How long does a bathroom remodel take? It all depends on the bathroom being renovated and your goals for it. More complex jobs take longer, but careful planning and qualified contractors help you finish sooner.
The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in any home, and it's often the first one homeowners decide to renovate.
According to HIRI data, around 21% of homeowners said they planned on completing a medium to large bathroom renovation in the next year. That was the leading category for all home improvement projects, along with painting.
How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?
There are technically three main answers to the question "how long does a bathroom remodel take?"
Simple renovations with no plumbing changes are around two to four weeks. An average remodel with moderate plumbing and electrical work takes four to eight weeks.
A complex remodel with significant structural changes or custom features is the longest process. It can take eight weeks or more.
Other factors also affect bathroom makeover duration. A main bathroom will take longer than a small half-bath.
Complexity also plays a role. The process can take weeks longer if you add complex steps such as:
Adding, moving, or removing walls
Altering plumbing
Changing electrical layouts
What Comes First in Bathroom Remodeling?
Planning must happen first during any home remodel.
The first of the remodel planning steps is to pick a design and get it approved. This typically takes one or two weeks.
Choose and order materials. You may also need to get permits for certain parts of the project. These steps can cause delays if not completed early.
Average Bathroom Renovation Timeline
Once you have a clear plan and the right materials and permits, the bathroom renovation timeline begins in earnest. It starts with removing any unnecessary or old materials and then bringing in the new ones to create the bathroom of your dreams.
Demolition
Demolition covers the first day or two. It involves removing unwanted existing fixtures, flooring, or walls.
Demolition time depends on complexity. Removing vinyl flooring and plastic showers can be quick, but more complex items or older bathrooms with lots of tile may take longer.
Rough-In Work
Rough-in work refers to any alteration of electrical or plumbing work. Lines may need to be replaced or moved.
This typically takes one to three days. Moving fixtures extends the timeline.
Framing and Drywall
Framing and drywall will have to be replaced if any walls were moved or torn down. This part of the process typically takes two to four days.
Tile and Flooring
Replacing tile and flooring may also be necessary to prepare for new fixtures. This takes anywhere from three to seven days depending on how complex it is.
Installing Fixtures and Finishes
Depending on the scope of your renovation project, you may want to install any number of new fixtures or finishes, such as:
Bathtubs
Showers
Toilets
Vanities
Lighting
This step takes two to four days. The number of finishes and fixtures and how difficult they are to install should determine the timeline.
Final Touch-Ups
The bathroom renovation process ends by completing any necessary final touch-ups, cleanings, or inspections. This important step shouldn't be rushed because it can prevent problems later. It typically takes a day or two.
What Should You Ask a Contractor Before a Bathroom Remodel?
Asking your contractor a few essential questions helps ensure quality and meet your expected project completion time.
Ask to see their license and check their insurance. Look at reviews and photos of past work to gauge their experience.
Ask them to walk you through the renovation process and give you an expected end time. Also, make sure they have enough time in their schedule to commit to your project so you don't end up waiting on them to take the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should You Not Do in a Bathroom Remodel?
There are several mistakes to avoid during a bathroom remodel. Knowing about them in advance ensures you stay on budget and get long-lasting, high-quality results.
Don't skip waterproofing or ventilation. That's an easy way to introduce mold and mildew into your new bathroom and make it unsafe to use.
Don't ignore outdated plumbing and electrical work. While addressing it may extend your overall bathroom renovation timeline, it'll save you time and money in the long run by avoiding later repairs.
Be careful when planning to create a layout and design that you can enjoy for years to come. Don't choose features that don't function well simply because they're trendy now, and don't forget to account for storage.
What is a Realistic Budget for a Bathroom Remodel?
The cost of bathroom remodels depends on the scope and complexity of the project. Other factors that influence price include:
Moving plumbing or electrical lines
Tile choices
Custom cabinets and storage
Designer finishes
Layout changes
There isn't a single number to go off of, but more of a range.
Small bathroom remodels cost around $15,000-$25,000. You may use that money to upgrade the vanity, tile, lighting, or fixtures. This is often one of the most cost-efficient options.
Primary bathrooms cost $25,000-$45,000. They may have a double vanity, walk-in bath, or free-standing tub to contend with. Plumbing upgrades and custom tile drive up costs.
Luxury bathroom remodels can cost $45,000 or more thanks to high-end finishes, luxury cabinets, smart features, and other expensive upgrades.
A realistic budget is one that fits the size and scope of your project. You should also add in a 10-15% buffer for unexpected problems.
Get a Bathroom Remodel Today
How long does a bathroom remodel take? Small renovations may only take four weeks or less, but complex ones can take eight weeks or more. Finding the right contractor and careful planning help keep the timeline as short as possible.
Five Fold Solutions works to create a better building experience. Our local Kansas City team has worked on full-home remodels, bathroom and kitchen renovations, additions, outdoor spaces, and more.
We focus on honest, clear communication throughout the renovation process. Contact us today for an easier road to a bathroom remode.
