The Bathroom Remodel Process | Remodel Tips For Homeowners

contactfoleyhomes
Aug 20
3 min read

Thinking about giving your bathroom a refresh? Whether you’re dreaming of a spa-like retreat or just need a functional update, knowing the general process will help you plan smarter and stress less. A bathroom remodel can feel overwhelming at first, but when broken down into steps, it’s totally manageable. Here’s what you can expect.

Step 1: Planning and Design

Before you swing a hammer, spend time planning.

Set your budget. Bathrooms vary in cost depending on finishes, plumbing changes, and layout updates.
Define your goals. Is this remodel about style, resale value, or fixing functionality issues (like poor storage or a leaky shower)?
Gather inspiration. Save photos, colors, tile ideas, and layouts that match your vision.
Measure everything. Bathrooms are tight spaces, so accurate measurements are crucial for cabinets, vanities, and fixtures.

👉 Tip: If your remodel involves moving plumbing or walls, this is a good stage to consult a contractor or designer for feasibility.

Step 2: Permits and Hiring Pros

If your remodel involves electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, you’ll likely need permits.

DIY-friendly projects (like cosmetic updates: paint, hardware, light fixtures) often don’t require permits.
Licensed professionals should handle plumbing and electrical work for safety and code compliance.
Hiring help: Decide if you’ll use a general contractor (who manages the whole project) or coordinate subcontractors (plumber, electrician, tile installer) yourself.

👉 Tip: Always check licenses, insurance, and references before hiring anyone.

Step 3: Demolition

Time to tear out the old!

Remove vanities, toilets, flooring, and fixtures.
Be careful with plumbing connections—turn off the water supply first.
Dispose of debris properly (renting a dumpster may be worthwhile).

👉 Tip: Wear safety gear—gloves, goggles, and a mask—since demo can get dusty and sharp.

Step 4: Rough-In Work (Plumbing & Electrical)

Once the bathroom is cleared:

Plumbers install or move pipes, drains, and shower valves.
Electricians wire outlets, lighting, fans, and heated floors if you’re adding them.
Inspections often happen at this stage before walls get closed up.

👉 Tip: Plan outlets thoughtfully. For example, place one inside a vanity cabinet for charging electric toothbrushes or razors.

Step 5: Walls, Floors, and Tile

Now the space starts taking shape.

Drywall & backer board go up on walls and shower areas.
Waterproofing is critical—especially in showers—to prevent future leaks.
Tile installation for floors, showers, or backsplashes happens next.

👉 Tip: Choose slip-resistant flooring for safety—especially in bathrooms with kids or older adults.

Step 6: Fixtures and Cabinetry

Install vanities, countertops, sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets.
Mount mirrors, medicine cabinets, and shelving.
Hook up plumbing connections for sinks, tubs, and showers.

👉 Tip: If space is tight, consider a floating vanity to make the bathroom feel bigger.

Step 7: Lighting, Paint, and Finishing Touches

Add ceiling lights, sconces, or accent lighting.
Paint walls with moisture-resistant paint.
Install hardware (towel bars, robe hooks, toilet paper holders).
Finish with décor: rugs, art, plants, and personal touches.

Step 8: Final Walkthrough and Clean-Up

Test all plumbing fixtures and outlets.
Check grout, caulking, and paint for touch-ups.
Do a deep clean before moving everything back in.

👉 Tip: Keep a small punch list of final fixes so nothing gets missed.

Timeline & Expectations

Small cosmetic updates: 1–2 weeks
Full remodels: 4–8 weeks depending on scope, permits, and contractor availability

Final Thoughts

The bathroom remodel process might look like a lot, but breaking it into steps makes it much less intimidating. The key is planning ahead, hiring the right help where needed, and knowing what to expect at each stage. Done right, you’ll not only have a beautiful new bathroom—you’ll also boost your home’s comfort and value.