Bathroom remodeling delivers some of the strongest returns of any home improvement project, with 2025 data showing the highest ROI in nearly two decades. Central Iowa homeowners typically invest $12,000 to $35,000 on bathroom renovations, and understanding where that money goes helps you make smart decisions. This guide covers real costs, code requirements, and what trends are driving bathroom design this year.
TLDR: Mid-range bathroom remodels now deliver 80% ROI – the highest since 2007. Des Moines area projects typically cost $12,000-$35,000, with labor representing 40-65% of total costs. Walk-in showers and wet rooms are trending, but waterproofing behind tile is non-negotiable for any shower project.
You step into your bathroom every morning and notice the same things: dated tile, inefficient layout, fixtures that have seen better days. A bathroom remodel has been on your list for years, but you need to know what it actually costs and whether the investment makes sense.
The good news? Bathroom remodels are delivering their best returns in 18 years. The key is spending wisely on updates that matter while avoiding costly mistakes that eat into your budget.
What Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in Des Moines?
Bathroom remodeling costs depend on room size, scope of work, and finish quality. Here’s what Central Iowa homeowners typically spend:
| Bathroom Type | Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Half Bath | 20-30 sq ft | $6,500 – $16,000 |
| Full Bath | 40-60 sq ft | $12,700 – $18,000 |
| Large Bath | 100-120 sq ft | $19,000 – $21,500 |
| Primary Suite | 130+ sq ft | $22,500 – $35,000+ |
Project scope matters as much as size:
| Project Type | Cost Range | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic/Cosmetic | $6,000 – $15,000 | New fixtures, paint, existing layout |
| Mid-Range | $15,000 – $30,000 | Tile shower, semi-custom vanity, new lighting |
| High-End | $30,000 – $80,000+ | Custom cabinetry, layout changes, luxury finishes |
Labor accounts for 40-65% of total project costs. Plumbing work alone runs $800-$5,500 depending on complexity.
Real example: An Ankeny homeowner updated a small hall bath for $11,500 – new vanity, LVP flooring, and a prefabricated shower unit. By keeping the layout and plumbing in place, they avoided $3,000-$4,000 in extra costs.
Tip: Get detailed quotes that break out labor versus materials. This helps you compare contractors accurately and identify where costs can be adjusted.
Bathroom Remodel ROI: Why 2025 Is Different
According to the National Association of Home Builders, mid-range bathroom remodels now return approximately 80% of costs at resale – up 6.3% from 2024 and the highest since 2007. Buyers are paying premiums for updated, move-in-ready bathrooms.
| Project Type | Typical ROI | Key Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Minor updates | 70-85% | Best percentage return |
| Mid-range remodel | 79-80% | Highest since 2007 |
| Upscale/luxury | 42-50% | Lower returns on high-end |
Real example: A Waukee family invested $25,000 in a mid-range primary bathroom remodel – new tile shower, double vanity, updated lighting, and fresh flooring. When they sold 18 months later, their real estate agent credited the bathroom with helping the home sell $19,000 over comparable listings.
Tip: Mid-range improvements outperform luxury upgrades. A $25,000 remodel returning 80% beats a $75,000 luxury project returning 45%.
Code Requirements You Need to Know
Bathroom remodels must meet International Residential Code requirements. Failing inspections delays projects and adds costs.
Electrical Requirements (2023 NEC)
All bathroom outlets require GFCI protection – no exceptions. Additional requirements include:
- Dedicated 20-amp circuit for bathroom receptacles
- Outlets within 3 feet of each sink basin
- Tamper-resistant receptacles required
- Ceiling-mounted light fixture controlled by wall switch
Ventilation Requirements
Bathrooms need either mechanical ventilation or an operable window:
- Minimum 50 CFM intermittent fan OR 20 CFM continuous
- Must vent directly outdoors (not into attic)
- Bathrooms over 100 sq ft need higher CFM ratings
Real example: An Urbandale homeowner’s bathroom remodel failed inspection because the exhaust fan vented into the attic instead of outdoors. Correcting the ductwork added $800 and a week to the project timeline.
Clearance Minimums
| Fixture | Minimum Clearance | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Toilet (side) | 15″ from center to wall | 17-18″ |
| Toilet (front) | 21″ to any obstruction | 30-36″ |
| Shower interior | 30″ x 30″ | 36″ x 48″ |
| Between double sinks | 30″ center-to-center | 36″+ |
Why Waterproofing Is Non-Negotiable
Here’s what most homeowners don’t realize: tile and grout are NOT waterproof. Grout is porous, and water penetrates through capillary action. Without proper waterproofing behind tile, water reaches the substrate and causes mold, mildew, and structural damage.
Waterproofing methods include:
- Liquid membranes: Roll-on application, easiest and most affordable
- Sheet membranes: Plastic or elastomeric sheets bonded with thinset
- Foam backer panels: Waterproof surface that doesn’t absorb moisture
Tip: Never skip waterproofing to save money. Fixing water damage behind tile costs $8,000-$15,000 or more. Proper waterproofing adds $500-$1,500 upfront.
Real example: A Grimes homeowner installed a beautiful marble tile shower without waterproofing the substrate. Within two years, black mold grew behind the walls. Complete tear-out and remediation cost $12,000 – four times what waterproofing would have cost.
2025 Bathroom Design Trends
Walk-in showers and wet rooms dominate bathroom design this year. According to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, wet rooms now represent 16% of bathroom projects, up 3% from last year.
What’s trending:
- Frameless glass shower enclosures
- Curbless/barrier-free shower entries
- Large-format tile (fewer grout lines)
- Linear drains for clean aesthetics
- Built-in niches and seating
- Matte black and champagne bronze fixtures
What’s fading:
- Standard tub/shower combos
- Small mosaic tiles (too many grout lines)
- High-polish stone in showers (slippery)
- Ceramic tile (porcelain more durable)
Tip: Choose porcelain over ceramic tile for wet areas. Porcelain is denser, more water-resistant, and less prone to chipping.
Permits and Iowa Contractor Requirements
Most bathroom remodels require permits for electrical, plumbing, or structural work. Cosmetic updates like paint and hardware typically don’t need permits.
Iowa requires contractors earning $2,000+ annually to register with DIAL (Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing). Verify registration at dial.iowa.gov before hiring. Plumbers and electricians need separate state licenses.
Real example: A West Des Moines family hired an unregistered contractor who refused to pull permits for a bathroom remodel. Halfway through, the city flagged the project, work stopped for two weeks, and they paid an additional $1,200 in permit, re-inspection, and correction costs.
Tip: Ask your contractor who is pulling permits and scheduling inspections. If they dodge the question, that’s a red flag.
Critical: Ask for proof of workers’ compensation insurance. If a contractor doesn’t carry it and a worker gets injured on your property, you could be liable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Des Moines? A: Most Central Iowa bathroom remodels cost $12,000-$35,000. Half baths start around $6,500, while primary suite renovations can exceed $35,000 with luxury finishes.
Q: What ROI can I expect from a bathroom remodel? A: Mid-range bathroom remodels return approximately 80% of costs at resale in 2025 – the highest ROI since 2007. Luxury remodels return only 42-50%.
Q: Do I need permits for a bathroom remodel? A: Yes, for plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. Cosmetic updates like paint, mirrors, and hardware typically don’t require permits.
Q: How long does a bathroom remodel take? A: Most Des Moines bathroom projects take 3-6 weeks. Complex projects with layout changes or custom tile work can extend to 8 weeks.
Q: Is waterproofing really necessary for showers? A: Absolutely. Tile and grout are not waterproof. Without proper membrane waterproofing behind tile, water causes mold and structural damage that costs $8,000-$15,000+ to fix.
Key Takeaways
- Des Moines bathroom remodels cost $12,000-$35,000
- Mid-range projects deliver 80% ROI (highest since 2007)
- All bathroom outlets require GFCI protection
- Waterproofing behind tile is mandatory, not optional
- Walk-in showers and wet rooms are trending
Ready to Remodel Your Bathroom?
You understand the costs, ROI potential, and requirements for bathroom remodeling in Central Iowa. Busy Builders has helped over 1,000 Central Iowa homeowners since 2020. We understand local codes, proper waterproofing techniques, and how to maximize your investment.
📞 Call: 844-435-9800 🌐 Visit: https://busybuildersiowa.com/
We serve Des Moines, West Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, and all Central Iowa communities. Contact us today to start planning your bathroom renovation.
Busy Builders | Full Service Remodeling and Construction Done Right | Serving Central Iowa Since 2020
Important: This guide provides general information based on 2025 market data. Actual costs vary by project scope and site conditions. Consult licensed professionals for permits, electrical, and plumbing work.
