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The most predictable question customers always ask is "How much will all this cost me?" and our equally predictable response is "That all depends."

In this article, we'll explore the factors that affect the costs of various units. There are differences in materials and construction methods, but also in styles, designs, and features. Hopefully, once you familiarize yourself with this information you'll know what questions to ask when you shop.

Unfortunately, there is no rule-of-thumb when it comes to cost.

You will find that different builders emphasize different features in their home designs. It may be the cherry dentil crown molding in the dining room or the Italian marble flooring in the entrance foyer, but the one consistent thing that always sets off an elegant home is its attention to detail.

Inflation has been kind to the plumbing industry over the past few years, but while fixture prices have been remarkably stable, that doesn't mean that bathrooms have become cheaper. Costs have grown simply because the public's demands and expectations have increased. Think of a bathroom as an ensemble of elements. These elements should complement each other and present a consistent theme. Try not to introduce too much contrast, either in style or in quality. One out-of-place component could diminish the effect of the whole.

Also remember that a plumbing investment directly affects property values. Unlike most other purchases, a quality plumbing system should cost almost nothing over time; in fact it may actually increase in value if the equipment is properly cared for. According to Realtor.com, 85% of the cost of a bathroom-remodeling project adds immediately to the value of a home. In time it often exceeds 100%.

In new construction, substandard bathrooms can negatively impact home values. Homes in higher-priced neighborhoods are expected to include more luxurious features. Short-changing the master bath will surely lower your property value. Yet the difference between a plain-jane bath and a deluxe suite with the amenities expected by upscale buyers could add less than $50 a month to your mortgage payment. Be sure to discuss your plumbing allowances with your builder to make sure they are adequate for your needs. A few moments spent up front can save needless disappointments and delays down the road.

Factors Affecting Price
  Mass Production
  Features
  Fit and Finish
  Brand Name and Warranty

Mass Production
The most common plumbing faucets and fixtures found in new homes are manufactured in huge quantities, several thousand at a time. This brings about production efficiencies that dramatically reduce costs, and the factories pass these savings on to the customers.

Such products are classified as builder grade because of their economical price. In most cases, they are high quality products that will provide many years of dependable service. They are popular among builders because they are reliable and help to keep construction costs down.

Most of these items are safe designs, unobtrusive and conservative in style. Fixtures are generally white, and faucets chrome. Kitchen sinks are standard grade stainless steel, and showers are usually fiberglass, and bathroom sinks may be either self-rimming china mounted in formica or white cultured marble. They are quite functional and serve their purpose well. Their chief drawback is that they lack creativity and personal expression.

At the other end of the scale are the designer units. These high-style items appeal to discriminating buyers who are looking for the unusual. By definition, however, these are low-production units that have much higher manufacturing costs. They may be of the same material as lower-priced items, and the quality may be comparable, but their price will be considerably higher.

Features
Some advanced-technology faucets and fixtures include features not found in lower-priced units.

Kitchen faucets may have integrated pullout spray heads, goose-neck spouts, or unconventional single lever handles, all of which are more expensive to build. Sinks may be heavier or deeper, with thicker-gauge steel; some have double or triple bowls, or are simply configured in an odd size or shape. Whirlpools come in larger sizes than conventional tubs, and some offer more elaborate pumping systems and more numerous jets. Shower valves may have multiple heads with adjustable bars or handheld sprays.

And of course the materials themselves affect the cost greatly. When comparing items by different manufacturers, be sure that the models are comparable.

Fit and Finish
Just as in shopping for an automobile, if you examine plumbing products closely, you will notice subtle differences in the way they are made.

Finishes of more expensive items will be deeper, richer, and more finely polished. Faucets may be plated in brass or gold, or of high-grade nickel. Even chrome faucets will have a semi-translucent character that will better hold its luster over time. Stainless steel sinks will glisten with a surface polish lacking in economy models. Cast iron sinks and tubs have a deep, rich luster all their own. Acrylic units carry more vibrant colors with no dull spots. You will notice no rough unfinished edges or seams; everything fits well.

These items are designed to require minimal care and to last for years. But the care that goes into these finishes adds to the cost. Most are made in the United States and Europe rather than in the third world.

Brand Name and Warranty
Keidel Bath & Plumbing only deals with reliable manufacturers; in most cases we have been selling their products for years. We trust them and so can you.

Manufacturers offer warranties of varying terms, from one year to a lifetime. But warranties are only as good as the company offering them.

If you've never heard of the brand before you buy it, you may have a hard time finding them five years later to get them to honor their lifetime warranty, particularly if the country of origin is in the third-world. Think about how many familiar companies have gone out of business in the last few years. >br>

Keidel Bath and Plumbing has stood the test of time and will continue to be here to serve you for many years to come. If you have a problem with any item we sell you, contact us within the warranty period and we will assist you in dealing with the manufacturer to make sure you are satisfied.

See Also:
Living With Your Selections - Care & Maintenance Considerations

Links to Related Websites:
RealtorMag.Com - 2001 Cost vs. Value: Bathroom Remodel

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