Renovating a Bathroom - What to Do First?

Budget Planning and Setting Goals

Start by figuring out what you truly want from your bathroom renovation. Are you hoping for a modern look, better everyday use, or maybe features that make it easier to get around for everyone? Defining your goals will guide your investment, whether it's directed towards stylish new fixtures, cozy heated flooring, or durable waterproof wall panels.

Once your goals are clear, set a realistic budget. Be honest with yourself about what you can actually afford. Always add a 10-15% buffer for unexpected costs (things like old pipes or hidden water damage behind walls are common surprises). For example, if you plan to spend $10,000, set aside an extra $1,000-$1,500. This buffer ensures you won't halt the project if something unexpected comes up. Your budget will then guide your choices, from the type of tiles you can buy to which contractors are a good fit for your project's scale.

Getting clear on your must-haves versus nice-to-haves keeps your budget on track and your renovation moving smoothly. One of the biggest things I wish I knew before remodeling a bathroom is how much easier everything becomes when you plan your priorities from the start.

Hiring a Contractor or Planning DIY

Once you've got your goals and budget in place, the big question is - are you doing this yourself, or bringing in a pro? I always tell homeowners this: just because you can swing a hammer doesn't mean you should, especially when it comes to plumbing, electrical, or waterproofing. Bathroom remodeling is one of the trickiest parts of the house to tackle solo.

DIY might seem like the cheaper route if you're trying to remodel a bathroom on a budget. But mistakes can get expensive fast. A small leak behind a wall can turn into major water damage. Know your limits - and if you're not 100% confident, it's worth hiring a contractor.

If you go the pro route, start by researching local contractors. Check reviews, ask for references, and make sure they're licensed and insured. Don't just go with the lowest bid — look for someone who communicates well and has solid experience with bathroom remodeling.

Also, contractors often book out weeks (sometimes months) in advance. So if you have a specific timeline in mind, ensure your contractor is available before you start ripping out tile. A little planning here saves a ton of stress later.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Bathroom Remodel

Whether you're going DIY or working with a contractor, picking the right materials is a massive part of bathroom remodeling success. I've seen homeowners fall in love with expensive tiles or trendy fixtures, only to find out later they're a nightmare to maintain or way over budget. When you remodel a bathroom with tile, for example, you want something durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean - not just something that looks good in a showroom.

Beautiful doesn't always mean high quality, and high-end doesn't always mean long-lasting. You want to look for materials that hit the sweet spot: good quality, affordable, and easy to replace if needed. Think porcelain tiles over natural stone - they're tough, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly. For plumbing fixtures, choose brands known for reliability, not just style.

If you have a tight renovation budget, there are plenty of smart ways to save. Shop during seasonal sales, check out overstock outlets, and consider mixing high-end accents with cost-effective basics. For instance, a statement tile in a small area (like a niche or backsplash) can elevate the whole space without breaking the bank.

Planning the Bathroom Layout and Design

Once the materials are sorted, it’s time to focus on design - and this is where a bathroom remodeling project really takes shape. Are you keeping the current setup or moving plumbing to create a better flow? Maybe you want to convert a tub into a walk-in shower or add double sinks. These changes can make a big difference, but they often require permits, especially if you’re altering plumbing or electrical layouts. Always check your local regulations before starting a demo.

This is also where a good designer (or design-build team) earns their keep. I always recommend working with professionals who offer end-to-end service, from initial concepts to final installation. It avoids miscommunication and finger-pointing between separate designers and contractors. Ask your designer:

• How do you ensure the design stays within budget?
• Can I see past projects that are similar in size and style?
• Who handles permits and inspections?

Be wary of vague answers or designers offering “concepts” without considering structural limits or costs. A beautiful render means nothing if it can’t be built.

If you’re trying to save, use free or affordable 3D planning tools to visualize the space. Big box stores and online platforms offer helpful tools that let you test styles and layouts before committing.

Demolition Phase - Clearing the Space

Now that your bathroom remodeling plans are in place and the design is squared away, it's time to get your hands dirty. The demolition phase is usually the first physical step in any bathroom renovation, and it's more than just swinging a sledgehammer.

In a demo phase, we remove old fixtures - the vanity, toilet, tub, or shower - pulling up tile, and sometimes tearing out drywall, especially if mold, water damage, or outdated plumbing is hidden behind it. If you're keeping the layout the same, the demo can be quicker. If you're moving things around, expect a full gut.

Here's what I tell every homeowner before starting demo:

• Shut off the water supply. You'd be surprised how often that step is missed.
• Cap off plumbing and electrical lines safely, or better yet, have a licensed pro do it.
• Protect the rest of the home. Dust will travel. Use zip walls or plastic sheeting to seal off the space.
• Rent a dumpster or arrange for waste pickup. Piles of tile and drywall stack up fast.
• Watch out for hidden issues like asbestos or old wiring, especially in homes built before the '90s.

And my recommendation for DIYers: don’t underestimate the demo. It’s not just about breaking things - it’s about doing it safely and smartly. Always wear heavy-duty gloves to protect against sharp tile edges and broken fixtures, goggles for flying debris, and a proper dust mask or respirator, not just a basic cloth one. You’d be surprised how much dust, mold spores, and even lead or asbestos particles can get stirred up, especially in older homes.

Before you take a crowbar to anything, check what’s behind the wall. I’ve seen homeowners bust through a wall only to find live electrical wires or active plumbing. Use a stud finder with a live wire sensor, or carefully cut inspection holes to peek inside before going full demo mode. Always turn off the power at the breaker box if you’re working near electrical outlets.

Plumbing Installation and Rough-Ins

Once the space is cleared, it's time to move into one of the most critical parts of any bathroom renovation: plumbing rough-ins. This stage sets the foundation for how your new bathroom will function behind the scenes. And trust me, if the plumbing's not done right from the start, you'll be dealing with expensive problems down the road.

Rough-ins involve installing the basic water supply lines and drain pipes for your shower, tub, toilet, and sink - all before walls and floors are closed up. If you're moving fixtures or changing the layout, this step becomes even more important. For example, relocating a toilet isn't as simple as shifting it a few feet. It may involve breaking into the slab or rerouting main waste lines.

This is where coordinating closely with your plumber is key. A good contractor will bring in licensed plumbers early to make sure everything is placed according to your design and meets local building codes. You want to be 100% sure that water flows properly, drainage is vented correctly, and everything is leak-tested before tile goes down or walls go back up.

Pro tip: If you're doing a bathroom renovation on a tight schedule, get your plumbing rough-ins scheduled right after the demo - delays here can stall your whole project. And always do a walkthrough with your plumber to double-check fixture locations before anything gets locked in.

Electrical and Lighting Setup

Just like with plumbing, electrical, and lighting, rough-ins need to happen early, before insulation and drywall go up. This phase includes running new wiring, installing or relocating outlets and switches, and prepping for all your lighting, from vanity lights to ceiling fixtures, and even in-floor heating if you’re adding that feature. If you’re doing a full bathroom remodeling job, it’s also a good time to upgrade your bathroom to a 20-amp circuit (a must-have for today’s high-powered hair dryers and heated mirrors).

Code compliance is non-negotiable here. Bathrooms are high-moisture areas, so GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets are required near sinks and tubs. Don’t cut corners - improperly installed electrical systems can lead to serious safety hazards. Always use a licensed electrician who understands bathroom-specific code requirements.

Now, let’s talk lighting. This is where you can elevate your design and improve daily function. I always recommend layered, energy-efficient LED lighting - a mix of overhead, task (around the mirror), and accent lighting (like toe-kick or shower niche LEDs). Not only do these LEDs last longer, but they also reduce energy bills and generate less heat, a bonus in small spaces.

Pro tip: Before your walls are sealed, do a full walk-through with your electrician and designer (if you have one). Double-check light placement and outlet locations to ensure they work for your daily routine. That small step can save you major headaches later.

Tiling Process and Wall Finishing

Tiling and wall finishing are visible and impactful stages of bathroom remodeling. Floor tiles usually go in first, followed by walls and the shower enclosure. Every surface in a bathroom needs to be prepared for moisture exposure, so before laying any tile, we make sure backer boards are installed properly, seams are sealed, and waterproofing membranes are applied, especially in wet zones like the shower and around the tub.

When choosing tiles, I always recommend porcelain or high-quality ceramic. They’re durable, low-maintenance, and water-resistant - perfect for a space that deals with constant humidity. For shower floors, smaller tiles with more grout lines offer better grip and drainage. Large-format tiles are great for walls - they look sleek and mean fewer grout lines to clean.

Now, don’t rush this part. Tiling isn’t a one-day job. Depending on the space and complexity, it can take several days to lay tile properly. Then comes curing - thinset and grout need time to fully set, usually 24 to 48 hours before you can move forward. Cutting corners here leads to cracked tiles and loose grout down the line.

Installing Bathroom Fixtures

We’re in the final stretch of your bathroom renovation - time to bring in the fixtures. This is where the room really comes to life. We’re talking about installing your sink, faucet, toilet, shower system, and any accessories like towel bars or shelving.

Now, some homeowners ask me, “Can I handle this part myself to save a little money?” And the answer is - sometimes. If you’re confident with tools and installing a simple toilet or hooking up a basic vanity faucet, it’s doable with the right guides. But for anything involving multiple water lines (like a shower panel or freestanding tub) or complex drainage setups, call a pro. I’ve seen too many DIY installs leak weeks later, causing damage that wipes out the savings.

Here’s another thing I stress: don’t skimp on fixture quality. I’ve replaced cheap faucets that failed in under two years. Stick with reliable brands that offer replacement parts and warranties. In bathroom remodeling, spending a little more here pays off long term.

Before closing out the project, we always test every fixture for leaks, proper drainage, hot/cold direction, and water pressure. A leaky connection or loose fitting might not show up right away, so it’s critical to run everything under normal use before declaring the job done.

Final Touches and Inspection

After the fixtures are in place and functioning properly, we move into the home stretch of your bathroom renovation — the finishing details. Final touches include painting the walls, sealing any exposed edges, installing mirrors, towel bars, hooks, and other accessories. Even simple upgrades like soft-close toilet seats or motion-sensor lighting can make a noticeable difference in daily use. If you're trying to remodel a bathroom on a budget, this is the phase where small, affordable upgrades can still make a big visual and functional impact.

Once everything's installed and cleaned up, I always recommend doing a final walkthrough and inspection - not just for looks, but for safety and code compliance. If you've had plumbing or electrical work done, local code inspectors may need to sign off. 

This is also the time for you, as the homeowner, to review the full remodel with your contractor. Ask questions. Make sure you understand how to maintain your new materials. A good contractor will walk you through the details - from care instructions to warranty info - so you feel confident the job was done right.

Wrapping Up

Bathroom remodeling is a step-by-step process that works best when you start with a solid plan. From setting a realistic budget and defining your goals, to hiring the right pros, handling demolition, plumbing, electrical work, and finishing with tile, fixtures, and final inspections, every phase plays a crucial role in the success of your project.

Begin with clear priorities and a vision that balances style with function. Choose quality materials that last, and always work with licensed professionals when it comes to plumbing and electrical.

Whether you’re aiming for a full transformation or trying to remodel a bathroom on a budget, thoughtful planning and the right team make all the difference.

Ready to begin your bathroom renovation? Contact a trusted local contractor today - and start building the bathroom you’ve been dreaming of.

FAQ

When remodeling a bathroom, what do you do first?

When remodeling a bathroom, the first thing you should do is define your goals — whether you're aiming for a modern look, better functionality, or improved accessibility. Once you're clear on what you need, set a realistic budget (with a 10-15% buffer for surprises) to guide your material and contractor choices from the very beginning.

When remodeling a bathroom, what should I pick first?

When remodeling a bathroom, start by picking the layout and key functional elements first, like where the toilet, shower, and sink will go. These choices impact plumbing and electrical plans, so they need to be finalized before any surface materials are selected. Think about how you move through the space daily and what changes would improve that flow. Once the layout is locked in, you can confidently move on to selecting materials and finishes that fit the plan.

What are the most common mistakes homeowners make during a bathroom renovation?

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make during a bathroom renovation is skipping the planning phase or jumping straight into picking materials without a clear layout or budget. Many also underestimate the cost of plumbing and electrical work, which can lead to budget overruns. Another big issue is choosing trendy or cheap materials that don't hold up well in high-moisture environments. Lastly, some try to DIY complex tasks without the right skills, resulting in costly fixes later.

How can I avoid unexpected costs when remodeling a bathroom?

To avoid unexpected costs during a bathroom remodel, always start with a thorough inspection of the existing plumbing, electrical, and subflooring, especially in older homes. Hire a professional to identify hidden issues like water damage, mold, or outdated wiring before you begin. Also, avoid changing the layout mid-project, as moving plumbing lines or fixtures on the fly is one of the fastest ways to blow your budget. Finally, get detailed, written quotes from contractors and clarify exactly what's included to prevent scope creep.