Frequently asked questions about bathroom makeovers

2. How much does a bathroom remodel cost?

We looked at our completed renovations this year and compiled this information:

• Master Bath: Starting at $35,000
• Guest Bath: Starting at $20,000

REMODELING Magazine does an extensive survey every year of recent bathroom remodels in Atlanta. The average cost in 2023 of a midrange bathroom remodel was $24,488. This includes all new fixtures, vanity cabinet, frameless glass shower doors, faucets, countertops, tile, and labor (plumbing, electrical, etc.) An “upscale” bathroom remodel was $76,614. You may be wondering what the difference is between midrange and upscale and why the price range is so great. The quality and cost of the materials used is the main factor to determine if the redo is considered midrange or upscale. There are many components to a bathroom remodel, and each item has a wide range in quality and price. For example, a toilet can cost $100 or over $5,000, tub prices range between $125 to over $10,000, and even something "simple" like shower heads vary from $5 to $10,000.

3. How do I know what I want my bathroom to look like?

This is either the fun or the agonizing part of the process. We recommend websites like Pinterest and Houzz where you can see literally thousands of pictures of bathrooms. You can create boards and idea books of the bathrooms that you like. Vendor websites, new subdivision model homes, and manufacturer showrooms (such as Ferguson and PDI) are also great sources for ideas. We are here to assist you every step of the way, however, most of the design decisions are truly personal preference. And remember a picture is worth a thousand words----if we can see it, we can help you find it! You can see pictures of our installations on our Facebook and Instagram pages.

4. What types of tiles can I use in my bathroom remodel?

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular type of bathroom tile. Most are economical, durable and come in an enormous variety of colors and styles. There are many choices of floor tile, coordinating or contrasting wall tile, and borders and mosaics. Natural stone (travertine, marble, etc.) is also a popular choice (but expensive!) for bathroom floors and walls, creating a sumptuous home spa look in the bathroom. Be aware that natural stone requires special maintenance products and periodic sealing. River rock, pebbles, and geometric mosaics are popular choices for the shower floor.

5. What is the process?

An Enhance Design Consultant will meet with you in the showroom to discuss the scope of your project. We will assist you in our Design Center with tile selection and will schedule appointments for you to visit our vendor partners for fixture and hardware selection. Next an Estimator will come to your home and your quotation will be prepared. Once all the details are finalized you are well on the way to making your dream bathroom a reality!

6. I want a new vanity. How much do they cost? Where do I get one?

You can purchase a “stock” vanity from a big box store, a plumbing supply store like PDI or Ferguson, or online (for example Kohler and Wayfair). Stock vanities come in standard sizes, normally 21—22 inches deep, and in widths of 24”, 30”, 36”, 48”, and 60”. You can combine widths to create a longer vanity. Some stock vanities include a top and sink, but not always. Plumbing hardware like faucets and drains are rarely included. Prices for a 60” stock vanity range from $1000 to $4500. You can also create a custom vanity from cabinet components. Specialty sizes and design features as well as an almost unlimited selection of stain or paint color choices and drawer and door styles are an advantage of a custom vanity. The cost of a 60” custom vanity starts around $3000 and can be as much as $6000 to $8000, depending on the design details . We can certainly assist you in creating your custom vanity. Also, be sure you are budgeting for a countertop, sink(s), faucets and drains, plumbing and installation.

7. How long will the job take?

Bathroom remodels can take as little as one week and as long as three to four weeks. The complexity of the tear out, installation details and size of the bathroom are all things that effect the range of time you can expect your bathroom makeover to take.

8. Will I be able to use my bathroom during the remodel?

No, the bathroom should be considered off limits for the entire time of the installation.

9. I want to have my tub removed and have a bigger shower. What do you think about that?

This is definitely a trend we are seeing. Some people feel that a shower is easier and safer to get into and out of as we age. Bathroom designers and realtors tend to agree that removing the bathtub is acceptable as long as there is at least one tub remaining in the home. A prospective home buyer usually wants a bathtub somewhere in the house.

10. What is a frameless shower door?

A frameless shower enclosure is made up of 3/8" to 1/2" tempered and polished safety glass. This glass has greater strength and does not require heavy metal framing around it. Expect to pay $2,200--$2,600 for your frameless glass door.

11. What is the cost of a shower niche and bench?

Shower benches range from about $200--500. A shower niche can range from $150--250.

12. I want my shower to have a flat entrance. Is that possible?

Yes. It is called a curbless shower. A curbless shower is one that has a consistently level entrance, with no lip or change in elevation from the outside to the inside. There are some installation details that must be taken into consideration for a curbless shower that will add considerable cost to your project.

13. I want a free standing tub. How much does that cost?

One of the most popular bathroom design trends is the use of a free standing tub. While beautiful and classic, expect this to add several thousand dollars to the cost of your bathroom renovation. Free standing tubs are deeper than an average tub, can be placed in different locations in a bathroom, and can give a bathroom an antique or a modern feel.

One of the first things to think about before installing a free standing tub is where you would like to put it. You’ll likely need a large bathroom. Because these tubs can be installed almost anywhere, you no longer have to place them against a wall. Free standing tubs come in many designs, sizes, and materials, depending on your taste and budget. Be prepared: the price may give you sticker shock, as most are in the $2,000--$5,000 range. Of course, you will not have to spend money on material and labor to build a deck around a free standing tub, but that will only save you a few hundred dollars. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of demolition, a plumber and a carpenter (if the ceiling below the bathroom will need to be removed to access the pipes), and new flooring.

Plumbing is a big factor (and cost) in changing to a free standing tub. The plumbing for these tubs is visible, unlike that of other tubs. The drain and water pipes must be run beneath and up through the floor, so you’ll have to consider how accessible and involved it is to reroute the plumbing. You should also consider how easy or difficult this will be while deciding on where to put your tub. There may be a lot of cutting and drilling through beams in order to relocate the plumbing. For budgeting purposes anticipate the cost of the plumbing to retrofit your current tub to free standing to range between $4000 and $5000.

14. Do you charge for an estimate?

Your bathroom renovation is a major investment in your home. We are here to assist you with the attainment of your concept and vision. Design plans, budgeting, and product selection are integral parts of the estimating process, as well as interaction with the various trades that are involved. We do not charge by the hour; the fee for our design service is $250, which is credited with your bathroom renovation purchase.