Get matched with top bathtub replacement pros in Pentwater, MI

Different bathtub materials have various advantages and disadvantages. Cast iron and copper are considered the most durable materials because they are dense and resistant to damage from scratches or dents. However, cast-iron tubs are heavy, expensive, and may not be suitable for upper floors. Copper offers unique benefits but requires regular chemical treatment to prevent a patina from forming, making cast iron a less maintenance-intensive option. Porcelain is a good second choice for durability. For those on a budget, acrylic is a popular option, though it is less durable.

The cost to install a shower or a tub is roughly the same. Shower installation costs range from $2,400 to $8,800 and vary depending on the type and size, materials used, and the complexity of the features. For similar reasons, the average bathtub cost can range from $2,000 to $9,400.

There are several ways to save money on a bathroom remodel through proper planning and savvy design strategies. To reduce costs, consider the following:

• Purchase your own materials: Buy your own bathroom fixtures, hardware, and other materials to avoid contractor upcharges and delivery fees.

• Shop smart for big-ticket items: Save on pricey items like tiles and tubs by shopping sales and at discount stores.

• Avoid major layout changes: Keep plumbing in its current location. Opt to replace fixtures rather than moving them to avoid significant renovation work.

• Focus on high-impact, low-cost updates: Make affordable but impactful smaller changes, such as upgrading hardware, installing new lighting, and adding stylish but economical accessories.

• DIY where possible: Handle easier parts of the remodel yourself, like painting or installing light fixtures, to save on labor costs.

• Time your remodel strategically: Consider remodeling in the spring, which tends to be a lower-demand time of year and may result in lower costs.

Labor is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel. If you’re doing a major remodel, structural changes (such as moving walls) and plumbing reconfiguration can be costly. For a standard remodel, the big-ticket items include tiles and new tub or shower fixtures.