The most common bathroom remodel includes a new tub, shower controls, toilet, vanity countertop and tile floor at an average cost of $16,000.

The luxury version with tiled walls in the shower, new controls, custom tub, stone countertop with two sinks, new cabinetry and stone floors will be closer to $50,000.

You can update one item at a time for easy budgeting.

Bathroom remodels are expensive for the homeowner and require just as many trades as a kitchen.

Try to keep your baths up to date by:

1. Upgrade your toilet to a low water use tank and soft close lid by Toto or Kohler. If the floor covering is not an issue, your plumber can upgrade your old one.
2. Cabinetry doesn’t need to match throughout the home. Cabinetry can be painted and low cabinetry can have vessel sinks added with new hardware.
3. Showers can be visually opened with clear glass and the door can be eliminated if you have 5’ of length and use a curb. The drain can match your hardware or be along one side or invisible. Avoid a curb if you have enough space for easier and safer access.
4. Mirrors should cover the space from backsplash to ceiling and be the width of the base cabinet. They can be trimmed out with tile or wood. Framed mirrors can be added above each sink.

Each of the four steps is done by a different trade and can be done separately. If you want the total to look great consult with an interior designer.

You can find great towels, reasonably priced at Frontgate.com.