Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can assist in steering clear of unethical companies or designers who don't share your vision. Follow the steps in this section to help you select the right business.
Industry Credentials
Ask each contractor about how long it's been remodeling bathrooms and how many projects it's completed. You should also ask what trade group memberships the team has. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is just one organization offering continuing education programs and certificates for remodeling professionals.
Licensure and Insurance
While the Illinois state government licenses trades like plumbing, residential remodelers in the Land of Lincoln don't need a license. Different cities and counties can control their own requirements, so we recommend speaking with the Wheaton city hall for more information.
Photos
Most bathroom contractors maintain running portfolios with pictures of completed projects. Ask for a copy so you can check different teams' expertise. Portfolios can also give you design ideas or prompt additional questions.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek an itemized estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the technicians can inspect your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, vision, and expectations. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different written estimates and comparing them head-to-head to find the best deal.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. While reading about customers' positive and negative experiences, look for how the contractor responds to complaints. It's a good sign if the team always strives for an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
Some more complex projects, like setting up tankless water heaters or rewiring electrical systems, require subcontracting in many jurisdictions and will increase your overall cost. See common remodel costs for different projects in the table below:
| Type of Bathroom Remodel | Average Cost | Average Time |
|---|---|---|
| Half-bath remodel | $2,000-$5,000 | 5–7 days |
| Full bath remodel | $6,000-$15,000 | 10–14 days |
| Primary bath remodel | $10,000-$30,000 | 15–25 days |
| Wet room installation | $11,000-$18,000 | 10–30 days |
| Luxury bath remodel | $50,000+ | 15–30 days |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in Wheaton
How is a bathroom renovation different from a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What part of a bathroom remodel is the most expensive?
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- corner showers instead of tubs
- a large mirror above the sink/vanity
- pedestal sinks or wall-mounted faucets
- glass shower doors
- and small-scale tile patterns
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
