Best Bathroom Remodeling Companies

Types of bathroom remodels

Bathroom remodels can be classified into different types based on the scope and extent of the work involved. Each comes with its own set of considerations, costs and timelines.

• Cosmetic bathroom remodel: Minor cosmetic upgrades enhance and update the look of your bathroom but don’t include any major, expensive changes. Cosmetic improvements include new light fixtures, wall paint, faucets, showerhead and cabinet knobs and pulls. Major cosmetic bath remodeling projects address these issues but also include new flooring, wall tile and sinks.
• Remodel of a current bathroom: A complete remodeling replaces all existing surfaces, cabinetry and fittings but typically leaves in place large fixtures, such as the toilet and tub.
• Pull and replace bathroom remodel: In this type of remodel, fixtures like sinks, toilets and bathtubs are replaced with new ones, but your bathroom's layout remains the same. It might also include updating cabinets, countertops or tiles.
• Bathroom addition or expansion: Several companies can put a new tub over your existing one. For instance, both Bath Fitter and Re-Bath use your old tub as a base and install a new liner over the top, which takes only about a day to complete.
• Bathroom repairs: This type of bathroom remodeling project addresses issues with the current bathroom and fixes problems such as leaky sinks, slow-draining bathtubs, running toilets and cracked floor tiles.
• Ground-up bathroom remodel: When a total transformation is required, choose a ground-up approach. With this type of remodel, the entire bathroom is gutted and rebuilt from scratch. In some cases, this includes removing walls to enlarge the bathroom. Plumbing and electrical lines may be relocated, and fixtures like showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilets are usually replaced.

» FIND: Best online bathroom fixtures and plumbing companies

Why bathroom remodel ROI matters

Remodeling your bathroom can increase your home's overall value and offer one of the highest returns on investment among renovation projects. In many cases, modest or mid-range remodels recoup 58% to 67% of their cost when you sell your home, making them especially appealing if you anticipate listing in the near future.

Beyond resale, improving your bathroom often brings significant personal benefits. Homeowners frequently report a stronger attachment to their home after a successful remodel, citing new fixtures, updated finishes and improved functionality as major highlights. Whether you focus on a basic refresh or a more extensive renovation, considering how each design choice affects your long-term ROI is worth the planning effort.

How much does a bathroom remodel cost?

The typical range for a bathroom remodel is $6,639 to $17,624 in 2024, according to HomeAdvisor. 

Functionally, moving a toilet and sewer line can be one of the costliest construction choices when remodeling a bathroom. If you leave the toilet in its existing location in the new design floor plan, it can save you thousands of dollars.

Another factor is material selection. For example, opting for porcelain or ceramic tiles over natural stone or glass can save on material costs and labor. Going with a simple tile pattern, like a brick or stacked design, will keep your labor costs lower than you’d get with a herringbone or small mosaic pattern.

More little-known costs that drive up a renovation budget:

• Permits and approvals for electrical work, plumbing and building modifications
• Infrastructural changes, including rerouting plumbing and electrical systems
• Labor rates based on location and complexity of project
• Build requirements

How to save money on a bathroom remodel

There are a few ways to save money on your bathroom remodel. You could do it yourself rather than hire a professional and there are also financing options. According to Zach Barnes-Corby, head of construction at Block Renovation in New York, you can also swap out your primary materials for more cost-effective alternatives:

• Granite: Granite is a popular option for kitchen and bathroom countertops. A cheaper alternative is laminate, which has a similar look.
• Handmade tiles: Handmade tiles are beautiful and unique, but they can also be pricey. Machine-made tiles with an artisanal look are more affordable.
• Marble: Marble is another timeless choice for bathroom countertops. Engineered stone or quartz offers a similar look at a lower cost.
• Solid wood cabinets: Solid wood cabinets are nice and durable, but installing particleboard cabinets covered with a wood veneer is a more affordable option.

Tub-to-shower and shower-to-tub conversions

Tub-to-shower and shower-to-tub conversions are increasingly popular options for homeowners who want to adapt their bathroom to better suit their lifestyle or mobility needs.

• Tub-to-shower: Ideal for homeowners seeking better accessibility, especially older adults or people with limited mobility. It also suits those who rarely use the bathtub and prefer a modern, streamlined shower.
• Shower-to-tub: Best for families with young children who need a bathtub for bathing kids or homeowners looking to boost resale value, as many homebuyers look for at least one tub in a home.

Conversions can typically be completed in 2 to 5 days, depending on the condition of the existing plumbing, waterproofing needs and the complexity of the installation. Custom tile or fixture choices may extend the project.

Tub-to-shower conversions generally cost between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on the materials and labor involved. Shower-to-tub conversions may run from $1,500 to $5,000. Costs vary based on the tub style (standard vs. freestanding), surrounding materials and whether plumbing changes are needed.

How to find the best bathroom remodeling contractor

Choosing a bathroom remodeling contractor is all about due diligence. Check the companies’ credibility and ask for examples of past work. Don’t be shy to request references and contact past clients. Review each company’s license and insurance and be sure they provide a detailed contract.

Remember, communication is key, so pick someone responsive. It’s your dream bathroom, after all.

1. Finalize your vision

“It’s always best to have a complete design put together before you ask a builder for a quote,” according to Molly McGinness, an award-winning interior designer based on Cape Cod.

Contractors can’t give you an accurate price estimate without knowing what you want. If you ask them generically, they have to base the estimate on a placeholder that most likely doesn’t match your vision.

For example, ceramic materials are much cheaper than natural stone, and installing a simple pattern, like a brick or stacked pattern, has lower labor costs than more complicated designs, such as a herringbone or small mosaic pattern.

“It’s better to start with a design you love and have a bid on that specific design,” McGinness said. “If the bid comes in too high, you can then ask about ways to bring the cost down and how the design could be adjusted, either in materials, layout changes or what changes could affect the labor costs.”

2. Ask the right questions

Once you know what you want, it’s time to start a conversation. Elizabeth P. Lord-Levitt, who runs a residential design firm in Denver, always tells clients to ask these three questions when interviewing contractors:

• What type of projects do you normally do? The company’s past projects should be associated with the scope of work that needs to be done for your project. If the contractor is more of a handyperson who handles small fixes, they may not be a good fit for a bathroom remodel. If you hire a jack-of-all-trades — not a licensed plumber — the risk of failure can be catastrophic.
• Do you work with trade contractors? These are specialty professionals who are licensed, such as plumbers, carpenters, tile installers and electricians. Ask to see proof of insurance during the initial consultation (general liability, workers' compensation and professional liability insurance, if applicable). Reputable contractors have no problem sharing this information with you.
• What is your contract structure? A fixed-price structure is a great way to manage and run your project. If they work on a "time and material" structure for a large-scale project, it can be hard to manage the day-to-day expenses, and a budget can be completely blown before construction even starts.

Before signing any contract, read it thoroughly. It should include the scope of work, payment schedule, timeline and what happens in case of unforeseen issues or delays.

You should also check references and look at past work — reviewing previous projects will give you an idea of the contractor’s quality and style. If you aren’t sure where to start, consider looking on HomeAdvisor (Powered by Angi) or Houzz for local remodeling contractors in your area.

» MORE: How to choose a home remodeling contractor

3. Compare a few quotes

Discuss your budget upfront once you find a contractor you want to work with, making sure it covers potential contingencies. Always ask for a detailed quote to understand where your money is going.

Keep in mind that contractor pricing varies widely depending on the type and complexity of the bathroom remodeling project. Complications, changing orders and increases in project scope can also affect your budget, so make sure you understand the bathroom remodeling costs before any work begins.

Some bathroom remodelers pursue additional certifications in specialty fields (e.g., interior decorating or plumbing). They usually charge more, regardless of what material you choose, but it could be worth it if you need customized cabinetry or complicated plumbing layouts and a tricky electrical plan.

If you’re only doing a basic facelift with standard material selections, however, you probably don’t need to pay a premium on the labor.

Tips for working with contractors

Once you choose the right contractor, having realistic expectations and open communication will make the process less stressful for everyone involved. Below are three tips to help your remodeling go smoothly.

DIY vs. hiring a contractor

Choosing between hiring a contractor versus DIYing your bathroom remodel will ultimately come down to your skill level and the scope of your project. If your project requires structural changes, plumbing or electrical work, it may be best to hire a contractor. Work done incorrectly can lead to bigger issues and expenses down the road.

If your bathroom remodel is cosmetic, taking the DIY approach will save you money and allow you to have total control over the timeline and design of the project. But for more complicated remodels involving plumbing or structural changes, hiring a professional can save you time and potential frustration.

Eco-friendly and sustainable bathroom remodeling options

If you're looking to make your bathroom remodel more eco-friendly, there are many options that can reduce your environmental impact while saving money in the long run.

1. Water-saving fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads, faucets and dual-flush toilets to reduce water consumption.
2. Energy-efficient lighting: Use LED lighting and consider motion-sensor switches to save energy.
3. Sustainable materials: Choose recycled or sustainable materials for tiles, countertops and cabinetry. Bamboo and reclaimed wood are excellent choices.
4. Ventilation solutions: Ensure proper ventilation to reduce mold and improve indoor air quality, which contributes to a healthier home environment.
5. Eco-friendly paint and sealants: Select non-toxic, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes to reduce harmful emissions.
6. Solar water heating: Consider a solar water heater to reduce energy costs associated with heating water.