[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Who wouldn’t love a new, updated bathroom? Shiny, clean fixtures, bright porcelain – all of these are part of your dream bathroom, right? But, with the average cost of bathroom updates in the Chicagoland area topping $8,000, most of us can’t afford that dream. Don’t despair! Here are some affordable strategies you can use to improve the look of your bathroom without breaking the bank.

Paint the bathroom walls

Painting is one of the fastest, least expensive ways to give your bathroom a completely new look. You can probably paint your whole bathroom with a gallon of paint or less. Throw in a couple of brushes, roller covers and a tarp, and you’ll get a beautiful bathroom for under $100! Looking for some inspiration? Check out this gallery on the Sherwin-Williams website for some great ideas for turning your bathroom into the retreat of your dreams.

Refinish the tub and shower surround

Chances are your tub or shower are still functionally sound. They just look dingy and, no matter how hard you scrub, you can’t make them look clean and bright. Replacing them can cost as much as $3500 – one of the biggest expenses in bathroom update projects. Consider hiring a reputable local company like Fox Valley Bathtub Refinishing to refinish them instead. You’ll get a beautiful result for a fraction of the cost of replacing them.

Refinish the sink and countertops

If your sink and countertop are still working, but the color or finish are just outdated, we can refinish them, too. Fox Valley Bathtub Refinishing has some great options for countertops that look just like expensive engineered quartz or granite finishes. Take a look at the samples on the right. They’re super durable and carry our great warranty.

Get a new vanity for a fraction of the cost

Is your grandma’s dresser collecting dust in your attic? Do you love shopping thrift stores and flea markets? It takes a little skill and some tools, but you can turn that inexpensive (or free!) dresser into a beautiful new vanity. Here are the instructions from DIY Network.

Add decorator touches

A few quick, inexpensive but unexpected touches can make your bathroom look like something from a magazine. If you have a plain, builder-grade mirror on the wall, try framing it. Here’s an article from Home Depot that shows you how you can do it yourself for under $50. Add some battery-powered LED candles and maybe a sconce on the wall for a luxury look that won’t break your budget. So, don’t feel like you’re stuck with your dingy, outdated bathroom. With a little time and not much money, you can have the beautiful, luxurious bathroom of your dreams.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]