If you are planning to start the process of budgeting a bathroom remodel in Des Moines, the full scope of such a project can be overwhelming both in terms of construction and budget. So, to avoid becoming overwhelmed, you need to focus on:

• Limiting the scope
• Being disciplined about changes
• Ensuring you retain a contingency budget
• Working with engineering experts
• Reducing the schedule of the work
• Avoiding behind-the-wall changes

By hiring professional remodeling contractors in Des Moines, you can get the help you need to ensure you follow each of these guidelines. So, read on to learn what this entails and get the best deal possible.

Budgeting Basics for a Bathroom Remodel

Des Moines bathroom design isn’t always cheap, but you have several options available to reduce the scope of your project. If you’ve come across some good ideas for home remodeling, such a list might already have some good examples you will want to investigate.

Start by building a line-by-line budget covering every aspect of what you want to do, including:

• Design and architecture
• Plumbing
• Lighting
• Vanity areas
• Countertops
• Accessories

These items are not exhaustive and may depend on the project. However, keep an eye on how much each of these costs, and where possible, track totals against the budget caps weekly to help avoid any overrunning.

Then, have a plan for what happens if you go over. Ensure that payment milestones are tied to work completed to spec, and that your contract allows for the enforcement of any budget-saving measures you have.

Choosing Remodeling Contractors

Shortlist a group of local firms with relevant experience in the type of bathroom you plan to build, then check them for both licensing and insurance details, including workers’ compensation. Failing to do this can lead to fines and liability for you as the homeowner. Then, request comparable bids from at least three of these contractors, with the same scope of work in each, to compare the same thing.

Also, make sure to look at each business’s portfolio. These can give you a good idea of whether they can do the work you are sourcing them for. You might be able to find a few other money-saving ideas in their previous work. If they have previously used a specific design, they may also know how to implement it more cost-effectively without compromising quality in the future.

You can also check out the BBB (Better Business Bureau) listings and use them to vet any contractor you might work with. The BBB is a non-profit organization that helps consumers and businesses find reputable companies to work with across the United States and Canada. You can trust them to know what a high-quality company looks like.

Making Design Decisions Based on Remodel Costs

Understand that the final result of what you want needs to be realistic based on your budget. So, understand that the following can all increase costs and that following 2025’s latest trends might push your costs past what you plan to spend:

• Moving walls or plumbing
• Complex tile patterns
• Custom glass
• Increased home ventilation capacity
• Using more durable surfaces
• Upgrading the electrics

So, balance whether something is a trend or timeless with what is realistically possible for you. If necessary, compare material and utilitarian alternatives, finding something that still functions without increasing costs.

You might also want to investigate how your fixtures and fittings can impact your long-term costs. For example, you can save money by using WaterSense showerheads, which consume under two gpm (gallons per minute) of water, compared to the standard volume of 2.5 gpm, as per the EPA.

Similarly, by using LED bulbs instead of the heat-releasing classic bulb style, you can expect to lower your electricity outgoings while giving you a greater choice of adjustable light options.

Lowering Bathroom Remodel Costs in Des Moines

If you are sourcing a bathroom remodel in Des Moines, Elk River Consulting is ideally placed to help you design and build your new home addition. We can help you align the scope of your project with a schedule and budget, significantly reducing the workload on your shoulders.

We can also manage permits and inspections, offering transparency at every stage. If you’re looking for a contractor who prioritizes proactive communication and a clean jobsite, speak with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Tell If a Bathroom Remodel Bid Is Fair?

When looking at your options, take your time to check if the scope of their design matches your requests, drawings, and notes. If they have stated that there will be any exclusions, as well as things they cannot or will not do, you should check for these in writing. Doing this will ensure there are no surprises and that affordable bathroom updates remain affordable.

Ensure the bid or quote includes every project aspect, itemized, for comparison with others’ bids. These include:

• Materials
• Labor
• Allowances
• Permits
• Inspections
• Debris removal

Also, make sure that they clearly indicate any lead times, as well as give you a realistic schedule you can plan with.

Will a Bathroom Remodel in Des Moines Increase My Home Value?

One of the best bathroom renovation tips we offer is that, with a well-designed update, it can seriously increase the value of your home. Bathroom remodels are among the most common value-add projects, due to their ROI of up to 66% in many cases, according to real estate agent Revive.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Update a Bathroom Without a Full Remodel?

Consulting with remodeling contractors in Des Moines can provide you with bathroom remodeling advice that will open up new, affordable options for updating your bathroom. Some of the changes they can make that won’t break the bank include:

• Updating fixtures to modern, eco-friendly options
• Recaulking and regrouting the tiled areas to bring out the original bright color
• Updating lighting with LEDs for a bright white light
• Adding a modern framed mirror

None of these requires tearing out anything, but we can help you source materials and install any of them, getting the job done both faster and cheaper.