PREP WORK REALLY DOES MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
That’s a great example. I’m convinced half the “value” in a remodel comes from the prep and finish, not just the materials. I’ve seen folks spend a fortune on high-end vanities or tile, but skip the basics like proper sealing or leveling. Fast forward a couple years, and you’re dealing with warped wood or cracked grout lines. Meanwhile, a well-prepped piece of MDF or even a thrifted cabinet can last ages if you take the time to seal it up right and use the right hardware.
I’m all about squeezing every bit of value out of what you’ve got, especially with bathroom remodels where costs can spiral fast. My last one ran me just under $2,500, but that was mostly because I reused an old dresser for the vanity (lots of sanding and marine-grade poly), kept the existing tub, and did the tiling myself. I did splurge a bit on the faucet and shower fixtures, but honestly, I think the real “win” was just making sure every seam and edge was water-tight. I’d rather put in the hours up front than deal with mold or swelling down the line.
Curious—did you run into any issues with moisture over the years, or did the sealing hold up? I’ve always wondered how much of a difference it makes to use something like marine varnish versus regular polyurethane in a bathroom setting. Sometimes I worry I’m overthinking it, but then again, I’d rather overbuild than have to redo something in two years.
It’s funny how much of this stuff comes down to technique and patience, not just budget. You can throw money at a remodel, but if you skip the prep, it’ll show eventually.
