How to Remodel a Bathroom - Level by Level and Step by Step

Uneven floors, broken tiles, even mold and mildew are all trigger words for homeowners, but they’re what’s in store for old crusty bathrooms. Renovations and remodels can help address these practical issues before we even mention the emotional and economic benefits of a fresh new powder room. But… you have to know how to remodel a bathroom first. Gulp.

Think about it. This is where you start and end your day, and if it’s not in keeping with your style — or if it’s in an unsafe state — it’s going to have a major impact on your day-to-day. A new space can not only boost your mood but also encourage you to be more productive with your time.

The good news is that this is a completely reasonable project. And depending on your level of expertise with bathroom remodeling, you can opt to either complete the process DIY style or enlist the services of professionals. If you decide to complete the bathroom remodel on your own, you can expect to pay anywhere between $1,500 - $10,000 in total versus a higher range of $5,500 - $15,000 if the process is done professionally.

How to Remodel a Bathroom - FAQ

In what order should you renovate a bathroom?

The process starts off with deciding on how you want to design and rearrange your bathroom. From there, you’ll demolish the old one, rework the plumbing and electrical, fix up the walls, paint, tile, and then install your new fixtures. Sounds easy enough, right?

Can I renovate my bathroom myself?

Yes, you can renovate your bathroom on your own or with help from friends and family. In fact, it’ll make the costs much cheaper overall.

How to remodel a bathroom step by step?

Continue reading to learn about each step of the process on how to remodel a bathroom!

Can I renovate my bathroom for $5,000?

Yes, you can renovate your bathroom for $5,000 if you do it yourself. The low range for a professional remodel starts around $5,500.

Need help with remodeling ideas? PODS has you covered!

Types of Bathroom Remodels

We’re going to break bathroom remodels into four levels to help explain the process, separated by how much work they require. Here’s how we’ve broken up how to plan a bathroom remodel: Surface-level, replacement, layout changes, and full-scale. From cosmetic upgrades to full-scale remodels, take a look at the various renovations you can consider for your bathroom.

Surface-Level Remodel

Minor cosmetic changes, such as the replacement of paint or hardware, are often performed during surface-level remodeling projects. Unlike a replacement project, this type of remodeling doesn't involve major structural changes and focuses more on repairing existing fixtures.

Compared to other types of remodeling, surface-level projects are typically cheaper because they don't require a lot of resources, time, or labor.

No matter the size of your bathroom, the remodeling process can sometimes feel overwhelming. Check out our guide on how to deal with a small bathroom remodel here for a brief overview.

Replacement Remodel

A replacement remodeling project involves exchanging the existing components of the room while preserving its original layout. This can involve replacing various bathroom fixtures such as toilets and countertops.

Typically, replacement projects are more expensive than simply making cosmetic fixes since you’re purchasing new fixtures and replacing different components. The task can be completed in a couple of weeks by a small team of experts or on your own schedule if you plan to DIY the remodel.

Layout Changes Remodel

This type of bathroom remodeling involves altering the existing layout of the room. Typically, you’ll be relocating various fixtures, rewiring the electrical system, and rerouting plumbing.

This phase of bathroom remodeling will not alter the overall size of the room or its walls. It's less intensive than a full-scale remodel, but it can still dramatically improve your bathroom’s appearance and safety.

Full-Scale Remodel

A full-scale renovation is exactly what it sounds like — you’ll be completely rebuilding the space from scratch. It comes with a higher price tag, but it allows you to create a completely new layout and design to fit your needs. Aside from the removal of walls and flooring, a full renovation also involves the construction of new plumbing and electrical systems.

It may also include the addition of new windows, moving walls, and expanding the bathroom's square footage. Because of this, it's typically the most expensive type of project and will require a professional contractor to handle all the work.

9 Steps on How to Remodel a Bathroom

Once you’ve decided on what type of remodeling is best for your bathroom, you can begin the process of planning and executing the project. There are nine major steps you’ll need to follow:

1. Plan and Prep

Before you plan anything, you need to have a budget and timeline set. With these two factors in mind, it becomes a lot easier to maintain realistic expectations while planning the rest of your renovation. If you’re going DIY, remember to set aside more time for completion. If you’re hiring professionals, be sure to identify who you’re working with and get quotes.

Also, use this time to take measurements, set aside designated areas for supplies and trash, and get your building permits. The nice thing about hiring professionals? They’ll work with you to get all this taken care of.

2. Decide on Bathroom Design Elements

Before you start working on a bathroom remodeling project, it’s important that you consider the flow and layout of the room. Having the right design and materials will allow you to make your new space fit your personal style as best as possible.

When it comes to choosing the colors and materials for your bathroom remodeling project, try to have a balance between the different elements. For example, if you're using light-colored stone for countertops, you can opt for a darker wood. If you’re using white subway tile, you can choose a darker paint color.

The design of your bathroom can vary and you might want to consider adding wall-mounted components like a hung toilet or a floating vanity if you’re working with a small space. These types of fixtures can give your space an open and welcoming feel while keeping things from getting cramped.

Another important aspect of a bathroom's design is its storage. Be generous here though. Don’t underestimate the amount of toilet paper and towels you’ll need to house alongside your toiletries and other essentials.

Short on space? Getting a quote with PODS can save both stress and space throughout the renovation process.

3. Time to Demo

Although demolition is typically a fun and exciting part of bathroom remodeling, it should not be carried out without proper planning. Before you start the project, make sure that you disconnect the water and electricity supply to the room.

When taking down the wall tile, make sure that you do not damage the walls' wiring or piping. Also, carefully remove the sink and toilet without breaking them apart. You should also check for signs of mold and water damage, and remove all accessories from the bathroom such as towel racks, lights, and baseboards. If you’re not familiar with all of the parts that make up your bathroom, it might be best to get a professional contractor to complete this step.

Once the demolition is complete, the framing process will begin. This includes the construction of walls and other means of structural support to work with new fixtures like a bathtub, shower stall, or sink.

4. Plumbing & Electrical Changes

Once the framing has been completed, electrical and plumbing systems will be installed. This is very important during the renovation process as these components will determine how water flows through the room's pipes and electricity. Having the proper professionals make these changes ensures that the house's electrical and plumbing systems are up-to-date and safe!

After you have uncovered all of the square footage of the bathroom, make sure everything is set up for your new fixtures. For instance, you can replace the toilet flange, install a water line extension if you’re moving the sink or tub, or replace the shower controls for your showerhead. If you’re putting in a new tub, now is the time to install it.

5. Drywall & Waterproofing

Now that your walls have been restructured and everything behind them is safe to use, you’ll need to replace the walls and bring the waterproofing up to code.

You won’t be using regular drywall in the bathroom though. You’ll need to turn to sheetrock materials like cement board. It’s resistant to mold and moisture, and it’ll make bringing your bathroom up to code a lot easier throughout the building process. You might need to place a vapor barrier to further waterproof your walls, but be sure to check with your local municipality. The proper method will depend on where you live.

To avoid any hassle altogether, consider hiring a professional well-versed in local codes. They’ll know exactly what to do and ensure you don’t face any troubles later down the line.

6. Painting

Now it’s time to apply a new coat of paint. Before you start painting, make sure that you choose a color that complements the rest of your bathroom's fixtures. Semi-gloss or satin paint can be used for interior applications as they are durable and will not get damaged due to the humidity in the bathroom.

You should finish this step before installing the various components of your bathroom like the toilet, sink, vanity, and tile. Doing so can minimize the risk of paint getting splattered. If you’re used to painting around the house, this step might be easy enough to DIY, but a professional contractor can also take control of any painting if you’d rather hand it off.

7. Time to Tile

Now it’s finally time to lay your tile. This can by far be the most time-consuming part of your DIY renovation, and it’s especially important to allow ample time for everything. We recommend starting with the bathtub or shower walls first (along with any other walls you’re tiling) and then working down to the floor tiles. Also, pay attention to the grout color and pick something that’s going to complement your overall design and remain easy to clean.

To DIY or take a breather? If you’re on the fence about laying your own tile, hiring a professional might be the best route to take. This step in the design process requires the most specialized tools, calculations, labor, and patience, and it honestly isn’t for faint-hearted. However, if you have to tile other areas of your home, then you might find those specialized tools to be a worthy investment.

8. Install Fixtures

After you’ve installed the tile, it’s time to start thinking about fixtures. Whether it’s designing your new walk-in shower or finding a new vanity, this is where things get fun.

Shower or Bathtub

If you decided to stick with a tub, you’re in luck. All you’ll need to do here is install the shower curtain rod, and you’ll be set to go.

If you have a walk-in shower though, there are a few more steps to complete. Make sure that the door fits well with the overall design of your bathroom and change things now if needed! If you’re looking for a sturdy, reliable door, glass shower doors are your best bet, and rain glass doors are another popular style that offers lots of light and privacy.

If you’re figuring out how to remodel a bathroom with a window in the shower, you can always move your shower to a different wall without a window if you prefer, as long as the plumbing will allow for it!

Toilet

From the bathtub, you can move to the toilet. Remember that it’s important to find one that fits your budget and needs. There are a variety of styles and designs available today, so do some research before you make a purchase. Porcelain toilets tend to be very durable and affordable, while other types like ceramic and china are even cheaper and resemble porcelain very well. When you’re deciding on how to remodel a bathroom on a budget, remember that you sometimes get what you pay for (meaning your toilet isn’t the best place to cheap out).

Before you replace your toilet, make sure that you have a water supply line that’s in compliance with local code. Also, make sure that the water supply lines are connected to the drain and ventilation system.

It’s essential to make sure that the cement slab where the toilet was previously mounted is secure. If the bolts and flange are in good condition, you can reuse them. However, if the flange shows signs like leaks, odors, movement, or visible cracks, you’ll need to replace it.

Vanity Countertops and Sink

The finishing touches on your bathroom really seal the deal. This is where you’ll get to install your new sink, vanity, and countertops.

Be sure to use a stud finder to locate and mark them off. This is going to be the most secure place to hang the vanity from. Level things off, drill the holes for your drain and supply pipes, and then install the sink and faucet. From there, you’ll be able to hook up the plumbing and use all your new fixtures!

9. Install Final Touches & Other Accessories

Before you finish the bathroom remodeling project, make sure that you have the necessary equipment and other accessories installed like mirrors, lights, and towel bars. Make sure that the products are designed to fit your needs and style.

A wide variety of mirrors can be found in different sizes, shapes, and finishes, and they should complement your bathroom's design style. Large mirrors are always best; however, it shouldn’t be so big that it’s obnoxious! Soap dishes and toilet paper holders are examples of other necessary accessories that should also be included in your bathroom.

Lighting is another important factor to consider. You want your vanity lighting to be bright enough for you to get ready in the morning, but not so bright that you’re blinded during middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks. Consider placing your vanity light on a dimmer or opting for more than one light switch to adjust for different tasks.

Use PODS For Your Remodeling Storage Needs

How long does it take to remodel a bathroom? The time it takes to remodel a bathroom can depend on the size of the bathroom, the type of remodeling, and whether or not you are enlisting any professional help. A PODS container can help you save some extra space for your bathroom remodeling journey as you can store tools, equipment, and various other materials away while you’re in the process so they don’t lay around in a clutter. If you purchased anything new, such as a new vanity, you can even store it away before it’s time for the installation process.