STEP BY STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO REMODEL YOUR BATHROOM
The bathroom is one of the most personal spaces in your home. Regardless where the bathroom is in your house this guide will help you step-by-step. If you were thinking of adding a bathroom to your basement it might be different. Check out our full guide for bathroom basements. So it’s no wonder that renovating it would be an exciting decision. There are multiple points to consider to be able to enjoy the process and reach the desired outcome. This is an extremely detailed guide to help you fully understand what will be happening in your home.
PREPARING FOR THE BATHROOM RENOVATION
​1-What is the Scope of the Project?
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For you to have a successful renovation, you will have to know exactly what is the size of the project and what you want to do to your bathroom. It could be a small project where you just refresh the bathroom look by painting walls and updating fixtures. It might be a total revamp where you build the entire layout once again from scratch.
2-What is the Budget?
Budgeting is CRUCIAL. You need to stay realistic with your estimate for each aspect of the renovation. Some features and changes will be prioritized over others, if it comes down to a more functional toilet seat or a really cool automatic soap dispenser please make the right choice.
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Do not let your spirit get down if you have to cut back on the budget, there are alternatives to everything we will get into that later on. When you’re at the budgeting phase of the renovation, it’s recommended to speak to a financial advisor or a renovation expert to help you have a clearer picture of how much it will really cost.
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Friendly Tip: It's pretty common in any renovation project that unexpected expenses pop up. So make sure that in your budget there is an emergency amount set aside.
​3- Are there any hidden issues?
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Sneaky hidden issues such as mold, water damage, outdated plumbing or wiring, or structural issues need to be detected before you press the start button on the renovation. Problems like this could drastically impact your plans and should be dealt with as soon as they are found. Hiring a professional inspector, like M&S a trustworthy contractor; will save you a great deal of looking around and ensure that no hidden issues go unnoticed. At the end of the day, you want to guarantee the durability and longevity of your new bathroom.
4-What do you wanna see at the end?
Imagining the desired outcome is one of the most exciting parts of getting your bathroom renovated. This is where you can let your creativity take over. In this part of the process, anything is possible. One moment you can visualize a sleek, modern look with high-tech fixtures. The other could be traditional designs with vintage faucets and sinks. Sketch out your ideas using design software to give you a better sense of what will your new bathroom look like.
Friendly tip: Check out Pinterest, it has a million ideas and limitless inspiration pictures and boards and they are all aesthetically pleasing.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS FOR YOUR BATHROOM REMODELING
The selection of materials is vital not just for aesthetics, but also for durability, and maintenance. Bathrooms are high-moisture environments and therefore, the materials you select need to withstand constant exposure to water and steam.
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Let's list some materials and their properties:
1-Tiles:
Tiles are one of the most common choices for bathroom floors and walls. It’s water-resistant and it’s easy to clean. Tiles can be ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone. Porcelain tiles, for example, are highly durable and water-resistant, but they can be pricier. Natural stone tiles, such as marble or slate, add a luxurious touch but require sealing and more maintenance.
2-Countertops:
Bathroom countertops need to endure water and moisture and importantly they must be stylish. Materials like granite, quartz, and marble are popular choices, due to their resilience and wide range of color options. Laminate is a more budget-friendly alternative, available in many colors and patterns. Solid surface materials, like Corian, can mimic the look of natural stone and it does not absorb and it’s resistant to stains.
3-Cabinetry and Vanities:
The cabinets and vanities’ weakness is moisture. Solid wood is an attractive and sturdy option. But do not be fooled, it may not stand its ground in a damp bathroom unless it’s properly treated and maintained. You can use Plywood, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), or wood veneers they are resistant to warping from moisture. The finish can significantly affect the cabinet's durability; laminate or thermofoil can provide extra moisture resistance.
4-Plumbing Fixtures:
For faucets, showerheads, and tub fillers, brass or stainless steel should be your go-to. They are durable and resistant to corrosion. These fixtures come in various finishes, like chrome, nickel, bronze, or even black or white, so you have a wide range of options to perfectly meet your new bathroom’s style.
5-Lighting:
Finally, lighting electrifies the look and performance of your bathroom. Always look for water-resistant materials. Metal fixtures with finishes that match your plumbing fixtures will create a cohesive look. Glass or acrylic shades can diffuse light effectively and are easy to clean.
INSTALLING A NEW VANITY FOR YOUR REMODELED BATHROOM
A vanity is an important element for the bathroom’s style and function. It has necessary storage and it’s where your sink will be. It needs to match the aesthetic of the chosen tub and shower.
Where to get new Vanities for the bathroom?
1-​Home Improvement Stores
Basically, your local home improvement stores. Go to mega-chain stores, they offer a wide selection of bathroom vanities in various styles, sizes, and materials. They also carry all the necessary plumbing supplies and tools required for installation.​
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2-Online Retailers
If you prefer shopping from the comfort of your own home, online platforms such as Amazon or the websites of home improvement stores offer an extensive range of bathroom vanities. Online shopping provides a wide range of styles and price points, but make sure to read the reviews and check the product's specifications and measurements before purchasing.
​​3-Specialty Bathroom Stores
Specialty bathroom stores or showrooms usually have higher-end options and some of them offer consultation services to ease the choosing of your new vanity. These stores’ staff are knowledgeable They can offer advice on style, installation, and maintenance.
4-​Custom-Built Vanities
If you are intending on having an extremely personalized bathroom, at M&S custom vanities have a lot of hype. So consider hiring a local carpenter or cabinet maker to design your vanity. This is perfect if your bathroom has unusual dimensions or if you have specific design preferences that aren't available in standard vanities.
Once you have your vanity, you will need caulk, P-trap, water supply lines, and necessary tools which can typically be found in the plumbing section of home improvement stores or ordered from online retailers. If you're not comfortable doing the installation yourself, consider hiring a professional plumber or contractor to ensure the vanity is installed correctly.
REPLACING THE SHOWER/TUB
1-Selecting a New Shower or Tub
At this point, you should have a clear vision of your aesthetic. Choosing a new shower or tub that matches your bathroom's style as well as meets your functional needs should not be a challenge. You will have several options to choose from. Traditional tubs, stand-alone showers, a combination tub/shower, or a luxury spa tub. Each comes with different features and can be customized with various door styles, showerheads, faucets, and other fixtures. Some people also choose to work with a bathroom design center or a contractor who can offer customized solutions.
2-Removing The Old Shower Or Tub
Removing the old shower or tub can be quite an undertaking. It involves disconnecting the plumbing, removing any doors or shower curtains, and carefully dismantling and removing the unit. Bathtubs are heavy and awkward to move, if you struggle with it or feel uncomfortable ask a friend to help, a professional or you could give us a call.
3-Preparing the Area
Once you get rid of the old unit, You have to examine the condition of the plumbing and replace any old or busted components. If you're enlarging the shower or moving its location, new plumbing will likely need to be installed. You will need to prep the floor and walls also. This might involve repairing any water damage, adding a new backer board, and waterproofing the area.
4-Installing The New Shower Or Tub
You will need to set the unit in place, connect the drain, and secure the unit to the studs in the walls. While for showers, the shower pan will need to be installed and tightly sealed to block water leaks. Once you install the new unit, you can now work on the walls. Installing tile or a surround, followed by grouting and sealing. The plumbing fixtures, including the showerhead, faucets, and any other features like a shower door or curtain rod, are installed at the end.
REPLACING THE TOILET FOR YOUR BATHROOM
Can you really renovate your bathroom without replacing the toilet? While it may seem like a dispiriting task, with the right tools and steps, it can be a straightforward process.
1-Selecting a New Toilet:
To replace the old one, you have to get a new toilet that fits. Toilets come in a variety of styles, from traditional two-piece designs to sleek one-piece or wall-mounted models. Consider features such as flushing systems, water efficiency, and comfort (like seat height and shape) when making your selection. You can purchase toilets from home improvement stores, plumbing supply stores, or online retailers.
​2-Removing the Old Toilet:
First thing first, you will need to remove the old toilet. Start by turning off the water supply and flushing the toilet to drain the water from the tank and bowl. Then, disconnect the water supply line. Remove the tank from the bowl if it's a two-piece model, then unscrew the bolts that attach the toilet to the floor. Carefully lift the toilet bowl and move it out of the way.
3-Preparing the Area:
Once the old toilet is detached you'll be left with the toilet flange. It should be clean and in good condition to ensure a proper seal with the new toilet. If the flange is damaged, it might need to be replaced. We also advise cleaning the area around the flange to ensure a clean working space.
​4-Installing the New Toilet:
A new wax ring on the toilet flange is needed here. If your toilet is a two-piece model, install the bowl first. Carefully align the mounting bolts with the holes at the base of the toilet and press down to compress the wax ring. Make sure that the bolts are securely tightened to the bowl.
You'll then need to attach the tank to the bowl following the manufacturer's instructions. If you have a one-piece toilet, the bowl and tank should be already connected. Connect the toilet to the water supply line, turn on the water, and check for any leaks around the base and at the water supply. Attach the toilet seat as per the manufacturer's instructions and you got yourself a new functioning toilet seat.
ADDING NEW FLOORING
Changing the flooring contributes to the overall aesthetic. Considering the high moisture environment, the choice of flooring material needs to be water-resistant, durable, and safe, besides being visually appealing.
1-Choosing the Flooring Material:
You can have Ceramic, Porcelain, or natural stone.
Here are some other options:
-Vinyl Flooring: This is a budget-friendly option that provides excellent water resistance and comfort underfoot. Vinyl comes in sheets, planks, or tiles and can mimic the look of other materials such as wood or stone.
-Cork or Bamboo: These eco-friendly options provide a warm and soft surface underfoot. They need to be sealed for water resistance.
2-Preparing the Area:
Once the old floor is neatly removed, the subfloor should be inspected and necessary repairs made. In some cases, a new subfloor will be needed.​
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Friendly tip: Keep in mind that this part of the process can involve a significant amount of work, especially if the old floor is tile.
3-Installing the New Flooring:
Installing new flooring is mainly affected by the type of material chosen. For tile flooring, applying a layer of thin-set adhesive to the subfloor will be required. You will need to lay the tiles using spacers to ensure even gaps for grout. Then, tile cutting for edges and around fixtures, let the adhesive set, and finally apply grout.
Vinyl flooring can be a bit simpler to install, especially if you're using peel-and-stick tiles or planks. For sheet vinyl, a template of the bathroom floor is made and used to cut the flooring material to size before it's glued down.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FIXTURES
Bathroom fixtures like faucets, showerheads, lighting, and hardware. This particularly plays an imperative role in the bathroom’s renovation. As it assists in defining the space's aesthetic and functionality. Unless you want a pretty showerhead with bad water flow you will not put enough consideration into this.
1. Faucets and Showerheads
When selecting faucets and showerheads, put in the finish, style, and technological options. Finishes range from chrome, nickel, bronze, and brass to matte black, and there are endless styles for your new bathroom's design. Search for characteristics like water-saving technology for environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Friendly tip: Count the number of holes in your sink and choose the faucet accordingly so you have a consistent water supply connection for the showerhead.
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2. Lighting Fixtures
Bathroom lighting should be enough for tasks like grooming, and it elevates the overall ambiance. A combination of overhead and task lighting could do the trick. Recessed lighting provides general illumination, while sconces or vanity lights at eye level eliminate shadows for tasks like applying makeup. Just make sure to maintain consistency in your design’s style. ​
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3. Hardware
When choosing your new bathroom hardware like drawer pulls, cabinet handles, and towel bars go with options that complement your vision and desired design.
INSTALLING THE FIXTURES
The installation process will rely on the fixtures you went with. Faucets are installed in the countertop or sink before the sink is put in place. They connect to the water supply lines coming out of the wall or floor.
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Shower Heads: are screwed onto the shower arm that comes out of the shower wall, but installation can be dissimilar for advanced shower systems.
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Lighting fixtures: need to be installed in junction boxes in the wall or ceiling and connected to the electrical wiring.
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Hardware: is screwed into pre-drilled holes in the cabinets or walls.
Don’t forget to turn off the water or electricity before starting any installation, and follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. If you feel hesitant at any part of the installation process, consider hiring a professional, and do not put yourself under too much pressure.
ADDING ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM
Bathroom accessories are the cherry on top of the remodeling process. These accessories range from towel racks and soap dispensers to decorative elements like artwork and plants.
What type of accessories do you need for your Bathroom?
Below is a list of bathroom accessories and their functions. So you would keep the tool’s function in mind when purchasing it alongside how aesthetically pleasing it is:
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Towel Bars or Hooks are for hanging towels near the shower or tub.
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Toilet Paper Holder
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Soap Dispensers or Soap Dishes
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Storage Solutions
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Mirrors
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Decorative Items
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Bath Mats and Rugs
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Shower Curtains or Doors
How to plan on adding new accessories for your Bathroom?
We summed up the steps you will need when you’re shopping for new accessories:
1-Know Your Needs: Think about your daily use of the bathroom and what add-ons would shape up your experience.
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Maintain Your Style: Your accessories should complement the style of your bathroom.
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Mix and match with Existing Elements: If you're not replacing everything in your bathroom, make sure your new accessories match the ones you already have.
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Plan for Installation: A few accessories, like towel bars or lighting fixtures, will need wall drilling.
Friendly tip: Shop Around, do not rush and don’t buy the first thing you see. compare prices and reviews to find the best options for your needs. Look at home improvement stores, department stores, specialty bathroom retailers, and online.
FINISHING FINAL TOUCHES FOR YOUR BATHROOM RENOVATION
1- Inspecting the Work
Start by taking a really close look at all the work done. Confirm that everything is installed correctly and working as it should. Check the plumbing, lighting, ventilation, fixtures, and grout and caulk lines are smooth, and tiles and flooring are correctly laid.
2- Touch-ups
Touch-ups and amends will undoubtedly take place. These minor fixes can make an enormous difference to the final look of your bathroom.
3- Install Accessories
Now, you can install the bathroom accessories you've chosen. Remember to position these for easy access and functionality.
4- Styling and Decorating
With everything installed and cleaned, you can now add decorative elements that will make the space feel charming and personal.
5- Deep Cleaning
Renovation will leave a lot of dust and debris. Be Keen to get a deep cleaning of your new bathroom. Wipe down all surfaces, mop the floors, clean the mirrors and fixtures, and rinse the tub and shower.
6- Organize
Stock your new cabinets and shelves with toiletries, spare towels, and other essentials. Use organizers to keep items neat and easy to find.
These final steps are the frosting to your cake. Once you add the final touches and thoroughly clean, take a moment to appreciate your new bathroom; look around and compare it to pictures of your old bathroom. That is when it will really hit you, how far you have come since you started the renovation. Check the samples on our bathroom remodeling service page. This newly remodeled bathroom will be a part of your everyday routine for years to come. It’s now a space that is designed and exclusively tailored just for you, and take pride in victorious renovation!