Introduction
One of the most challenging projects you may undertake in your home is a bathroom remodel, and this task can be very exciting. Many homeowners are unaware of the stages their bathroom will go through from start to finish.
Before placing an order, even if you have the help of a designer and engineer, you will have to make many decisions alone.
As with any large remodeling project, certain steps cannot begin until the previous tasks are completed. Certain parts of the process must be approved by the building inspector or the project will be stopped.
The step-by-step list for remodeling a bathroom is more of a guideline than a specific timeline. This is because there are many steps for remodeling a bathroom process that overlap with each other.
The specific needs of your project will determine the steps of the bathroom remodeling process and their sequence. This guide is intended to outline a practical and versatile bathroom remodeling process that you have the flexibility to adapt to your needs.
Step 1: Know Your Needs and Plan Thoroughly
Creating a detailed plan for your bathroom before you start helps ensure that the results are in line with your vision. It can reduce stress and help you save on your budget. This step is critical and can also be subdivided into 3 smaller steps.
1. Ask yourself
First homeowners have to ask themselves, what do I want to achieve? What does my desired bathroom look like?
Who is this bathroom for? Is it a master bathroom or a children's bathroom?
How often will it be used and what are its functions?
Why is my current space preventing usage?
Do I have medical issues such as poor eyesight or arthritis to consider?
Do I just want something designed to be easy to clean?
How much storage space do I need?
What appliances would my dream bathroom include (decorative lighting, master light, towel warmer, steam shower, mirror TV, smart vanity mirror, smart medicine cabinet, etc.)?
2. Determine the level of bathroom remodeling
After answering the above questions, determine the level of bathroom remodeling.
Some people will divide bathroom remodeling into three or four levels, but in general, there are only two levels.
The first is surface remodeling.
Surface remodeling is the simplest level. A surface remodel does not change the overall layout or size of the bathroom. You just need to cover the new wall tiles or paint, change the flooring material, install a new smart mirror or washbasin, etc.
The second is changing the overall layout.
You pretty much gut the space, leaving only bare walls and flooring, and install all new plumbing fixtures, vanities, tubs, toilets, flooring and lighting. You may also make some updates and changes to the wiring. It's a complete overhaul.
3. Planning, design and budget
You can certainly hire a professional in design and construction, so without further ado, the following content and suggestions are available for you to hire a professional to solve your troubles when you feel you cannot do it yourself.
You can also do the later tasks yourself. For example, after the construction crew has done the plumbing and basic layout construction, you can do the cabinetry, vanity and some simple appliance installation by yourself.
Before you do a remodel for your bathroom, it's a good idea to find out what you can afford.
For example, for a vanity area remodel, this means considering all labor and material costs, including new vanities, storage cabinets, mirror cabinets or LED mirrors, accessories, whether you need decorative lighting, etc.
Surface mounting or recessed installation of mirrors is an important option to consider, and the installation costs for both options will make a huge difference.
You will need to carefully plan and specify a schedule to coordinate the sequence and timing of work for several different trades, such as plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and tile contractors.
Overall, the cost of a bathroom remodel typically ranges from $6,000 to $15,000, with an average of $10,700.
Consider whether you need a basic renovation, a mid-range to high-end remodel or a full luxury bathroom remodel, and always take into account a buffer of at least 10 to 20 percent.
There is also a way to cut costs by doing as much of the remodel as you can without moving existing plumbing and wiring.
You can also try asking your bathroom contractor if they can help you get discounts on materials such as fixtures, paint and lighting. Many of them have access to affordable wholesale goods and warehouse clearance.
This can help you save a lot of money during your bathroom remodel.
Also, please note that most towns will require you to apply for and obtain a building permit prior to beginning work. Often, the designer or general contractor will pull the permit, but if not, then you will be responsible for obtaining a building permit.
Simple improvements such as replacing gutters or installing flooring will not usually require a permit. Permits are required to perform electrical and plumbing work.
Step 2: Refine the Design
Once you have hired a designer as needed, you will next finalize the design plans.
First, determine the size of various elements, pay attention to the rational use of the layout; simulate the use scenario in the old bathroom and figure out the function of the space.
Here you can pay attention to details, for safety as well as ease of use; corners are always designed in a rounded shape and try not to bring sharp corners or protruding things.
After the floor plan and elevation are determined, the colors and finishes are determined based on the dimensions of the various elements.
For example, based on the floor dimensions, how many square feet of tiles to order and whether each tile should be on the larger or smaller side. How will the color of the countertop match the color of the floor and walls, etc.? These need to be considered by you and the designer together.
At this point, the designer will be able to give you a rendering.
Step 3: Finalize the Quotation
Once you have the construction drawings and renderings, you can negotiate the price with the contractor. It is recommended to compare the prices of several contractors. Some design and construction are contracted by the same company, so compare prices and quality before everything starts.
Next, it's time to research materials! A variety of different materials are available to make the same effect, but the advantages, disadvantages and prices of the materials need to be carefully compared by you.
Once selected and made, it is almost impossible to change. For example, smooth marble may look great, but it is not stain resistant and therefore painful to maintain.
Based on the above two pieces of information, you will be able to come up with an approximate price.
Step 4: Order Products in Advance
Make sure the materials arrive well in advance of the start of construction and can be stored temporarily in a garage or basement. Many products may take several weeks to deliver, and custom products may take longer. Nothing delays a project more than not having the necessary items on hand when planning an installation.
The first important materials include tile, countertops, and built-in fixtures such as faucets, shower heads, toilets, etc. Next are cabinets, mirrors, dressers, light fixtures and other furniture.
Mirrors are very fragile in shipping and are a risk no matter how well the packaging is done. So please read their return and exchange policy and times before you buy.
When you receive the goods, please check the condition of the goods in time, even if it is not yet time to install them, so as not to miss the time to return or exchange them.
Step 5: Demolish and Arrange for Plumbing and Electrical
Large projects usually involve removing all fixtures and cabinets, and sometimes removing the form wall to expose the interior of the wall.
The interior of a bathroom wall contains water supply pipes, drain pipes, electrical wiring and, in some cases, heating and cooling ducts.
Attacking a wall with a sledgehammer or chainsaw without knowing what's inside can result in extensive damage.
Once the room is hollowed out, the debris will have to be carried away. The contractor will arrange this for you, and there are companies you can hire to provide dumpster and removal services.
It is very important that the plumbing and electrical renovation is related to the effectiveness of our life in the future.
The first thing to consider is the exact location, size and installation of all plumbing-related equipment.
When we determine the plan, not only consider the current use needs, but also need to take into account the change that may occur in the future.
For example, you have a traditional mirror for your current bathroom vanity, and you want a multi-functional LED mirror in the future; then you need to re-cloth the hidden wires to power the mirror.
For example, if you want to install an automatic towel drying rack next to the toilet, then you need to reserve the wiring port near the toilet.
Whenever possible, a hidden installation always looks better than a unit with exposed plugs.
Step 6: Waterproofing Treatment and Surface Paving
Due to the special nature of the bathroom, waterproofing treatment is particularly important.
Generally, the waterproof layer should be about 250mm above the ground, and then do a good job on top of the protective layer. In addition, the waterproofing project is done after 24 hours of closed water test, which can effectively test the waterproofing performance.
Tiling can make the space more beautiful and exquisite. Especially in the bathroom, it can be a good waterproof protection for the walls and floors. And choose tiles with low water absorption rate.
Bathroom floors, walls, showers and vanity tops are constantly exposed to hot soapy water and strong steam. This can therefore create slippery and potentially dangerous conditions for people.
So, there is another important characteristic to consider when choosing bathroom floor tiles - slip resistance.
Especially in the shower area, do not consider any floor tile that does not have a slip-resistant surface.
The most popular and suitable vanity top surfaces include granite, marble, quartz composite and solid surface materials that hold up well in even the wettest, most humid tubs.
Here's the kicker:
Be sure to ask your contractor to trim any sharp corners and edges, especially if you have young children.
Step 7: Installation of Fixtures
The largest sub-project of a larger bathroom remodeling project is the installation of fixtures in the shower area. The contractor's subcontractor does this work, not the plumber.
If a prefabricated shower or tub is being installed, the installation will usually be completed within a few days. When tile work is involved, the project can be extended by a few days or a week to allow the tiles to cure in multiple stages.
Toilets are installed on the floor. As long as all connections are in place, this project can be completed in only about an hour.
Building codes require that all bathrooms have adequate ventilation, whether it is an operable window or an exhaust fan.
Because of the high moisture content in bathrooms and the potential for odors, most homeowners install bathroom exhaust fans, even if they do have a working window.
Lighting fixtures are also a big section. Usually a small bathroom with just one main lighting fixture and an LED mirror is sufficient. Slightly larger bathrooms with some key ambient and feature lights will take the bathroom up a notch.
The lighting function of the LED mirror cannot be ignored; it can not only adjust the brightness, but also the color temperature to provide a good ambience.
Step 8: Installing small accessories
At this stage it is almost at the end, including the installation of new doors as well as small accessories and trims.
The plumber will make the final connections. The electrician will wire the light fixtures, ventilation fans and any other appliances.
Accessories such as towel bars and grab bars, brackets, etc. are also installed in the final stages.
There will usually be a final building inspection.
Step 9: Soft Decorations
Finally, you can install soft decorations around the room, such as curtains, decorative storage containers; and personalize the room with plants and pictures.
Once again, the steps for remodeling a bathroom are summarized for you.
Step 1: Know Your Needs and Plan Thoroughly
Step 2: Refine the Design
Step 3: Finalize the Quotation
Step 4: Order Products in Advance
Step 5: Demolish and Arrange for Plumbing and Electrical
Step 6: Waterproofing Treatment and Surface Paving
Step 7: Installation of Fixtures
Step 8: Installing small accessories
Step 9: Soft Decorations
Conclusion
Although this guide is a comprehensive overview of the entire remodeling process, it is not meant to be exhaustive.
If you have any questions about the steps for remodeling a bathroom outlined in this guide or would like more information on specific aspects of bathroom remodeling, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We are always happy to help our clients achieve their renovation goals.