DIY vs. Professional: Which Kitchen Renovation Adds More Value to Your Home?

Most homeowners make this mistake: they dive into a DIY kitchen remodel assuming they’ll save money — but end up paying more later to fix it.

Now here’s what you need to ask yourself: How much value does a kitchen renovation add to your home when done right? And who does it best — you or a professional?

Let’s break it all down, step by step.

When Saving Costs Ends Up Costing More

Here’s the truth: DIY seems cheaper — until it isn’t. What starts as a weekend project often becomes a month-long money drain. And the worst part? You may unknowingly reduce your home’s value by cutting corners on plumbing, electricals, or layout.

Half Price Baths understands these pitfalls. With its full-suite professional kitchen remodeling service, including design guidance and expert installation, your renovation is streamlined, compliant, and resale-ready.

Think paint and tiles are the big decisions? Wait until you see what buyers actually focus on — and what they completely ignore.

Checklist: Top 5 Mistakes in DIY Kitchen Renovations That Kill Your Home Value

Mistake	Impact on Home Value
Poor cabinet alignment	Visibly lowers aesthetic appeal
DIY electrical or plumbing work	Major red flag for buyers
Low-quality countertop materials	Reduces perceived home worth
Ignoring kitchen workflow (triangle)	Hurts usability, lowers buyer interest

ROI Talk: Numbers Don’t Lie

According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, a midrange major kitchen remodel done professionally has an average ROI of 41.8 percent nationally. But that’s not the full story. Homes in high-value zip codes can recover up to 70 percent of their remodel costs — if the work is done right.

So, how much value does a kitchen renovation add? The short answer is — it depends on execution.

Pro Tip: Custom installations by a professional kitchen remodeling company often include energy-efficient appliances, smart layout improvements, and high-end finishes — all of which increase buyer interest.

Wondering what design elements are considered “dated” in 2025? It’s not what you think.

The Buyer’s Eye: What They Actually Want

Buyers today are sharp. They’re looking for functionality, flow, and smart features.
Things like soft-close drawers, deep storage pull-outs, under-cabinet lighting, and quartz counters win over hearts — and offers.
What do they ignore? Over-personalized backsplashes, outdated floor tiles, and DIY paint jobs that feel… well, DIY.

This is where a professional kitchen remodeling service makes the difference. Experts help balance aesthetics with ROI-driving upgrades.

There’s one feature that adds luxury without breaking your budget — but only pros tend to include it.

DIY or Pro: What’s Worth It and What’s Not

Let’s be real: not all DIY work is bad. Painting cabinets? Yes. Rearranging plumbing or gas lines? No way.

Here’s a quick guide:

Go DIY on:

Wall painting
Cabinet hardware replacement
Light fixture upgrades

Hire pros for:

Layout changes
Floor plan expansions
Countertop and backsplash installation
Electrical and plumbing updates

These high-impact changes determine how much value does a kitchen renovation add when it’s time to sell or refinance.

Final Thoughts: What’s Your Kitchen Really Worth?

The bottom line: A professional remodel adds value, time savings, and peace of mind.
Not just in dollars — but in design precision, code compliance, and resale confidence.

So before you pick up that sledgehammer, ask yourself:

Would you rather impress a future buyer — or explain your DIY decisions to one?

Half Price Baths is here with a range of kitchen and bathroom remodeling services to bring your dream design to life — safely, stylishly, and smartly.

Still wondering…

Is your kitchen a selling point — or a liability waiting to be fixed?

Let’s talk.

The Couples’ Retreat: Designing a 2-Person Walk-In Shower That Feels Like a Spa!

Picture This: You and your partner both get home after a long day. Instead of waiting turns, you step into a luxurious 2 person walk-in shower designed just for the two of you. Aromatherapy fills the space. Soft music hums in the background. Dual rainfall heads pour down warm water. Suddenly, your everyday routine turns into a spa-like ritual you both crave.

Welcome to the new era of shared wellness spaces. In 2025, couples are turning their bathrooms into lifestyle sanctuaries—far beyond the average walk in shower dimensions. The goal? A spa shower for two that brings relaxation, connection, and style together.

Why Are More Couples Choosing Shared Spa Showers?

There’s a rising trend across American households: couples want more than functionality. They want serenity. They want style. They want his and hers shower space that reflects how they live—and love.

According to a 2024 survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, over 62 percent of bathroom remodels now include luxury shower upgrades for couples, signaling a shift in how we view bathroom design.

What would your mornings feel like if you didn’t have to wait your turn for the shower anymore?

Designing for Two: What Goes Beyond the Dimensions

Let’s get real—2 person walk-in shower dimensions typically range between 4 to 5 feet in width and 6 to 7 feet in length. But the magic doesn’t lie in just the numbers—it’s in the layout, materials, and custom features that make your shower feel like a private spa.

Here’s what to consider beyond square footage:

Dual Rainfall Showerheads: These create a simultaneous experience and eliminate the need to rotate. Each person enjoys their own cascade of warmth—no compromise.
Aromatherapy Steam Integration: Add eucalyptus or lavender essential oil diffusers into the steam system for a breath-calming escape, right in your home.

Can your current shower offer both privacy and shared comfort at the same time?

Smart Layout Ideas That Make Space Feel Personal

Maximizing your 2 person walk-in shower dimensions doesn’t mean stuffing more in—it means designing with flow. Use soft partitions or frosted glass panels to create subtle boundaries. Install built-in benches so you can sit, soak, and just breathe.

Two game-changing additions to explore:

Bluetooth-Enabled Speakers: Set the mood with calming tunes or energizing playlists to match your vibe—romantic, energizing, or serene.
Recessed Lighting with Dimmers: Lighting that adjusts to your mood elevates the spa feel instantly.

And if you’re thinking about adding a rainfall ceiling and body jets—you won’t believe what it can do to your daily stress levels…

His and Hers: Merging Function With Romance

Couples often struggle with preferences—water pressure, temperature, even tile style. This is where design harmony matters. Choose finishes that blend soft neutrals with modern elements, like matte black fixtures paired with natural stone.

Half Price Baths understands this blend perfectly. With consultation, material sourcing, and expert installation, we make your couples’ retreat vision come alive—beautifully and efficiently.

What if your next shower could be the most romantic 15 minutes of your day?

The Secret to a Romantic Bathroom Design That Lasts

Sustainability meets style when you opt for water-efficient fixtures and long-lasting materials. Don’t forget smart controls that remember your preferences—yes, even that perfect water temperature you both agreed on.

And if you’re planning to sell your home in the next 3 years, wait till you see how a spa-style remodel could boost your resale value…

A Little Closer to Home, a Lot Closer to Each Other

Your shower should be more than a utility—it should be your retreat, your reset, your shared pause in a busy world. With the right layout, thoughtful features, and personalized touches, your shower can become a true experience of togetherness.

Remember, your dream spa shower for two is closer than you think—and you deserve every relaxing second of it.

Step into your shared sanctuary every day—and let it remind you how beautiful comfort and connection can truly be.

How Long Does a 5×8 Bathroom Remodel Really Take? A Step-by-Step Timeline for Homeowners!

Case Study: Meet the Martins from Denver

When the Martins, a family of four, planned their 5×8 bathroom remodel, they imagined a 10-day job max. But with delayed tile delivery, and a last-minute vanity upgrade, the remodel stretched to 21 days. The good news? With expert planning and professional help, they ended up with a spa-like space that’s now the most complimented part of their home.

If you’re asking, “how long does a 5×8 bathroom remodel take?” the answer varies—but we’re giving you the full, honest breakdown here.

How Long Does a 5×8 Bathroom Remodel Take – Really?

A standard 5×8 bathroom remodel takes 14 to 21 days of active work, assuming professional labor and no major structural changes. But delays can happen.

Here’s what typically influences your timeline:

Material lead times – custom vanities, tiles, or fixtures can delay installations.
DIY vs. Professional Help – DIY takes 2-3x longer, especially for plumbing or tiling.
Availability of Contractors – peak season can stretch your timeline by a week.

According to Houzz 2024 U.S. Bathroom Trends Study, 57% of homeowners underestimated their bathroom remodel timeline by at least one week.

Planning a 5×8 Bathroom Remodel? Here’s What to Finalize Before Day One

Checklist Item	Notes
Design Layout	Keep plumbing in place to save time and cost.
Material Selections	Choose all fixtures, tiles, and lights upfront.
Labor or Contractor Bookings	Schedule your team before placing material orders.
Budget and Contingency Planning	Set aside 10% for unexpected costs.

If you’re hiring professionals, confirm their scope: does it include design, sourcing, and installation? Services like Half Price Baths can help streamline this by managing everything—from initial design to final polish.

A Week-by-Week Breakdown You Can Trust

Let’s break this into manageable stages—just like the pros do:

Week 1: Demolition and Prep

Remove old vanity, tiles, toilet, and tub.
Inspect plumbing and electrical.
Address any hidden water damage or mold.

Pro Tip: Add 1–2 days for waste disposal if required.

Week 2: Plumbing, Electrical & Subfloors

Install new rough-ins for plumbing and wiring.
Adjust lighting or ventilation as needed.
Patch or replace subfloor if damaged.

Pointer: If inspections are needed, your crew may pause until approvals are in.

Week 3: Installation and Finishing

Tile work (floor and shower) – allow drying time.
Install vanity, toilet, lighting, and accessories.
Paint walls and do final cleaning.

Pointer: Silicone and grout need at least 24 hours to cure fully—don’t rush it!

What Can Slow Down Your Remodel? Know Before You Start

Sometimes, it’s not the workers—it’s the waiting. Here’s what can stretch the schedule:

Backordered Fixtures – That imported sink? It might arrive a week late.
Unseen Structural Issues – Rotted subfloors or outdated plumbing = extra days.
Last-Minute Changes – Deciding on a new vanity mid-project is a time-killer.

Be realistic. Building beautiful spaces takes time—but the result is worth every minute.

How Much Time = How Much Budget?

When asking, how long does a 5×8 bathroom remodel take, time and cost are often linked.

Typical 5×8 bathroom remodel cost: $9,000 to $16,000, depending on finishes and fixtures.
Professional 5×8 bathroom remodel labor cost: $3,500 to $7,000 on average, covering demolition, installation, plumbing, and finishing.

Cutting corners to save time often ends up costing more in rework or replacements. It’s wise to work with a trusted remodeling partner who delivers both speed and craftsmanship.

Why Professional Planning Makes the Difference?

Want your remodel to stay on schedule? Here’s what helps:

Upfront design consultations
Coordinated sourcing and deliveries
Single-point communication with contractors

That’s where Half Price Baths shines—with tailored remodeling services that cover every inch of the process. Whether you want modern minimalism or timeless charm, we’ll ensure your project runs smoothly, on time, and on budget.

Final Thoughts: A Space You’ll Love, Worth Every Day

While you may start this remodel wondering, “how long does a 5×8 bathroom remodel take?”, the real question is—how do I make sure every day counts?

The right plan, expert help, and quality materials make the journey seamless. Whether it takes 14 days or 21, your dream bathroom is just a step-by-step timeline away.

Thinking of remodeling? Let’s build something beautiful. Schedule a free consultation today.

Why Deck-Mount Faucets Are the Eco-Friendly Choice for Your Bathtub Remodel?

It’s 2025. Every drop of water matters, every decision counts. Your bathroom isn’t just a private space anymore — it’s where sustainability meets personal style. If you’re planning a tub remodel, here’s a bold question to consider:
Why not go for a bathtub with deck mount faucet — and save both water and money while you’re at it?

Let’s dig into how choosing the right faucet can lower your bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and add a sleek edge to your bath zone.

A Quick Primer: What Is a Deck Mount Faucet?

You’ve probably seen it without knowing the term.

A deck mount faucet is installed directly on the rim (deck) of your tub instead of the wall. It’s sleek, easy to access, and can be paired with modern features like a deck mounted tub filler with hand shower.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. There’s a smart, eco-forward twist to this style. Let’s explore why.

The Sustainability Edge: How Deck Faucets Save Water and Energy

This isn’t just design — it’s thoughtful engineering.
A bathtub with deck mount faucet uses direct control valves that reduce water pressure loss. Less pressure drop means less water wasted.

Here’s the game-changer: many deck-mounted models now come with low-flow technology, which can save up to 700 gallons per year per household.

Why does this matter to you?

Less hot water used = lower energy bills
Smart flow control = reduced daily water waste

Could your current faucet be costing you more than you think?
(Hint: Traditional wall-mounts often release more water even when you don’t need it.)

Style Meets Function: A Clean Look That Works Smarter

A Deck-mount faucets don’t just sit pretty — they work hard behind the scenes. Their location on the tub deck means fewer plumbing extensions, less heat loss, and quicker hot water delivery.

What you gain:

Easier cleaning
Tighter control over hot-cold blending
A sleek spa-style edge that elevates your bathroom

Thinking about resale? This choice might boost your bathroom’s appeal in ways you didn’t expect.

Two Big Wins: Beauty and Custom Control

Why go generic when you can go custom?

A bathtub with Deck-mount faucets open up more room for personalisation, especially if you’re working with remodel pros like Half Price Baths, as we can design your space, source the perfect fixtures, and handle every inch of the installation.

Bonus Points:

You can pair your faucet with a stylish handheld sprayer — perfect for rinsing off, cleaning, or bathing pets
No clunky pipes on the wall, giving your space a polished edge

Could the right faucet actually help you get a better return on your remodeling investment?

Eco-Friendly Bathtub Remodel Mistakes to Avoid

Before you order those fixtures, run through this checklist:

Avoid these common errors:

Choosing a faucet with no flow-rate control
Ignoring ENERGY STAR or WaterSense-certified products
Skipping professional installation
Pairing your faucet with a tub that isn’t heat-efficient
Overlooking plumbing compatibility (deck space and holes)

This small checklist could make or break your remodeling success.

Let’s Wrap with a Smart Takeaway

You’re not just choosing a faucet. You’re shaping your water habits, your utility bills, and your home’s long-term value. A bathtub with deck mount faucet is more than a trendy pick — it’s a conscious upgrade.

Want professional guidance, premium designs, and tailored sourcing — all under one roof?
Half Price Baths is right here to help you transform your bath space from “meh” to modern — and make sure you don’t compromise on savings or style.

Curious which deck-mounted faucet models are dominating 2025? Our next post will reveal the eco-smart options for your remodel.