How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

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Most of us have been brushing our teeth or standing in front of the mirror and thought: “I wonder if I could replace this part of my bathroom”. But then, of course if you replace the vanity, you should probably replace the sink (while you’re there), and then it wouldn’t match the toilet, and on and on. While I agree that it makes the most sense to replace everything at once, I also understand that it can be a large, unknown chunk of money. 

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So I’m here to break it down. ‍

Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended to give you a general sense of potential costs and options for bathroom remodels. Actual project costs may vary significantly based on individual preferences, design complexity, and material choices. Feel free to give us a call or send a message if you’re interested in a custom quote. 

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The Cost of a Bathroom Remodel in Bellingham, WA: A Breakdown

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A bathroom remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Between your own daily use and the additional value to your property, in almost every case, the benefit will outweigh the costs. Below, I’m going to break down the typical components of a bathroom remodel and their general costs, starting with the one you should probably do first: plumbing. ‍

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1. New Plumbing: $1,500 - $4,500

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If you’re moving fixtures or upgrading old pipes, you’re probably going to need new plumbing. An old plumbing system can be harmful to the rest of your home, whether it's a suspicious sewer smell that comes and goes, ‘chugging’ sounds that come from the drains, leaky fixtures dripping, or a toilet that rocks when you sit on it. These are all signs that your system isn't functioning properly, and before adding new features to your bathroom, it's best to address them.  Adding new plumbing or repairing existing issues not only ensure drains stay clear of debris but also prevents new leaks that could cause major damage down the road. The estimated price depends on the complexity of the job, but it’s worth every penny for the peace of mind that comes with new, reliable plumbing. If you’re doing a bit of ala carte, I wouldn’t skip this one. 

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‍Benefits: Modern plumbing reduces the risk of leaks, improves water efficiency, and provides better water flow.

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2. Flooring: $800 - $2,500

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This is an instant ‘look and feel’ game changer. Adding new bathroom flooring (especially the heated kind) is a fast and relatively inexpensive way to upgrade your bathroom space. Popular choices include tile, vinyl, or stone, and in recent years, the options have become more durable. Tile offers a more luxurious feel and is longer-lasting, while vinyl is a budget-friendly option that can mimic high-end materials (great for homes with kids and dogs). The cost will vary depending on the material and size of the bathroom.

Benefits: Durable, water-resistant flooring increases the longevity of your bathroom and adds value to your home. I can even help you with the color!

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3. Vanity and Sink: $500 - $3,000

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A vanity is an all-encompassing term for the sink, storage space and mirror area of your bathroom. Think of it this way: if you’re brushing your teeth, you’re probably in front of the vanity. And they come in all shapes, sizes, and styles! Whether you choose a pre-made vanity from a store or want to see options for a custom-built one, you’ll also need to consider the cost of the sink and faucet. Custom options will naturally be on the higher end, but a well-chosen vanity can dramatically improve both aesthetics and storage. I’ve even seen some pretty decent ones at the ReStore. 

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Benefits: A new vanity improves bathroom organization and adds a sleek, modern touch to your design.

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4. Toilet: $500 - $1,200

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Nobody wants a wobbly throne. Even more, a high percentage of the water damage I see in bathrooms comes from leaking or improperly installed toilets. Replacing an outdated or inefficient toilet is a straightforward but impactful upgrade. Newer models often use less water per flush, which saves you money on your water bill too! Installation labor is typically minimal, keeping this component relatively affordable.

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Another item I wouldn’t skip for its lower cost and high impact. 

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Benefits: Improved water efficiency and comfort, plus modern designs offer better flushing power and style.

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5. Exhaust Fan: $250 - $950

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There’s no way around this: Bellingham is a wet place to live. I want to keep that wet outside. 

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An upgraded exhaust fan is crucial for controlling shower humidity and preventing mold from growing on your walls. Modern fans are much quieter than older models and can even include features like lighting or heat lamps. The cost of a fan and installation will depend on the size of your bathroom and whether new wiring is required, but these things remain relatively inexpensive. 

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Benefits: Improved air quality and moisture control reduce the risk of mold growth, protecting your home’s structure (and smell!). 

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6. Lighting: $100 - $1,200

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I once did a kitchen remodel for a couple here in Bellingham (friends), and they dubbed me “Ambient Man” for my love of lighting. 

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Good lighting can absolutely transform your bathroom. But it's not as easy as just adding lights in a nice pattern. For every project, I map out where the best lighting can be installed to reduce shadows and illuminate the right angles of your rooms!

Adding dimmable lights, vanity lighting, or even accent lighting can make the space more functional and inviting. This cost is pretty highly variable, some houses have intense wiring needs and the range of lighting equipment is quite variable. 

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Benefits: Better lighting enhances the room’s atmosphere, boosts safety, and makes everyday tasks like shaving or applying makeup easier.

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7. Shower: $1,000 - $5,000

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If you’re like me, you do some of your best thinking in the shower. But if you’re distracted by mold spots, cracked tile, or leaking fixtures, you aren’t in the zone (or zen, depending). 

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Whether you’re adding a new shower or replacing an old one, I won't lie, this can be one of the more expensive parts of the remodel. Options range from basic prefab units to custom-tiled showers with glass doors. A well-designed shower can increase both the usability and appeal of the bathroom, and can vary pretty widely on the level of luxury you’d like to experience. 

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Definitely pair this one with a new fan. 

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Benefits: A modern shower adds comfort, luxury, and value to your home, especially with water-efficient fixtures and stylish finishes.

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Final Thoughts

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We believe in honesty and transparency. 

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A full bathroom remodel in Bellingham, WA typically costs between $10,000 and $40,000, depending on the size of the space and the materials you choose. While the upfront cost may seem high, the long-term benefits of improved functionality, water efficiency, and increased home value make it a worthwhile investment.

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If you're considering a bathroom remodel, I'd love to hear from you. We’ll help you design the perfect bathroom within your budget.