That “bonus round” is so real—demo always uncovers something weird. I’ve seen everything from random bricks to old plumbing that’s not even connected to anything. When clients ask about costs, I usually say a basic bathroom reno (mid-range finishes, no major layout changes) lands somewhere between $12k–$20k, but it really depends on what’s lurking behind the walls. Did you end up having to redo any plumbing or electrical after finding that brick? Sometimes those surprises are what push the budget up more than people expect.
That mystery plumbing is wild—I've run into pipes that literally just ended in the wall, no rhyme or reason. When that happens, I always recommend budgeting a little extra for possible rerouting or upgrades, especially if the house is older. Sometimes electrical surprises are even trickier, like finding out the outlets aren’t grounded. Did you have any issues with the subfloor after demo? That’s another spot where hidden costs can sneak in.
Subfloor surprises are the worst, right? I once had a client who thought they were just getting a “simple” tile upgrade, but when we pulled up the old stuff, half the subfloor was basically mulch. Ended up adding a chunk to the budget just for new plywood and labor—definitely not in their original Pinterest board.
I always tell folks: if your house is old enough to have seen disco in its heyday, assume there’s at least one hidden disaster underfoot. Sometimes you luck out and it’s just squeaky but solid... other times, it’s like a horror movie down there.
Did you end up keeping any of the original fixtures or did you swap everything out? Sometimes retro sinks or tubs can be a fun twist if they’re in good shape (and not avocado green).
Title: How Much Did Your Bathroom Remodel Run You (Roughly)?
Yeah, subfloor surprises are a nightmare. I’ve seen plywood so rotten you could poke a finger through it—makes you wonder how the tub didn’t end up in the basement. I always warn people: if your house is rocking that 70s vibe, budget for at least one “uh-oh” moment once demo starts.
As for fixtures, I’m usually team “replace it all” unless something’s really unique or in great shape. Most of the time, old sinks and tubs are more trouble than they’re worth—cracks, weird stains, or just not up to code. That said, I did have one client who kept a pink cast iron tub from the 60s. It was actually kind of cool once everything else was updated around it. Not my taste, but it worked.
On costs, it’s all over the place. Basic gut-and-replace jobs (no moving plumbing, no major surprises) can run $12-18k around here. Start adding in subfloor repairs, new electrical, or high-end tile and you’re easily pushing $25k+. The “Pinterest board” budgets rarely survive first contact with reality, especially in older homes.
Funny thing is, people always want to save the old medicine cabinet or light fixture for “character,” but then change their mind once they see how rough it looks next to new tile and paint. Sometimes retro works, sometimes it just looks... tired.
Anyway, if you’re going for a remodel in an older place, expect the unexpected and pad your budget. And yeah, avocado green is a hard pass every time.
The “Pinterest board” budgets rarely survive first contact with reality, especially in older homes.
Couldn’t agree more. Every time I’ve opened up a wall in a 60s or 70s house, I brace for something weird—old wiring, mystery pipes, you name it. I had one flip where the “vintage” medicine cabinet literally fell apart in my hands. I do think keeping one standout piece (like that pink tub) can give the space some soul, but only if it’s in good shape. For me, full gut jobs usually land around $15-20k, but it’s always a moving target. Avocado green... yeah, that’s a dealbreaker.
