Comparing Remodeling Options for Your Bathroom
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
If you're tired of looking at an ugly bathtub, you may be debating between adding a bathtub liner and doing a full bathroom remodeling. Here's how to decide which route to take.
The decision to pull out a bathtub should not be taken lightly, as it typically leads to more extensive work. Because the bathtub is so closely linked to the walls and floors, the removal of the bathtub often leads to demolishing most of the room.
Some bathrooms were built as tiny spaces that barely fit the essentials. If you have a 5-foot by 7-foot bathroom, you will not have room to reconfigure it without expanding the room. In this scenario it often makes sense to expand the bathroom and start over.
Among the benefits of installing a bathtub liner are:
The decision to remodel your bathroom or add a bathtub liner often comes down to cost and long-term goals. Before asking a contractor to pull out your old bathtub, spend some time considering all the variables.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
The decision to pull out a bathtub should not be taken lightly, as it typically leads to more extensive work. Because the bathtub is so closely linked to the walls and floors, the removal of the bathtub often leads to demolishing most of the room.
When Bathroom Remodeling is Needed
In some cases full-scale bathroom remodeling is the best solution, as it allows you to:- Reconfigure the bathroom
- Expand the bathroom to create a luxury space
- "Steal" a little space from an adjacent room
- Buy a larger bathtub and/or shower
Some bathrooms were built as tiny spaces that barely fit the essentials. If you have a 5-foot by 7-foot bathroom, you will not have room to reconfigure it without expanding the room. In this scenario it often makes sense to expand the bathroom and start over.
Bathroom Remodeling Costs
Bathroom remodeling often costs $7,000 to $15,000, depending on the amount of labor involved and the fixtures you select. Among the factors that will affect the cost are:- Expansion: Adding bathroom space gives you more flexibility in the design, but it will add to the cost
- The Finishes: You can buy a basic bathtub for $500 or a bubbling whirlpool for $2,000 or more, depending on your budget. Make a list of all the fixtures and shop around to see what fits your tastes and budget.
Bathtub Liners Offer Economical Solution
If you are happy with the layout and size of your bathroom but are tired of the bathtub, then a bathtub liner might be the best solution. This type of project involves having a bathtub liner specialist measure the bathtub and order the best liner, based on your tub's make and model.Among the benefits of installing a bathtub liner are:
- Affordable Cost: Liners usually cost between $600 and $2,000, depending on the size and whether you line the walls too.
- Low Maintenance: Liners are made of easy-to-clean acrylic, so there is no grout to clean
- Quick Service: Liners can be installed in a day or so with minimal disruption to your bathtub use
The decision to remodel your bathroom or add a bathtub liner often comes down to cost and long-term goals. Before asking a contractor to pull out your old bathtub, spend some time considering all the variables.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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