When remodeling a bathroom, what comes first?

Remodeling a bathroom can be an exciting but challenging project. Whether you’re upgrading for personal enjoyment, preparing to sell your home, or addressing functional issues, knowing where to start is crucial for a smooth process. As a professional plumber with years of experience, At Neighborly of St. Louis we have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of bathroom renovations. Here is a guide to help you understand the initial steps and ensure a successful bathroom remodel.

1. Planning and Budgeting

Before you start tearing out tiles and fixtures, the first and most critical step is planning and budgeting. This involves:

Setting clear goals: Determine what you want to achieve with the remodel. Is it a complete overhaul or just a refresh? Are you updating for better functionality or aesthetic appeal?

Budgeting: Establish a realistic budget. Include a buffer for unexpected expenses, which are almost inevitable in any remodel.

Research: Look into styles, materials, and fixtures you like. Gather inspiration from magazines, websites, and home improvement shows.

Hiring Professionals: Decide if you need to hire experts such as a plumber, electrician, or designer. A professional can help streamline the process and prevent costly mistakes.

2. Design and Layout

Once you have a plan and budget in place, the next step is to work on the design and layout.

Measure Your Space: Accurate measurements are essential. Measure the dimensions of your bathroom and create a layout plan.

Select a layout: Decide if you want to keep the existing layout or change it. Changing the layout can add to the cost and complexity, especially if it involves moving plumbing fixtures.

Select Materials and Fixtures: Choose the materials for your floors, walls, and fixtures. Consider durability, maintenance, and how they fit into your overall design vision.

3. Demolition and preparation

With your design and materials selected, it’s time to prepare the space for remodeling.

Clear out the bathroom: Take out all personal belongings and any fixtures you plan to replace.

Demolition: This can involve removing old tiles, fixtures, cabinets, and even walls if you’re changing the layout. It’s crucial to have the proper tools and safety equipment.

Inspect Plumbing and Electrical: Before you start installing new fixtures, inspect the existing plumbing and electrical systems. This is a suitable time to make any necessary upgrades or repairs.

4. Plumbing and electrical work

This is where the expertise of a professional plumber and electrician comes into play.

Plumbing: If you’re moving fixtures like the toilet, shower, or sink, you’ll need to reroute plumbing lines. Even if you’re not moving fixtures, it’s wise to update old pipes and check for leaks.

Electrical: Update electrical wiring and install new outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures. Ensure that all electrical work complies with local building codes.

5. Installing Fixtures and Features

Once the plumbing and electrical work is complete, you can start installing new fixtures.

Bathtub and Shower: Install the bathtub or shower base first, then tile the walls around it. Ensure proper waterproofing to prevent future issues.

Install the toilet, ensuring that the wax ring creates a good seal to prevent leaks.

Install the sink and vanity, ensuring that all plumbing connections are secure.

Lighting and ventilation: In a bathroom, proper lighting and ventilation are essential. Install adequate lighting fixtures and a good exhaust fan.

6. Walls, Flooring, and Finishing Touches

With the main fixtures in place, you can move on to the finishing touches.

Walls and Floors: Install tiles or other wall coverings and flooring materials. Make sure to properly grout the tiles and seal everything.

Paint and Trim: Paint the walls, then install trim and baseboards. Choose moisture-resistant paint for durability.

Accessories: Add accessories like towel bars, mirrors, and shelves. These small touches can make a big difference in the overall look and functionality of your bathroom.

7. Final inspections and touch-ups

Before you declare your bathroom remodel complete, perform a final inspection.

Check for leaks: Make sure that all plumbing connections are leak-free.

Test Electrical Work: Verify that all electrical fixtures are functioning correctly.

Quality Check: Inspect the overall workmanship. Look for any imperfections or areas that need touch-ups.

Clean Up: Thoroughly clean the bathroom, removing any debris and dust from the remodeling process.

Final Verdict

Remodeling a bathroom can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and execution, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Starting with a solid plan, budget, and design ensures that the rest of the process flows smoothly. Hiring professionals for plumbing and electrical work can save you time and prevent costly mistakes. 

Finally, paying attention to the details and finishing touches will give you a bathroom that’s not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or working with a team of professionals, following these steps will help you create the bathroom of your dreams.