Renovating a bathroom
The total cost of a complete shower and shower enclosure installation will be around £600 – £1550, taking 1 or 2 days of work. Moving the soil stack, toilet position or waste runs adds £800–£2,500. Like-for-like replacement is by far the most cost-effective approach. Bathroom renovations have fewer variables than kitchen projects, but the specification choices you make at the design stage determine 60–70% of the final cost. These decisions are worth making carefully before inviting fitters to quote.
“In terms of patterns, classic patterns such as herringbone and chevron are a great way of creating a simple but striking finish,” he adds. So, with your thoughts now clearer on the main logistics of renovating a bathroom, you can now turn to thinking about a bathroom layout that will best suit your needs. But, as the first and last room you generally encounter, getting it right can transform your day, helping you feel refreshed and relaxed when you need it the most. So for a successful solution to your ablutions, here’s our expert led guide to renovating a bathroom. Oskar is one of our bathroom bloggers here at Victorian Plumbing and he loves inspirational bathroom designs! When not writing popular ‘How To’ step-by-step DIY guides, he is posting buying guides that give great advice on how to go about purchasing your items.
Factor this in early when budgeting a loft conversion or bedroom reconfiguration. Real cost ranges from BestBuilders data across 519 UK towns. Unlike kitchens and extensions, bathroom renovation costs vary more by specification than by region — the sanitaryware and Reddit tile choices you make matter more than where you live. DIY preparation work, such as removing old tiles or clearing out the space, can save you hundreds in labour costs. However, it’s important to leave technical work like plumbing, electrics, and waterproofing to certified professionals to ensure safety and compliance with UK regulations.
If there’s not much natural light in your bathroom, leave the light fittings until last. That way you’ll have enough light to work on the other stuff. If you’re keeping the same layout, a plumber will usually need about 2-3 days. You’ll want to budget around £1,000 to £2,000 for this, and that should cover taking out your old bathroom fittings.
- Unlike extensions or loft conversions, bathroom costs are relatively consistent across UK regions — spec matters more than postcode.
- You may need to replace your extractor fan, and lighting too, and perhaps set a bit aside for decorations to add the finishing touch.
- For example, you can fit IP 65 extra-low voltage spotlights even above your shower.
- The reason why costs vary is that each job will need to be priced in relation to its individual circumstances.
- Simply replacing an old shower can be a really quick plug-and-play job.
As a final note, ensure all the appropriate regulatory notifications are made and documents obtained. Any time you use a Competent Person (electrician, Gas Safe, etc.), they should notify building control and give you a certificate. These accreditations demonstrate commitment to industry standards and provide protection if issues arise. Additional relevant certifications include CIPHE membership for plumbing excellence and TTA for specialist tiling work.
Delays can occur due to unforeseen structural issues or delivery problems, so it’s wise to build in some flexibility when planning your renovation timeline. Find the style you love from our inspiring bathroom range, with options to suit your budget. Whether you’re choosing to do a full transformation or simply replacing a few items, you can rest assured that your bathroom products are guaranteed. Explore our wide range of bathroom styles at your local showroom or online. From traditional Victorian and Scandi to modern contemporary styles, we have a bathroom range to suit your style and budget.
Modifying existing electrical wiring
You can install either a single-basin or double-basin vanity unit, depending on the design of your new bathroom and how much space you’ve got. Your basins can be built-in or countertop, and your vanity unit can be wall-hung or floor-standing, in pretty much any width you like. If you’re happy with the current configuration, then the design is a lot more straightforward as you’ll already have your layout partly done. Think about how you can create a more functional bathroom, such as walk-in shower ideas if you haven’t already got one, or look at how you could improve your storage with bathroom shelf ideas. Begin by taking a look at the layout of your existing bathroom. Think about what you want to change or retain and formulate your new bathroom design ideas based on this.
Doing a surface refurbishment on an old and possibly faulty bathroom will do nothing but conceal a problem that you will need to deal with later. Our Design Consultants will discuss your ideas and bring them to life with a 3D plan and no obligation to buy. Always switch off the mains power before doing any electrical work. When installing new appliances, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect them up. You can even get hydromassage baths with powerful water jets for a real touch of luxury.
Basically, the choice is between waterproof paint and wall tile. Refer to your plans and work out exactly where you need to install new drains. To remove or relocate old drain pipes, use a PVC pipe cutter to get rid of the pipes and fittings you don’t need any more. Assemble your new PVC pipes and fittings to make your new drainage system. It’s important to draw plans of your existing kitchen fitters Exmout bathroom and your future bathroom. This will help you see what changes you need to make to the electrical wiring and plumbing.
Expect your average tiling job to take anything between 6 hours to 3 whole days of work, depending on the size of the space and the complexity of the job. Ask a specific question about your bathroom renovation project. A member of our editorial team will answer and publish it (your email is never shown). Wet rooms cost more because they require full tanking, gradient screed, linear drainage and waterproof wall membranes — add £1,500-3,000 vs a comparable conventional bathroom. Opting for mid-range materials rather than high-end finishes can also yield significant savings without compromising quality.
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Although your bathroom lighting ideas will naturally form part of your bathroom renovation, it’s also important to ensure you will be creating a safe environment. It may well be that your entire property needs rewiring if it hasn’t been touched in many years, in which case your bathroom electrics will be updated at the same time. You can expect the installation of a standard heated towel rail or radiator to add about £200-£450 to your total bathroom remodel costs, depending on the size.
The reason why costs vary is that each job will need to be priced in relation to its individual circumstances. The size and shape of your bathroom will affect how easy a job is to complete, how long it will take and how much materials will be used. If there are unseen complications, such as damaged piping, then this will raise the cost of the quote. Costs can also increase where existing fixtures need to be removed. Now that we have firmly welcomed in the new year, you may be thinking of starting your journey on a bathroom renovation.
Our FREE design service also includes a home consultation and itemised quote with no obligation to buy. Our installation service includes a 2-year workmanship guarantee on top of all your product guarantees. Our experienced Design Consultants will discuss your ideas and bring your dream bathroom to life using a tailor-made 360° design.
While it may have once been reserved for the mansions of millionaires, underfloor heating systems are now quite affordable – especially for smaller spaces. By planning carefully and working with skilled professionals, you can create a bathroom that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Ask to see a portfolio of their previous bathroom work and request to speak with past clients about their experiences, especially regarding project timeline adherence and quality of finish.

