bathroom Renovation
A bathroom renovation in Australia typically costs between AUD 10,000 and AUD 25,000, but it can be much higher depending on the finishes and fixtures. Understanding the costs for different bathroom sizes and types will help you budget accordingly.
Small Bathroom Renovation (Up To 50 Square Feet)
Renovating a small bathroom can cost anywhere from $5,000 to AUD 15,000, depending on the materials used and the scope of the renovation. Many homeowners mistakenly assume that smaller spaces are significantly cheaper to renovate, but that’s not always true. Small bathrooms often involve the same complex work as larger ones, such as plumbing and electrical upgrades, meaning the cost savings might be less than expected. On average, small bathroom renovations cost about 75% of what you’d pay for a large bathroom remodel.
Medium To Large Bathroom Renovation
The cost of a medium-sized or large bathroom (around 150 square feet) generally ranges from AUD 15,000 to AUD 30,000. Larger bathrooms require more materials, fixtures, and labour, increasing the price. Upscale finishes and luxury features, like heated flooring or custom cabinetry, will also increase the cost.
Key Factors That Influence Bathroom Renovation Costs
Several factors can significantly affect the total cost of a bathroom renovation. Knowing where your money goes can help you make informed decisions throughout the project.
Fixtures And Fittings
The fixtures you choose are among the most significant factors affecting your budget. Common bathroom fixtures include sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and showers, and the prices can vary dramatically:
- Sinks: From AUD 100 to AUD 5,000
- Toilets: From AUD 300 to AUD 1,500
- Bathtubs: From AUD 500 to AUD 6,000
- Showers and shower enclosures: From AUD 2,000 to AUD 7,000
High-end, custom fixtures can quickly increase costs, while more affordable stock options can help you stay on budget. Think about your priorities when choosing fixtures. For instance, if a luxurious bathtub is important to you, consider opting for a more affordable toilet or sink to balance the budget.
Labour Costs
Labour often represents around 20-30% of your total renovation budget, with hourly rates for contractors ranging from AUD 50 to AUD 150. The following are typical costs for various tradespeople:
- Plumber: AUD 50 to AUD 100 per hour
- Electrician: AUD 75 to AUD 150 per hour
- Tiler: AUD 40 to AUD 100 AUD per square metre
Hiring licensed professionals ensures the work is done to code and helps avoid costly mistakes. However, if you’re handy, you can save on some labour costs by doing smaller tasks like painting or demolition yourself.
Small Bathroom Renovation Tips
Renovating a small bathroom requires creativity and careful planning. Although the space is smaller, the renovation can still be quite involved. Here are a few tips to reduce costs while maximising the available space.
Efficient Use Of Space
Small bathrooms benefit from clever design solutions. For example, a corner sink or floating vanity can free up floor space, making the room more open. Installing a compact toilet or adding built-in storage are great ways to improve functionality without overcrowding.
Mirrors and light colours can also create the illusion of a larger space, which is particularly useful in small bathrooms.
Tiling Solutions
Tiling can be one of the more expensive parts of a bathroom renovation, especially if you choose premium tiles. However, there are ways to minimise the cost:
- Opt for affordable tile options, such as ceramic or porcelain, which range from AUD 30 to AUD 50 per square metre.
- Limit tiling to high-use areas like the floor or the shower walls, and consider using paint or waterproof panels elsewhere to reduce costs.
- If you want to add a designer touch, use high-end tiles sparingly, as an accent wall or a feature strip, while using less expensive tiles for the rest of the bathroom.
Avoid Major Layout Changes
Changing the layout of your bathroom can significantly increase renovation costs, particularly if it involves moving plumbing or electrical work. Keeping the existing layout will save you money on materials and labour, as moving the toilet, sink, or shower requires additional plumbing and electrical services.
Types Of Bathrooms And Their Associated Costs
Understanding the type of bathroom you’re renovating can help you plan your renovation more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with different bathroom types:
Powder Room
A powder room, or half-bath, is typically the least expensive bathroom to renovate, costing between AUD 5,000 and AUD 10,000. Because they usually contain only a sink and toilet, they require fewer materials and less labour. Because of their smaller size, powder rooms are a good place to splurge on luxury materials like marble or designer tiles without significantly affecting your budget.
Full Bathroom
A full bathroom renovation costs between AUD 15,000 and AUD 25,000. These bathrooms contain all the essential fixtures: a toilet, sink, bathtub, and shower. Because full bathrooms tend to get heavy use, it’s worth investing in durable, high-quality materials that will last.
Main Bathroom
The main bathroom is usually the largest and most luxurious bathroom in the house, making it the most expensive to renovate. Costs can range from AUD 30,000 or more, particularly if you add high-end features like a freestanding bathtub, double vanity, or heated flooring.
How To Save On Your Bathroom Renovation?
A bathroom renovation can be expensive, but there are several ways to save money without sacrificing quality or style. Here are some cost-saving strategies:
Do Some Of The Work Yourself
If you’re willing to get your hands dirty, handling some of the simpler tasks yourself can save you a lot on labour costs. For example, you can take on the demolition, painting, or clean-up tasks, leaving the more technical jobs like plumbing and electrical work to the professionals. DIY tasks like these can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the size of your bathroom and the scope of the renovation.
Smart Shopping For Materials
One of the easiest ways to reduce bathroom renovation costs is to shop smart for materials. Rather than relying solely on your contractor to source materials (which often includes a markup), you can look for discounts at local hardware stores or online.
Many retailers offer clearance items or end-of-line products that save you significant money. Consult with your contractor to ensure the materials you purchase suit the renovation. Buying materials in advance ensures the project stays on track, avoiding costly delays.
Focus On The Essentials
When you’re renovating on a budget, it’s important to prioritise what matters. If you dream of a luxury shower, you might opt for a more affordable vanity or skip designer tiles to stay within budget. Focusing on the fixtures and features that are most important to you will help ensure you get the best value for your money.
Common Pitfalls To Avoid During A Bathroom Renovation
Underestimating The Budget
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the total cost of the renovation. Always set aside 10-20% of your budget for unexpected expenses, such as water damage, hidden mould, or outdated plumbing and electrical systems. These issues are often uncovered during demolition and can quickly increase total renovation costs.
Rushing The Renovation
A rushed renovation often leads to costly mistakes. It’s important to take your time during the planning stage, ensuring all materials are sourced and decisions are made before the work begins. Rushing the project can lead to mistakes or missed details that might require expensive fixes later.
Conclusion
A bathroom renovation can significantly improve the comfort and value of your home. Whether refreshing a small powder room or transforming a main bathroom into a spa-like retreat, careful planning and smart budgeting are essential to a successful renovation.
By understanding the various costs involved in a bathroom renovation in Australia, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget. From choosing affordable fixtures to handling some tasks, there are plenty of ways to save money while achieving a stylish and functional space. The key to a successful renovation is thoughtful planning and flexibility when balancing cost and quality.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovation
Does Replacing A Bath With A Shower Devalue Your Home?
Families need at least one bathroom, which can be used for various purposes, including relaxing and washing the children. In light of this, if you are considering converting a bathtub into a shower, the short and simple answer is no; you should avoid removing a bath at all costs to prevent the value of your home from dropping due to this change.
What Percentage Of Home Value Should Be Spent On Bathroom Remodelling?
You should budget between 3 and 7 percent of your home’s value for a bathroom remodel. By adhering to that rule of thumb, homeowners can prevent themselves from over-improving their homes compared to the rest of the neighbourhood.
Should I Renovate The Bathroom Before Selling?
Even relatively minor updates to the kitchen and bathroom can give homebuyers the impression that they are ready to move in. That is to say, you don’t have to put a lot of money into home improvements to make a profit when selling your house.
Is A Bathroom With Only A Shower Considered A Full Bath?
A toilet, a sink, a shower, and a bathtub are the essential components of a full bathroom. A bathroom can’t be considered a full bath if it has fewer than those features, even if it has a shower.
What Is A Bathroom With Just A Toilet Called?
It is a room within a bathroom containing a toilet and is closed off from the rest of the bathroom so that you can attend to your business without being disturbed by other people brushing their teeth or singing in the shower.
