Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
It's crucial to have a robust pre-hiring process before signing any contract. This way, you can confirm a bathroom contractor is trustworthy, consistent, and well-respected in the Blaine community. Start with the following criteria and tweak them as necessary for your needs.
Industry Credentials
As you discuss your project with bathroom remodelers, ask them how many years of experience they have . Many remodeling companies are members of trade associations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Professional certifications can also hold professional qualifications that prove expertise.
Licensure and Insurance
Minnesota's licensing requirements for residential remodelers are a bit more complex than those in other states. The Department of Labor and Industry requires contractors practicing more than one "special skill" to get either a Residential Building Contractor or Residential Remodeler license. Special skills include disciplines like flooring, painting, and window and door installation, and a comprehensive list is on the department's website. If a company only practices one special skill or makes less than $15,000 per year, it doesn't need a license, but it must still apply for a Certificate of Exemption.
Photos
Ask for photos of previous bathroom remodels the contractor has completed for other homeowners. Looking at these images allows you to confirm the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It might also generate ideas or questions about what design elements and improvements the crew could include in your project.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately hire a remodeling company based on comprehensive estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can discuss your goals, get the necessary measurements taken, and meet the crew. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different written estimates and comparing them side by side to find the best deal.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. While reading about customers' positive and negative experiences, focus on how the contractor responds to complaints. It's a green flag if the team always tries to reach an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
Some more complex projects, like installing 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 Blaine
What's the difference between a bathroom remodel and a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable bathroom remodeling options available?
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- low or no-VOC paint
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- and dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
If I have a small bathroom, how can I maximize my space and make it feel larger?
- pedestal sinks or wall-mounted faucets
- glass shower doors
- small-scale tile patterns
- corner showers instead of tubs
- and a large mirror above the sink/vanity
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
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