A remodeling project takes time, and it’s important to plan ahead so that you can get your bathroom back as soon as possible. This guide will help you set realistic timelines for your project and avoid delays down the line.
It also assumes that you’re working with a good contractor and that everyone shows up to work when they should and that materials don’t take forever to ship. Visit https://optimalremodel.com/ for expert advice and inspiration on transforming your bathroom into a luxurious retreat.
Plan Ahead
It can take weeks to clear out the old bathroom before you can put in new flooring, drywall or paint. This could bog down your timeline, particularly if the project requires city permits and an inspector to examine and approve electrical rewiring or plumbing.
Repainting and a vanity replacement can be completed in two days, but full-scale renovations that include plumbing and tiling will require much longer. Make sure you have any materials you need ordered well in advance so they arrive on time. It can also be helpful to mark out the location of your pipes and electrical wiring ahead of time.
Decide on a Design
While lusting after images of beautiful bathrooms on social media and in interior design magazines is fine, don’t fall into the trap of pining for his-and-her sinks and a statement walk-in shower if it won’t fit your space. Be realistic about what can and cannot be achieved with the renovation budget and timeline you have in mind.
Repairing and upgrading existing elements takes less time than starting from scratch. But implementing infrastructures such as flooring and wall frames will add to your remodeling timeline. The same applies for logistical systems such as plumbing and electrical needs.
Get Permits
Many bathroom remodels require permits, especially if they involve structural changes or significant plumbing and electrical work. Getting these permits can take weeks or even months depending on the location and building department’s workload.
Your contractor will be able to help you estimate how long it takes to get the permits, as they should have experience working with your local government. They’ll also know what materials and fixtures are in stock or need to be ordered, so that they can avoid lengthy delays caused by shipping issues. Be sure to factor in any specialized orders you might need to make as well.
Schedule Demolition
Demolition is a time-consuming aspect of any remodeling project. Depending on the extent of the work required, it can take up to two days.
A remodel is different from a renovation, which alters the structural design of a space. Remodels typically focus on cosmetic changes.
When it comes to bathroom remodeling, demolition involves stripping down to wall studs and removing old fixtures. Once the demolition is complete, plumbing rough-ins can be added. This usually takes one day. This is also the ideal time to shop for paint colors and accessories, such as towel bars and robe hooks.
Schedule Plumbing Rough-In
Rough-in plumbing is the first step that allows plumbers to begin installing pipes. It typically takes a day or two to complete but can extend longer depending on the number of fixtures being installed, type of sink, toilet, or bathtub/shower.
During the rough-in stage, you also need to add a vent and water line. This can take a little time since you need to schedule an inspection for these items. This can slow down the process, but an experienced contractor will know the best time to do this.
Schedule Electrical Rough-In
Once the plumbing is done, it’s time for electrical rough-in. This will take a few days, depending on the layout and number of switches and outlets you have to add or relocate.
If you are simply switching out a vanity, sink and toilet for new fixtures, this may not be a big deal. But a full bathroom remodel that includes stripping to the studs and moving plumbing and electrical lines could take weeks.
Plan accordingly and factor in shipping delays or other unavoidable hiccups. You will want your bathroom functional again as soon as possible.
Schedule Finishing
Once plumbing and electrical rough-in are complete, the flooring can be installed. This typically takes 1-2 days depending on the flooring material.
Then the bathroom can be painted and the new fixtures can be installed. This can take a day for pros or two if it’s a complex paint job.
There are many factors that can impact a remodel’s timeline, including the scope of work, availability of contractors, permitting issues, and unanticipated problems that may need to be addressed (such as hidden water damage or structural issues). Minimizing these delays can help you complete your bathroom remodeling faster and enjoy your updated space sooner.