For a bathroom remodel in Clive, you should invest in materials that not only look good, but also can withstand the tests of time. To choose quality bathroom materials, pick moisture-resistant materials first, focus on long-term durability, consider style and overall design cohesion, look into the best flooring type, set a realistic budget, and compare material quality.
According to This Old House, 48% of homeowners planned to renovate in 2025. The top area to renovate was the bathroom, which 53% of respondents said they planned to improve.
This is because the bathroom is a high-traffic area, and it tends to get more wear and tear. Plus, it’s one of the top places that look outdated fast, so it’s good to refresh your bathroom’s look.
But how should you choose the materials for your bathroom remodel in Clive?
How to Choose the Right Materials for a Bathroom Remodel in Clive
For 2025, one of the top remodeling trends is luxurious bathroom remodels. But it can be tough to balance style with budget, as well as quality. Thankfully, this material selection guide will steer you in the right direction.
Choose Moisture-Resistant Materials First
As you may already know, bathrooms are very humid, and they get constant splashes and temperature changes too. So choosing moisture-resistant materials is essential.
In general, look for products that are designed for wet environments, such as:
- PVC trim
- Ceramic or porcelain tile
- Water-resistant paint
When choosing vanities, forget about particleboard. Instead, opt for solid wood or marine-grade plywood.
For the shower walls, consider:
- Porcelain tile
- Acrylic panels
- Solid-surface surrounds
Focus on Long-Term Durability
There are many budgeting tips you can utilize for a bathroom remodel, but going for cheap quality isn’t one of them. Sure, you may initially pay less, but ultimately, you’re facing a much higher price tag.
In such a high-traffic area, you’ll want to choose materials that can withstand everyday wear, as well as temperature fluctuations and cleaning products. Hardware finishes like brushed nickel and matte black can be good for fingerprints and corrosion. And some of our other suggestions are:
- Porcelain tile
- Quartz countertops
- Cast-iron or acrylic tubs
You’ll want to steer clear of low-quality laminates or cheap fixtures.
Consider Style and Overall Design Cohesion
In addition to longevity, you’ll want to consider the style, as your material choices should come together for a unified look and feel. So before you pick out anything, decide on your preferred style, such as:
- Modern
- Farmhouse
- Transitional
- Spa-inspired
From there, you can choose the colors, textures, and finishes.
Don’t mix too many patterns or competing elements. This can make small bathrooms feel visually cluttered.
What Flooring Is Best for a Bathroom?
The best flooring for a bathroom should be both waterproof and durable. Often, homeowners go for porcelain tile since it’s:
- Highly water-resistant
- Long-lasting
- Available in countless styles
If you want something more affordable, then try ceramic tile. Otherwise, other excellent choices are luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and natural stone. Avoid hardwood or laminate since these materials easily warp with moisture.
Set a Realistic Budget and Compare Material Quality
It’s a given that material costs can vary widely, so you should set a budget early on. This can help guide your choices.
In addition, compare price points across tile, countertop, and fixture brands. You’ll see where premium upgrades make the biggest difference.
Don’t forget to ask for samples too, as this will give you real-world experience with textures, weights, and finish qualities.
What Is the Correct Order To Remodel a Bathroom?
One of our best bathroom renovation tips is to follow the correct order. This ensures efficiency and also prevents damage to already finished work.
Here’s the right order to go in:
- Planning and design
- Permit application (when necessary)
- Demolition
- Rough-in work for plumbing, electrical, and ventilation
- Inspections
- Drywall and cement board installation
- Tile work, flooring, and painting
- Major fixture installation
- Finishing touches (e.g., mirrors, hardware, accessories)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is a Realistic Budget for a Bathroom Remodel?
A realistic budget for a bathroom model ranges from $12,000 to $28,000. As you can see, that’s a pretty wide range, but that’s because the exact amount will depend on:
- The size of the home
- Material quality
- Project scope
In general, basic upgrades will be on the lower end. This includes:
- New fixtures
- Fresh paint
- Upgraded lighting
Mid-range remodels include:
- New tiles
- Vanity upgrade
- Improved storage
Lastly, high-end projects include:
- Custom tile work
- Heated floors
- Luxury showers
- Floorplan changes
If plumbing or electrical lines must be moved, then expect it to cost even more.
What Is the Hardest Part of a Bathroom Remodel?
The hardest part of a bathroom remodel is managing the plumbing and layout changes, which is why remodelers charge more for these services. Bathrooms are small and highly technical spaces, so once walls or floors are opened, you’ll often find hidden issues, such as:
- Deteriorated subfloors
- Outdated pipes
- Poor ventilation
Also, making design decisions that balance aesthetics, function, and budget can be a challenge, and it may be overwhelming as well. This is why it’s important to have the input and advice of experienced professionals.
What Is the Most Expensive Part of a Bathroom Remodel?
Usually, the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel is the wet area (shower and tub). This is because the area usually needs:
- Waterproofing
- Plumbing work
- Tile installation
- Structural adjustments
If you want to manage costs, we’d suggest keeping the plumbing layout the same.
Get a Fantastic Bathroom Remodel in Clive
Now, you may be set for a bathroom remodel in Clive, and you know what materials you want, and where you want them. Your head may be swimming with bathroom design ideas, and you want them to be executed perfectly.
In that case, you want the best in Clive home improvement there is. With our exemplary team members and outstanding services, you’ll get the bathroom of your dreams, and it won’t be difficult to achieve either.
Want to get started on your bathroom remodel? Then get in touch with us today. Elk River Contracting is a family-owned company that has numerous years of combined experience, so we know how to provide services that are tailored to fit your lifestyle.