WORKING WITH A TRUSTWORTHY CONTRACTOR FOR YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

 

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a home improvement project is choosing the right contractor. Finding a trustworthy contractor can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry. The last thing you want is to hire a contractor who cuts corners or leaves the project unfinished. In this article, we’ll provide some helpful tips on how to find a trustworthy contractor for your next home project, and we'll give you access to a trustworthy remodelling contractor in Los Angeles for do-it-yourself home improvement tasks.

Determine your project needs: Before you start looking for a contractor, it’s important to determine your project needs. This includes the scope of the project, the materials you want to use, and your budget. Make a list of the specific features or changes you want to make to your home and prioritize them. This will help you communicate your needs clearly to potential contractors and ensure that you receive accurate estimates. Be realistic about your budget and to factor in additional costs such as permits and unexpected expenses. By having a clear idea of your project needs and budget, you’ll be better equipped to find a contractor who can meet your expectations. Take Sarah’s kitchen project for example:

Sarah and her husband have decided that it’s time to remodel their outdated kitchen.

They have a general idea of what they want to accomplish with the project but need to determine their specific needs before starting the search for a contractor.

First, they discuss their must-haves for the new kitchen. Sarah loves to cook and wants a larger stove and a more functional layout, while her husband wants more counter space and modern appliances. They also want to update the cabinets, flooring, and lighting.

Next, they research different kitchen styles and designs to get inspiration for their project. They save pictures of kitchens they like and make note of the specific features they want to include in their new kitchen.

After determining their project goals and preferences, they set a budget for the project. They decide on a maximum budget of $40,000, which includes the cost of materials, labor, and any unexpected expenses.

To get a better idea of the cost of the project, they visit home improvement stores to get estimates for the materials they want to use. They also research the cost of similar kitchen remodels in their area to ensure that their budget is realistic.

Finally, they create a prioritized list of the features they want to include in their new kitchen, with their must-haves at the top of the list. This will help them communicate their needs clearly to potential contractors and ensure that they receive accurate estimates.

By taking the time to determine their project needs, budget, and priorities, Sarah and her husband are able to start their search for a contractor with a clear idea of what they want to accomplish with their kitchen remodeling project.

Seek out recommendations: Word of mouth is one of the most effective ways to find a trustworthy contractor. Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have any recommendations for contractors they’ve worked with in the past. You can also check with your local home builders’ association or other professional organizations for referrals. When asking for recommendations, be sure to inquire about the quality of the contractor’s work, their communication skills, and their reliability. It’s also a good idea to ask to see the completed projects of the contractors that are recommended to you. This can give you a sense of their style and skill level. By gathering recommendations from trusted sources, you can narrow down your search for a contractor and feel confident in your choice.

With their project needs and budget in mind, Sarah and her husband begin asking for recommendations for contractors who specialize in kitchen remodels. They reach out to friends and family who have recently had kitchen remodels and ask about their experiences with their contractors.

One of Sarah’s coworkers highly recommends a contractor who recently completed a kitchen remodeling project for her. She shares photos of the finished kitchen and raves about the contractor’s attention to detail and communication skills.

Feeling confident in the recommendation, Sarah and her husband reach out to the contractor to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, they discuss their project needs and budget, and the contractor provides them with an estimate for the project.

However, Sarah and her husband decide to reach out to a few more contractors before making their final decision. They ask for additional recommendations from their home builders’ association and search online for highly rated kitchen remodeling contractors in their area.

After gathering several estimates and meeting with multiple contractors, they ultimately decide to go with the contractor recommended by Sarah’s co-worker. They feel that the contractor has the experience, communication skills, and attention to detail they’re looking for and that their project needs align well with the contractor’s expertise.

By gathering recommendations from trusted sources and meeting with multiple contractors, Sarah and her husband are able to find a trustworthy contractor for their kitchen remodelling project.

Meet with the contractor in person: It’s important to meet with the contractor you’re considering in person before hiring them. This will give you a chance to discuss your project in detail and get a sense of their communication skills and professionalism. During the meeting, ask the contractor about their experience with similar projects, their availability, and their approach to the project. Be sure to communicate your project needs and budget clearly and ask any questions you have about the process. The contractor should be able to provide you with references from previous clients, as well as a detailed estimate for the project. Take note of the contractor’s communication style and overall demeanor during the meeting. You want to work with someone who is responsive, communicative, and professional. After meeting with multiple contractors, you should have a clear sense of who you feel comfortable working with and who is the best fit for your project needs.

Sarah and her husband arranged to meet with the contractor in person to discuss their project needs and goals in more detail. During the meeting, they went over the plans they had created with their designer and discussed the specifics of the project, including the materials they wanted to use and their timeline for completion.

The contractor was professional, communicative, and attentive to their needs throughout the meeting. He took the time to listen to their ideas and provided them with valuable feedback and suggestions. He also offered them a detailed estimate that aligned with their budget.

Feeling confident in their choice, Sarah and her husband officially hired the contractor for their kitchen remodeling project. Throughout the project, the contractor kept them updated on the progress and communicated any unexpected delays or issues promptly. He also stayed within their budget and completed the project on time.

Thanks to the recommendation from Sarah’s coworker and their careful research, Sarah and her husband were able to find a trustworthy contractor who was able to bring their vision for their kitchen to life.

Stay involved in the project: Once the project begins, it’s important to stay involved and communicate regularly with your contractor. Make sure you understand what is happening at each stage of the project and ask any questions you may have. If issues arise or changes need to be made, don’t hesitate to communicate with your contractor right away. This will help ensure that the project stays on track and that everyone is on the same page. Additionally, make sure to be available for any necessary site visits or inspections. This will allow you to stay informed about the progress of the project and ensure that it meets your expectations.

Sarah and her husband made a point to stay involved in their kitchen remodeling project from start to finish. They communicated regularly with their contractor, asking questions and discussing any concerns that came up along the way.

At each stage of the project, they made sure to review the progress and offer feedback. They were careful to be available for site visits and inspections, making sure that the work was being done to their satisfaction.

By staying involved in the project, Sarah and her husband were able to catch a few minor issues before they became major problems. They were also able to offer suggestions and ideas that ultimately improved the outcome of the project.

Thanks to their involvement and communication with their contractor, Sarah and her husband were able to ensure that their kitchen remodeling project was completed on time, within budget, and to their satisfaction. They were thrilled with the end result and felt that their involvement throughout the process had played a key role in its success.

Working with a trustworthy contractor is essential to the success of your home improvement project. By following these tips and taking the time to research potential contractors, you can ensure that your project is completed with peace of mind and a job well done!

KITCHEN REMODELING – HOW TO UPDATE THIS SPACE ON A BUDGET!

 

So, you want to update your outdated kitchen to make it look stunning and functional. But you are on a tight budget! In Los Angeles, you will find many reliable contractors who have the expertise to handle kitchen remodeling projects within your budget. The ideas they suggest can change the overall look of your kitchen without putting a dent in your pocket. Want to explore some of these? Read the entire blog!

A Few Low-Cost Ideas for Kitchen Remodeling

Are you on a limited budget? But you wish to have a modern kitchen! Listed below are some clever ideas for affordable updates.

 

Stick to Existing Kitchen Layout

Changing the current kitchen layout can consume a considerable amount of your kitchen remodeling budget. Moving plumbing, walls, cupboards, electrics, and so on may take this home improvement project into big money. And doing this task involves a lot of hassles. The timeline of this project may increase. Hence, if you are satisfied with your kitchen layout, it’s better to stick to it.

Add a Backsplash

Adding a backsplash can do wonders to amp up the personality of a kitchen. You can go for a simple backsplash, such as white subway tiles with oak cabinets. If you have a small kitchen, patterned ceramic tiles can also make a big impact. These are inexpensive but beautiful. Visit Yelp to know more in this regard.

Upgrade Lighting

Update the lighting can refresh the look of your kitchen and make it easier for you to work in your cooking space. So, look for modern but inexpensive light fixtures. You can add pendants over the kitchen island. Also, opt for tiny white lights underneath the cabinet, which will illuminate the counter. 

Open Up the Space

Removing some of the upper cabinetry can transform the look of a kitchen. Most importantly, it can make your kitchen more functional. Open shelving is an excellent way to display the kitchen essentials you use along with some items, such as cookbooks, herbs, etc. Visit our kitchen gallery page to witness how it looks.

Paint Your Kitchen

A simple way for a budget-friendly kitchen remodel is to paint. You can lighten up a tired and gloomy space by applying a fresh coat of paint with bright colors. This idea works best to make your kitchen feel spacious.

We hope, these guidelines will point you in the right direction. But you can also explore more about kitchen remodeling ideas as well as kitchen remodeling contractors in Los Angeles, California by reading our other blogs. Keep in touch!

SMART TIPS TO PICK NEW TILES FOR A BATHROOM REMODEL

 

The tiles in a bathroom are undoubtedly a key feature. They can be used in colorful and decorative ways to add style to this space. But when it comes to choosing tiles for a bathroom remodel by the bathroom remodeling contractor Los Angeles, panning is essential. In Los Angeles, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with numerous tiling options. That is why we have highlighted a few guidelines in this blog, which will help you choose the right ones for your bathroom. Keep reading!

How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom Remodel advised by the bathroom remodeling contractor, Los Angeles

Opt for Light Colors

Do you want to have a light and airy bathroom? Then it’s best to choose the light colors of tiles. Go for the tiles of off-white, white and other light colors, which will make you feel about your bathroom is spacious. But make sure you choose grout colors that don’t contrast sharply with the tiles.

Make Sure the Tiles Are Easy to Clean

Bathroom cleaning is truly a big hassle for homeowners, especially if you are busy with your hectic schedules. Hence, it’s wise to go for tiles that are easy to clean. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are easy to clean. Besides, less grouts in between tiles also result in easier cleaning. Explore our more traditional bathroom designs to know more in this regard.

Choose the Tiles That Are Slip-Resistant

It’s one of the vital facts for choosing bathroom tiles. Slate can be a sound choice if you prefer a darker tone in your bathroom. Besides, having more grouts in between tiles can make a bathroom slip-resistant. In this regard, it’s also best to add small tiles to the floor of a walk-in shower and larger tiles for the remaining parts. But remember, glass bathroom tiles can be extremely slippery.

 

Consider the Style of Your Bathroom

Before choosing bathroom tiles, consider the overall style of this space. Make sure you choose the option that suits your bathroom design, which can increase the aesthetic appeal of this space. Otherwise, the overall look of your bathroom may be spoiled.

Also, you need to know what services are provided by bathroom remodeling companies in Los Angeles.

HOW TO BUILD AN ADU ABOVE YOUR GARAGE IN LOS ANGELES?

Do you have a wonderful little space above your garage in Los Angeles that could make an exceptional accessory dwelling unit? You’re in luck! The California state government recently relaxed the formerly strict laws about creating an accessory dwelling unit above a garage. If you don’t currently have a finished space that can be converted to an ADU above your garage in Los Angeles, you can certainly create one. It’s a great idea to take advantage of the unused space and enjoy the revenue from another income stream or expand your living area to include the benefits an ADU can bring.

 

Why an ADU Over Your Garage is a Good Idea?

A garage space is fantastic for your vehicles and extra storage options, but what about the space above? As space is at such a premium in Los Angeles and southern California, it makes sense to build up. A garage with an ADU above that contains a bedroom, living space, kitchen, and bathroom can bring in nice rental income from either long-term or short-term tenants. In addition, the ADU adds square footage to your property, which can boost your property value.

 

But there’s also the bonus of having an extra space you can use for family or friends. As multi-generational households become more common, an ADU above the garage can provide the additional dwelling area and privacy necessary to ensure harmony in the home. If you already have space for everyone but that leaves privacy, and quiet time at a premium, you can use that newly-finished space as a home art studio or recording space, a workout area, an office, or a cozy getaway.

 

If you ever choose to sell the home, the ADU can be pretty appealing to potential buyers; Forbes reports that many homeowners are willing to pay more for homes that have a garage with an ADU above, as it provides them with flexibility in using the space for whatever they might want – a home gym, an office, or just an excellent place for grandma to visit.

 

If you are planning to use your ADU to generate rental income from tenants, get up to speed with the rules set forth by the City of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Housing Department offers in-depth information on renting out accessory dwelling units. Make sure you can stay compliant with the rules before you make the decision to turn your ADU above the garage in Los Angeles into a money-making rental property.

 

Digging Into the Finances: ADU Above the Garage Costs

Building an ADU over the garage in Los Angeles means adding an additional story over the existing space, which qualifies as significant construction.

Regardless of the work required, the costs of an ADU above your garage can vary widely depending on the contractor you choose to work on the property. Those costs also depend upon the following:

 

• Any refinishing required for the exterior of the building
• The materials you choose for the ADU
• Aligning the ADU above an attached garage with the second floor of the home
• Reinforcing the garage foundation to accommodate the added weight
• Reconfiguring or installing utilities
• Adding a new roof and interior and/or exterior stairs
• The age of the house and how much work must be done to bring it up to modern code
• The overall design: for instance, an outdoor staircase might cost less than an indoor one

 

So what are the ballpark figures? The average cost of detached new construction above a garage runs from $260,000 and up, depending on design and size. That’s assuming approximately 400 square feet of a two-car garage plus a 400 square foot ADU above, including the stairway.

That might seem like a lot of money, but keep in mind that you can create additional income with that space, which can eventually offset the costs of your investment. When it comes time to sell the property, a well-constructed ADU can increase your selling price.

 

Building an ADU Above the Garage in Los Angeles

When you start to consider building an ADU, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the things you’ll need to do from the start of the project to the completed space. Breaking it down into small, manageable steps is the key to getting the job done without compromising your sanity.

 

1.Start with ADU Concept Design

 

Begin by asking yourself some fundamental questions about how you intend to use the ADU. Are you looking for income by making your ADU a short-term or long-term rental property? Do you want a cozy home office or gym? Is this intended to be a getaway space for you or the whole family, perhaps a game room or a den dedicated to watching sports or movies? Will the ADU eventually become a home recording studio? Or will you be creating the space for a family member, such as a mother-in-law suite?

 

Once you know your intention for the space, you can move on to creating the Concept Design. You could hire MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. to create the Architectural Concept Design, which will include the floor plan, interior, and exterior view design, 3D rendering, and 360 degrees panoramas with a virtual walk-through. This lets you experience walking through your finished ADU project virtually before you invest even one dollar in construction or blueprints. This Concept Design Service by MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. includes searching city and county records to verify what the local zoning and building code allow in your area. This Concept Design also includes an accurate budget plan, which provides you with an accurate cost of the project before you commit to the high cost of construction. Your contractor will use these guidelines to build the ADU to the proper specifications.

 

2. Clear the Plans with the City of Los Angeles

 

The ADU Concept Design you get from MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. will comply with the regulations for Los Angeles. This will be the foundation of the complete set of blueprints MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. will create for you to ensure the project is approved by the city. The plans must be officially approved by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. This step is vitally important to ensure that you are in compliance with all the laws and regulations. After approval, you can start the process of applying for a construction permit.

 

3. Consider the Funding

 

There are numerous options for financing an ADU, including your current cash on hand, a loan or line of credit based on your home equity, a renovation or construction loan, a cash-out refinance of your home, and more. Take your time in choosing the right option before you move into the construction of your ADU.

 

4. Get a Reliable Contractor

 

When hiring a contractor, look for one that has significant experience in building ADUs, especially those that are built over a garage in Los Angeles. Not only does seasoned contractor understand what it takes to build a safe ADU over your garage, but they also know their way around the permit process and the new regulations and rules regarding accessory dwelling units in Los Angeles and southern California.

 

You don't need to worry; we will select a reliable contractor for your garage. You may build a strong and secure garage with the help of an ADU contractor in Los Angeles.

5. Be Involved in Selecting Finishing Materials

 

While construction of your new ADU is in progress, you’ll need to select the finishing materials you’d like to install. This can include windows, doors, roofing materials, interior, and exterior finishing, plumbing and electrical fixtures, AC system, tiles, flooring, paint colors, and more. Use your contractor’s help to get these materials at discount prices to save money.

 

6. Finishing Tips

 

Select colors to paint the space in a way that not only makes it look bigger but makes it more appealing to potential tenants. Grey and white have dominated the painting space in recent years, but now the colors that get attention are light-intensity earth tones, blues, and, yes, the ever-present greys. Choose those for your wall and look for furniture that complements them.

 

7. Cast Your Eye Toward Potential Storage

 

Make furniture work double-duty by opting for smart storage solutions, such as ottomans that open to create space for blankets and drawers hidden away underneath the bed. Just as you built upward with your ADU over the garage, consider going up with storage – tall armoires, high cabinets, and even racks dropped a foot or so below the ceiling can be great to tuck away small items and keep the rooms looking light and airy.

 

8. Timing

 

Make sure you can trust your contractor to commit to the completion date. Check the contractor’s background with previous customers who had a project of a similar size to yours. Ask those customers how long it took to complete their project. Did the contractor complete the work right on time or even ahead of schedule?

 

When you choose to build your ADU over the garage at your Los Angeles home, the keys to success include good planning, a smart architect, following all the rules and regulations set forth by the state and local governments concerning ADUs, and finding the right contractor for the job. It might seem like a lot to handle, but the end result is worth doing the right way.

 

2023 BATHROOM REMODELING COSTS IN LOS ANGELES

Have you been thinking about changing up your bathroom? Maybe your family has grown and you simply don’t have enough room anymore. Perhaps your needs have changed, and you find that you rarely use the bathtub anymore, but could certainly use a larger shower. Or you might have found yourself looking at the old vanity, the dated shower and the toilet that no longer works as well as it should and started thinking that it all has to go – all of it! Right down to the walls, to start with something fresh and new.

If you’re considering remodeling your Los Angeles bathroom this year, you’re in the right place. MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc. can provide you with the services you need, from the initial planning to the final inspection. But before you dive in, take some time to look at your budget and figure out exactly what you can afford in your bathroom remodel. Understanding the remodeling costs in Los Angeles in 2023 can help you plan well and choose the fixtures, finishes, and materials that matter the most to you.

Let’s start by looking at the size of the project.

 

Size Plays a Huge Factor in Your Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Los Angeles

Of course, it makes sense that the size of your bathroom relates to the overall cost of your project – the larger the bathroom, the larger the price. Right? Well, not exactly.

What matters is not necessarily the square footage of the bathroom but rather, the number of fixtures you include in the space. As a general rule of thumb, the more fixtures you include, the greater the cost. You can have a quite spacious bathroom but if there is only a single-sink vanity, toilet, and walk-in shower, you are likely going to pay less than for a smaller bathroom with twice the fixtures.

To put that in perspective:

A half-bathroom is typically the lowest cost bathroom remodel, with only one or two fixtures – just a sink and a toilet. A full bathroom adds in another fixture, the bathtub or shower, with a total of three to four fixtures. Master bathrooms usually have two sinks, and deluxe bathrooms often have a separate shower and bathtub in addition to the other fixtures – there can easily be at least five fixtures, possibly more. That’s why a large, deluxe bathroom remodel will almost always cost more than remodeling a half-bath.

 

How Materials Affect Your Bathroom Remodeling Costs in 2023

The “finish level” of your remodel refers to the quality of the fixtures, finishes, and materials in your bathroom. This takes into account everything from your wall treatments and flooring to your choice of showerheads and faucets. Here are the most common finish types:

• Budget options: These are usually the materials you find at your local home improvement store. This can include single-sink vanities, a variety of affordable tile, basic fixtures by names like Moen and Delta, and toilets, alcove bathtubs, and shower surrounds.

• Mid-grade: These are higher-end items that you might be able to pick up at a home improvement store but would more than likely have to go to a more specialized place to do it, such as a kitchen and bath store. Look for names like Signature Hardware, Kohler, and American Standard.

• High-end: These can include much nicer materials you can buy from a retailer or some custom options made just for you. Artistic Tile, Robern, and Brizo are common names for these more stately options.

• Luxury: This is where you can go all-out with the most luxurious pieces you can imagine. The price tag is hefty but so is the customization. Names like Lefroy Brooks and THG Paris are good places to begin, but luxury could also mean truly custom from a master craftsman in the local area.

Budget options for your bathroom can run into the hundreds or even low-thousands of dollars, while luxury options could run into the tens of thousands for a single fixture!

When you’re looking at your bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles in 2023, let MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc. go over all the options with you and work within your budget to create the bathroom that is right for you. We can help you understand your options and guide you to mixing and matching them for a remodel that can keep you under budget but still provide a few show-stopping pieces.

 

Scope Matters When Remodeling Your Bathroom in Los Angeles

There are a few options when you remodel your bathroom. You don’t have to take it down to the bare studs – you can remodel certain parts of the bathroom instead, such as focusing only on a new shower but leaving the toilet and vanity alone. Let’s break down your options:

·         Small Scale Remodel. This remodel is exactly what it sounds like – a remodel on one part of the bathroom, such as replacing the bathtub with a walk-in shower or a bath/tub combination. This remodel might require work beyond the replacement, such as necessitating new flooring or wall treatments.

·         Rip and Replace. This is a full renovation that takes everything out of your bathroom and replaces it with all new fixtures and materials. The layout remains the same, so you don’t have to move around any plumbing or electrical wiring. This works great if you like the configuration of your bathroom right now but the fixtures are dated and need a refresh.

·         Gut Renovation. This is the mother of all renovations. It requires not only pulling everything from the existing bathroom but might also include taking down walls, moving around plumbing and electrical lines, and completely changing the layout of the space. In other words, you’re removing the bathroom entirely and starting with a blank canvas.

A gut renovation is much more involved than a full renovation and thus, there are many steps you must take before you even begin. This includes obtaining professional design services and permits. Here at MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc., our one-stop shop provides you with the services you need to make your dream bathroom a reality.

 

Overall Costs for Your Bathroom Remodel in Los Angeles in 2023

Before we break down the individuals parts of your remodel, you might be wondering what a good average cost might be for what you want to do. Let’s take a look:

• A budget remodel, going with handsome yet affordable options, can run about $18,000. 

• A mid-grade remodel, where you choose some budget options and some show-stopping additions, can run around $28,500. 

• A high-end remodel, in which you look for items that are top-of-the-line and go with attractive interior design options, can cost $40,500 and up.

Keep in mind that these costs do not include finishing materials and any city permit fees that might be required.

 

Bathroom Remodeling Services and Your Cost in Los Angeles

Some homeowners choose to piecemeal the work and go with a separate design firm, architect, general contractor, and the like. Here at MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc., we take the guesswork and trouble out of finding multiple companies to do the job. We can work closely with you to design the bathroom you want to see, talk about the options that might fit into your budget, help you obtain the necessary permits (if you need them), and handle the construction of your new bathroom – all with one contact that starts with a free consultation.

Also, we renovate and refurbish bathrooms. While our knowledgeable bathroom remodelling contractors in Los Angeles take care of both your bathroom and home renovations, let us help you with your work.

 

Breaking Down Your Bathroom Remodel

If you’re not quite sure what sort of remodel you want, consider each section of your bathroom and decide what you want to do with it. Do you like the walls but hate the floor? Do you enjoy your bathtub as it is but the shower leaves a lot to be desired? From simply replacing the vanity with something nicer or tearing out the entire bathroom to start fresh, MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc. can help you choose which elements to keep and which to take away. Let’s break down the bathroom, piece by piece.

 

The Vanity

You have several options for a vanity. The lowest cost is a pre-fabricated option, such as what you might find at a local home improvement store. You can choose one that has a countertop already with it or one that requires you to choose a separate countertop. While these are affordable and certainly do the job, you have very limited customization for the piece. You can choose between those that have one sink or two. These vanity options typically run between $300 and $2,000.

If you want a vanity that is longer than six feet, has more than two sinks, or has specially-designed cabinets underneath, you’ll need to go with a custom option. These start at $2,000 and go up from there – depending upon the material you choose, the cost could go up to as high as five figures.

 

Creating Your Shower

This can be one of the most expensive parts of your bathroom remodel. If you are doing a full gut of the bathroom for your remodel, you can opt to change up the shower however you please. That means you can choose anything from a corner shower to a bathtub/shower combo to a walk-in shower, depending upon the space you have available.

As you might imagine, a prefabricated shower surround is much more affordable. Though these are usually made of fiberglass, they can mimic other materials and look quite good doing it. It can often be installed for less than $1,000. However, you can go a more expensive route with tile on the walls and/or the shower floor. In general, the smaller the tile and the larger the shower, the more expensive the labor costs will be.

Other materials, such as marble or natural stone, take your shower to a higher-end level and can cost in the tens of thousands.

 

If You Include a Bathtub

Not every bathroom includes a bathtub – a bathroom with only a shower is a quite popular option. But those who want a luxurious master bath experience, have children in the home, or have trouble with mobility will want to ensure there is a bathtub in the house. A bathtub is also a great idea if you intend to sell the home in the future.

If you’re worried about affordability, keep in mind that a shower/bathtub combination is likely not going to cost much more than a bathtub itself – assuming that the bathtub is an alcove style or similar, where it meets the wall where the plumbing will be. You can expect this to run anywhere from $500 to $2,000, but likely on the lower end.

However, a stand-alone tub is also a great option. Imagine a cast-iron clawfoot tub in the center of the room, or an elegant Japanese soaking tub taking center stage. You will likely pay more for these options, but if you are hoping to make your bathtub an anchor focal point in the room, you can’t go wrong with the freestanding tub. Depending upon your dreams for your bathroom, you could spend thousands on the right tub.

 

Flooring

Most bathrooms have tile flooring, and for good reason: It’s an attractive, waterproof surface that comes in an endless array of colors, sizes, and designs. But just as with tiling a shower, using tile on the floor of your bathroom – or even on the walls – can be an expensive endeavor. To save costs, you could go with waterproof vinyl planks or linoleum. It’s important to talk with us about what you envision for your bathroom and discuss the type of flooring you want. We might be able to figure out an option that gives you the elegance you want at a more affordable price.

 

Plumbing and Fixtures

Don’t underestimate the potential cost of your faucets, showerheads, valves and handles. Some homeowners choose to go with budget materials but want the faucets and showerheads to stand out, giving a look of elegance to the room. Consider that the most basic faucets and handles might run a few hundred dollars, while high-end options can run into the thousands.

 

Electrical and Lighting

If your lighting is outdated, you might want to improve it with recessed lights, decorator lighting around the vanity or hanging lights over the tub. Even a lovely lamp on a long vanity can add a look of classic sophistication while providing the bright light you need to see in the bathroom. Keep in mind that changing the lighting might mean adding more electrical wiring and switches.

Don’t forget the exhaust fan – you might want to upgrade to a quieter model. If you like where it is, you just have to worry about replacing the fan itself and not necessarily making any electrical changes. Let MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc. look at your situation and tell you where electrical changes might be necessary.

 

Other Potential Expenses for your Los Angeles Bathroom Remodel

There could be other expenses for your bathroom remodel in Los Angeles. In 2023, there are plenty of supply issues still lingering after the height of the pandemic. And because of that, the cost of materials could be higher than what you might have expected a year ago. Keep that in mind as you move forward in choosing the elements of your bathroom remodel.

Demolition of your existing bathroom is a quick part of the job but it does require heavy labor and the use of a dumpster to take things away. Most other “surprise” expenses will come after the remodel is over. For instance, you’ll need to paint the walls (or apply wallpaper) when the job is finished. You might want to install a shower door, towel rods, grab bars in the shower or bath, and shelving units. You might find that you want to include things that drive up the price substantially, such as a nice mirror, medicine cabinet, or high-dollar light fixtures. Keep these in mind for your bottom line.

MDM Custom Remodeling, Inc. can help you with your bathroom remodel from start to finish. We can talk with you about your dreams for the space and what you can practically afford, then help you choose how to proceed. We can provide the custom design services you need to get started, help you get the permits you might need, keep you updated throughout the work, and be there for the final inspection of the job. Get in touch today to let us guide you through the process.

 

FAQs

What is the average bathroom remodeling cost in Los Angeles in 2023?

The cost of your bathroom remodel depends upon many factors, including the size of the bathroom, the type of remodel, the cost of moving around any plumbing lines, and the quality of the fixtures and finishes you choose. A rip-and-replace full bathroom remodel in Los Angeles can average anywhere from $18,000 to $74,000 – a very wide range! A major remodel that requires gutting the room can add up to 25% more to that cost. Only the pros at MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. can look over your bathroom and give you a solid estimate.

 

How much does it cost to demolish a bathroom in Los Angeles?

Demolition costs are usually dependent upon the square footage of the bathroom. It’s one of the quickest phases of the process. Let us take a look at your bathroom plans to give you a firm estimate that includes the cost of demolition.

 

Is a permit necessary for a bathroom remodeling project in Los Angeles?

That depends on what you’re doing with your bathroom remodel. The permit requirements vary from one locale to another. In general, permits are necessary if there will be any changes in your plumbing, electrical, or mechanical elements, or if load-bearing walls will be moved. The cost of your permit will depend upon the local rules. Let us look into the costs for you.

 

What are the costs to tile a Los Angeles bathroom?

The cost of tiling a bathroom in Los Angeles depends upon the size of the bathroom, the preparation of the space, the type of tile you choose, and the labor required to install it. A good rule of thumb is to expect between $26 and $82 per square foot, but that can vary even more widely depending upon your choice of tile.

 

How much does it cost for vanity replacement in my Los Angeles bathroom?

Vanities can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending upon how large and fancy you want to get. In addition to the cost of the vanity itself, you might have to relocate the plumbing or electrical, expand them, or bring them up to code. Preparation of the site and the installation will incur labor costs. If you are going with a high-end, custom job, expect to pay more.

 

What does a shower remodel in Los Angeles cost in 2023?

Remodeling your shower can run you from a few thousand dollars to $15,000 or more. As with any other bathroom remodeling costs, the final price will depend upon the size of your bathroom, the shower you choose to upgrade to, and any plumbing or electrical you might have to move to get the shower where you want it. The materials you choose will make a big difference as well – for instance, standard ceramic tile might cost you around $1.50 per square foot, on average, while marble tile might run $50 per square foot or more. To be sure of the costs, get in touch with MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. for a good estimate of what you can expect to pay for your shower remodel.

 

What are the small bathroom remodeling costs in Los Angeles in 2023?

No matter the size of your bathroom remodel, the cost largely depends upon the number of fixtures you have, the quality of those fixtures, and the materials you choose. To put that in perspective, a small bathroom remodel could run $15,000 if you choose high-end fixtures and materials, but a large bathroom remodel could cost the same if you go with lower costs for fixtures and materials. Therefore, it’s difficult to provide a good estimate until we take a look at your bathroom and talk about the materials you want to use. MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. can look over your plans and give you a good estimate on the cost of remodeling your bathroom.

 

Are there any hidden costs to bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles?

As with any other major remodel, sometimes unexpected expenses will pop up. This can be especially true in a bathroom, where water is a constant presence. If we get into the walls and discover an issue with your plumbing, such as a water leak that has led to rot, mildew or mold, you might face additional expenses to fix the problem. It’s a good idea to set aside an extra 10-15% over the cost of your estimate to pay for these unexpected issues, should they arise. If everything goes smoothly, then you have some extra cash left over for decorating the bathroom when the work is done!