Bathroom Remodel Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

A typical bathroom remodel takes 3-6 weeks depending on size and scope. Here's the complete timeline with realistic expectations for each phase.

Timeline Overview

• Small bathroom refresh: 2-3 weeks
• Full bathroom remodel: 4-5 weeks
• Master bathroom renovation: 5-7 weeks
• Add-on: Moving plumbing/walls: +1-2 weeks

Week 1Demo & Rough-In

Days 1-2: Demolition

✓ Remove old fixtures (toilet, vanity, tub/shower)
✓ Tear out tile, flooring, and drywall as needed
✓ Haul away debris
✓ Your bathroom is now unusable

Noise level: HIGH | Dust: MODERATE (we use containment barriers)

Days 3-5: Rough-In Work

✓ Plumbing rough-in (move/add pipes, drains, water lines)
✓ Electrical rough-in (new outlets, GFCI, lighting circuits, exhaust fan)
✓ HVAC adjustments if needed
✓ Framing changes (if moving walls)
✓ City inspection #1: Rough-in inspection (required before covering walls)

Week 2Waterproofing & Tile Prep

Days 6-8: Waterproofing

✓ Install cement board or backer board on walls
✓ Apply waterproof membrane (RedGard, Kerdi, etc.)
✓ Build shower pan or install pre-fab base
✓ Install shower niche if included

⚠️ Critical step: Poor waterproofing = future mold and water damage

Days 9-10: Tile Layout & Prep

✓ Plan tile layout to minimize cuts and maximize symmetry
✓ Confirm all tile materials are on-site
✓ Begin floor tile installation

Week 3Tile Installation

Days 11-15: Tile Work

✓ Install wall tile in shower/tub area
✓ Install accent tile or decorative borders
✓ Complete floor tile installation
✓ Allow tile to cure (24-48 hours)
✓ Grout all tile surfaces
✓ Clean and seal grout

Timeline note: Complex patterns or custom mosaics add 2-3 days

The Waiting Game

Week 3 can feel slow because tile work is meticulous and requires drying time. This is normal! Rushing tile work leads to cracked tiles and failed grout.

Week 4Fixtures & Finishes

Days 16-18: Install Fixtures

✓ Install vanity and countertop
✓ Install toilet
✓ Install shower door or tub
✓ Install faucets and fixtures
✓ Install mirrors and medicine cabinets

Days 19-21: Paint & Final Details

✓ Paint walls and ceiling
✓ Install light fixtures
✓ Install towel bars, toilet paper holder, hooks
✓ Install exhaust fan cover
✓ Caulk all seams (tub, shower, vanity)

Week 5Final Inspection & Walkthrough

Days 22-25: Cleanup & Punch List

✓ Deep clean entire bathroom
✓ Remove all construction materials
✓ Touch up paint and caulk
✓ Test all fixtures and drains
✓ City inspection #2: Final inspection (required before occupancy)

Day 26: Final Walkthrough

✓ You review all work with contractor
✓ Create punch list for any small fixes
✓ Receive warranty information and care instructions
✓ Final payment & enjoy your new bathroom!

What Can Delay Your Project?

Permit Delays (2-3 weeks)

Major remodels require permits. We pull permits before starting to avoid delays.

Material Backorders (1-4 weeks)

Custom vanities, special-order tile, and fixtures can have long lead times. Order early!

Hidden Water Damage (+1-2 weeks)

Discovering rot or mold during demo requires additional remediation work.

Change Orders (+3-7 days each)

Changing your mind mid-project disrupts the schedule and increases costs.

Living Without a Bathroom: Survival Tips

🚿 Use a second bathroom: If you have one, designate it for the duration
🏋️ Get a gym membership: Shower there during the remodel
🚽 Portable toilet option: Some contractors can provide one for long projects
👨‍👩‍👧 Stay with family/friends: If remodeling your only bathroom, consider temporary relocation
📦 Store toiletries elsewhere: Keep daily items in a bin you can move between bathrooms

Britech Electric & Remodeling

Bathroom Remodel Timeline: Week by Week