What’s the Best Order to Renovate a Bathroom in? Experts Weigh in
Embarking on a bathroom renovation can be quite the undertaking, but tackling it in the right order can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s what experts suggest is the optimal sequence for renovating a bathroom:
Design and Planning: Before any physical work begins, determine what you want your renewed space to look like. Get inspiration, establish your budget, and draw up a clear plan.
Hiring Professionals: Once plans are solidified, hire contractors, plumbers, electricians, and any other professionals needed. It’s important to do this early as their schedules can dictate the pace of your project.
Demolition: After clearing out old fixtures and unwanted elements, demolition takes place. It’s often messy work that should be completed before installing anything new.
Plumbing and Electrical Rough-In: New wiring for lights or outlets and the rough-in plumbing for sinks, showers, or tubs should be carried out once the space is open.
Framing and Reinforcement: If you’re changing the layout or adding new fixtures that need support, ensure that walls are framed properly and reinforcement is added for heavy items like bathtubs.
Insulation and Drywall: Install insulation where needed before putting up drywall. This stage gives a clear picture of how the room will shape up.
Painting: Painting should be done before installing tiles and fixtures to avoid drips or splatters that could mar new installations.
Tiling and Flooring: Depending on design choices, floor tiling might come before wall tiles. Experts recommend waterproofing measures where necessary before laying tile.
Cabinetry and Fixtures: Once flooring is down, install cabinets, toilet fixtures, showers, tubs – essentially all larger components.
Electrical and Plumbing Finish Work: Bring in electricians and plumbers to add finishing touches like lighting fixtures, switches, sinks, faucets – anything that requires a professional hand.
Final Touches: Lastly, add accessories such as mirrors, shower curtains, hooks, and any decorative items to bring your new bathroom to life.
Renovating in this order streamlines operations by making sure earlier tasks do not interfere with those that follow. Yet it’s always vital to consult with professional renovators since variations might stem from unique designs or structural considerations inherent to your specific bathroom remodel project.