Full Bathroom Remodels: What’s Worth the Splurge (and What’s Not)

A full bathroom remodel is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your home. Not only does it enhance your daily comfort, but it also adds measurable value when it’s time to sell. But let’s be honest—remodeling a bathroom isn’t cheap. Whether you’re upgrading a powder room or overhauling a master bath, costs can add up fast.

At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we’ve helped homeowners transform outdated bathrooms into spa-like sanctuaries and practical family workhorses for over 20 years. So how do you know where to invest your money and where you can afford to cut back? Let’s dive into the smartest splurges and the most sensible savings for your next full bathroom remodel.

Splurge: Quality Plumbing Fixtures

You’ll interact with your faucets, showerheads, and toilets every day—multiple times a day. This isn’t the place to cut corners. Investing in high-quality plumbing fixtures ensures durability, performance, and a touch of luxury where it matters most.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Durability: Cheap fixtures tend to leak or corrode over time. High-end models are built with brass internals and superior finishes that withstand years of use.
• Efficiency: Top-tier toilets and showerheads often use less water without sacrificing performance—saving money in the long run.
• Aesthetics: A sleek, wall-mounted faucet or rainfall showerhead instantly elevates the room’s design.

Pro Tip: Choose name brands like Kohler, Delta, or Grohe for parts that are easier to replace or repair down the road.

Save: Trendy Tile Everywhere

While tile is a staple in bathroom design, covering every surface with imported ceramic or intricate mosaics can be a budget buster. Instead, focus on feature areas and combine them with cost-effective alternatives.

Where to Cut:

• Skip full-wall tile in non-wet zones.
• Consider large-format porcelain tiles instead of intricate mosaics.
• Use vinyl or waterproof wall panels in secondary bathrooms for savings without compromising durability.

Smart Strategy:

Use a bold tile design as an accent—like behind the vanity or in the shower niche—while opting for affordable, neutral tiles elsewhere. This approach delivers the wow factor without blowing your budget.

Splurge: A Custom Shower System

If your bathroom is your relaxation zone, a custom shower might just be your favorite upgrade. Think multi-jet sprays, hand showers, and thermostatic controls for the ultimate personalized experience.

Why It Pays Off:

• Enhanced daily use: A luxurious shower turns your morning rush into a moment of peace.
• Aging in place: Handheld sprayers and bench seating add accessibility for future-proofing your home.
• Value-add: High-end showers appeal strongly to prospective buyers.

Engineer’s Angle: Ensure your water heater and plumbing system can handle the extra flow requirements. Consulting with a remodeling pro—like Evergreen Home Exteriors—during design is key to getting the infrastructure right.

Save: Over-the-Top Bathtubs

Freestanding tubs are gorgeous, but how often will you really soak? Many homeowners fall in love with the look only to find their dream tub sits unused.

Consider Skipping If:

• You already have a tub elsewhere in the home.
• Space is tight, and installing a freestanding model would make the room feel cramped.
• You prefer showers over baths.

Alternative:

A tub-shower combo or a built-in alcove tub with a modern apron can still look sharp and serve a purpose—especially for families with kids.

Splurge: Heated Floors

Cold tile underfoot on a winter morning? No thanks. Radiant heat flooring may seem like a luxury, but it’s surprisingly affordable during a full remodel and offers real comfort benefits.

The Advantages:

• Energy efficiency: Radiant heat uses less energy than forced-air systems.
• Uniform warmth: No more stepping on icy patches.
• Easy integration: It’s easier (and cheaper) to install while your floors are already being replaced.

Bonus: It can even reduce the need for additional space heating in the bathroom altogether.

Save: Medicine Cabinets with Gadgets

Smart mirrors with Bluetooth speakers, defoggers, and built-in lighting look high-tech—but unless you’re building a sci-fi bathroom, these features often underwhelm in daily use.

What to Do Instead:

Invest in a quality mirror and add task lighting above or alongside it. This setup is easier to maintain and just as functional for grooming.

Splurge: Functional Layout Redesign

Most older bathrooms weren’t designed with today’s lifestyles in mind. Rearranging your bathroom layout can improve flow, storage, and usability—but it does come at a cost.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Better space use: Small changes, like moving the toilet or expanding the shower, can vastly improve functionality.
• Improved ventilation: A new fan or window placement prevents mold and humidity problems.
• Plumbing updates: If walls are being opened, now’s the time to fix subpar or outdated pipes.

Engineering Insight: Rerouting plumbing and electrical isn’t cheap, but it often adds structural integrity and longevity to your remodel—especially in older homes.

Save: Expensive Vanities

Custom cabinetry adds character, but it can quickly drive up costs. Instead, consider semi-custom or modular vanities from reputable manufacturers. You’ll get great looks and ample storage at a fraction of the price.

Tips for Smart Vanity Choices:

• Focus on solid wood or plywood boxes for durability.
• Choose a timeless countertop like quartz for easy cleaning and longevity.
• Add custom hardware or a unique sink for a bespoke feel.

Pro Tip: Want an upscale look on a budget? Repurpose a vintage dresser into a vanity with a vessel sink—it’s charming and cost-effective.

Splurge: Ventilation & Waterproofing

These aren’t flashy upgrades, but they’re absolutely essential. A great bathroom isn’t just about beauty—it’s about longevity. That starts with solid bones.

Key Areas to Invest:

• Exhaust fans: Go for quiet models (rated at 1.0 sones or lower) with humidity sensors.
• Waterproof membranes: Behind your tile, in your shower pan, and on the walls—don’t skip them.
• Proper slope and drainage: Avoid pooling water and leaks with expertly engineered floors.

Did You Know? Moisture is the #1 cause of bathroom damage. Investing here prevents expensive repairs down the road.

Save: Flashy Lighting Fixtures

You want good lighting—but you don’t need to spend a fortune on designer fixtures. Bathroom lighting can be both affordable and attractive when sourced smartly.

Where to Save:

• Choose mid-range fixtures from trusted lighting brands.
• Focus on layered lighting: ambient, task, and accent.
• Add dimmer switches to control mood and brightness.

Engineer-Approved Tip: Prioritize LED lighting with a high CRI (color rendering index) above 90 for the most flattering and accurate reflection.

Splurge: Smart Storage Solutions

Bathrooms are some of the most used—and cluttered—spaces in a home. Clever storage turns chaos into calm.

Where to Spend:

• Built-in shelving in the shower or bath niche.
• Pull-out drawers in vanities instead of open shelving.
• Wall-mounted storage with integrated lighting or USB ports.

Small Space Trick: Recessed medicine cabinets and niches can add valuable storage without taking up floor space.

Save: Designer Paints

You don’t need to spend $90 a gallon on designer brand paint. Instead, choose a high-quality moisture- and mildew-resistant formula in a finish suited for bathrooms (usually satin or semi-gloss).

Just As Good:

Brands like Benjamin Moore’s “Aura” line or Sherwin-Williams’ “Duration Home” offer excellent bathroom performance without the luxury price tag.

Balance, Planning, and Partnership

A full bathroom remodel is your chance to reimagine a vital part of your home. While it’s tempting to go all-in on every stylish feature, not every splurge yields equal value. The most successful remodels balance practicality with luxury, design with function, and personal taste with timeless appeal.

At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we understand this balance better than anyone. Since 1998, we’ve worked with Washington homeowners to turn tired bathrooms into customized, comfortable spaces that serve families for years to come. We’re more than contractors—we’re partners in improving your home, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind.

Ready to Begin Your Bathroom Remodel?

If you’re planning a full bathroom remodel and want a team that values family, function, and craftsmanship—look no further. At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we take pride in making your home more beautiful, more functional, and more inspiring with every project.

Let us help you determine what’s worth the splurge, what’s not, and how to make your budget go farther. From design to build, we’re with you every step of the way.

Get started today — and turn your dream bathroom into a reality.