Few things are more frustrating as a homeowner than starting your day in a bathroom that feels outdated, messy, or worn out. A remodel can be the perfect solution, but if you’ve started researching costs, you’ve likely come across a wide range of numbers—some of which may not apply to your situation.

If you’re looking for bathroom remodeling in Mission Viejo, CA, reach out to a local bathroom remodeling company like Preferred Kitchen & Bath to get the best idea of how much your costs will be. Even so, you want to enter the process knowing exactly what work you’ll want performed and how your ideas for remodeling will affect your bank account. 

Preferred Kitchen & Bath is here to break down bathroom remodel costs, helping you make confident, informed decisions for your home.

Bathroom Type

A contributing factor to the cost of remodeling a bathroom is the type of bathroom you have. A major remodel of a larger bathroom will cost more than a redo of one without high-end fixtures, so consider which project you’d like to undertake and adjust your budget accordingly.

Master Bathroom

As the most luxurious bathroom in your home, your master bathroom is also likely to be the most expensive room to remodel. However, beyond upgrading essential amenities, there are plenty of high-end options to elevate your space even further, such as:

  • Glass showers
  • Dimmer switches
  • Upgraded tiles
  • Double vanity
  • Makeup mirrors
  • Electric floor heat

Guest Bathroom

Guest bathrooms include fewer amenities than the master bathroom, but they still have intriguing features that contribute to the cost. Guest bathrooms are usually about half the cost of master bathrooms and include freshly painted walls, new bathtubs/showers, and an upgrade to necessities like faucets, lighting, and floors.

Half Bath/Powder Room

As the smallest bathroom in your home, the overall cost of your half bath or powder room will be less than it takes to update other rooms. That doesn’t mean you have to lose out on any meaningful upgrades, such as wallpaper and repainting and faucet and storage upgrades that make a big difference to the look and feel of your bathroom.

Bathroom Size

Bathroom size is another factor to consider when asking yourself how much it costs to remodel your bathroom. The larger your bathroom (by sq. foot), the more you should expect to pay, and it’s common for many bathrooms to be proportional to the size of your home. 

A master bathroom remodeling in a luxury estate will undoubtedly cost more than one in a small townhome. Thus, calculating the square footage of your bathroom is an excellent way to help you identify the potential costs of your bathroom.

Additional Factors

Along with bathroom type, size, and location, a few additional factors contribute to the cost of your bathroom renovation. There are a few options for material costs, plumbing and electrical labor, and even the type of style you choose for your bathroom that dictates how much your bathroom will cost. 

Materials

Materials add up, and depending on the size of your bathroom, you might need a few more or a few less of certain items. Consider budgeting for materials with variable costs such as:

  • Lighting fixtures
  • Tiles
  • Shower doors
  • Vanity/countertops

In addition to these necessities, you want to budget for other additional features such as:

  • Grab bars
  • Walk-in tubs
  • Steam units
  • Fans
  • Sconce lights

Labor

Homeowners sometimes forget about the plumbing costs and electrical work that go into a bathroom renovation. You might need a plumber or a specialized worker to assist in installing certain fixtures in your home. Interior design consultants can help you get the best look for your bathroom but still come at a price. Reach out to our company, which has vast bathroom remodeling expertise, to ensure the best job is done.

How a DIY Bathroom Remodel Could End Up Costing You More

Tackling a bathroom remodeling project on your own might seem like a budget-friendly option, but unexpected expenses can quickly add up. What starts as a way to save money can turn into a costly mistake. Here’s why DIY might not be the best route for your renovation.

Inexperience Leads to Expensive Errors

A professional remodeler knows how to navigate plumbing, electrical work, and waterproofing with precision. DIY enthusiasts often run into costly miscalculations that require professional repairs. Incorrectly installed fixtures, uneven tile work, or poor waterproofing, for example, can lead to expensive water damage or code violations that need fixing before the bathroom project can move forward.

Hidden Structural Issues Can Go Unnoticed

Bathrooms, especially areas like the sink or a walk-in shower, endure daily exposure to moisture, which can create problems beneath the surface. Mold, rotting subfloors, and outdated plumbing are common issues professionals uncover and address. A DIY remodeler may not recognize these warning signs until they escalate into larger, more expensive repairs.

The Right Tools Come at a Cost

Bathroom renovations require specialized tools for tile cutting, plumbing, and electrical work. Renting or purchasing these tools adds an unexpected expense to the project. Even with the right tools, improper use can lead to mistakes that result in material waste and additional costs.

Permits and Inspections Add Complexity

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of permits and inspections. Skipping the permit process can result in fines, insurance issues, and difficulty selling the home later. Professional contractors ensure all work meets local building codes, saving homeowners from potential legal headaches.

Time is Money—And DIY Takes Longer

A professional remodeler works efficiently with a well-structured plan. DIY projects often take weeks or months longer due to trial and error, learning curves, and the need to juggle daily responsibilities. The longer the bathroom remains unfinished, the more inconvenient and stressful the remodel becomes.

Material Waste and Budget Overruns

A lack of experience in material estimation leads to over-ordering or under-ordering supplies. Both scenarios add unnecessary costs, either through wasted materials or additional shipping and restocking fees. Professionals have supplier relationships that can also secure better pricing on quality materials.

When DIY Turns Into ‘Call the Pros’

Many homeowners start a DIY bathroom remodel only to realize halfway through that the project is beyond their skill level. At this stage, hiring a professional to fix mistakes or complete the project can be more expensive than if the remodel had been handled by an expert from the start.

So, don’t trust some “average bathroom remodel cost calculator” online, as this will likely give you a broad estimate that doesn’t account for the unique details of your project, such as material quality, labor rates in your area, and unexpected repairs that may arise. Instead, consult with a professional who can provide a more accurate and customized quote based on your specific needs and vision.

Save More Green By Going Green With Eco-Friendly Fixtures & Appliances

Opting for eco-friendly fixtures and appliances during your bathroom remodel is a practical way to save money while enhancing both style and sustainability. Water-efficient toilets, low-flow showerheads, and motion-sensor faucets help conserve water without compromising performance, leading to noticeable savings on utility bills. Pairing these with energy-efficient LED lighting reduces electricity costs while creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Materials like recycled glass countertops or sustainably sourced wood vanities also offer a high-end look at a fraction of the cost, proving that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Plus, many green upgrades qualify for rebates and tax incentives, putting even more money back in your pocket while making your home more efficient.

Why Delaying a Bathroom Remodel Could Mean More Expenses Later On

Putting off a bathroom remodel might seem like a way to save money, but small problems can quickly escalate into costly repairs. A tiny leak today could lead to water damage, mold growth, or structural issues that demand far more than just a simple fix. Outdated plumbing and worn-out fixtures also become less efficient over time, driving up utility bills and increasing the risk of sudden breakdowns. Waiting too long could mean facing emergency repairs that come with a premium price tag, rather than planning an upgrade on your own terms and budget. Investing in a remodel now helps avoid these hidden expenses while creating a space that’s both functional and built to last.

Your Preferred Bathroom Remodel Is Just One Call Away

It doesn’t matter what you include in your bathroom remodel if you don’t have the right people helping you out along the way. That’s what makes Preferred Kitchen & Bath unique and why residents looking for bathroom remodeling in Orange County, CA, should reach out to our team today for a free consultation. Let’s begin the process of bringing your dream bathroom to life!