Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
To weed out businesses that aren't ethical or don't have positive community feedback, it's important to keep a strong pre-hiring process. By using the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to choosing the best company for you.
Industry Credentials
Ask each contractor about the number of years 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 certificates and continuing education programs for remodeling professionals.
Licensure and Insurance
While Pennsylvania doesn't require bathroom remodelers to get a state license, they must still register with the Attorney General as Home Improvement Contractors and carry required insurance coverage. They also have to follow city and county licensing requirements as necessary. For more information on regulations in State College, contact your local government offices.
Photos
Next, ask the bathroom company for a portfolio. Some contractors carry physical copies, while others design a running webpage detailing their past projects. Carefully examine each photo to assess the quality of the crew's work. You might even find some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek a comprehensive written estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the team can see your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, expectations, and vision. Services and pricing will vary from company to company, so we recommend getting three different written quotes for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before you hire a bathroom remodel, check its online reputation using sites like Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Trustpilot. Most companies have both positive and negative reviews. While examining each one, focus on how the contractor addresses complaints from dissatisfied customers. Reputable contractors will always aim to make things right.
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 average 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 State College
What is the difference between a bathroom remodel and a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- low or no-VOC paint
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- and greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- tall and narrow shelves
- vertical cabinets
- small-scale tile patterns
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- and corner showers with glass doors
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
