Is It Cheaper to Build a Vanity or Buy One for 2023?

Published by Ossy Chandiyana on Aug 8th 2023

Is it Cheaper to Build a Vanity or Buy One 2023: When it comes to bathroom vanities, the question often arises: should you build or buy?

Let's break down the average costs using our most recent data from 2023.

Building vs. Buying a Vanity: A Cost Breakdown

Kingdee 84" Floating Vanity in Light Oak + Kingdee Linen Tower Cabinet in Light Oak

Building a Vanity

The cost of building a bathroom vanity depends on various factors, including the materials used, the size of the vanity, and whether you're doing it yourself or hiring a professional.

Building a Bathroom Vanity Average Costs, 2023

When building a bathroom vanity from scratch, the cost of materials can range from $200 to $1,000, or up to $2,500 for high-end materials.

DIY Bathroom Vanity Materials & Cost

DIY Bathroom Vanity Materials to consider:

Wood
Paint
Stain
Hardware
Countertop

As per the data from 2023, the average cost of materials for a DIY bathroom vanity ranges from $200 to $1,000.

If you're opting for high-end materials, the cost can go up to $2,500.

This cost can significantly vary depending on how large you want your vanity to be.

For example, building your own 84” inch freestanding or floating vanity can cost upwards of $2,500, using standard materials, and even higher when using higher-end materials such as solid or exotic woods.

Kingdee 84" Floating Vanity in White Oak

Although it is doable to build your own vanity completely yourself or with the help of friends or loved ones, hiring a professional to help may be needed depending on your DIY skill and comfort level.

If you're hiring a professional, labor costs can add up to somewhere between $500 and $1,000 depending on the complexity of the design, how hard it is to install the vanity, as well as local labor rates.

A More Convenient Alternative

Dolce 60" Freestanding Vanity in Natural Oak

On the other hand, buying a preassembled vanity can be a more convenient option, especially if you're looking for a quick bathroom update.

Buying a Preassembled Vanity

What is a pre-built or preassembled vanity:

A preassembled or pre-built vanity refers to a bathroom vanity that comes already constructed and ready to install.

These vanities come with a matching sink top set, fully included in the price.

In many cases, these preassembled vanity models come in a range of options of colors and sizes to fit your project. Some key advantages to preassembled or pre-built vanities include:

Ready for Installation: Once delivered, a preassembled vanity can be directly installed in the bathroom without the need for assembly. You'd typically only need to attach hardware like handles or knobs, and then handle plumbing connections.

Saves Time: Since there's no assembly required, homeowners or contractors can save time during the installation process.

Quality and Consistency: Preassembled vanities are usually constructed in a factory setting, ensuring consistent build quality and finish. There's less room for assembly errors, leading to a smaller chance of disastrous results.

Save on Costs: Preassembled vanities can offer a wide range of freestanding or floating options, models, and colors, with great long-lasting designs at a fraction of the cost and labor.

A preassembled or pre-built vanity is a bathroom vanity that comes already constructed, making the installation process quicker and more straightforward. It's an excellent option for those who want a hassle-free installation and are willing to pay a bit more for the convenience.

Buying a Preassembled or Pre-Built Vanity: Costs

Angeles Freestanding Vanity Series in Natural Oak

According to 2023 data, purchasing a new, preassembled vanity can cost from $500 to $3,800, depending on size, brand, and quality.

Although you can find small bathroom vanities under $500 online or in big box stores such as Walmart or Home Depot, it is best to avoid these vanities – they are often made using cheap materials that won’t last.

Installation labor costs can range from $100 to $1,000, but there are some pre-built vanity models that are easier, and more straightforward to install.

Is it Easier to Install a Preassembled or Pre-Built Vanity?

Prebuilt vanities can typically be installed using basic power tools and video instructions found online or on the manufacturer’s website, or simply by using the installation manual provided with the model.

The Bottom Line: Should I Build or Buy My Vanity?

Kingdee 84" Floating Vanity in Red Oak

The choice between building and buying a vanity depends on your budget, time, and priorities.

Should I Build My Own Vanity to Save Costs?

Although it is possible to save a few hundred dollars by building your own bathroom vanity, it does come with its risks and limitations.

When building your own vanity from scratch, you are often limited to a few minimal or simple vanity designs, depending on your skill level.

Additionally, the building process requires space, time, tools, and energy.

Although the building process can be rewarding for DIY enthusiasts, buying a new, preassembled, or pre-built vanity offers convenience and speed that may be more attractive for busy or less experienced homeowners.

Max 60" Floating Bathroom Vanity in Gray Oak | Moreno Bath Double Sink Bathroom Vanities

With the help of a floating vanity, you can rearrange your space for a more natural and modern feel.

You’ll Have a Good Idea of What The Finished Product Will Look Like

Bohemia Lina 42" Floating Vanity Collection in Gloss Gray

Additionally, opting for a new, pre-built vanity can also allow you a more accurate idea or image of how your new vanity will fit and interact with other design elements in your bathroom.

In many cases, you can find customer picture reviews online that can show you exactly how your new vanity will look, in different colors, sizes, and styles.

Sometimes, these vanity customer photo reviews can also serve as inspiration for your next bathroom remodel or project.

In conclusion, a new vanity can drastically transform your bathroom, for the better or for the worse. Be sure you fully explore and consider your options, and choose wisely to fit your needs and budget.

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