Where do you start when renovating a bathroom?
If you're considering a bathroom renovation and don't know where to start, then keep reading!
Renovating a bathroom is a big undertaking and should be left to the professionals. As the homeowner, many people don't know where to start when it comes to getting their bathroom renovated.
The first place you as the homeowner should start is by getting an idea of which designs and features you like. It is best to compile a list of features that you would consider mandatory and a list of features that would be nice-to-haves. This way when you start talking to professionals, you will be able to guide them on what you're looking for.
Who should you talk to first? A designer or a contractor? We always recommend talking to a contractor or builder first. This is because they will have the most knowledge about if what you're looking for is possible and can give you rough pricing based on your space. Talking to a contractor first will allow you to determine budgets and can help you decide which features you are willing to compromise on if they don't fall within your budget.
After speaking with the contractor and deciding on a general plan, you can either hire your own designer or work with the designer your contractor recommends. The designer will now be able to refine your ideas and help you select your finishes as well as ensure that the design fits into the rest of your home.
Once you have a finalized design, you will need to apply for permits if necessary. The permits you will need will depend on the scope of work as well as your municipality's bylaws.
After permits are acquired, construction can begin! Typically the construction process will be as follows:
1. Demolition
This is where the project begins! Demolishing the old bathroom can be a fun process and can give you some stress release in the process! Be careful when demolishing tile as they can be very sharp when they break!
2. Plumbing and Electrical
After the demo is complete, you will want to make any changes to the mechanical systems next. Whether its relocating plumbing fixtures, or moving an HVAC register, now is the best time to make these changes. If you're DIYing you own bathroom, it is recommended to have licensed plumbers and electricians complete this work for you!
3. Drywall and tile prep
Once you have your mechanical rough-ins where you want them you can start to put things back together. Start with drywall since mudding can be messy and you don't want to dirty up your new floor. After you're done drywalling, it's time to prep the floor by installing a tile underlayment. Typically this would be Schluter Ditra or a new product we love is Kiesel OkaQuiet.
4. Tile installation
Time to install your tiles! This part is exciting since you will get a glimpse of what your new bathroom will look like! Tile installation can be quite tedious and if not done properly can cause issues. Just take your time and watch some videos on how to do it properly. Also, a good levelling system will help you out a ton!
5. Trim and Door installation
After you're done tiling your bathroom, it's time to install the trim and door. This step is much simpler than installing tiles, but with anything, take your time and do it right. If you aren't replacing your door then you won't need to worry about this but if you are, try to get a pre-hung door to make your life easier.
6. Paint
Some people love painting, others dread it. Either way, it needs to get done to complete your new bathroom! Here are some tips for painting to make your life easier! Paint your trim and door first, this is because it's easier to cut into your trim than to your wall. If you aren't comfortable with cutting-in, then use painters tape to mask off the area. If you use tape, be careful not to peal any new paint in the process. They make tape that is meant to release easily to prevent this.
7. Cabinetry and Hardware installation
After the paint is complete, you are almost done your bathroom! It's time to install your cabinets and hardware. This would include your shower fittings, vanity, sink faucets, bath hardware, door hardware, door stops, etc. After this, you'll have an almost functioning bathroom!
8. Final plumbing and electrical
This is when your plumber and electrician will install the rest of the fixtures for your shower, sink, lighting and plugs. Again, it's better to have a licensed plumber and electrician complete this work but if you feel comfortable doing it just take your time and be safe!
9. Final inspection
After construction, a good contractor will do a final walkthrough with you and make sure that no detail was missed. This is when you can make sure that everything meets your expectations and ask questions about your new space!
Done! Now you have a brand new bathroom that you can enjoy for many years, Take some good after pictures before you move all of your belongings back into the space! This will be a good memory to look back on and remember how ugly the old bathroom was! Now your bathroom renovation is complete!
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