Bathroom Update...

Well, quote number two came in. We were happier with the service of these guys. I think it helped that A was pretty upfront about budget constraints and told them that there was a number we wanted to meet and it was their job to tell us how we could do that! After saying that at the top end the quote could start with a 5, yes, that's right, a 5, they made a lot of sensible suggestions about how we could change things to cut costs without sacrificing the design too much.

So, the quote...at first glance $26,000 seemed much more reasonable...until we saw the list of exclusions that we would be responsible for! Which would mean the total cost would still be in the mid 30s. Gah!

So, the  back breaking hard work back up plan looks like it might come in to play after all.

The back up plan is supported DIY - we don't want to fiddle with shifting plumbing, electrics or waterproofing and most of the demo will have to be done by an asbestos removal professional. That's fine, it's kind of important that we get that right, so we pay for it to be done but do a lot of the other stuff ourselves. Tiling, I'm told, is slow but not too difficult with a bit of education and the right tools. If people on The Block can build a stud wall in a couple of hours, we reckon we can do one with the technical support of our builder neighbour. A's dad is conveniently about to open a plumbers account with a company for his farm irrigation. They also sell bathroom and kitchen supplies so we'll get trade prices there at about 40 - 50% off retail.

Just to keep things sensible though, we're going to start with the toilet! If we can put in a simple new window, new gyprock, tile a tiny floor area and install a new toilet without too much stress, then we'll tackle the next stage.

A is quite cool, calm and collected about the whole situation. If I'm honest, I'm a little concerned! June and little Baby A are getting closer every day - 99 days according to my little counter today - and I don't want to get stuck with a half finished bathroom and a newborn! On the other hand, the thought of only spending $15,000 is very appealing. It means we might get a deck out the back quicker and will feel a lot more comfortable about having 5 months next year on one wage.

For interests sake and because if you've made it through this post you deserve a reward, here is our bathroom inspiration picture! The colours will probably be different but the concept of having the shower and bath in a wet area is surprisingly space efficient!

Wish us luck!

Source: eminteriors.tumblr.com via Christie on Pinterest