bathroom remodel - contractor question - builders grade

[Elizabeth L.]

Hi, I'm going through my first renovation and had a quick question as I'm less experienced in renovations. My contractor is doing a builders grade rehab on my bathroom so the deal was to replace the existing bathroom. The original shower had a sliding door on it, but this new stall shower has no door, they're saying to use a curtain because that's builders grade and a new shower door would be custom so it's expensive. Does that sounds accurate? I just find a curtain for a shower stall very tacky, and I'm trying to get maximum rent for the new apartment. I see plenty of shower door options at home depot, what do other landlords use for rentals and what is the least expensive route to go? 

Thanks! 

[Scott Mac]

@Elizabeth L.

Hi Elizabeth,

If you didn't spec the shower door upfront you're probably going to have to pay for it plus the install.

Less the shower rod.

Typically the way I've seen builder grade used is it's a quality issue for items vs. a particular style, or set of features. (Builder grade, hospitality grade, etc...)

To help avoid disappointments like this, it's best to know what you want and spec what you want upfront, such as Moen Faucet p/n xxxx, American Standard water closet p/n xxxxx set on a bed of mortar with a new wax seal and a new water supply valve kit and escutcheon, etc... (this gives the contractor a way to make an accurate bid for himself and makes sure you get what you want).

It seems like the shower door MAY HAVE fallen through the cracks on this bid (due to not being spec-ed upfront--too general of a request, vs being more specific).

Will you have to pay for it is the question you will need to iron out with your contractor. 

Good Luck!