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How To Remodel a Bathroom: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

By: Andrew Saladino | 13 min

Contemporary bathroom with double vanity and glass shower.

The bathroom is an integral part of any daily routine. It's where you get ready for the day in the morning and prepare for bedtime at night. Your bathroom should be a happy place where you can practice self-care, sing your heart out in the shower, or have a moment of alone time when nature calls.

If your current bathroom reminds you more of a dark grotto than a peaceful oasis, it may be time for a renovation. In this guide, we walk you through how to remodel a bathroom, give you an idea of what to budget for your dream space, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about bathroom renovations.

Step 1: Put a Plan in Place

Before you rip out your old tub, sink, and toilet and start working on your dream bathroom, it's important to plan out your vision, set a realistic budget, and schedule a time frame for the project.

Set Your Budget

Although your bathroom remodel can be done on a budget, prices vary dramatically depending on your taste in style, desired features, size of your bathroom, and living location. As a general rule of thumb, we suggest budgeting between 5% and 10% of your home's value for a complete bathroom remodel.

According to the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), the average bathroom remodel costs about $10,000, with prices ranging from $2,500 for a budget-friendly reno to $30,000 for more luxury projects.

Setting a realistic budget and leaving about 10% for a contingency budget will make this renovation project run smoothly and keep you excited about the final product. Here's a breakdown of typical bathroom remodel costs:

  • Professional installation: 20%
  • Vanity and hardware: 16%
  • Fixtures: 15%
  • Faucets and plumbing: 14%
  • Flooring: 9%
  • Countertops: 7%
  • Walls and ceilings: 5%
  • Doors and windows: 4%
  • Other: 5%

Once you have your money set aside, you can start browsing through your favorite bathroom designs for elements that'll fit both your style and budget.

Decide on Design Features

With realistic expectations in mind, it's time for the fun part - designing your dream bath! Whether your decide to DIY your bathroom remodel or hire a designer, here are a few general factors to consider when choosing the best features for your space:

  • Take accurate measurements before committing to any large bathroom elements, like a bathroom vanity.
  • Pick the largest items or the ones that cover the most surface area first, like flooring, walls, and your shower type.
  • Determine if you have the budget to change your layout. This will require rerouting plumbing, which means more labor and a longer timeline.
  • Choose a color scheme and stick with it.
  • Don't sacrifice functionality for style - your bathroom is one of the most used rooms in your house, so make sure it meets all your needs! Keep essentials like storage and location of utilities top of mind.
  • Opt for high-quality cabinets and fixtures that'll last at least a decade (if budget permits).

Request a Permit

If you want to make any changes to the plumbing, electrical, or structural components of your bathroom, you'll need a permit from your local Department of Buildings. This typically requires the help of a registered design professional, who will file the permit for you and ensure your project meets all requirements.

Building codes and regulations vary, so make sure to do your research before beginning your bathroom renovation. Failing to obtain the proper permits not only jeopardizes the overall safety of your design, but can complicate your home-selling process down the road.

Gather Your Tools (Or Your Contractor)

If you have experience with extensive home renovations and plan to do your bathroom remodel yourself, you'll need to start gathering your supplies early to stay within your timeline. Order your vanity, fixtures, and other essentials prior to demolition to account for long shipping time or product delays.

The tools you use will depend on the type of projects you plan to complete. Basic tools you'll need to start your DIY bathroom remodel include:

  • Gloves
  • Googles
  • Safety mask
  • Bucket
  • Tape measure
  • Hammer
  • Power drill
  • Paintbrush or roller
  • Masking tape
  • Roller tray
  • Tile cutter
  • Trowel
  • Level
  • Pry bar
  • Chisel
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdriver
  • Hacksaw
  • Utility knife
  • Extension cord
  • Stud finder
  • Putty knife
  • Spackle
  • Caulking gun
  • Silicone sealant

Or, leave the work to the professionals and hire a bathroom remodeling contractor. When choosing a contractor, make sure to review their previous work, get estimates in writing, verify their licenses and credentials, and determine the project schedule before signing any contracts.

Step 2: Start Demolition

Bathroom during demolition with sledgehammer leaned against open wall. Bathroom during demolition with sledgehammer leaned against open wall.

When it comes to bathroom demolition, slow and steady wins the race. Bathrooms are generally small spaces packed with plumbing and electrical fixtures - if you swing your sledgehammer too hard, you may hit something vital and end up doing more damage than you intended. To help ensure you're only scrapping what's necessary, follow these steps:

  1. Don your gloves, goggles, boots, and mask to avoid hurting yourself on sharp, jagged edges or inhaling mold, dirt, and dust.
  2. Turn off the water supply before you start to avoid any flooding.
  3. Remove what you plan to repurpose first, like your baseboards, light fixtures, or towel racks.
  4. Remove the toilet by draining it and using a rag to plug the waste pipe and prevent any unpleasant sewer gases from filling the room. This will also prevent any of your tools from falling inside.
  5. Disconnect your plumbing fixtures before removing your vanity.
  6. Remove your old vanity or bathroom cabinets. You can choose to donate or sell these if they're in decent condition.
  7. Remove the shower or tub. If your tub or shower-tub combination is attached to the wall, hammer away! If you have a bathtub that is still in good condition, remove it carefully so you can reuse, sell, or donate it.
  8. Disconnect your bathroom's electrical to safely remove any light fixtures.
  9. Remove accessories like mirrors, wall-mounted toilet paper holders, or towel racks.
  10. Tear out existing tiles, drywall, and flooring so you're left with a blank slate.
  11. Remove debris and check for any mold or water damage that may have built up behind your units or on your subfloors over the years. If you discover any issues, now is the time to use your contingency budget and fix it.

Pro Tip: If you have to remove insulation from your walls, use a reciprocating saw instead of a hammer. Make sure to wear protective gear like gloves, glasses, and a mask when doing this gut job.

Step 3: Lay Rough Plumbing and Electrical

Open walls in a gutted bathroom with a white sink. Open walls in a gutted bathroom with a white sink.

Now that your bathroom is gutted, it's time to work on any rough-ins. For most building and renovation projects, it's often safer and easier to get the plumbing done first before moving on to the electrical. It'll be much more painless to reroute a wire around a pipe than it will be to reroute a pipe around a wire.

Follow these steps to complete the first plumbing phase of your DIY bathroom remodel:

  1. Replace the toilet flange. This is the part of the toilet that secures it to the floor and connects your toilet to the drainpipe.
  2. Complete your plumbing modifications if you plan to change the layout of your bathroom. This is often extensive work that may require professional assistance.
  3. Install your new shower tub or pan or re-install your existing tub.
  4. Run a water line extension if you're planning to install an overhead showerhead or have a vision of a dual showerhead.

If you're planning on making changes to your light or fan placements or if your electrical wiring is old or outdated, you'll need to update your wiring to support your new design. During this phase, you should:

  1. Make sure the power is off before beginning electrical work.
  2. Measure and mark the new location of your light switches and outlets. Mark the height from the floor to the center of the boxes (usually 48 inches for switches and 12 inches for outlets).
  3. Move hookups for lights if you're planning to change the layout of your bathroom.
  4. Relocate the fan if necessary. The closer you move it to your new shower, the more moisture it will absorb.
  5. Check that your new wiring system is up to code to ensure your bathroom is safe and functional.

Pro Tip: If you're DIYing your new bathroom and have no experience with electrical work, hire a professional for this part. You'll want to make sure everything is hooked up properly so you can pass inspection and keep your family safe.

Step 4: Hang Your Drywall

Installed drywall in empty bathroom during construction. Installed drywall in empty bathroom during construction.

After the rough plumbing and electrical are set, you can close the walls again with fresh new drywall. Keep in mind that your bathroom is the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, so choose and prep your drywall material accordingly. We recommend you do the following:

  • Cover your wall studs with plastic sheeting or another moisture barrier before installing the drywall around your shower.
  • Use concrete or cement boards for your shower walls to create a moisture- and mold-resistant layer and a great underlayment for tile. If your bathroom isn't well ventilated, you may want to use cement boards for your entire bathroom.
  • Waterproof your drywall before you hang it with a waterproofing and crack prevention membrane like RedGard.
  • Use mortar to fill up any cracks between concrete boards and create a smooth surface. You can also use silicone caulk to seal the corners.

Tip: To prevent mold from building up on your new bathroom walls, wipe down damp surfaces with a mild detergent after every shower and make sure there is adequate ventilation.

Step 5: Paint and Tile

Shower during construction with spacers between tiles. Shower during construction with spacers between tiles.

Once the drywall is installed, you can start bringing your vision to life with paint. Keep in mind that bathrooms tend to retain a lot of moisture and walls can get wet, so opt for paint that will withstand these conditions. Here are a few painting tips to achieve a professional, long-lasting finish:

  • Use a moisture-resistant primer to prevent the paint from peeling. You can also choose paint that has antimicrobial additives, which can resist mold.
  • Satin or glossy paint will allow for an easy cleanup and a finish that doesn't change its appearance in a humid environment.
  • Choose a neutral shade like white, beige, or cream to make your small bathroom appear larger.

You'll also want to install any tile around the shower walls or bathtub enclosure now. Picking an accent tile for your shower walls will create a beautiful statement feature. If it's within budget, consider a quartz or stone slab for a shower design that radiates true spa vibes.

Pro Tip: Finishing your walls before installing the floors will reduce the risk of splattered paint or damage on your new floors and fixtures.

Step 6: Install Your Floors

Engineered hardwood floors during installation. Engineered hardwood floors during installation.

When the paint is dry and the tiling is done, you can install your bathroom floors. There are multiple factors that will determine what type of flooring is best for you. Let's look at a few popular options:

  • Porcelain or ceramic tile: This is one of the most popular options as it's affordable (starting at under $1/sq ft) and easy to maintain. It's also available in an array of sizes, colors, shapes, and textures. If you're DIYing your new bathroom, keep in mind that tiles can be difficult to install if you've never tried them before. They'll also be cold on your feet unless you installed heated floors or are planning to cover them with rugs.
  • Waterproof vinyl: There are two types of waterproof vinyl you can choose from - wood plastic composite (WPC) and stone plastic composite (SPC). Both options are 100% waterproof, very durable, and easy to clean. These planks are also DIY-friendly. WPC tends to be a bit more expensive (starting at $3.65/sqft) than SPC ($2.50/sqft) but quality-wise, both options are great for your bathroom.
  • Water-resistant laminate: Another affordable flooring option is water-resistant laminate (starting at $1.64/sqft). This material is great if you like a wooden look and are planning to install the floors yourself. Although it's water-resistant, it's not 100% waterproof and less durable than tiles or vinyl.
  • Engineered wood: One of the priciest but also most durable options is engineered wood. This type of flooring features a thin hardwood veneer over core layers of strengthened composite plywood, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of solid wood with less possibility of warping.

Tip: Besides the price point, consider how much traffic you'll have in your bathroom when choosing flooring. If you share the space with kids, pick a more durable material. If it's your personal spa, prioritize the visual appeal.

Step 7: Hang Your Shower Door

Shower with glass door and matching black hardware and fixtures. Shower with glass door and matching black hardware and fixtures.

Whether your new bathroom has a shower-tub combo or you decided to install a luxurious stand-alone shower, now is the time to complete this feature. There are a few options you can choose from to enclose your shower.

  • Glass doors: A glass shower door will make your bathroom appear larger and allows more light in the shower. This option also shows off the pretty tile you installed in your shower or tub enclosure. Rather than experiencing a cold breeze that can sometimes creep through a curtain, a solid glass door will retain the heat of your shower. The downside is that glass doors take a bit of maintenance to keep clean.
  • Shower curtain: Shower curtains are a more affordable option and require less maintenance. You can replace them regularly or opt for a fabric curtain liner that you can wash monthly. Shower curtains are a great way to add some color and a personal touch to your bathroom. They may also be the better option for a shower-tub combination that has to be senior- or kid-friendly, as you can easily move them aside and get full access to the bathtub.
  • Open wet room: In a luxurious spa-like bath, you can get away without a shower door or curtain altogether. If your shower enclosure is big enough, you opted for a rainfall-type showerhead, and don't plan to have kids using it, leaving it open can add to the aesthetic.

Pro Tip: If you opt for a shower curtain, install the rod at this point. You can choose and hang the curtain when you're decorating your bathroom later.

Step 8: Install Your Light Fixtures and Exhaust Fan

Hands with white gloves installing light sconce on wall. Hands with white gloves installing light sconce on wall.

Let there be light! Turn off your power and hook up any wall or ceiling lights that you chose for your bathroom. At this point, you should have a great idea of what the final product will look like.

While you're at it, attach and connect your new exhaust fan. If you relocated it properly during the rough-in phase, this should be a quick and easy task.

Pro Tip:Pick LED fixtures or light bulbs with white light and a high color rendering index (90 or higher) for the most accurate colors.

Step 9: Bring In Your Bathroom Vanity

Two men carrying vanity into remodeled bathroom. Two men carrying vanity into remodeled bathroom.

The next step is to install your bathroom cabinets and countertop. If you purchased ready-to-assemble (RTA) bathroom cabinets, assemble them before bringing them into the bathroom to avoid damaging your new floors. Pre-assembled cabinets should be good to go - just attach the doors and cabinet hardware once the vanity is in place.

Installing a bathroom vanity may look intimidating, but even a DIY novice should be able to do it. If it's your first time remodeling a bathroom, here are a few things to keep in mind when completing this step:

  • Make sure the water to your bathroom is turned off before installing your cabinets and sink.
  • Assemble the faucet and drain on the sink before attaching the vanity to the wall.
  • Use a level when installing your vanity - you may need to add shims to your vanity to make it level.
  • Use wall anchors for a secure installation
  • Attach quarter-round molding along the wall or floor edge with finishing nails if there are large gaps at the wall or floor.
  • Test for leaks once the vanity is in place and the water is turned back on.

Complete your upgraded vanity with a durable, water-resistant countertop that complements the other features in your bathroom. Granite, quartz, marble, and porcelain are all excellent countertop options.

Pro Tip: If you don't like the boxy look of a cabinet and want to create the illusion of space, consider a floating vanity that's mounted to the wall a few inches above the floor. This modern design also frees up floor space and allows unique tile flooring to shine through.

Step 10: Finish Plumbing and Install Your Fixtures

Pliers tightening a pipe under a sink in the bathroom. Pliers tightening a pipe under a sink in the bathroom.

Once your vanity and sink are in place, you can finish the plumbing and install your new fixtures. If you're overwhelmed with the wide variety of faucets, showerheads, and bathtub fixtures, here are a few designer tips to help you make your decision:

  • Consider the texture, look, price, and functionality of each fixture before purchasing and installing them in your new bathroom.
  • Try out different styles in a showroom or at the hardware store to help you find fixtures you'll be happy with in the long run.
  • Pick similar plumbing fixtures for your sink, bathtub, and shower for a cohesive design.

Pro Tip: Keep the general style of your bathroom in mind when picking fixtures. If you're going for a minimal or modern design, pick sleek nickel or matte black fixtures. In a vintage space, pick unique features to set the tone.

Step 11: Hook Up Your Toilet

Someone installing a white toilet in bathroom. Someone installing a white toilet in bathroom.

It wouldn't be a bathroom without a toilet now, would it? Installing your toilet will likely be a lot easier than you think. Review the installation instructions if you're doing it yourself. While a standard toilet is easier to install, a wall-mounted unit makes cleaning this space easier and gives your bathroom a luxurious finish.

Pro Tip: Consider a smart toilet if you have the room in your budget. Their hands-free components (like touch-free flushing and self-closing lids) can be true game changers!

Step 12: Tie It All Together With Accessories

Bathroom with gray vanity, large mirror, and matching fixtures and hardware. Bathroom with gray vanity, large mirror, and matching fixtures and hardware.

Now that your bathroom is complete, you can add finishing touches. This is an ideal time to install a backsplash behind your vanity, hang open shelving and towel bars, and add light switch plates.

Keeping the decoration in your bathroom minimal will make this space clutter-free and serene. Add a few bathroom plants and functional decor like mirrors, baskets for towels or laundry, and candles to create a peaceful oasis that'll help you forget about the stress of the renovation process.

Pro Tip: Match accessories and decor to the other features in your bathroom. Picking matching or complementary cabinet hardware and towel bars, for example, can really elevate this space.

How To Remodel Your Bathroom FAQs

What should you do first when remodeling a bathroom?

Come up with a budget and timeline first before remodeling your bathroom. This will help you get a realistic perspective of what projects you can complete, the quality of materials you'll be able to use, what projects you can do yourself, and which features should be prioritized.

If you plan on changing any electrical or plumbing, you'll also need to request a permit from your local Department of Buildings. Building codes and regulations vary, so make sure to do your research before beginning your bathroom renovation.

How much does it cost to remodel an average size bathroom?

According to the NKBA, the average primary bathroom remodel costs about $10,000, with prices ranging from $2,500 for a budget-friendly reno to $30,000 for more high-end projects.

What is the cheapest way to renovate a bathroom?

The cheapest way to renovate a bathroom is to repurpose or refinish as many features in your existing bathroom as possible. If your baseboards, bathroom cabinets, or plumbing fixtures are in good condition, a fresh coat of paint or a good cleaning can get them looking brand-new again.

Another way to save money is by doing most of the work yourself. A good 20% of the average bathroom remodel budget is allocated toward professional services and installation. While it may be best to leave plumbing and electrical work to a professional, most bathroom features can be installed without any extensive remodeling experience.

Can I remodel a bathroom by myself?

Renovating your own bathroom is a great way to save money if you have prior construction experience or are only planning a few updates for a more superficial makeover. Regardless, it's advised to hire professionals for plumbing and electrical work to ensure that these things are up to code and you don't end up wasting time and money on several inspections and redos. If you're planning a full renovation, the project will likely run smoother and faster if you hire a contractor.

We hope this guide takes some of the pressure off your shoulders and makes you feel more excited about your upcoming remodel.

Whether you want to make over a powder room, renovate the guest bathroom, or turn your en suite into a spa, with the right bathroom cabinets, you'll surely turn your vision into a reality.

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