Hey everyone! My spouse and I are first-time homeowners on a budget. We're planning to renovate our only bathroom ourselves, but since we both work, we need to tackle this project in steps so we never lose access to both a shower and a toilet for too long. Here's what we want to do: gut the shower/bathtub area (we might refinish the bathtub as it fits perfectly), install new tiles for the floor, and get a new bathroom sink, cabinet, and vanity. We're thinking of having someone handle the electrical work and install a ceiling vent/fan. Ideally, I want to know if I can renovate the shower before retiling the floor since the footprint won't change. Any advice on the order we should tackle these projects? Thanks in advance!
4 Answers
If your house has a basement, I highly recommend considering setting up a bathroom down there first. An upflush toilet can make a huge difference! It might be simpler and actually add value to your home, compared to doing everything in the current bathroom if that's the only one you have access to during the renovation. Even if you decide to stick with the bathroom reno now, prepare for days without a shower or toilet, especially under less-than-ideal conditions. Hang in there!
It sounds like an exciting project! While tackling everything DIY is doable, you have to be prepared for some potential hiccups. I recommend starting by demoing everything on day one, as it gives you a better idea of what you're working with. Just make sure to have a plan for bathroom access—maybe rent a porta-potty if things get messy! Once you've gutted the bathroom, focus on any plumbing or structural issues before you move on to the new installations. If you're planning on changing the flooring, usually that's done after the shower is set, but since your footprint will stay the same, you might get away with doing the shower first. Just be careful with access to your plumbing in between. Good luck!
I've been through a similar situation, and I'd caution you: it might take longer than you think! If you start with the tub/shower but plan to lay new tiles, make sure you can access everything afterward. Maybe tackle the shower renovation first, but consider leaving the floor tiling for last, so the shower's footprint doesn’t mess with your new tile. Just be aware—working on plumbing issues can get tricky, especially in older homes. And having another place to shower during the renovation is key.
To be honest, if this is your first renovation, I'd recommend bringing in a pro for at least part of it, like the plumbing or electrical! You can definitely do the bathroom renovation yourself, but it may take a lot longer since you're learning as you go. I did my first bathroom and it turned into a year-long project! Focus on the tub first, then walls, followed by flooring, while also being ready for any unexpected plumbing updates. Good luck, and remember to keep a backup plan for your bathroom needs during the process!
Great advice! Just make sure to keep an alternative bathroom option if the reno takes longer than expected. Can't wait to see how it turns out!