Bathroom renovation is one of the most expensive stages in an apartment, especially in Tbilisi and Batumi, where the cost of work increases every year. But even with a limited budget, you can get a modern and functional bathroom if you plan the work correctly and choose the right materials. Below are tips that have been tested by craftsmen and customers of stroyka.ge.
Key ways to save money on bathroom renovations without compromising on quality
- Choose the optimal set of works, rather than “everything at once.” If the old utilities are in good condition, you can avoid completely replacing the pipes. Savings: from 400 to 900 GEL.
- Use budget tiles on large surfaces. The best option is mid‐range ceramic tiles (25—45 GEL/m²). Decorative inserts or expensive porcelain tiles should only be used as accents.
- Save on furniture, but not on plumbing fixtures. A wall cabinet can be replaced with a simple pedestal, but it is better to choose a high‐quality faucet, as replacing it is more expensive.
- Hire craftsmen based on recommendations. Installing tiles made of cheap materials requires skill, otherwise they will be crooked. It is better to choose craftsmen through trusted services and look at real photos of their work.
- Plan your purchases in advance. In Georgia, there are many sales at construction hypermarkets (Gorgia, Goodwill, Bricorama). During sales, tiles can cost half as much.
The cost of inexpensive bathroom renovation in Georgia
| Type of work/materials | Price, GEL |
|---|---|
| Removing old tiles | 12—20 GEL/m² |
| Rough work (screed, plaster) | 15—30 GEL/m² |
| Tile laying | 30—55 GEL/m² |
| Plumbing installation | 70—150 GEL за единицу |
| Ceramic tile (budget) | 25—45 GEL/m² |
| Porcelain stoneware (mid‐range) | 45—70 GEL/m² |
| Budget/mid‐range mixers | 80—250 GEL |
The total cost of an inexpensive bathroom renovation ranges from 1,800 to 3,500 GEL, depending on the plumbing fixtures and the complexity of the work.
Where you can save money, and where you can’t
You can save money on:
- tiling: choose mid‐range tiles;
- furniture: the sink cabinet and mirror can be inexpensive;
- decor: accent tiles on only one wall;
- demolition: some of the work can be done yourself.
You cannot save money on:
- plumbing fixtures (components must be of high quality);
- waterproofing (otherwise you will flood your neighbors);
- tiler’s work (mistakes are expensive to fix);
- pipes and hidden utilities.
Mini‐case #1
- Situation: A customer in Tbilisi found a contractor offering a low price of 20 GEL/m² for tiles.
- Problem: Incorrect layout, uneven surfaces, had to remove everything.
- Result: Overpayment + damaged tiles.
- Conclusion: the lowest price rarely means quality.
Mini‐case #2
- Situation: a customer in Batumi hired a contractor based on recommendations from friends via stroyka.ge.
- Work: tile laying, plumbing installation, waterproofing.
- Cost: 40 GEL/m² (average).
- Result: clean result and repairs completed in 10 days.
- Conclusion: reviews and real photos are the main selection criteria.
Materials for a budget bathroom renovation: what to choose
Tiles
- 20×30 or 30×60 size — optimal in terms of price and installation speed;
- matte is more practical than gloss.
Plumbing fixtures
- Mid‐range manufacturers: Tivoli, BathCo, Vidima;
- brass faucets are preferable.
Furniture
- Moisture‐resistant MDF is a good compromise between price and service life.
Facts
- Reducing repair costs by 25—35 % is only possible through the competent selection of materials.
- Laying large‐format tiles requires more expensive work — an additional 30 % to the cost.
- Proper waterproofing saves up to 500—800 GEL on potential repairs after a leak.
Common mistakes in budget renovations
- Buying the cheapest plumbing fixtures ends up being more expensive in the long run.
- Incorrect preparation of walls for tiling.
- Lack of a design or even a sketch.
- Incorrect tile calculation (10—20 % overuse).
- Lack of ventilation → mold.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Is it realistic to stay within a budget of 2000 GEL?
Yes, if the area is small (up to 3—4 m²), the tiles are inexpensive, and the plumbing fixtures are not being completely replaced.
2. What materials are best to avoid?
Tiles less than 7 mm thick, plastic faucets, and cheap waterproofing.
3. How long does it take to renovate a bathroom in Tbilisi?
On average, 7—14 days, if there is no complex work on utilities.
4. Is it possible to save money on the work of craftsmen?
It is not recommended. It is better to choose a contractor with proven reviews and a fixed estimate.
5. How to choose tiles for a small bathroom?
Light colors, vertical formats, and minimal decor will visually enlarge the space.
6. Where is the best place to buy materials in Georgia?
Large stores: Gorgia, Bricorama, Domino. They often offer discounts of up to 40 %.
Inexpensive bathroom renovation in Georgia is a realistic task if you allocate your budget correctly, choose a professional craftsman, and think about the materials in advance. Would you like an accurate estimate and a selection of solutions to suit your budget? Leave a request, and our specialists will help you calculate the cost and find a craftsman in Tbilisi or Batumi.