Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom Renovations! Wet Wall Works answers some of the most frequently asked questions.  

Per square metre, no other room in the house takes more work or costs more money to remodel than the bathroom. The combination of plumbing, moisture content, electrical wiring, and decorating schemes packed into the smallest residential spaces creates unique demands on remodelling a bathroom. Not to mention the huge array of fixtures and fittings available, ranging from budget ranges through to high-end luxury ranges.

So, how much does a standard bathroom renovation cost?

A standard bathroom renovation usually costs between $20,000 and $35,000, depending on the size of the bathroom and where you live.

What should my bathroom have?

A basic bathroom needs hot and cold water, a basin, a shower, and a toilet.

If space in your ensuite bathroom is tight, choose fixtures that will make it feel bigger. For instance, a wall-mounted toilet and vanity, instead of floor-mounted ones, will maximise floor space. Hanging a mirror on a window-facing wall will deflect the light and create an illusion of space.

What adds the most value to a bathroom?

The focal point of any bathroom is the shower and/or bathtub, so it should come as no surprise that remodelling them offers the highest return on investment (ROI). If you are upgrading an ensuite bathroom, replacing the bathtub with a large walk-in shower can raise a home’s value.

However, if a home only has one bathroom, removing the bathtub can actually decrease the home’s value, as most homebuyers, especially families with small children, want at least one bathtub.

What is the most expensive part of a bathroom renovation?

Usually, the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel is labour, tile work, and plumbing. While these areas are superior, there are other aspects, like layout changes, showers, etc., that can raise the budget according to your preferences.

To cut down on some of these costs, consider doing some, if not all, of the demolition work yourself. Why not use wet wall panels as an alternative to tiles? In most cases, wet wall panels can be installed directly over existing tiles, thus cutting down on demolition and mess! Use existing plumbing when renovating, i.e., when replacing an existing bathtub with a walk-in shower, using the same location will utilise existing plumbing, keeping costs down!

Is it worth renovating a bathroom before selling?

Myth: I need to redo my kitchen and bathroom before selling.

Truth: While kitchen and bathroom renovations can increase the value of a home, you won’t get a large return on investment if you do a major renovation just before selling. Minor renovations, on the other hand, may help you sell the home for a higher price.

How long should a typical bathroom renovation take?

The construction period will average between 3 (three) and 4 (four) weeks, depending on the complexity of the renovation.  Overall, expect the renovation to take from six (6) weeks up to three (3) months from planning to tying up any loose ends!

Are Wet Wall Panels better than tiles?

Although there are fewer design and colour options for wet wall panels available, they are more durable, affordable, and easier to maintain compared to wall tiles. Unlike wall tiles, they are highly resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture, making them ideal for bathrooms!  They also offer versatility and can be used in other areas such as laundries, kitchens, toilets, and offices.

What if I only want to renovate my shower?

Wet Wall Panels are the best system to use for shower walls because they are the safest, least high-maintenance, and easy to install, meaning your shower can be transformed in just a day! Wet wall panels are the most durable material used in shower construction/renovation, and for good reason. Add new modern taps and a showerhead for a complete new look!