Bathroom renovations
How much does a laundry renovation cost? Unveiling Your Budget Guide
Embarking on a laundry renovation project can be exciting, offering the chance to customise one of the most used spaces in your home! One of the key factors influencing your budget will be whether you plan to maintain the existing layout and utilities or go for a complete makeover, including moving appliances and altering plumbing and electrical systems.
In 2024, the cost of renovating laundry rooms can vary considerably, which is why we have created this guide so you can plan and, most importantly, budget for your laundry reno!
Estimated Laundry Renovation Costs in 2024
Budget-Friendly Renovation
Small laundry renovations can be completed relatively cheaply, especially if you only do simple updates like painting, replacing fixtures, or installing new shelving.
For a basic renovation, you’re looking at a starting point of about $5,000. This could cover:
- Paint walls: $500 – $1,000
- New fixtures: $150 – $300
- Shelving units: $200 – $500
Standard Renovation
Your standard laundry renovation might include installing new appliances, custom cabinets, tiling, and potentially hiring a plumber. This generally falls around $16,000 to $17,500.
- Appliances: $1,000 – $5,000
- Tiling: $2,000 – $4,000
- Plumbing: $1,000 – $3,000
Complete Remodel and Renovation Job
If you want to completely transform your laundry space and plan on installing new flooring, custom cabinets, new appliances and lighting fixtures, you will need to budget for around $19,000 up to $25,000+.
- High-end appliances: > $5,000
- Custom cabinetry: > $5,000
- Premium tiling: $4,000 – $7,000
- Professional design: $2,000 – $5,000
Remember that the scale of work, quality of materials, and labour costs will influence your final expenses. Always allocate a contingency within your budget for unexpected costs. Remember that prices can fluctuate, so getting several quotes from contractors is advisable before deciding.
Planning Your Budget
When planning for laundry renovations, it’s crucial to know the different costs contributing to the total expense and establish a realistic budget that works for you. Here’s an example of how to plan your budget:
- Assess your needs: Determine what you need versus what you want. Essentials should be a priority in your budget; a laundry tub is a must!
- Get detailed quotes: Contact multiple professionals for comprehensive quotes to compare prices and services.
- Include a buffer: Always reserve 10-20% of your estimated budget for unexpected costs.
- Consider long-term savings: Energy-efficient appliances or water-saving fixtures could offer long-term financial benefits despite their initial cost.
Design and Layout
The design and layout are pivotal to maximising function and style when planning your laundry renovation project. You want to choose a look that complements your home and a layout that makes the most of your space.
Choosing a Design
To kick off, you’ll need a week or two to decide on the design. This is where you consider the laundry room layout itself, appliances, and the overall aesthetic you want.
To select a design, focus on aesthetics matching your home theme. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a classic, traditional style, the design should be cohesive with the colours and decor of your house. Consider durable materials and finishes that can withstand moisture and frequent use, such as:
- Benchtops: Laminate, engineered stone, or stainless steel
- Cabinetry: Moisture-resistant options like melamine or polyurethane
- Flooring: Tiles or waterproof vinyl for easy cleaning and resilience
Optimising the Layout
Your laundry’s layout must be tailored to your specific needs while ensuring efficiency. Opt for an arrangement that simplifies folding laundry workflow, groups related activities, and accommodates your appliances with ample bench space. Key points:
- Work Triangle: Your washer, sink, and storage should form a work triangle that minimises movement and increases efficiency.
- Storage Solutions: Tall cabinets, under-bench bins, and open shelving can help keep laundry essentials organised and within reach.
- Appliance Integration: Ensure there is adequate space for your appliances, and consider stackable washer and dryer options to save room.
Materials and Finishes
Flooring Options
Your choice of flooring must be able to withstand moisture and frequent traffic. Ceramic tiles are a popular option due to their water resistance and range of styles. Expect to pay around $30 to $50 per square metre for standard ceramic tiles. If you prefer a more premium finish, porcelain tiles could set you back $50 to $100 per square metre.
For a cost-effective alternative, vinyl flooring is resilient and can mimic the look of more expensive materials, with prices ranging from $25 to $40 per square metre.
Cabinetry and Benchtops
You’ll need sturdy cabinetry and benchtops to handle damp items and laundry chemicals. Laminate benchtops offer a budget-friendly choice at approximately $120 to $350 per square metre, with various colours and patterns. For a more robust option, consider engineered stone, which might cost you between $200 and $700 per square metre.
When selecting cabinetry for storage space, flat-pack models start from around $1,000 and can go up to $3,000 for custom designs, based on size and material.
Taps and Fixtures
Quality taps and fixtures are crucial for your laundry’s functionality. For basic mixer taps, prices can start from $100, while high-end models may cost up to $600. Meanwhile, durable sink mixers can range from $150 to $500. Including a high-grade ceramic disc cartridge in your taps can prevent leaks and warrant a longer lifespan.
Appliances
Washing Machines and Dryers
Selecting the right washing machine and dryer is crucial for the functionality of your laundry. This year the cost of these appliances varies significantly, however, here’s a general guide to what you might expect to pay for each:
- Standard washing machines: $500 – $1,500
- High-efficiency washers: $1,000 – $2,500
- Dryers (both vented and condenser types): $500 – $1,500
Features like larger capacities, energy efficiency ratings, and brand reputation can affect the price. Look for models with a high WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rating to save on water costs in the long run.
Smart Laundry Innovations
Embracing smart technology in your laundry can streamline your chores dramatically. Here’s a brief look at what you might come across:
- Wi-Fi-enabled appliances that can be started or monitored from your smartphone.
- Self-dosing washers that measure and dispense the right amount of detergent.
- Washers with built-in sinks or pre-treatment areas for convenient pre-washing.
Prices for smart washers and dryers start from around $1,500 but can go up to $3,000 or more, depending on the level of connectivity and features. Investing in these innovative appliances can lead to greater convenience; however, it likely won’t be an option if you do a small laundry renovation.
Final Touches and Decoration
When you’re nearing the completion of your laundry renovation, the cost of final touches and decoration for laundry rooms can vary. The little things make your laundry space truly functional and stylish.
For decoration:
- Wall Colour: Choose a paint that stands up to moisture and frequent cleaning. Expect to spend about $20-$30 per litre.
- Backsplash: Ceramic tiles range from $30-$50 per square meter, not including installation.
- Shelving: Simple wall shelves might cost $20-$100 each depending on the material and design.
Functional touches include:
- Hooks and Rods: Budget $5-$20 per piece for hanging items.
- Storage Bins: Prices vary, but expect to pay $10-$50 for good quality, depending on size and material.
Don’t forget lighting:
- LED Downlights: Typically around $40-$70 each. You might want several for adequate illumination.
Key Takeaways
- Costs of laundry renovations vary from $5,000 for basic improvements to over $25,000 for complete remodels.
- Key factors include the scope of work, choice of materials, and whether structural changes are involved.
- Budget-friendly updates might include painting and simple fixture replacements, while high-end renovations could involve custom cabinetry and advanced appliances.
- Planning a budget should consider both upfront costs and long-term benefits like energy savings.
Hiring the Right Professionals
Choosing DIY can save money on labour costs, but it’s crucial to consider your own skill level and the project’s complexity. You’ll need to decide whether the potential savings are worth your time and the risk of DIY errors, which could lead to costly repairs later.
With a focus on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, Hunter Bathroom Renovations provides personalised service to ensure your new laundry is practical and visually appealing. Our professional team can provide a free quote tailored to your needs and budget. Contact the team today!
Frequently Asked Questions
For a standard laundry renovation in Australia this year, you’re looking at a cost between $5,000 and $25,000. The variation is significant and depends on the extent of the remodel, the materials selected, and the structural changes required.
When undertaking a fully functional laundry room renovation, enlisting experienced professionals is important for a quality finish within your budget. Your choice of tradespeople will significantly impact not just the overall quality, but also the cost and timeline of your project.
Hunter Bathroom Renovations can manage your laundry upgrade from concept to completion, working closely with you to plan a space that fits your lifestyle. This could mean integrating the latest appliances, moving plumbing fixtures to enhance the layout, or incorporating robust materials that withstand the daily grind.
The duration of a laundry renovation can range from a couple of days for minor updates to several weeks for a full-scale renovation. Altering the laundry sink layout or moving plumbing and electrical points usually extends the project timeline.
Improving your laundry space can enhance your property’s overall appeal and resale value, especially if you upgrade functional features and modernise the design.
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Jarrod Adnum
Jarrod Adnum is the founder of Hunter Bathroom Renovations. He is proud to lead an experienced team and support staff that are experts in their field. All staff ensure you are getting the best solutions and service for your bathroom.
