How to renovate a bathroom

Bathroom renovation involves careful planning, proper plumbing and electrical work, waterproofing, and finishing with fixtures and finishes. Most projects take 2-4 weeks and require permits for plumbing and electrical changes.

1. Plan and Design Your Layout. Measure your existing bathroom and decide what stays and what goes. Consider whether you're moving plumbing fixtures, as this significantly increases complexity and cost. Draw a simple floor plan showing new fixture locations, electrical outlets, and lighting. Check local building codes for minimum clearances around toilets, showers, and vanities.
2. Pull Permits and Schedule Inspections. Apply for building permits at your local building department. You'll need permits for plumbing changes, electrical work, and structural modifications. Submit your plans and schedule rough-in inspections before covering walls. This step often takes 2-3 weeks, so start early.
3. Order Materials and Fixtures. Purchase everything before starting demolition. Order tile, vanity, toilet, shower or tub, faucets, lighting, and all plumbing supplies. Have materials delivered and stored in a dry location. Verify fixture dimensions match your layout plans.
4. Strip the Bathroom Down to Studs. Remove all fixtures, vanity, toilet, and existing tile or flooring. Cut drywall back to wall studs if you're changing plumbing or electrical. Turn off water and electricity at the breaker box before disconnecting anything. Rent a dumpster for debris removal.
5. Frame Any New Walls or Openings. Build new walls for layout changes or frame openings for recessed medicine cabinets or niches. Use pressure-treated lumber for bottom plates on concrete floors. Install blocking between studs where you'll mount grab bars or heavy fixtures.
6. Run New Plumbing and Electrical. Install new water supply lines, drain lines, and electrical circuits according to your plans. This includes wiring for outlets, lighting, exhaust fan, and any heated floors. Keep electrical components away from water sources per code requirements. Schedule rough-in inspection before proceeding.
7. Insulate and Install Drywall. Add insulation in exterior walls and around plumbing to prevent condensation. Install moisture-resistant drywall throughout, using cement board or other approved substrate in wet areas like shower surrounds. Tape and mud all seams for a smooth finish.
8. Apply Waterproofing in Wet Areas. Install waterproof membrane behind tub and shower areas extending 6 inches beyond the fixture footprint. Paint liquid waterproofing on shower floors and walls up to the showerhead height. This step is critical for preventing water damage.
9. Install Flooring. Start with heated floor mats if using them, then lay tile or other flooring. Begin installation at the center point of the room and work outward. Use spacers for even gaps and check level frequently. Allow adhesive to cure completely before grouting.
10. Tile Walls and Install Fixtures. Install wall tile starting from the bottom up, using a level reference line. Complete all tiling before installing the toilet, vanity, and other fixtures. Connect plumbing fixtures according to manufacturer instructions and test for leaks before final installation.
11. Complete Electrical and Final Details. Install light fixtures, exhaust fan, outlets, and switches. Mount mirrors, towel bars, and accessories. Apply final caulk around tub, shower, and floor perimeter. Test all fixtures and schedule final inspection.