What to Expect With a Bathroom Project
A bathroom project can be just about any size, from replacing a faucet to completely remodeling the entire bathroom. For this article we’ll help you prepare for a major remodel using professional installers.
Keep in mind, no two bath projects or professional installation services are the same. Details will differ, but we’ll give you a general overview of how to prepare and what to expect.
What Happens If Lowe’s Helps With Your Bathroom Remodel?
Let Lowe’s help with your bathroom remodel. We can answer your questions about the project, tell you about available services and help you understand what will happen during your installation. Depending on your location, available services can include:
See all of Lowe’s Home Services.
Know What’s Included In a Bathroom Project
The cost of a bathroom remodel depends on a wide range of factors including:
- The size of the bathroom
- The scope and complexity of the remodel
- The need for new wiring and plumbing
- The features and fixtures you’re installing
- Any repairs that are necessary before work begins
- Disposal fees
- Labor costs in your area
While the price for a remodel will vary, understanding what’s typically involved in a bathroom project will help you plan and stay on budget.
Our guide, The Average Bathroom Remodel Cost & Timeline for DIYers will give you cost estimates for a do-it-yourself remodel. These are estimates only and don’t include labor or installation charges, but the information can give you an idea of costs as you start to plan.
Understanding the Remodeling Project
Know what you’re purchasing when you hire a professional installation service for a bathroom remodel. Common services include:
- Professional assistance with planning your remodel
- Demolition to remove your existing bathroom and prepare for the new space
- Repairs necessary for the remodel
- Plumbing and electrical work necessary for the remodel
- Installation of new fixtures and components
- Cleanup of the work area
- Removal and haul away of construction debris and old fixtures, tub, toilet, etc.
What Might Add Cost to a Bathroom Remodel
In addition to the demolition and remodel work itself, there are products you’ll likely need to purchase There may be additional fees as well. Typical product and add-on costs include:
- A bathtub and faucet
- A shower pan, shower enclosure, shower door and shower head
- A vanity, vanity top and sink faucet
- A mirror
- A toilet and toilet seat
- Tile
- Flooring
- Underfloor heating
- Lighting fixtures
- A bathroom exhaust fan
- Drywall
- Wall paint, ceiling paint and mildew-resistant paint
- Pipe and wiring
- Installation supplies and materials
- Installation outside of a specific range, toll fees, etc.
- Lead-safe work on elements that predate 1978, such as replacing vanities and dealing with paint.
- Asbestos and mold remediation
- Permit costs
- Dump fees
When You Might Need Additional Professionals
Your installers might not handle some of the work you need. You might need to hire another pro for:
- Structural changes to the bathroom, such as moving a load-bearing wall
- Enlarging the bathroom
- Rerouting plumbing
- Rerouting electrical wiring
- Heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) changes
- Basic installation of a single fixture or feature
Bathroom Remodel Steps
Every project and every installer team is different, but we’ll give you a general overview of the typical steps for a bathroom remodel. Here’s what you can expect before, during and after the work is complete — and what prep work you might be responsible for.
Planning and Design With an Installer or Contractor
Work with your installer to communicate your budget and the plans for your new bathroom.
- Your installer or bathroom contractor will discuss your goals and assess your current space.
- The pro will recommend products and share remodeling plans that align with your goals and budget.
- Once you choose your products and accept the remodeling plan, your installer will schedule the work.
- If any permits are necessary, the installer will apply for them in advance to help keep the work on schedule.
Before Work Begins
If you don’t take care of some prep work, there might be project delays and additional labor costs from the installers. Before work begins you might need to:
- Create a clear and easy path to the work area, removing any breakables or any items that might make it difficult to get tools and materials to the bathroom.
- Prepare for demolition by removing décor, personal items, cleaning products, bath mats, etc.
- Designate an area for work debris.
- Locate the main water shutoff.
- Set-up your items in an alternate bathroom while the work is being done. Plan for times the house water supply will be off.
- Ensure children and pets don’t have access to the work area.
Steps of a Bathroom Remodeling Project
Once the installers arrive and the project begins, the actual work will depend on how extensive the changes are and the work. For a complete remodel here are some things you can expect:
- At times, the water to the house and the power to the bathroom will be off.
- The pros will complete a demolition of the existing bathroom.
- They may need to install new framing in the walls for the tub and shower installation.
- They’ll install drywall, waterproofing and tile underlayment.
- Painters may paint the new walls once the drywall is in place.
- If necessary, a licensed electrician will install new wiring and a licensed plumber will install new plumbing.
- The crew will install the new tub, shower and fixtures.
- They’ll install the new toilet, vanity, sink and faucet, as well as lighting fixtures and an exhaust fan.
- Painting (or touch-up if painting occurred earlier) and flooring installation are often the final steps.
There may be unexpected work that the installers notice as they assess the work area and begin demolition. This work may need to be complete before the remodel can continue. If the installers note any safety or code issues, there may be additional delays and expenses.
After the Bathroom Remodel
Once the work is done, the installation team will likely have a few more steps to complete. Depending on the project, here’s what you might expect:
- The installation team will turn the water and power back on.
- They’ll clean up the new bathroom and haul away old tubs, showers, toilets, etc.
- They’ll conduct a walkthrough of your new space, explaining the new features and functionality.
- The installer will provide you with warranty information, if necessary.
Find Inspiration for Your Bathroom Remodel
Our DIY & Ideas Library can help you plan and create your design. Take a look at these guides and ideas to get started:
- Bathroom Vanity Ideas for Remodeling
- Incorporate These Modern Bathroom Ideas Into Your Next Remodel
- How to Choose the Best Shower Stall or Enclosure
- Bathtub Remodeling Ideas
- 8 Bathroom Lighting Ideas For Your Home
See all of our bathroom guides, ideas and projects to get more inspiration and to see some of the work your installers will handle.