Are you tired of your tiny 5×8 bathroom? Does it feel cramped and outdated? A bathroom remodel can completely transform the space, but it’s important to keep the 5×8 bathroom remodel cost down. With some smart planning and budget-friendly design choices, you can remodel your small bathroom on a reasonable budget.
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Remodeling a small kitchen or bath is one of the best investments you can make for your home. Updating the layout, fixtures, and finishes will dramatically improve the look, feel, and functionality of the space. Plus, bathroom remodels offer excellent return on investment – you can recoup 60-70% of the project cost when selling your home.
But a full bathroom remodel does not come cheap. The national average for a basic 5×8 bathroom remodels is $6,000-$10,000. In some areas, costs can easily exceed $15,000.
In this post, we’ll break down the average cost to remodel a 5×8 bathroom and share tips for how to save money without sacrificing style or function. Read on to learn the secrets of an affordable yet stunning tiny bathroom makeover.
Estimate Your 5×8 Bathroom Remodel Cost
The cost to remodel a 5×8 bathroom can vary widely based on your location, the products and materials selected, and the extent of your bathroom renovation. Here is a breakdown of average costs for a basic 5×8 bathroom remodel:
- Labor: $2,500-$4,000
- Bathtub: $500-$1,500
- Shower enclosure: $1,000-$3,000
- Toilet: $100-$600
- Vanity and sink: $500-$2,000
- Lighting: $100-$500
- Flooring: $500-$1,500
- Paint and supplies: $200-$500
With basic finishes and mid-range products, you can expect to spend $6,000-$10,000 in total. Upgrading to higher-end fixtures, tile, and other luxuries can easily add $5,000+ to the total cost.
But there are many ways to cut costs and work within a limited budget. Keep reading to learn insider tips for an affordable 5×8 bathroom remodel.
Choose the Right Layout
When working with a tiny 5×8 bathroom, the layout is key. You want to maximize every inch of the available floor space.
Here are some smart layout options to consider:
- Tub/shower combination: This classic setup works well in 5×8 bathrooms. Choose a standard 60″ tub with a shower overhead. Install the tub along the longer wall and use a shower curtain.
- Stand-up shower: For a contemporary look, install a 36″ x 36″ shower enclosure. This is an excellent use of floor space. Opt for a neo-angle design to maximize elbow room.
- Pedestal sink: A pedestal sink has a small footprint, saving precious square footage. Look for wall-hung toilets and vanities to open up floor space.
- Pocket door: Pocket doors slide into the wall and don’t require any clearance space. This genius idea can help a small bathroom feel more expansive.
Get creative with the layout and you can make your 5×8 bathroom feel double the size!
Shop Sales and Discount Retailers
Once you’ve nailed down the layout, it’s time to select finishes and fixtures. One of the best ways to save money on your remodel is to shop sales and discount retailers.
Watch for specials at home improvement stores like these:
- Lowe’s bathroom remodel sales
- Home Depot bath remodeling sales
- Menards bath renovation sales
Check websites like Overstock and Wayfair for major discounts on bathroom essentials. Home goods stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls also carry trendy and affordable options.
For extra savings, check Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations for open box and returned bath products. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can also yield great secondhand finds.
With some deal hunting, you can easily shave 25% or more of the fixture and material costs.
Work With Low-Cost Design Elements
You don’t need expensive products to make your small bathroom look luxe. Focus on high-impact, low-cost design elements for a budget-friendly bathroom makeover:
- Paint: A fresh coat of paint works wonders. Use high-gloss paint on the ceiling to give the illusion of height. Paint the upper half of the walls a lighter color to make the space feel more open.
- Peel-and-stick tile: These budget-friendly vinyl tiles look just like the real thing. Use them on walls, floors, and even the tub surround. Available at big box stores for under $5 per square foot.
- Decorative accents: Frameless mirrors, floating shelves, and modern light fixtures add style without breaking the bank. Dress up builder-grade finishes affordably.
- Bold paint colors: Make the existing tile, tub, vanity, and floors feel fresh again with bold, trendy paint colors. Try deep greens, navy blues, or even black.
A few clever upgrades make all the difference in a tiny bathroom remodel.
Do It Yourself What You Can
One of the biggest expenses in a bathroom remodel is labor. You can dramatically cut the costs of bathroom remodeling by doing some or all of the work yourself.
These bathroom remodeling tasks are totally DIY-friendly:
- Demolition – remove old fixtures, tile, and vanity
- Painting walls, ceilings, trim, and cabinets
- Installing peel-and-stick wall tile
- Assembling and mounting new light fixtures
- Replacing faucets and other basic plumbing
- Laying click-lock vinyl plank flooring
Even if you hire a contractor for major structural work, taking on cosmetic DIY projects can save thousands. Watch tutorial videos to learn new skills and get started!
Shop Secondhand Fixtures
Another hot tip for affordable bathroom remodeling is to source secondhand fixtures. Check out these options for quality used bath essentials:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – open box and returned faucets, vanities, tubs, lighting, mirrors, and hardware
- Salvage yards – vintage tubs, tile, and one-of-a-kind finds
- Classified ads – sellers often remove existing fixtures during their own remodels
- Estate sales – high-end bath fixtures priced at a fraction of retail
Even vintage cast iron tubs can be found for under $200. With some serious thrifting, you can score fixtures worth over $1,000 for $100-$400.
Choose Cost-Effective Finishes
The finishes you select for the walls, floors, and fixtures have a big impact on the overall budget. Here are some of the most cost-effective options for a 5×8 bathroom:
- Ceramic subway tile – classic white 3″ x 6″ subway tiles cost as little as $5 per square foot. Use them on the tub/shower surround.
- Vinyl plank flooring – waterproof luxury vinyl plank floors look fabulous for under $3 per square foot. Install yourself with click-lock planks.
- Vessel sink – these stylish sinks mount directly on the vanity or wall, saving the cost of a sink basin. Opt for an affordable glass or stone vessel.
- Fiberglass tub/shower unit – affordable, low-maintenance, and easy to install. Custom sizes are available to maximize small bathroom layouts.
- Towel warmer – indulge in spa luxury on a budget! Hardwired models start around $150.
With smart finish selections, you can recreate a high-end bathroom look for less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 5×8 bathroom too small?
While a 5×8 bathroom may seem tiny, the space can be transformed with a smart layout and the right design elements. Many older houses have bathrooms around this size. With some creativity, a 5×8 bath can feel just as luxurious and functional as a larger one.
What is a reasonable budget for a small bathroom remodel?
For a 5×8 bathroom, you can expect to spend $6,000-$10,000 for a full remodel with mid-range finishes. This assumes you are keeping the existing footprint rather than a full tear-out. Focus on layout, DIY projects, and affordable product selections to complete your bathroom remodel within this reasonable budget range.
How long does a 5×8 bathroom remodel take?
Most 5×8 bathroom remodels take 2-4 weeks from start to finish. Demolition takes 1-2 days. New plumbing and electrical may take 3-5 days if the walls are opened up. Tiling, painting, fixture installs, and finishing can usually be completed in 7-10 days. Build a few extra days into your timeline for inspections, permit approvals, and potential delays.
What design ideas work best in a tiny bathroom?
Some smart design choices for small 5×8 bathrooms include a tub/shower combo, pedestal sink, pocket door, open shelving, frameless mirror, vertical tile, and neutral colors. Making repairs to optimize the existing house layout can also help maximize the available space.
End Notes
Remodeling a cramped 5×8 bathroom may seem impossible on a tight budget. But as you can see, there are many ways to cut costs without sacrificing style or function.
Focus on layout, shop sales, and secondhand suppliers, take on DIY projects, and choose affordable finishes. Follow these tips and you can complete an elegant tiny bathroom remodel for $6,000-$8,000.
The result will feel spacious, luxurious, and tailored to your unique style – all while staying within your budget. Investing in a 5×8 bathroom remodel is a wise choice that will dramatically boost your home value and enjoyment.
