If you’ve been sitting on a bathroom remodel for a while, you’ve probably asked yourself this exact question: do I tackle the primary bath first, or the guest bath?

It’s one of the most common conversations we have with Colorado Springs homeowners, and the honest answer is — it depends. But we can absolutely help you figure it out.

Let’s break down both options so you can make a decision that fits your goals, your budget, and your life right now.

Why the Primary Bathroom Usually Wins

The primary bathroom is the one you use every single day. It’s the first space you step into every morning and the last one you see at night. If it’s cramped, dated, or just not functioning the way it should, you feel that — constantly.

From a return-on-investment standpoint, primary bathroom remodels consistently rank among the highest ROI projects in residential remodeling. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, a mid-range bathroom remodel can recoup a significant portion of its cost at resale, and an upscale primary bath remodel tends to be one of the most compelling selling points in the Colorado Springs market.

Here’s when we typically recommend starting with the primary:

• You use it every day: Daily frustration adds up. Outdated fixtures, poor storage, or a shower that doesn’t drain properly are worth fixing for your own quality of life — not just for resale.
• You’re planning to sell in the next 3–5 years: Buyers notice primary bathrooms. It’s one of the rooms that shows up in photos, sticks in memory, and influences offers.
• The space has functional problems: If there are layout issues, aging plumbing, tile that’s cracking, or an outdated tub-shower combo you’d love to convert to a walk-in shower, the primary bath is where those changes have the biggest impact.
• You’re ready for a spa-level upgrade: Freestanding tubs, double vanities, heated floors, large-format tile — these features tend to go in the primary. If that’s the vision, that’s where the budget belongs.

When the Guest Bathroom Makes More Sense

The guest bathroom might not be your everyday space, but don’t underestimate its role. If you host regularly — family visits, guests staying over, or Airbnb renters — a dated or dysfunctional guest bath can leave a real impression. Not a great one.

Guest bathroom remodels also tend to be smaller projects, which means a lower price tag and a faster turnaround. That makes them a smart choice if you’re working with a tighter budget or want to dip your toes into remodeling before committing to a larger project.

Consider prioritizing the guest bath when:

• You have a short-term rental or host frequently: First impressions matter. If guests are using that bathroom, it should reflect well on your home.
• The guest bath is in worse shape: If there’s water damage, a failing toilet, outdated plumbing, or safety concerns, fix the worst problem first regardless of which bathroom it’s in.
• Your primary bathroom is functional, just not pretty: If the primary works fine but just feels dated, and the guest bath has real issues, take care of the problems first.
• You’re working with a smaller budget right now: A guest bath refresh — new tile, vanity, fixtures, and fresh paint — can often be done for significantly less than a primary remodel. It’s a great way to get a win without breaking the bank.

The Numbers: What to Expect in Colorado Springs

Bathroom remodel costs vary depending on scope, materials, and the size of the space, but here’s a general range for what we see in Colorado Springs:

Guest Bathroom Remodel

• Basic refresh (fixtures, vanity, paint): $5,000 – $15,000
• Mid-range update (new tile, tub/shower surround, vanity, lighting): $20,000 – $30,000
• Full gut and remodel: $30,000+

Primary Bathroom Remodel

• Mid-range update: $20,000 – $55,000
• Upscale remodel (walk-in shower, soaking tub, double vanity, heated floors): $55,000 – $80,000+
• Luxury full remodel: $80,000 – $120,000+

These ranges shift depending on the size of the space, your material choices, and whether there are any structural changes involved (like moving plumbing or expanding the footprint). We’ll always walk you through what’s driving the cost before you commit to anything.

What We Always Ask Our Clients First

When a homeowner calls us about a bathroom remodel, these are the questions that help us land on the right choice:

• Are you planning to stay in this home long-term, or do you expect to sell within the next few years?
• Which bathroom causes you more daily frustration?
• Is there anything that’s actually broken or failing that needs to be fixed regardless of preference?
• What’s your budget, and is there flexibility if you find the right project?
• What’s your end goal — comfort and livability, resale value, or both?

Your answers usually point pretty clearly toward one option. And sometimes the answer is to do both — starting with one now and planning the second for the following year, which is a strategy a lot of our clients appreciate.

If you’re thinking about phasing projects like that, it can also help to map things out ahead of time — especially when it comes to timing and budget. We break that down in more detail in our guide to 2026 Home Remodel Timeline in Colorado Springs.

A Few Things That Change the Equation

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. A few scenarios that might shift the priority:

• You have only one full bathroom: Then this isn’t really a debate — fix the one that everyone uses.
• You’re aging in place or have accessibility needs: Safety and accessibility upgrades (walk-in showers, grab bars, wider doorways) should always be prioritized in the bathroom you use most.
• You’ve just bought the home: Take a year to live in the space before remodeling. You’ll have a much better sense of what’s actually bothering you versus what just needs time to feel like home.
• You’re adding value before a sale: Talk to a local real estate agent first. The Colorado Springs market has its own expectations, and what adds value here may be slightly different than a national guide would suggest.

Our Recommendation

If you’re asking us? Start with the bathroom that bothers you the most — because home should feel good every single day, not just when you have company.

And if both bathrooms need work, let’s build a plan that phases the projects in a way that fits your budget and your timeline.

At Southern Mesa, we don’t just remodel bathrooms — we help you figure out the right move for your home and your situation. Whether you’re ready to start tomorrow or just want to talk through options, we’re here for it.

Ready to Talk Through Your Bathroom Remodel?

Give us a call at (719) 424-8735 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We’ll come see the space, listen to your goals, and give you an honest assessment of where your remodeling dollars will do the most good.

Explore our Bathroom Remodel Services

FAQs: Primary vs. Guest Bathroom Remodels

Which bathroom remodel adds more resale value?

Generally, the primary bathroom. Buyers tend to give it more weight, and it photographs better for listings. That said, a visibly outdated or broken guest bath can hurt a sale too — so if it’s truly in bad shape, fixing it matters.

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

A guest bathroom refresh can take as little as 1–2 weeks. A full primary bathroom remodel with custom tile, new plumbing fixtures, and a layout change typically takes 3–6 weeks. We’ll give you a clear timeline before we start.

Do I need permits for a bathroom remodel in Colorado Springs?

It depends on the scope. If you’re moving plumbing, adding electrical, or making structural changes, yes — permits are required. If it’s a cosmetic refresh (new vanity, tile overlay, fixtures), it’s often permit-free. We handle permitting for all projects that require it.

Can I remodel both bathrooms at once?

Technically yes, but we usually advise against it if you only have two bathrooms. You don’t want to be without a functioning bathroom for the duration of the project. Phasing them 6–12 months apart is usually the smarter play.

What’s the most important upgrade I can make in either bathroom?

The shower. Whether it’s a walk-in conversion in the primary or a full tub/surround replacement in the guest bath, shower upgrades consistently deliver the biggest visual impact and the strongest return.

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Choosing the Right Materials for Your 2025 Bathroom Remodel

If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in 2025, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. After all, this is one of the most-used rooms in your home, and you want it to be both beautiful and functional. But with so many options for materials, how do you choose the ones that will not only look great but also stand the test of time?

Maybe you’ve heard horror stories from friends or family who invested in materials that wore out quickly or didn’t match the design vision they had. You don’t want that to happen to you. You want to feel confident that your remodel will add value to your home and fit your lifestyle. At Southern Mesa, we understand those concerns. We’ve been helping homeowners in Colorado Springs navigate these tough choices for years, making sure their bathroom remodels are not only beautiful but also long-lasting.

In this article, we’re going to make your life easier by breaking down the 10 best materials to consider for your 2025 bathroom remodel. By the end, you’ll know exactly which materials offer the best balance of durability, style, and return on investment.

4. Glass: Modern and Luxurious Shower Enclosures

If you’re aiming for a sleek, modern bathroom design, glass is a fantastic material to consider, especially for shower enclosures. Frameless glass showers are becoming increasingly popular, as they create a clean, open feel that makes your bathroom look bigger.

Why Glass is Trending for 2025:

• Sleek Look: Frameless glass showers give your bathroom a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere.
• Easy to Clean: Glass is easy to wipe down and maintain, especially if you opt for treated or tempered glass that resists water spots and streaks.

In 2025, expect to see more innovative uses of glass, such as colored or frosted glass panels for a unique design touch.

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3. Freestanding Tubs

A departure from conventional bathroom design, the freestanding tubs trend introduces an element of luxury and sophistication. These standalone bathtubs serve not only as functional fixtures but as sculptural masterpieces. Whether fashioned with a classic clawfoot design or a modern, sleek silhouette, freestanding tubs instantly become the centerpiece of the bathroom. They invite relaxation, transforming the act of bathing into a lavish experience akin to a spa retreat. The range of materials, from pristine porcelain to natural stone, adds to the allure of these show-stopping tubs.

The post 9 Trending Bathroom Remodel Ideas for a Modern Look appeared first on Southern Mesa.

The post Risks of Not Permitting Your House Remodel Project appeared first on Southern Mesa.

In the previous article we discussed the importance of pulling a permit and hopefully have given a good overview as to the true risks of not obtaining one. In this article we are going to discuss the risks of having a contractor who’s not licensed in a particular field perform work on your home. Please note, that many of the same risks that apply to not having work permitted also apply to hiring a contractor who does not have proper licensing for the job. I won’t repeat that same information you’ve already read, but instead want to focus on what I’d consider to be the nuances of the task at hand. Contractors may have a wide knowledge base on how to install certain items; but it doesn’t always mean they understand why they are installing something in a particular way or the nuance of why some things need to be installed in a certain order. The consequences of not understanding the nuances of what you’re doing can be costly. 

I will be the first to admit, as a general contractor, I have sometimes hated paying the high rates which plumbers and electricians demand. The price points for their work are generally quite high, and they can be seeing multiple jobs in a day because of their high demand that clean up seems to land back on the contractor after they are finished. However, I do need to recognize that I have to hire them for a few reasons. 

1.  I am legally required to. If a project calls for relocation of plumbing lines, gas lines, or electrical lines then you are legally required to hire a professional with that particular license to perform the work and get a permit for it. The only exception is a homeowner who chooses to perform the work themselves.
2. I hire them because they are fully trained and licensed in these specific trades (or skill set) and understand the nuances of the systems they are installing. They spend 5+ years developing the skills to become a Journeyman and then Master of their trade and that knowledge, plus the knowledge of the systems they install should be respected.

Consequences of Not Working with a Licensed Contractor

I will also admit that for some it is not difficult to solder copper, run PEX lines, or run wires to make electrical connections. What is challenging is knowing about drain line sizing, proper sewer venting, wire sizing, and what types of vents and systems are required for your HVAC systems (to name a few). I can’t tell you how many times I have seen work where individuals knew how to install one of these systems, but didn’t understand the nuances and consequences of what they were installing. A few real life examples *(A quick side note, all these examples I am going to offer would have been caught had the work been permitted and inspected):

One: Starting with an improperly sized breaker. In an electrical system the breaker is meant to be the weakest link in the circuit. The idea being that if the breaker receives electrical current it is not intended to receive then the breaker can pop, thus breaking the circuit which eliminates the dangerous flow of electricity. The problem I have seen on several occasions is that someone who had enough knowledge on how to install a circuit breaker but didn’t understand the nuance of why the breaker was sized for the amps it was rated for changed out a breaker that led to home damage. For example, a homeowner has a bathroom with a 15 amp breaker. They are in the bathroom and have the lights turned on and then turn on a hairdryer, all of a sudden the breaker pops because it’s maxed out its amp capacity. The homeowner wonders if they can simply add a new breaker that’s rated for higher amps like a 20 amp breaker. They install the larger breaker not realizing that when the connected wires receive the electricity they heat up, and if small wires receive more electricity than they are capable of handling they can get too hot and catch on fire. The smaller 15 amp breaker would have caught this problem and shut off power to the circuit preventing too much heat, but the 20 amp breaker may not sense the problem until it’s too hot and could potentially ignite causing a structural fire. 

Two: Individuals using pipe tape and pipe dope (joint compound) on flare fittings. On threaded plumbing and gas connections (or fittings) it is standard practice to use pipe thread tape, pipe dope, or sometimes plumbers will use both tape and dope to make connections so the fittings are water or gas tight and cannot create a dangerous leak. Some individuals who are not professionally trained on how to work with the water or gas fittings can get the impression that you use thread tape or dope everywhere except for where a fitting connects to a rubber gasket. However, this is not the case when it comes to gas flare fittings. In this scenario a flare connects to another flare fitting, even though there is no rubber gasket, pipe thread and pipe tape are not used on that connection. A small amount of plumber’s grease may be used to help the fitting cinch in but that is all that should be used in that scenario. Because the installer didn’t understand the nuance of the different types of pipes, they’ve created a situation where natural gas or propane is almost guaranteed to leak at those connections.

Three: Open Loop heating systems are where you have a hot water tank which supplies heat for the domestic water supply (drinking/showering) as well as some form of a hydronic heating system. People may opt for an open loop system because they want a tankless installation; it’s less expensive to buy just one heating source. In this case for an open loop you’d buy a tankless water heater. With a closed loop system you need a water heater and a boiler – so two separate heating systems costing more money and taking up more space. The benefit of the closed loop system is that the water supplies are separated and can never mix. Why is this a good thing? This is where understanding the nuances comes into play. Let’s say you have an open loop system where the domestic supply and the radiant heating supply are not separated. It’s the summer months, or you’ve left on vacation for several weeks and have not needed to heat your home. This means that without needing that heat, your radiant heating system hasn’t needed to turn on which means that water has been sitting stagnant in your floors for some time. This stagnant water grows harmful bacteria where, if certain safety measures haven’t been put into place, that stagnant water could begin to backflow into your drinking water as well the water you shower with. This harmful bacteria has been known to cause legionnaires disease. For those that understand the nuance of why they need certain components for the system they would have installed check valves to prevent backflow, and a timer to trigger the recirculation pump to turn on every 4-6 hours to prevent stagnation in the water. If you had a closed loop system you wouldn’t have needed either of those components as the waters were separated. 

These are just a few examples which I have seen over the years. In every one of these cases this would have been something that would have been caught had the project been permitted and installed by a licensed MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) professional and permitted for inspection.

I know I spent some time listing examples of work performed by folks who didn’t possess a license for the tasks they were taking on. Sometimes folks possess a license for what they are tasked with but they still don’t understand the nuance of what they are doing. This example comes from a video post found online by a licensed company. The company built a steep pitched roof using a ridgeboard hand cut rafter roof system. With this system they installed “collar ties” to prevent downward pressure that a roof can experience which can then cause a collapse. The nuance, which they didn’t realize, is that collar ties aren’t meant to prevent downward pressure on roofing systems. Collar ties are installed on the upper 1/3 of a rafter system. Their purpose is to prevent wind from applying an uplifting force which can cause a roof to blow off its walls. To prevent the downward pressure they were experiencing in the video the company needed to install a second set of bracing at the lower 1/3 section of the rafter called rafter ties or ceiling joists. This is what prevents the roof from collapsing. Without understanding the nuance, they built a roof which was on the verge of collapsing, the company did catch the deflection in the video and were able to “fix” their mistake before it was too late.

How did this happen? In the video they claim the house they built passed framing inspections. Personally, I can see how this could pass with an untrained inspector, but I cannot see how this could pass all the safety nets of architectural drawings, structural drawings, county permitting, and inspections. My guess as to what could have happened is the original plans called for the roof system to have both collar ties and ceiling joists, and somewhere along the way the ceiling joists were ditched in favor of having a more open concept ceiling. Someone either did not understand the nuance or forgot the “why” of the plans being drawn that way. While the house being built was beautiful, being left that way could have had catastrophic consequences.

In terms of real life examples, this list could go on and on with examples of improper shower installations, failed deck systems, and so on but what makes us at Southern Mesa different?  

How We Protect Our Clients

At Southern Mesa we only use licensed professionals to perform any aspect of MEP related work which requires a permit. While we are willing to change a light fixture or reinstall a toilet we recognize that for the safety of our clients and to protect them and us under our insurance we need to pass these installations to the correct licensed professionals in accordance with the law. As of the writing of this article Southern Mesa is in the process of obtaining a class C construction license for El Paso County. This means that we will be able to build any homes from the ground up as well as perform structural additions to an existing home. We are committed to never deviating from structural plans without having an engineers stamp of approval confirming the safety of the structural alteration. Lastly, our team of project managers and foremans possess a strong knowledge of construction means and methods. Some of our team have structural framing backgrounds spanning more than 20 years of experience in both residential and commercial applications. Others on our team have 15 plus years in deck and outdoor living space construction, and over 20 years of tile and remodeling experience on homes valued in excess of 5 million dollars. We are committed to providing each customer with a highly experienced project manager or foreman to oversee the day to day aspects of your renovation or new build.

*For our last article on how we protect our clients, please check out “Should they work on our property”

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Maximizing Space in a Small Bathroom

When dealing with limited square footage, maximizing space becomes paramount. One effective strategy is to utilize vertical space. Consider installing shelving, wall-mounted cabinets, and tall storage units to take advantage of unused wall space. Additionally, carefully planning the layout and configuration of fixtures can optimize the use of available space. Choose compact fixtures like space-saving toilets, corner sinks, and narrow vanities to make the most of limited room.

Enhancing Visual Appeal

Creating a visually appealing small bathroom can make it feel more spacious and inviting. Proper lighting plays a crucial role in achieving this. Make use of natural light whenever possible and incorporate layered lighting with ambient, under cabinet, and accent lights. Reflective surfaces such as mirrors, glass shower enclosures, and glossy tiles can also create a sense of openness. Choosing light colors and patterns for walls and floors can further enhance the illusion of space.

Creating the Illusion of Space

In addition to enhancing visual appeal, there are design techniques that can create the illusion of a larger bathroom. Glass elements, such as frameless shower doors and glass partitions, can help open up the space and maintain visual flow. Clear shower curtains or open-style showers without doors can also contribute to the perception of more space. Installing large mirrors strategically can reflect light and make the room appear more expansive. Finally, using a cohesive color scheme throughout the bathroom can create continuity and a sense of openness.

Smart Storage Solutions

Efficient storage is essential in small bathrooms. Customized storage options, such as under-sink organizers, pull-out drawers, and floating shelves, can help maximize storage capacity. Utilize over-the-toilet storage units and wall-mounted baskets to make use of vertical space. Corners can be utilized effectively with corner shelving, vanities, and mirrors. For a seamless look, consider designing built-in storage within walls and niches. These storage solutions will keep your small bathroom organized and clutter-free.

Small Bathroom Design Inspirations

Real-life examples of successful small bathroom remodels can provide inspiration for your own project. Look for unique design elements and innovative solutions that have been implemented in similar spaces. Before-and-after visuals can showcase the significant transformations that can be achieved in small bathrooms. These inspirations will help you envision the potential of your own limited space and spark your creativity.

Hiring a Professional Remodeling Company:

While small bathroom remodels can be challenging, working with a professional remodeling company like Southern Mesa can make the process smoother and more efficient. Our experienced team has the expertise and knowledge to handle the complexities of small bathroom renovations. By hiring professionals, you can ensure that your project is executed with precision and attention to detail. We offer project consultations and estimates to discuss your specific needs and provide tailored solutions.

Don’t underestimate the impact a well-executed small bathroom remodel can have on your home. With strategic planning and creative solutions, even the tiniest of spaces can be transformed into functional and visually stunning bathrooms. At Southern Mesa, we are dedicated to helping you achieve big results in your small bathroom. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let us turn your limited space into a bathroom that reflects your style and meets your needs. Trust our expertise and experience to make your small bathroom remodel a success.

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Price discrepancies exist throughout all industries. In many instances we can make sense of these discrepancies when we have adequate knowledge of the products we’re looking at. For example, say you step into a grocery store and you see 2 NY Strip steaks in the case. Once strip cost 12.00 per lbs the other 22.00 per lbs. With the proper knowledge of what you’re looking at it’s easy to make sense of the price discrepancy for the same cut of meat: One cut is Choice grade the other is Prime. One is grass fed the other is grain fed, one has a minimal degree of marbling the other ranks high on the marble score. Does this mean that because you know the difference in the cuts that you should always use the most expensive option? The answer really depends on your budget and how you intend to cook the steaks. If you have the “means and want” to experience the quality of the meat you’ll probably opt for the higher end option. However, if you intend to experiment with creating a pan sauce and the overall flavor of the beef is secondary, going with the Choice option may make the most sense.

In construction, there can be many reasons for price discrepancies when it comes to construction materials and finishes. There are many instances where construction materials or finishes are similar to the steak example. They’re similar in the sense that you can base your decision on your needs and your budget – the options you choose will ultimately equate to a certain level of longevity. However, there are some discrepancies in materials where the lesser options are not viable and should be avoided at all cost. 

The Reasons Behind House Construction Prices

The first discrepancy I’d like to discuss is the difference in cost between plumbing fixtures in a retail box store vs a contractor grade fixture from a plumbing supply house. This is something which can be quite perplexing as you can see a delta shower kit at a box store which includes a rough in value, trim, and a shower head for about $150.00-200.00. However, at the same time you can go to a supply house and order a delta shower kit and it will cost you $500.00-800.00. So how do we make sense of this discrepancy? Does the cheaper option mean you should avoid it?

The Difference in Higher Priced House Supplies

The easiest way to discern the difference between box store fixtures and supply house fixtures is to simply have the plumbing fixtures in front of you to make the comparison. The first thing you would notice between the two options is the dramatic difference in weight between the two options. The reason for this difference in weight is that most box store fixtures are made of plastic with an exterior designed to look like metal. Whereas contractor grade fixtures are generally produced from solid metal. To be clear both fixtures will (or should) have brass rough-in components, but the trim component and some of the structural components are where the main differences lie. 

One other major difference is that contractor grade rough-in valves have the option to come with built in “stops”. “Stops” are basically built in water shut off valves that are built into the rough-in valve. Why is this important? It doesn’t happen often, but there are times when the interior component of a shower valve known as a cartridge breaks down. If the cartridge breaks down, it either breaks down in the water “on” or “off” position. If you don’t have stops on your valve and it breaks down in the “off” position, you’re lucky! If it breaks and the shower is in the “on” position it means that you can no longer just shut off the water in your shower; you will be shutting down water to your entire home until you can get a replacement cartridge. If the components are not in stock or on back order it can take weeks to get a replacement resulting in a lot of logistical issues in your home. If you have a valve with built in stops, you can simply shut off the water to that valve while the rest of your home’s water can remain unaffected until you’re able to replace the cartridge. 

Should I Avoid Buying Cheap House Supplies?

So the question is should you purchase the higher end plumbing components? Ideally, yes, but we understand it doesn’t always work with everyone’s budget. The truth is even with plastic components some manufacturers produce plastic parts with a durable, and in some cases, a “spot free” finish which allows for easier cleaning. The main thing with box store components is to find a full-body plastic material, not something that is plated on top of the plastic. You’ll also want to find a product with a cartridge that is widely available so if there is a breakdown it can be replaced within a day or so. If it’s a shower rough-in valve, we always recommend a valve with “stops” no matter the grade. Southern Mesa will always recommend contractor grade components due to better structural components, and durability but we also will always be willing to work inside your budget.

Difference in Flooring for House Remodels

The second discrepancy I’d like to discuss is the difference in flooring products such as Tile and Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring. This is a situation where some box stores will stock some items which could be considered contractor grade. 

Oftentimes when it comes to ceramic or porcelain tile, a box store can offer products that are of excellent quality and if you find something that suits your design in most cases we would tell you to go for it. This wasn’t always the case, but some stores have stepped up their quality in the last 10-15 years. The main drawbacks with box store tile for ceramic and porcelain is your design can lose some of its uniqueness. A box store in Colorado Springs may have the same products as their stores in Dallas or Cleveland, and so on. If you want a design that’s unique and set apart it’s best to look at custom tile showrooms. 

The other drawback to using box stores for porcelain and ceramic tile is, in some cases, the products could have a lot of warping and bowing in the tile making for a more complex install. 

For natural stone, box stores can have more noticeable drawbacks. There have been many occasions where I’ve opened boxes of natural stone from box stores to see tile that looks muddled, very inconsistent in color, some tiles that are polished while others are unpolished, and inconsistencies in tile sizing and gauging. Most of these issues cannot be corrected and have rarely been a problem from legitimate tile showrooms who properly vet their stone suppliers. 

On a side note, another great benefit of working with a tile showroom vs a box store is the knowledge of the showroom staff. In many stores most of the staff has industry experience in either installation or design. This can be very useful for choosing products with the right slip resistance ratings for certain installations, products which can minimize conflicts with layout or design, and simply having an eye for great design and detail.

For items such as LVP the main discrepancies in price come from the following factors: how well the LVP mimics the characteristics of natural wood, repetition in pattern, and if the LVP has a built in and substantial underlayment.

Repetition vs. Underlayment of Flooring Installs

Repetition in pattern is an issue which can exist in both LVP installations as well as tile installations. Typically, the goal of an installer is to mix a pattern throughout a floor or wall so there is not one particular color isolated in one section of an installation or to have the same pattern bundled together in a group. These isolation issues can draw the focus of a wall or floor to one section of a space which was never intended to be a focal point. When you have a lesser grade of LVP or Tile you’ll end up with only 3 to 4 unique patterns available to minimize the repetition in pattern. On a higher grade of material you can have anywhere between 15 to 25 unique patterns to ensure that you won’t have the problem of pattern repetition. Trying to not have pattern repetition with 3 to 4 unique patterns is almost unavoidable. 

Most LVP products are quite thin and were originally designed to be placed directly over an existing hard surface flooring. Thin LVP works well in these applications as they help to minimize height discrepancies throughout the installation area. However, thin LVP comes with 2 drawbacks:

1: If the LVP couldn’t be placed over the existing hard surface and has to be placed directly over the subfloor, the existing door jams are going to be significantly higher than the new finished floor creating a larger unattractive gap where the LVP sits under the jam. The only ways to deal with this is to either drop the door jams, or to raise up the floor. 

Thicker LVP isn’t quite large enough to compensate for that gap, but it does lessen the gap allowing for a thinner product to be used to raise up the floor, which saves on material cost. 

2: The other drawback with thin LVP is that it will have a very thin built in underlayment, or none at all. A thicker underlayment will have a tremendous impact on sound deadening throughout the home, especially for spaces which are directly underneath an LVP floor. Many condos or apartments will not allow LVP to be installed in units without the material meeting specific sound deadening requirements. LVP can be really loud unless a quality plank with thick underlayment is installed.

What to Know About House Remodels and Landscaping Costs

At Southern Mesa one of our core values is education. We consistently seek to improve our own processes by taking advantage of manufacturer training programs and various educational resources by industry councils. For us, learning never stops. As we increase our education we also desire to help educate our clients as well. Construction is rarely simple, and can easily become overwhelming. At Southern Mesa we’re happy to walk all of our clients through the details of the installation of each product and receive honest feedback on materials selected. Not every product that’s inexpensive is bad, and not every product with a high price tag is functionally superior to another with a lesser cost. Please use us as a resource to help with these assessments about product selections and installations.

The post Explained: Pricing Differences in House Remodels appeared first on Southern Mesa.