When it comes to renovating your bathroom, there’s a lot more that goes into the process than first meets the eye. From the choice of materials to the expertise of the labour force, every little detail plays a big role in determining the final cost of your project.
If you’ve ever wondered why bathroom renovation quotes can vary so much, this blog is for you. We’ll be giving you a look behind the scenes to understand the factors that contribute to the overall cost and why it’s worth investing in a good quality bathroom and professional fitters.
Materials and products
One of the first things you’ll notice when planning a bathroom renovation is the huge range of fixtures and fittings available. The quality and variety of these products can vary significantly, and your choices here will obviously impact the overall cost.
Fixtures and fittings are generally available in budget, mid-range, and luxury options. Budget options might seem appealing due to their lower upfront cost, but they often lack durability and style. Mid-range options offer a balance of quality and affordability, while luxury fixtures obviously tend to provide the highest quality, best design, and longevity.
Labour costs
Labour is another big factor that goes into bathroom renovation costs. Skilled labour can make a significant difference in the outcome of your project, so this is of course factored into the cost.
Skilled labour and experience
Experienced professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table… or in this case, the bathroom! Their skills ensure that the installation is done correctly and efficiently. While you might find cheaper labour options, the old saying “you get what you pay for” often rings true. Investing in skilled labour means fewer mistakes and a higher quality finish – and when you’re spending lots of money on a brand-new bathroom, you want the finish to be the best it can be.
Time required for different installations
The time required to complete a bathroom renovation varies depending on the complexity of the project. Simple updates might take just a few days, whereas a complete overhaul could take several weeks. This time translates to labour costs and potentially more materials, so more extensive projects will naturally be more expensive.
Importance of hiring trained professionals
We can’t stress enough how important it is to hire in trained professionals. They are familiar with the latest techniques and safety standards, ensuring your bathroom is not only beautiful but also safe and functional. They can also give you recommendations for your space that you may not have otherwise thought about.
Office staff
We have office staff who handle product issues while the renovation is taking place. This allows the fitter to remain on-site and continue working without slowing the job down. Similarly, we have drivers who supply any materials needed during the renovation, ensuring that the fitter stays in your home working rather than fetching materials.
You know where we are if you have a problem. In other words, we have a base. You can drive here to see us. You are not reliant on us calling you back if you leave a message. Many one-man operations only offer a mobile phone number, and if they don’t return your call, you can’t find them.
Since we design and install, we control the entire process. It is common for a showroom to sell you the goods and then organise the fitter, whom you pay separately. We often hear from clients who have had issues where the shop blames the fitter, and the fitter blames the shop. By controlling everything, you only need to speak to us!
Overhead expenses
Beyond the visible costs of materials and labour, there are several overhead expenses that reputable companies must cover.
Showroom displays and maintenance
Maintaining a showroom with displays can be costly. These displays allow you to see and touch the products before making a decision, ensuring you choose the right fixtures for your bathroom.
Training and accreditation of staff
Investing in continuous training for staff ensures they are up to date with the latest trends and technologies. For example, our team members Dave and Mark recently spent two days at a shower screen manufacturer to deepen their understanding of the products we sell. This means we know the products we sell to you inside and out and can give you all the information you need to make choices for your bathroom with confidence.
Plumbing and electrical work
Proper plumbing and electrical work are the backbones of any bathroom. These elements must meet regulatory compliance and safety standards. Quality work in these areas ensures your bathroom functions smoothly and safely for years to come.
Regulatory compliance and safety standards
Adhering to local regulations and safety standards is non-negotiable. Compliance ensures the safety of your home and prevents costly fines or the need for rework.
Customer service and aftercare
Customer service shouldn’t come to an abrupt end once the renovation is complete. Reliable customer support is essential because good service means your concerns are handled promptly and effectively, building trust and ensuring a positive experience from start to finish.
Hiring a “one-man band” who offers a low quote might seem like the most cost-effective way to go but if they don’t return calls or fix issues quickly the initial savings can quickly turn into frustration and extra costs. In contrast, going with a reputable company that has a showroom and a team of trained professionals means you get dependable aftercare, so any post-installation issues are resolved quickly. Don’t forget that you’re paying for customer service too when you make your decision.
The right choice for your renovation
When comparing quotes, consider what you’re really getting. Are you choosing purely based on price, or are you considering quality, reliability, and aftercare? A slightly higher quote from a reputable company often reflects the value of skilled labour, high-quality materials, and exceptional customer service.
At Alan Heath and Sons, we believe in offering the right price for the right job. With a physical location and showroom displaying 50 settings, you can trust us to provide a quality experience. We invest in our team’s training, ensuring we only use manufacturers we trust.
Ready to find out how our experienced professionals and quality tools can make a world of difference to your bathroom renovation? Contact us today!