If you’ve started dreaming about updating your bathroom, you’ve probably noticed one big question keeps popping up: “How much will it actually cost?” The answer actually depends on your goals. Are you just trying to freshen things up before selling? Fixing an existing issue like a leaky shower? Or are you finally ready to create the bathroom you’ve always wanted?
With nearly 50 years of remodeling experience across Central Ohio, we’ve seen it all, small bathroom refreshes, full-scale makeovers, and everything in between. That experience has taught us what truly drives the cost of a remodel and how to plan smart at every stage. Whether you’re replacing a dated tub, upgrading for resale, or solving a leaky shower issue, understanding these cost factors helps you make confident, informed decisions.
In this post, we’ll walk through what you can expect to invest in a typical 5x8 bathroom remodel in 2025, explore the different levels of remodeling (from quick updates to full transformations), and help you figure out which approach makes the most sense for your needs, your goals, and your budget—so you can plan wisely and remodel with confidence.
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Understanding Your Bathroom SizeA 5x8 bathroom may not sound large, but it’s one of the most common and efficient layouts in homes across Central Ohio. This size typically includes a tub-and-shower combo, a single-sink vanity, and a toilet—all comfortably arranged within roughly 40 square feet. Because this layout is so common, it’s a perfect starting point for estimating remodel costs and planning design updates.
Even in a smaller space, every choice you make, whether it’s upgrading your vanity, replacing your shower walls, or installing new flooring affects both price and function. A well-planned remodel can make a 5x8 bathroom feel bigger, brighter, and far more functional without changing the footprint.
Whether your goal is resale value, accessibility, or creating a little spa-like retreat, understanding your bathroom’s size and layout helps you see how much impact the right remodel can make in even a compact space.
When a bathroom starts to feel worn out, the tub or shower area is usually the first place you notice it. Maybe the fiberglass is yellowing, the surround is cracked, or water has been sneaking behind the wall and causing hidden damage. For many Central Ohio homeowners, replacing an aging tub/shower is the smartest first step toward a fresher, more functional 5×8 bathroom. It's s also one of the fastest ways to modernize the entire space—without committing to a full gut remodel.
A tub/shower replacement focuses on updating the “wet area” of your bathroom: the tub or shower base, plus the wall system that surrounds it. This upgrade removes the old, worn-out unit and installs a clean, modern, grout-free wall system custom-built to fit your exact space.
At JSB Home Solutions, we’ve seen firsthand how traditional fiberglass surrounds can fade, crack, and trap moisture over time—leading to staining, maintenance headaches, and a bathroom that simply doesn’t hold up to daily family use. That’s why we prefer premium materials like Onyx Collection and Tyvarian instead. These systems offer superior durability, zero-grout maintenance, and a custom-fit look that stays beautiful for decades.
The average cost for a tub/shower combo replacement in 2025 is expected to fall between $10,000–$15,000. Pricing depends on the wall system you choose, whether you’re switching from a tub to a walk-in shower, and if any hidden damage is uncovered during demolition. Most Central Ohio homeowners fall comfortably within this range for a clean, functional upgrade that’s built to last.
A tub or shower replacement is ideal for homeowners who:
Are dealing with leaks, cracked surrounds, or water-damaged walls
Have a unit that feels dated, yellowed, or simply out of style
Want a modern look without committing to a full bathroom remodel
Prefer low-maintenance, grout-free solutions that are easy to keep clean
Need better functionality—like shelves, grab bars, or a low-threshold entry
If you’re looking for the best “impact-per-dollar” upgrade in a 5×8 bathroom, this is it!
1. Low-Maintenance, Grout-Free Walls For Your Shower
Our Onyx and Tyvarian shower wall systems wipe clean with simple household products—no scrubbing grout lines or fighting mold. They’re ideal for families, busy mornings, and homeowners who want a bathroom that looks amazing with minimal upkeep.
2. Custom-Fit for Your Exact Bathroom Space
No awkward seams. No generic, off-the-shelf panels. Each system is measured and fabricated to fit your bathroom precisely, ensuring a clean, finished look that feels elevated and intentional.
3. Functional Upgrades For Your Bathroom, Designed for Daily Life
From built-in shelving to corner caddies, bench seating, grab bars, and even sleek new shower doors, you can tailor the wet area to match your lifestyle. These upgrades not only improve usability—they also enhance long-term accessibility and safety.
4. Fastest Way to Transform a 5×8 Bathroom
Because this project focuses on the wet area, you get a major visual and functional upgrade without the downtime of a full remodel. It’s a smart choice if you need change now or are prepping for resale.
5. Long-Lasting Materials Built for Central Ohio Homes
Our wall systems are non-porous, extremely durable, and backed by excellent manufacturer warranties. Paired with JSB’s 50 years of remodeling experience, your new shower or tub is built to stand up to real family living.
3. Functional Upgrades Designed for Daily Life
From built-in shelving to corner caddies, bench seating, grab bars, and even sleek new shower doors, you can tailor the wet area to match your lifestyle. These upgrades not only improve usability—they also enhance long-term accessibility and safety.
4. Fastest Way to Transform a 5×8 Bathroom
Because this project focuses on the wet area, you get a major visual and functional upgrade without the downtime of a full remodel. It’s a smart choice if you need change now or are prepping for resale.
5. Long-Lasting Materials Built for Central Ohio Homes
Our wall systems are non-porous, extremely durable, and backed by excellent manufacturer warranties. Paired with JSB’s 50 years of remodeling experience, your new shower or tub is built to stand up to real family living.
In a compact 5×8 bathroom, the tub or shower occupies a huge portion of the visual space. Updating it instantly makes the entire room feel brighter, cleaner, and more modern—often without touching the vanity, flooring, or lighting.
It’s also one of the best ways to eliminate hidden issues that could cause bigger headaches later. If there’s water damage, mold behind the walls, or outdated plumbing connections, a tub/shower replacement gives you the chance to fix those problems once and for all.
If your bathroom is starting to show its age—or you simply want a cleaner, more modern space without going all-in on a full transformation—this is one of the most cost-effective updates you can make.
Sometimes, you don’t need to touch the plumbing layout—you just want your bathroom to look and feel new again. Updating your vanity, lighting, and mirrors gives your space an instant facelift without the cost of a full remodel.
Average cost in 2025: $5,000–$ 9,000
Best for: Outdated or builder-grade bathrooms that just need a style boost.
Benefits:
New vanity cabinets bring warmth and character
Upgraded lighting brightens the space and makes morning routines easier
Framed mirrors and new faucets tie the look together for a cohesive finish
You can go with a simple single-sink vanity or add extra storage and a larger countertop if space allows.
Average cost in 2025: $2,500–$4,000
Best for: Bathrooms with dated or damaged flooring.
Benefits:
Durable, waterproof vinyl or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) mimics the look of wood or stone
Warmer underfoot and easier to maintain than ceramic tile
Fast installation that often pairs perfectly with a new vanity or shower
Updating your flooring is also a great add-on if you’re already planning a shower or vanity replacement—doing both together ensures a seamless look.
If your bathroom has multiple issues (old plumbing, poor lighting, failing surfaces, or just an outdated layout), a complete remodel may be the smartest long-term investment.
Average cost in 2025: $30,000–$45,000
Best for: Homeowners who plan to stay in their home long-term or want a completely new bathroom space .
Benefits of a Full Bathroom Remodel:
Completely customized to your needs and design preferences
All surfaces replaced for a consistent, seamless updated look
Opportunity to address leaks, water damage, or ventilation problems once and for all
Not every bathroom project starts with design inspiration—sometimes, it starts with a drip. If you’re dealing with water damage or a persistent leak, it’s time to act fast. Small leaks behind walls or under fixtures can lead to costly repairs later, so a remodel in this case is as much about protection as it is about aesthetics.
But if everything’s working fine and you’re just craving a change, focus on upgrades that fit your family’s lifestyle—whether that’s a walk-in shower for accessibility, better storage for kids’ items, or a vanity that finally matches your taste.
At JSB Home Solutions, we know there’s no one-size-fits-all remodel. Some homeowners just need a wetspace refresh, while others are ready for a full bathroom transformation. The key is to find a team who can guide you through the process and help you do what makes sense for your home, your budget, and your needs!
Whether you’re fixing a leak, updating for resale, or finally creating that peaceful spa retreat you’ve been dreaming about, our design consultants will help you plan a project that fits both your style and your wallet.
Our team is here to help you Dream Big and Remodel Smart with a bathroom that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last. It starts with a free consultation!