A bathroom remodel is one of the best ways to upgrade your home. Even the smallest bathroom can look luxurious and elegant by giving it a touch of freshness. Bathroom remodeling is a daunting task that requires ample effort and time. So, you may ask, “How long does the remodeling process take?” No contractors can give you a specific timeline, but they can give you a set estimate.
Remodeling a bathroom takes around 2-3 months, depending on the size of the bathroom, process, etc. That being said, the average schedule will give you an idea of what you can expect. This guide will help you understand the typical bathroom renovation timeline.
Bathroom Remodeling Timeline
Whether you’re upgrading your primary or secondary bathroom - no matter how big or small it might be, the process is divided into three phases -
Pre Construction Phase
This is the initial stage of the process, where you find a reliable contractor who has proper state licenses to work with plumbing and electrical equipment. It is important to go through their work ethic before finalizing one. Once you choose the contractor, they will conduct a site audit and will work out a plan based on your preference. After that, they will send an agreement for the project along with the price chart.
Take time to read and go through the agreement and make the payment. Before starting the work, they will get the required permits. They’ll also inform the local authority about the renovation project. You can share your inspiration for the bathroom, based on which they’ll select the materials, fixtures, and appliances. You can either ask the contractors to get these materials or shop yourself. The entire process may take a minimum of one month.
| Some Tips | Shopping yourself can save you money. This is because when a contractor purchases the materials, they charge a commission on the total amount. |
Mid Construction Phase
Before going into the construction phase, give your contractors time to demo the old bathroom. All the tiles, fixtures, faucets, etc., should be stripped off and disposed of properly. There might be a need for a home inspection, too, where the inspector will evaluate the electrical wiring and new plumbing installation. It is impossible to move forward without the final approval of a home inspector. This might also consume a week of your time.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the construction phase -
Demolition and Other Preparation
As mentioned earlier, remodeling requires tearing down the wall and floor tiles, bathtubs, showers, etc. It might take 1-2 days or even a few hours - depending on the size of the bathroom. The plumbing and electricity work (relocating or rewiring) are also done during the same period.
Drywalls and Painting
Tearing off and adding a new drywall can take around 1-2 days, based on the size of the bathroom. If you hire a professional, it may take only a day or two. Painting also requires an additional 1-2 days, which may go higher if you have trims to paint.
Wall and Floor Tiling
If you want to tile the walls, it may take a while. Professional work usually takes up to 1-2 days to prep the walls and floors and another 5-6 days to install tiles. If you have a small bathroom, the tiling process can be done in 1-2 days. However, in the case of a larger bathroom, it may take more than 7 days.
Add Fixtures
After all the tile works and paint jobs are done, it’s time to fix the toilet, sink, bathtub, etc., in place. If you install additional vanities or fixtures, it may take more than 2 days. Before using the bathroom, ensure that the caulk is dried up. And, of course, don’t forget to clean up after the renovation.
Post Construction Phase
Post-construction usually takes 1 week. During this phase, the contractor will walk you through the project to ensure the final touches are perfect. Check the bathroom thoroughly -
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Drawers and fixtures, if they’re working fine
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Electrical equipment
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Bathtubs and toilets
It is also advisable to check if you want something to be changed or replaced. Moreover, talk with your contractor about the post-construction assistance policy. Once you’re satisfied with the work, make the final payment to the contractor and leave good reviews for them!
Estimated Timeline for Bathroom Remodeling
Here’s an average schedule for bathroom remodeling -
| Work To Be Done | Timeline |
| Pre Construction Research | 1-2 Weeks |
| Interviewing Contractors | 1-2 Weeks |
| Applying For Permits | 1 Weeks |
| Signing Contracts | 1-3 Days |
| Demolition | 1-2 Days |
| Carpentry | 2-3 Days |
| Plumbing | 2-3 Days |
| Electrical Work | 2 Days |
| First Inspection | 1 Day + Waiting Period |
| Insulation | 1 Day |
| Drywall Installation | 3 Days |
| Painting | 1-2 Days |
| Final Inspection | 1 Day + Waiting Period |
| Tiling | 2 Days |
| Trim (Crown Molding, Cabinetry, etc.) | 1-2 Days |
| Floors (Including Vinyl, Ceramic Tiles, etc.) | 2 Days |
| Hookups (Sinks, Toilets, etc.) | 1 Day |
| Hardware And Final Touches | 2 Days |
What Are the Other Factors That Affect Bathroom Remodel Timeline?
In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a few more factors to consider, such as -
Scope of Work
The scope of work will tell you how much time it will take to complete a bathroom remodeling project. If you’re just making changes here and there, for example, replacing a bathtub or shower, it will take less time than tiling, painting, cabinet installation, etc.
Current Bathroom Condition
If the floor or wall is in good condition, then replace the sink, toilet, cabinets, faucets, etc., only. This will take less time than remodeling from scratch. However, if your bathroom is outdated with damages here and there, it is a necessity to renew the entire bathroom - this process may take longer.
DIY or Professional
If you are undertaking the project all on your own, the time taken would be much longer than that of a professional. Under certain circumstances, a professional can also take time if they work simultaneously on other client’s projects.
When it comes to cost, you save on labor costs in case of a DIY project and bear the labor cost while hiring a professional.
Materials Required
Obtaining quality materials will also add to the overall time required for the bathroom remodeling. If you need customized sinks or specialty wood finishes, it can take a longer time. Moreover, materials such as stones or wooden slabs require cutting and fitting, which may also require extra processing time.
Conclusion
Though the time of bathroom remodelling varies depending on the size of the bathroom and the extent of the project, patience is the key to success. Remodeling your bathroom not only enhances the beauty of the space but also adds functionality to it. Additionally, it increases your home’s resale value. If you need help with the bathroom remodeling timeline, get in touch with a local licensed contractor. They’ll help you understand the timeline in detail.
