Remodeling Small Bathrooms: Cost, Timeline, and Mistakes to Avoid

Remodeling a small bathroom may seem like a minor project, but it can make a major impact on your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about remodeling small bathrooms. From understanding costs to maximizing storage and avoiding common mistakes, we’ll help you transform your compact space into a stylish, efficient haven.

With over 46 years of experience in bathroom remodeling, we’ve tackled countless projects where size and shape presented unique challenges. Our expertise ensures you’ll receive practical, effective advice for your small bathroom remodel.

Whether you want to make your bathroom look larger or maximize its storage capabilities, proper planning is the key to balancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Table of Contents:

• What Factors Influence the Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel?
• How Much Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Cost?
• Timeline for Remodeling a Small Bathroom
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Small Bathroom Remodel

What Factors Influence the Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel?

The cost of remodeling a small bathroom depends on several factors:

• Size of the bathroom: Small bathrooms are typically around 5 x 7 feet but larger bathrooms will inevitably cost more to remodel.
• Scope of the remodel: A cosmetic refresh might include repainting and swapping fixtures, while structural changes like reconfiguring plumbing or walls will add costs.
• Materials and fixtures: High-quality tiles, luxury fixtures, and premium finishes can elevate both the cost and appeal of your bathroom.

Sometimes, a well-chosen color palette or textured material can make your bathroom feel more spacious without needing structural changes, helping you save money.

How Much Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Cost?

It’s easy to assume a smaller space equals a smaller budget, but the price of bathroom remodels reflects the detail and labor required. Keep in mind that these costs are not for projects that focus on cosmetic updates. These prices reflect removing the current materials and replacing them with new, updated features. Here’s what you can expect:

• Low-budget remodel: $15,000–$22,000. Perfect for no-nonsense selections and using budget-friendly materials.
• Mid-range remodel: $22,000–$30,000. Ideal for upgraded materials and slight layout adjustments.
• High-end remodel: $30,000+. A custom, luxurious bathroom with premium finishes.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Remodeling

1. Refurbish Instead of Replacing
   Rather than tearing out fixtures, give them a second life. Refinishing a bathtub, regrouting tiles, or painting a vanity can modernize your bathroom at a fraction of the cost of replacements. These small updates can make a big impact without stretching your budget.
2. Shop Sales or Discounts
   Look for seasonal sales, clearance events, or discounted overstock to save on fixtures and materials. Online retailers like Wayfair or Overstock often offer competitive prices, making it easy to find stylish pieces at lower costs. Timing your purchases can result in significant savings.
3. Reuse Existing Elements
   Stick with your current layout to avoid the expense of moving plumbing or walls. Update existing fixtures with new finishes or hardware, and repurpose cabinetry with a fresh coat of paint. By enhancing what you already have, you can focus your budget on standout upgrades like lighting or accessories.

Timeline for Remodeling a Small Bathroom

With proper planning, a small bathroom remodel can often be completed in just a few weeks. However, this timeline applies to standard remodeling projects and excludes custom, design-build projects, which naturally require a much more involved and extended timeline. Here’s a detailed look at the process for a typical small bathroom remodel:

1. Planning & Design (1–2 appointments over a few weeks)
   The planning phase is where you finalize your layout, choose materials, and set a realistic budget. During this stage, you’ll meet with your contractor or designer to share your vision, discuss goals, and select the fixtures and finishes that fit your space and style. Careful planning ensures the rest of the process proceeds smoothly.
2. Lead Time/Ordering Materials (Approx. 12 weeks)
   After hiring your contractor and finalizing your plans, the lead time begins. This stage involves ordering materials, scheduling your project, and aligning all moving parts for a smooth start to construction. The length of this phase depends on several factors:
   • Contractor’s schedule: How busy your contractor is can impact when they’re able to begin your project.
   • Material availability: Custom or imported materials may take longer to arrive.
   • Other logistics: Factors like permitting requirements or unexpected delays can also influence the timeline.
3. Demolition & Prep Work (1–2 days)
   Once materials are ready and schedules are set, the project kicks off with demolition and preparation. Old fixtures, tiles, or cabinetry are removed, and any necessary updates to plumbing or electrical systems are addressed.
4. Building Project (2–4 days of active construction)
   During this phase, your new bathroom comes to life. Contractors install flooring, tiles, and fixtures, followed by painting and final touches. For most mid-range remodels, this phase takes 3–5 days of active construction, but custom designs or intricate details may extend the timeline.

By understanding the entire process, including the lead time, you can better plan your remodel and set realistic expectations for your project.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Small Bathroom Remodel

Mistakes during the planning or execution of a remodel can lead to unnecessary costs, delays, or dissatisfaction with the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Underestimating Costs
   One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the total cost of their remodel. While it’s tempting to focus on the base price of materials and labor, unexpected expenses—like addressing hidden water damage or upgrading outdated plumbing—can quickly add up. Always include a contingency fund in your budget, typically 10–15% of the total project cost, to handle surprises without stress.
2. Rushing the Planning Phase
   Jumping into a remodel without adequate planning often leads to project delays and costly revisions. Take the time to finalize your design, choose your materials, and confirm all details with your contractor before any work begins. This ensures you won’t face last-minute decisions or changes during construction.
3. Overlooking Lead Times for Materials
   Custom or specialty materials, such as imported tiles or custom cabinetry, can take weeks or even months to arrive. Failing to account for these lead times can throw off your entire project schedule. Work with your contractor to confirm delivery timelines and order materials early to avoid delays.
4. Skipping a Detailed Contract
   Not having a clear contract with your contractor can lead to misunderstandings about the scope of work, deadlines, or costs. Always review and sign a detailed agreement outlining every aspect of your remodel before work begins.

How do I Plan for a Small Bathroom Remodel?

Remodeling a small bathroom is a rewarding challenge that can enhance both the functionality and beauty of your home. By carefully considering costs, planning for efficient timelines, and implementing smart design choices, you can transform your compact bathroom into a space you’ll love.

Ready to take the next step? Here are a few action items to help you get started:

• Hire the right contractor: Partner with a professional who understands the unique challenges of small bathroom remodels and can bring your vision to life.
• Look through our bathroom project galleries for inspiration: Seeing real examples can spark ideas and help you visualize your own dream bathroom.
• Create a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves: Prioritize your needs and wants to make the most of your budget and space.
• Plan for your remodel timeline: Use the information in this guide to set realistic expectations and avoid unnecessary delays.

Have clever small bathroom storage ideas or design tips? Share them in the comments below, and if you’re ready to take the plunge, reach out to a professional to start planning your remodel today!