Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
To weed out contractors that go against your principles or lack local credibility, it's important to keep a strong pre-hiring process. By following the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to picking the best company for you.
Industry Credentials
Ask each company about the number of years it's been in business and the number of projects it's finished. You should also find out 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
Iowa doesn't require residential remodelers to get licensed, but they must still register with the Division of Labor if they make at least $2,000 per year. Registration shows a company complies with workers' comp, unemployment, and bond requirements. It can also show you how prudent contractors are about the details of their job and your project.
Photos
Ask for a copy of the bathroom company's portfolio, which includes pictures from past remodels it's completed for homeowners. This is primarily so you can examine the caliber of a team's work. However, it could also provide design ideas for your own bathroom renovation or prompt questions about what the team can accomplish for your project.
Consultation and Estimate
Thorough written estimates are most important in the decision-making process. A growing number of remodeling companies are offering fully-online consultations, but we strongly advise beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the crew can evaluate your bathroom firsthand and get accurate measurements. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different contractors so you can compare costs.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. When examining past customers' experiences, focus on how the company reacts to negative feedback. Reputable remodelers will pursue a satisfactory resolution wherever possible.
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 Cedar Falls
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- corner showers with glass doors
- tall and narrow shelves
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- small-scale tile patterns
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- and vertical cabinets
Do I have to leave my home during the remodeling process?
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
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