How much does it cost to replace a bathroom vanity?

The bathroom vanity is an important part of the modern bathroom. It is a highly functional and visible feature, so it needs to meet both practical and aesthetic requirements. Because of the nature of the materials and skills involved, replacing them can quickly become quite costly, but by knowing where these costs are consumed, you can bring some measure of control into your budget and plan accordingly.

The cost of a new bathroom vanity in Australia ranges from $250 for a budget vanity, around $2,000 - $3,000 for a mid-range bathroom vanity and upwards of $5,000 for a more premium choice. 

Working out the total cost of replacing a bathroom vanity requires assessing additional factors to the price of a new vanity, including:

• The type of vanity you need.
• Size of the vanity.
• The materials the vanity is made from.
• The types of skilled labour required.
• Your location.
• Whether the vanity replacement is part of a wider bathroom renovation project.

The type of bathroom vanity

The type of vanity you choose can significantly impact the cost of replacing a bathroom vanity. Different vanities, such as floating, freestanding, or corner vanities, come with varying price ranges. For example, floating vanities often require additional structural modifications and professional installation, contributing to higher costs. 

Freestanding vanities offer more flexibility in terms of placement and may come in a wider range of designs, materials, and finishes, leading to differences in price. Having an idea of the type of vanity you’re after before you consult a professional will give you a more accurate picture of how much to budget.

Related article: 11 different styles and types of bathroom vanities

The size of the bathroom vanity

The size of the vanity is a crucial factor impacting the cost and complexity of bathroom vanity replacement. A single vanity typically ranges between 82 cm - 91 cm in height while measuring 60 cm, 76 cm, 91 cm or 121 cm in width, while double sink vanities run between 152 cm to 182 cm in width. Small bathroom vanities can be as narrow as 30 cm but typically sit within the 40 cm - 50 cm width range.

Typically, larger vanities will be more expensive to install; for example, double vanities are usually more costly to install than single vanities due to their larger dimensions.

Related article: Bathroom vanity dimensions: a sizing guide

The materials used

The material of a bathroom vanity has a significant impact on its price. Different vanity components can be made from various materials, influencing the overall cost. High-end materials like marble, granite, or quartz for the countertop are more expensive than laminate or solid surface options.

Here are some general pricing guidelines for popular countertop options to keep in mind:

Ceramic - $150 or more.

Quartz - $200 or more.

Natural stone - $350 or more.

Marble - $500 or more.

The cabinet construction material, such as solid wood or engineered wood, also plays a role in pricing. Drawers and doors can be made from solid wood, plywood, or MDF, with solid wood being pricier. The choice of hardware and fixtures, like stainless steel or brass, can also affect the cost.

The back and sides of the vanity often use less expensive materials like plywood or MDF. The combination of these material choices, along with the design and craftsmanship, contributes to the final price of the bathroom vanity.

Related article: 8 popular bathroom vanity materials pros and cons

Amount and cost of labour required

Labour costs play a significant role in the budget for replacing a bathroom vanity. Before installing your new bathroom vanity, the existing vanity needs to be removed. It can take around 1 - 3 hours to remove an old vanity, so on average, you'll want to budget around $300 - $500 for the removal to be on the safe side. 

After removal, a tradesperson will need to install your new vanity (if you have a new one installed). How this installation is priced may differ depending on the tradesperson; some may give you a fixed fee for installation, and others may provide you with a day or hourly rate and an estimation of how long the installation will take.

Additionally, when you're considering costs, it's important to know whether replacing your bathroom vanity is a singular job or part of a more comprehensive bathroom renovation project that includes bathroom vanity installation. If it's part of a total bathroom renovation, the costs may be higher if any additional work is involved.  

Renovating the entire bathroom involves tasks such as plumbing, electrical work, tiling, and carpentry, all of which necessitate the expertise of various professionals. Try to keep in mind what type of skilled labour will be required when you're outlining your budget.

Labour rates across Australia for different trades vary, but here are some broad guideline figures to keep in mind:

• Building: $70- $120 per hour.
• Carpentry: $40- $120 per hour.
• Electrical: $70 - $130 per hour.
• Plumbing: $80 - $130 per hour.
• Painting: $65 - $105 per hour.

When it comes to replacing or installing a bathroom vanity, the trades involved largely depend on the specific requirements of your project. Plumbing and building should be your main considerations if you're solely focused on installing the vanity. Carpentry may come into play only if floor renovations are needed.

It's important to note that not all projects require the involvement of all these trades. Lastly, the location of your house influences the availability of professionals and their respective rates, making it an important factor to consider.

Although replacing and installing a bathroom vanity yourself can be cheaper, it's very tricky to do. There are various factors to consider, including plumbing, electrical connections, and precise installation. It is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a skilled professional to navigate these complexities successfully.

One compelling reason to hire a professional is their expertise in dealing with plumbing and electrical systems. Mishandling these components can lead to issues like leaks, malfunctions, or even structural damage, which will increase costs significantly.  

Professionals have the necessary knowledge and experience to handle these complexities correctly and minimise the risk of errors. Additionally, achieving a seamless and professional finish during the bathroom vanity replacement process requires accurate measurements, proper levelling, and precise installation. Professionals are equipped with the right tools and skills to measure the space accurately, adjust for uneven surfaces if necessary, and ensure a perfect fit.

The cost of replacing a bathroom vanity varies based on factors like quality, material, type, and size. Consider labour costs, location, and your desired vanity to estimate expenses accurately. Seeking professional assistance can provide valuable guidance for a successful job. Whether you choose professional help or DIY, keep these factors in mind so you can choose a bathroom vanity that suits your budget and reflects your style.