As you near the finish line of the project, make sure not to rush this step.
“A bad bathroom paint job at the end of the project can make a beautiful space look cheap,” Dankman says.
Step 9: Put in shower or bathtub
Now’s the time you put in that fancy clawfoot tub or modern-looking shower unit.
“If you don’t have small kids, a dog, or don’t enjoy baths, then I would say a shower is more convenient,” Dankman says. “However, if you only have one bathroom in you home, then it should be a tub, this way if you ever sell to a family with small kids, it will be a plus.”
Step 10: Install toilet, vanity, or countertop and sink
We’ve come to the crowning achievement of any bathroom renovation: the throne. Along with the toilet, this is also when you can install the vanity, countertop, and sink. Once those are in, it’s safe to put in any backsplash.
Step 11: Install light fixtures, medicine cabinet, mirrors, storage, etc.
The last step of a DIY bathroom remodel are all of the finishing, cosmetic touches. This includes things like light fixtures, mirrors, the medicine cabinet, bathroom storage, and other bathroom accessories. “I like to have both overhead lighting for general purpose and a second vanity light over the mirror for close up things like makeup and shaving,” Dankman adds.
Is it better to hire professionals or DIY a bathroom renovation?
Bathroom remodels are among the most complicated home improvement projects, since they require so much technical know-how. “No two jobs I have done in the last 25 years have ever been the same,” Carrino says. “Planning a project like this is not a paint-by-number process.” If you’re skilled with building, plumbing, and electric work, it may be doable to accomplish the task on your own.
However, if you don’t have these skills, a professional could make a big difference. For those that want to be involved in the process, you could hire professionals for the framing, plumbing, and electrical work, then DIY things like painting and tile installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people you do need for a DIY bathroom renovation?
If you can get help, that’s great, but remember that bathrooms tend to get cramped fast, and you’re only going to be able to have a couple people work effectively in there.
“Just two is enough but sometimes one or three,” Dankman says. “Since it’s a small space, more than three and it gets crowded.”
What are the current bathroom renovation project trends?
“It a wide spectrum, but we see a lot transitional style bathrooms in town houses and brownstones, and the newer high-rises tend to be modern European style,” Dankman says. “Brass finish is back in full force.”
“Trends come and trends go—design to your personal taste and style and you will be much happier in the long run,” Carrino says. “That said, from a product standpoint, I love heated floors in the bathroom and a heated towel rack—not only is it nice to have a warm towel, but your towel dries much faster and never gets that musty smell.”
Which upgrades add the most value to a small bathroom?
If your bathroom doesn’t need a full refresh, consider making just cosmetic upgrades.
“Just changing the finishes and leaving the plumbing and electric work (things behind the walls) where they are is the easiest and least expensive way to upgrade a bathroom,” Dankman says. “So change the vanity, toilet, medicine cabinet, shower valve trim and head (if needed), light fixtures, and, if possible, the tiles.
What tools do I need for a bathroom remodel?
Experts say you’ll need a full tool box if you plan to take on a DIY remodel.
“Just about every tool is needed,” Dankman says. “Materials range from wood or metal framing to repair walls, ceilings and floors, plywood and other sheet goods like drywall and cement to cover the floor, walls and ceilings. Thin-set mortars for tiling, waterproofing membranes, electrical and plumbing parts, of course. So many, I can’t list them all.”
