Nine steps to a stress free bathroom remodel
When it comes to bathroom remodeling, proper planning is undoubtedly key to ensuring successful results. It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of such a project can vary greatly depending on the materials you choose to replace or install, and even the smallest of bathrooms can end up costing thousands of dollars. Therefore, it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, especially regarding the positioning of essential elements such as plumbing and wiring. By knowing the locations of the existing rough-in plumbing, you can work within these limits, which can help keep costs down. It’s also worth noting that investing in high-quality fixtures and materials can yield better long-term results, both in terms of durability and overall aesthetics. So be sure to plan carefully, consider your budget, and take the time to explore your options to ensure the best possible outcome for your bathroom remodel project.
Step 1- Demolition
Let’s get ready to rock and roll! Demolition time can be oh-so-much fun during your bathroom remodel, but remember to plan ahead or it could turn into a disaster. Safety first! Don’t forget to shut off the electricity and water supply to all the features you’ll be removing. You don’t want to cause yourself any unnecessary headaches down the line.
While you’re tearing down those finishes on the walls, be sure to watch out for any piping or wiring underneath. Ready for a treasure hunt? Check for any mold, mildew or water damage and get rid of all the old accessories. It will feel like a brand new bathroom by the time you’re done!
Step 2- Plumbing
To replace your shower valves and water lines, you’ll need to expose all the plumbing in your bathroom first. Once that’s done, you can install dual shower heads or diverter shower controls for your handheld head. If you’re adding another sink for a double vanity or combining vanities into one, make sure to modify the plumbing accordingly. Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of checking the drains.
Step 3- Electrical
Now that the walls are open, reworking the bathroom’s electrical wiring should be much easier and accessible than before.
An electrician can install or relocate more outlets now and light switches as well. This will help everything function much better alongside your new vanity.
An electrician can also add, replace or relocate items like exhaust fans and light fixtures.
Step 4- Don't forget about blocking
Before you cover up the walls, add blocking between wall studs to provide additional support for grab bars, shelves, curtain rods and mirrors.
Having solid material for securing these safety features at the tub, shower stall, and toilet can help reduce the risk of bathroom accidents.
Step 5- Cover it all up
Now that the plumbing, electrical and blocking is done make sure you have insulation in any exterior walls, and if you choose to use a sound proofing material like rockwool in the other walls now is the time to put it in.
Hang moisture resistant drywall outside the shower and use a backer that the manufacturer of the shower recommends inside the shower.
Drywall
Typically drywall is finished with a smooth finish. Textured walls and popcorn ceilings that were once new, exciting and in-demand are not really trendy anymore.
We recommend using premixed drywall mud as opposed to mixing fast dry mud. Good drywall work can’t be rushed.
Paint
Satin finishes using high quality paint are quite resistant to the moisture present in the bathroom. We recommend finishing the paint job before you get the tile, vanity, sink, bathtub, and toilet installed. Touch it up if needed later!
Shower
The crown Jewel of the Bathroom!
A new aqualock shower system with a low profile curb, coordinated accessories and a set of luxurious modern shower doors to awe your visitors with.
Step 6- Flooring
Now that the shower is in place and the walls are finished it’s time to install flooring.
The first step to flooring is thoroughly clean the floor by sweeping and vacuming the floor.
It’s a good idea to let the dust settle and repeat this step before installing flooring.
With a variety of options available for flooring, you can find something that fits your style with maintenance and cleaning requirements that fit your preferences.
Step 7- Electrical Finish
Finishing the electric by installing the new lighting fixtures and switches will really help the bathroom begin to take on a finished look.
You can finish the electric before installing flooring if you want, but you’ll want to make sure to complete the electrical work before installing the plumbing fixtures.
Step 8- Plumbing Finish
Almost to the finish line now!
Install the vanity and toilet, connect the sink faucets, check for leaks and voila, you have a new bathroom remodeling project.
Step 9-Punchout
Punchout……..
Punchout is just a construction term for a final checklist. For this phase simply touch up any paint, caulking, sealants or grout. Install door handles, accessories and shoe molding.
Put the finishing touches on the work, clean the bathroom remodeling project thoroughly, and then you’re ready to show off your new updated bathroom!
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