Most professionals will tell you that trying to cut costs on a bathroom redesign can lead to problems. But if your budget is small, there are several things you can do to save money without disastrous consequences. It takes some experience to know how and when to cut costs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can and can’t do when it comes to your bathroom redesign.

Saving money: where you can cut back.

Conventional wisdom states that when it comes to a redesign project, you get what you pay for. While this is generally true, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to save money on your bathroom redesign project. Here are some ways you can save money with minimal commitment.

DIY painting and wallpaper. While you will need a professional to handle some of the tasks involved in a redesign project, you don’t have to leave it all up to the professionals. The more you do yourself, the more money you save. Anyone can paint or wallpaper a bathroom without professional help. You can also take out old cabinets and shelves. If you have some handyman skills, you may be able to do the flooring yourself as well.

Changes in the floor plan. This is an ideal place to cut corners without causing damage. Avoid big changes in the plan of your bathroom. Do not add new windows, tear down or build new walls, or change the location of the door. This will save you a considerable amount of money in the long run.

Inexpensive toilets, showers and accessories. Showers and toilets can cost a lot of money, but you can also find great deals. Check with restyling and bathroom fixture stores for sale items; right after the holiday period is the perfect time for this. Find attractive mixers, sinks, and baths that fit your budget.

If you have your heart set on a luxury item, try saving money elsewhere to pay for it. For example, if you want an expensive steam shower, you can save money by choosing not to install a bathtub.

Buy your own supplies. Contractors generally prefer to purchase materials from you for a redesign project. You may be able to get better prices by purchasing the materials yourself. It’s a good idea to shop for bargains before hiring a contractor.

Your contractor may suggest that you allow you to purchase the materials because of the discount you can get. While it is true that contractors get deep discounts from vendors, many will mark the price significantly for the owner. Know the current rates for the materials you are looking for, and you will have a better idea of ​​whether your contractor is offering you a better deal than you can get yourself.

Choose your time carefully. Like the housing market, the redesign market is seasonal. If you redesign during a time when other people are not, you will find greater discounts on materials, accessories, bathrooms and showers. Most people don’t remodel during the hot summer months or around major holidays.

Where you shouldn’t take shortcuts.

There are some cases where taking shortcuts could lead to costly problems down the road. Regardless of your budget, you should expect to spend money on the following aspects of your redesign project.

Professional help with big tasks. Electrical wiring and plumbing should always be handled by a professional. So should tile work. If your tile is misplaced, it may not be airtight, and can cost a lot of money to repair. Paying for a professional in these areas will definitely save you money in the long run.

Don’t plan for unexpected costs. Most bathroom redesign projects cost 10-20% more than the original budget allowed. Make sure you are prepared for the additional costs, because you are likely to encounter them. If your budget is already overloaded with original cost, you may run into trouble later.

Avoid the lowest bidder. Some contractors cost more than others, and it is generally not advisable to go for the least expensive. If a contractor’s price is significantly lower than usual, it may be because they are missing important services. Also, avoid hiring someone close, a friend or family member with redesign skills, just because they will give you a deal. Friends and family take more liberties than professionals on average, and if you have a conflict, it could damage a valuable relationship.

You can save money on your bathroom redesign project without compromising on quality. Plan what you want ahead of time, do some bargain shopping, and don’t be afraid to get in on the easier work, and you should be able to get the redesign you want for a price you can afford.