Bathroom Remodeling Process – Step by Step Guide

Ready to take a deep dive into the bathroom remodeling process? You're in the right place! Every bathroom is different, but we’re here to walk you through what it takes to complete a full bathroom renovation. There are several smart ways to save time and money along the way, so be sure to check out the "Pro Tip" in each section. These tips will help you plan a fast and budget-friendly bathroom remodel for your home.

Step 1 – Planning

The first step in any bathroom remodeling project is planning—plenty of it. If you're doing some of the work yourself, you need to know the cost of materials upfront. If you're hiring contractors, get quotes from multiple professionals before making big decisions. Many people underestimate how much a full bathroom renovation can cost. Depending on the materials you choose and the number of items you replace, even a small bathroom can cost thousands of dollars.

You don’t have to finalize all your material choices at this stage. Some design decisions are better made after everything starts coming together. Still, it’s helpful to get a sense of color schemes and pricing to form a clear vision.

If you're changing the layout of your bathroom, now is the time to sketch out your new floor plan. Knowing where your plumbing is located versus where it will be is essential for accurate estimates from plumbers and electricians.

PRO TIP: Ask your contractors if they can offer discounts on lighting, tile, paint, or fixtures. They often have access to wholesale or clearance items that are much cheaper than store-bought supplies. If your flooring contractor knows you're doing some of the work yourself, they may be more willing to help you save on paint.

Step 2 – Demolition

Demolition might seem like the fun part of a renovation, but it needs to be approached carefully. Start by turning off the water and electricity to the room. Make sure you know exactly what you’re keeping and what you’re removing to avoid damaging anything you still need. If you're taking off wall tiles, be cautious not to damage the pipes behind them. When removing a sink or toilet, don’t smash them before taking them out—they’ll create a huge mess. Take things one piece at a time to save time and effort.

PRO TIP: If you're considering refinishing your tile or countertops instead of replacing them, you can skip the demolition altogether. Professional refinishing can give your surfaces a brand-new look without the hassle of tearing everything out. This option saves both time and money.

Step 3 – Plumbing Adjustments

If you're moving any fixtures around, such as a sink, toilet, or shower, you'll need to adjust the plumbing. This is a job best left to a professional plumber. Tell them where each component will go, and they can make the necessary changes. It's also a good time to replace old pipes if needed.

PRO TIP: If your current layout works well, try to find new fixtures that fit your existing plumbing. While not always possible, this can save you the cost of hiring an additional professional.

Step 4 – Tub or Shower Replacement (If Applicable)

If you removed your old bathtub or shower pan during the renovation, this is when you install the new one. At first glance, it might seem simple, but there are many small adjustments you may not expect. Your new fixture might not match the size or shape of the old one, so you may need to adjust the flooring, wall studs, or other elements. Hiring professionals can make this process much smoother.

PRO TIP: If your bathtub or shower pan is still in good condition, consider having it refinished instead of replaced. This can save you a lot of time and money. Refinishers can fill in cracks, smooth out dents, and re-caulk around the edges, giving your tub a fresh, new look at a fraction of the cost.

Step 5 – Flooring

This is when your new bathroom really starts to come together. If you're refinishing your tile, this step will overlap with the next. If you're installing new floor tile, the tiles will be placed on the subfloor with spacers to allow for grout. Let the tiles sit for 24 hours before applying the grout, and then let the grout dry for another 24 hours before cleaning.

PRO TIP: For smaller bathrooms, check your local Habitat for Humanity Restore for used tile. While they may not have large quantities of matching pieces, you might find enough to cover a small area at a much lower price.

Step 6 – Wall Tile and Tub Refinishing

You may be able to install your wall and floor tile at the same time, depending on your bathroom setup. If you're refinishing your tile and tub, this will all be done in one go. Installing wall tile is similar to floor tile—let the tiles set for 24 hours, then apply the grout and wait another 24 hours before cleaning. After this, your bathroom will look completely new.

PRO TIP: To save on wall tile, use an inexpensive option for most of the area and add a decorative accent tile in a strip. This gives a custom look without the high cost. Refinishing your tile instead of replacing it is also a great money-saver. No messy demolition, and you can change the color and finish for a fresh, new look. Plus, refinishing seals the grout lines and prevents mold and mildew buildup.

Step 7 – Walls and Paint

If you removed tile from your walls, you may need to replace damaged drywall. Cement board or backerboard is ideal for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Once the surface is dry, you can paint it or re-tile it in your preferred color.

Choose a semi-gloss paint for easy cleaning later on.

PRO TIP: Check with local paint stores about miss-tinted semi-gloss paint. These are cans returned because the color was wrong, but they're sold at a big discount—sometimes as low as $3 per can. If they have a color you like, they may be able to match it exactly.

Step 8 – Lighting and Vanity Installation

New vanity lights can modernize your bathroom. Some models can be installed without an electrician, but if your home is older, you may need a professional to install the proper outlet box. If your wiring is already up to date, turn off the power and follow the installation instructions.

Replacing your vanity and sink is another common upgrade. You may need a few extra plumbing parts to connect the new fixture, but this usually doesn’t cost much. Make sure your new vanity is securely mounted to the wall for safety.

PRO TIP: Look for new lighting fixtures at thrift stores or home improvement resale shops. You can often find items still in the box at a fraction of retail price. Sinks and vanities can also be refinished, just like tubs and tile, in a variety of colors and patterns.

Step 9 – Faucet Installation

If you’ve got a new faucet and sink drain, install them when setting up your vanity. You can also update knobs and other features in your shower or bathtub area. Choose coordinating finishes across all faucets to keep your bathroom looking cohesive.

Step 10 – Baseboards, Door Trim, and Touchup Paint

The final steps in a bathroom renovation include installing baseboards and door trim. You can paint them before or after installation. Use touchup paint to cover any scratches or damage from earlier steps, and your bathroom will be nearly complete!

PRO TIP: If you don’t have a miter saw to cut trim at a 45-degree angle, use decorative corner pieces instead. This adds character and costs very little in a small bathroom.

Step 11 – Accessories

The last step in a bathroom renovation is adding the finishing touches: towel bars, rings, toilet paper holders, mirrors, shelves, and more. These are quick and easy to install. It’s a good idea to wait until everything else is in place before choosing your accessories, so you can see what looks best in your space. Then, enjoy your new, updated bathroom!

PRO TIP: Take your time shopping online for accessories. You can often find comparable items for a much lower price. For example, a basic set might cost $120, while a name-brand version could be over $688.

Call Maryland Tub and Tile at (410) 255-0323 for a free quote. We can transform your tub, tile, sink, and countertops — we make the bathroom remodeling process faster and more affordable!