So you’re thinking about remodeling your bathroom? I feel you. As a veteran homeowner and serial renovator myself, I’ve learned firsthand how transforming an outdated or dysfunctional bathroom can completely change how you experience your home.
After all, this is a space you likely visit multiple times a day for critical moments like waking up, unwinding from work, and getting ready to seize the day. Who wouldn’t want it to feel like a spa-like oasis?
Over my 15 years of home improvements, I’ve remodeled three bathrooms from top to bottom. And let me tell you, despite the splinters and dust, it was worth every penny and sore muscle!
If you’re on the fence about taking the leap, let me walk you through the process from start to finish, explore the latest trends, and equip you with my best tips so you can make the update of your dreams.
First, Calculate Your Budget
I know, I know. You probably want to drool over Pinterest boards filled with glass tiles and soaker tubs first. But slow your roll! Determining your budget is crucial from the very start, as it will dictate the scope and styling of your remodel.
The average bathroom remodel costs $10,836 but can range anywhere from $5,500 on the very low end for a basic facelift to $35,000+ for a total custom overhaul.
Key factors that influence your budget include the size of your bathroom, choice of materials, who you hire, whether you’re doing a full gut or keeping existing structural elements, and what luxuries you choose to incorporate.
Pro Tip: Avoid going into debt for a remodel by saving up first or determining exactly how much you can spend upfront if using a refinance loan. It stings to cut corners mid-project!
Choose Your Own Style
Now for the fun part! Envision precisely how you want your new bathroom to look, feel, and function.
Is your style traditional, modern, farmhouse chic? Do you envision soaking in a freestanding tub surrounded by gorgeous tile? Or do you prefer a low-maintenance open layout with walk-in shower? Writing down notes of inspiration images, colors, textures, and key adjectives will help guide each decision.
While white and neutral palettes are still popular, don’t be afraid to get creative! From wood accents to integrated technology and eco-friendly building materials, today’s design options are nearly endless.
Pro Tip: If multiple family members will use your bathroom, do a dream board session together. Compromise on styles and make sure everyone’s needs are met.
Hire Your Remodel Team
You wouldn’t ask an accountant to fix your pipes in a bathroom remodel (I hope!). Leave bath design, demolition, construction, electrical, and finishing work to the licensed professionals.
The right contractors will handle all permits, inspections, and regulations while expertly bringing your vision to life. Look for outstanding reviews, visit display homes to view quality of work, and get referrals from neighbors or sites like Angie’s List.
Pro Tip: Make an itemized contract with each company detailing exact work, materials, timeline, number of workers onsite, payment method and schedule, and other expectations. This keeps everyone accountable!
Plan Your Layout
Your contractor will work with you to draft a new floorplan tailored to your design goals, family needs, and budget parameters. Think about what you love about your current layout and what you’d change.
Small Bath Upgrade? Keep existing cabinetry or shower in the same spot to save money, then splurge on fresh tile, countertops, paint, lighting and accessories.
For larger renovations, explore relocating plumbing and fixtures to create a seamless flow or designated spaces for soaking tub, open shower, toilet area, double sinks, makeup station, and more.
You can never have too much storage! Add an accent wall of recessed or glass-front cabinets.
Pro Tip: Include electrical and lighting plans such as sconces on dimmers, heated floors, night lights, and outlets for shavers and smart assistants.
Purchase Your Materials
Choose top quality, durable, low maintenance materials that align with your budget from tile, granite, quartz and solid surface counters to toilets, faucets, shower systems, vanities, medicine cabinets, flooring and more. Schedule deliveries in advance.
Pro Tip: Order 10-20% extra floor and wall tile or other materials you love to have on hand for future repairs or changes.
Demo Day!
This is everyone’s favorite part of a renovation…not! But it’s an essential step to open up the full space and take it back to the studs or exposed plumbing. Professionals will turn off water lines, remove old fixtures, flooring, wall surfaces and anything too damaged to salvage.
Pro Tip: Ask if you can keep anything removed like a vintage tile backsplash, funky light fixture or door hardware to repurpose later. Upcycle!
Construction Zone
Now the not-so-glamorous work begins! Your contractor gets down to business framing any new walls, running electrical and plumbing, installing ductwork, adding windows/skylights if applicable, waterproofing surfaces, building out custom storage and cabinetry, laying flooring substrates…whew! It’s a behind-the-scenes ballet.
During this loud, dusty phase, try to give workers ample work space and ventilation. Check in periodically but let them focus. The faster this moves, the sooner you get your beautiful new bath!
**Tile & Decor Decadence **
The last and most artistic stage begins as your tiles are meticulously cut, laid by hand, and grouted in intricate designs. New countertops are sealed and installed, cabinetry hooked up, sinks/faucets mounted, glass shower doors attached, and lighting fixtures wired.
As finishing touches are completed, you’ll finally glimpse your new sanctuary coming alive!
Pro Tip: LOVE your new tile? Hire specialists for cleaning and sealing grout annually to maintain its integrity and appearance.
Final Touches & Inspections
The moment you’ve been waiting for finally arrives when contractors put the finishing touches on installation, haul away debris, do a thorough clean, and turn your dream bathroom over to you for good!
Before celebrating, complete final walkthroughs to check all facets, test shower pressure, electrical, plumbing etc. Your contractor will handle requesting final inspections from the city to obtain a certificate of occupancy stating everything is safe and to code.
Then…congrats! Time to pop some bubbly and officially enjoy your new space!
Caring for Your Investment
To protect your investment and keep your bathroom looking fabulous for decades, be diligent about cleaning routines year-round. Follow manufacturer guidelines for care of surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives on stone, tile, tubs. Check for leaks under sinks. Improve ventilation to prevent mold/mildew.
By committing to monthly and annual maintenance tasks, you’ll add longevity to finishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for years to come!
