Your dream bathroom remodel is already simmering in your mind, and all you need to do is take the plunge. No matter how big or small your bathroom remodeling project is, it is essential to have a plan in place, so you don’t make mistakes that will cost you both time and money. But how much time does it take to turn your old-fashion rusty space into your sanctuary? Well, here are a few ways to understand your bathroom remodeling length and build your very own spa-like bathroom.
Finalize the Process
The crucial step in determining your exact bathroom remodeling length is to finalize each detail as soon as possible. Once you conclude the design and remodeling choices, you can delegate and supervise each task on hand.
There are two ways to go while planning a bathroom remodel: hire a general contractor for the whole project or hire individual professionals for tedious tasks and DIY the rest.
The general contractor will bring in the team for most of the groundwork, and it is the costlier option. On the flip side, if you’re a professional DIY-er, you can easily do most of the work yourself and hire a subcontractor for technical purposes like plumbing or electricals.
Once you determine the professional vs. DIY route, here are the rest of the phases that will give you a pretty good idea of what your bathroom remodeling length will look-like. Of course, with a few alterations, you can bring your bathroom remodel to life with the below timeline.
Things you can DIY
- Select the style for your bathroom.
- Install a bathroom vanity.
- Install a sink into your vanity (only advisable if you have prior experience).
- Paint the walls, ceilings, and trims.
- Refinish the cabinets.
- Hang mirrors and accessories.
Hire a Professional
- Replace or move pipes.
- Change the structure itself.
- Sloping and tiling a new shower or walls.
- Add a new bathtub.
- Install a new toilet.
- Install a new countertop.
Evaluate Your Budget (At Your Pace)
The average bathroom remodel costs approximately $5000 and onwards. However, if you wish to save some cash, tips include:
- You can sell your old fixtures and brassware.
- DIY most of the tasks. You can estimate that fitting your space yourself can save up to 60% of the overall cost.
- Keep the existing plumbing and ventilation to save time and money.
- Limiting the number of tiles or opt for paint.
- Redecorate instead of remodeling to give your bathroom a refreshed look.
All in all, these tasks are essential to decoding your final bathroom remodeling length and budget. Remember, this step is in your hands. It can take weeks, months, or even years, depending heavily on your remodeling scope. Once you have these in place, you can move on to the designing process.
Bathroom Remodel Design (1-4 weeks)
This step, too, depends heavily on your lifestyle and preferences. Before you begin your bathroom remodel, be sure to know what you want. Finalize each detail, from layout to the color scheme, fixtures to tiles, and even accessories. This way, you’ll have a clear idea in your mind, and you can truly make it come to life.
Research is a big part of this process. Online and offline research will help you understand each aspect of your remodel in-depth. Look for various deals and tips on your way to help you understand the process and bathroom remodeling length better.
Sourcing Materials (3-6 weeks)
Source and order your materials as early as possible. Materials and products take time to select, coordinate, ship, and deliver.
Although you love each product or material you chose, it still allows time for damage, returns, delayed shipping, change of heart, and more.
Different Aspects of the Bathroom Remodeling Process
Photo by House Method on Unsplash
Demolition (1-2 days)
Structural changes within the bathroom layout and existing plumbing will take more time. You have to consider this when designing your space.
Also, this is your opportunity to move your sanitaryware and plumbing. It will help improve the overall quality and functionality of your bathroom remodel. However, keep an extra day for any unexpected nuisances and nasties hiding behind those walls.
Roughing up Your Plumbing and Electrical (1-2weeks)
Replace or refinish your existing fixtures and electricals when you’re remodeling your bathroom. Do these tasks with care and take professional advice before doing anything substantial.
Quality of work is essential for long-term access. Major remodeling and plumbing mistake can:
- Cause flooding, water damage, and damage property.
- Lead to expensive and extensive bathroom rework.
- Negatively impact the resale value of your home.
In other words, there is a high margin for error that may inflate your budget, eating into your ROI.
Fixtures (2-3 days)
The sink, shower, and toilet will set the tone for your bathroom. Are you going for a functional feel or a more spa-like atmosphere?
A pedestal sink can give your bathroom a luxurious, elegant vibe, whereas a vessel sink looks more aesthetic. For a more durable option, under-mount sinks are the classic choice. Once you finalize the fixtures, all there’s left is installation and hardware changes.
Painting (1-3 days)
Painting is much easier when you don’t have to cut around cabinets. Paint your ceiling, walls, and trims before you install your cabinets. Allow time for drying and touch-ups too.
Tiling (1-3 days)
The bathroom is the one place in your home where you can play with different surfacing options like glass, mosaic, geometric, steels, etc. It all depends on the feel you’re going for in your new space. Although, make sure your choice of bathroom tile is right to avoid any accidents.
The timing for tiling a bathroom will depend on whether you’re adding tiles to all the walls or just the shower panel. Also, which type and style of tiles you choose. You must select waterproof, mold, and mildew-free tiles to last you a lifetime.
Flooring (2-3 days)
The installation of the flooring majorly depends on the type of flooring you choose. Whether you install it yourself or have a professional install it, don’t forget to select waterproof and slip-resistant flooring. Also, consider the size of your space.
Cabinets and Shelves (1-2 days)
The installation of your bathroom cabinets depends on the type of cabinets you choose, whether you DIY it or hire a professional, also if you buy new ones or opt to refinish the old ones. Additionally, the more cabinets you have, the longer it will take to install them. If you are short on space, floating shelves or shaving cabinets are the way to go.
Countertop/ Vanity (1-2 days)
Pre-schedule with your countertop manufacturer to avoid losing precious time. They may only be available one or two days out of the week to come, measure, and then install your vanity or countertop. The style and size of your vanity also depend on how big your family is. How much storage will you need?
Recess closets or cabinet-style vanity will have many shelves and pull-out drawers to fit your needs. Consider adding extra space for future storage requirements, especially if you have a growing family.
Utilities and Lights (1 day)
Make sure your utility connections are ready to install your appliances and ventilation system. Place your sockets and switches wisely for optimum and easy access.
Similarly, ceiling, under-cabinet lighting, wall sconces, etc., are easy to install and won’t take up much time. However, consult a professional if you’re planning to DIY.
Finishing Touches (2-4 days)
There are a ton of details that will need your attention before you finalize your bathroom remodel. Allow up to 1 week for the finishing touches. If you have a neutral color palette throughout, you can introduce a splash of color through your accessories. You can add bathroom mirrors, plants, decor items, makeup and grooming products, storage organizers, and much more.
Metal towel bars, heated towel racks, bath mats, bath rug, and toothbrush holders will help personalize the bathroom even further. Similarly, mirrors will reflect light and make your room feel bigger.Top trending mirrors right now are round, square, vintage, oval, and pull-out mirrors. Also, scented candles are a great way to enlighten your space.
Common Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common bathroom remodeling mistakes that you should avoid to keep the remodel process on track.
- Tighten the pipes, fittings, and bolts aggressively.
- Fail to slope the shower floor correctly.
- Set up the sink drain vent incorrectly.
- Not considering the ventilation system. Blocking existing windows/vents.
- Mismatch vanity, countertops, tiles styles, and colors.
- Infrequent updates for electrical outlets every 5-6 years.
