Planning a renovation? Here's your ideal timeline and cost planner!

Planning a bathroom renovation can be exciting yet daunting. With so many details to consider, from layout to finishes, it’s essential to have a solid plan and timeline in place. Not only will a structured approach help ensure your bathroom transformation goes smoothly, but it can also keep costs and timelines under control. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the key stages of a bathroom renovation, along with a timeline to keep your project on track.

Step 1: Initial Planning and Budgeting (2-4 Weeks)

Key Actions:

• Define Your Vision: Consider what you want to achieve with your bathroom renovation. Are you looking for more functionality, a modern design, or luxury features? 
• Establish a Budget: Knowing your budget upfront is essential. Basic bathroom renovations can range from £2,000 to £15,000, while high-end renovations can exceed £30,000. Ensure your budget aligns with your goals.
• Research and Gather Inspiration: Use platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and interior design websites to collect ideas. Note down any specific styles, colours, and materials you’re drawn to. Our Pinterest and Instagram are overflowing with ideas, and pictures of other finished projects - so start there if you're stuck!
• Consult a Contractor: Meet with contractors to discuss your project, get rough estimates, and understand what’s feasible within your budget. Choose someone with a strong reputation and positive reviews. Check out our 'Questions to ask your tiler' post to help you make an informed decision on which contractor to go for!

Step 2: Design and Material Selection (2-3 Weeks)

Key Actions:

• Layout and Design Development: Work with a designer or your contractor to create a bathroom layout. Consider space-saving elements, accessibility, and features that enhance the flow of the room. 
• Choose Materials and Finishes: Now it’s time to choose everything from tiles and countertops to brassware and lighting fixtures. Choose durable materials that fit your aesthetic and budget. Think about colours that create a sense of space and calm. We would recommend to style the space with the rest of your home in mind and not get too caught up on trends. Otherwise the space will feel misaligned with the rest of your home and you may not like it after a while if you are not staying authentic to your style. Our in house experts are also interior design fanatics and will be able to help you with this. From choosing with tiles and sizes will work with your space, to helping you decide the finer details and fixtures. 

Step 3: Ordering Materials (2-6 Weeks, depending on shipping times)

Key Actions:

• Source Materials Early: Order your tiles, fixtures, cabinetry, and lighting as soon as the design is finalised. Some items, especially custom or imported pieces, may take weeks to arrive.
• Check Lead Times: Understand the delivery timelines for all materials. Some specialised or high-end items can take longer, so build flexibility into your schedule.
• Secure Storage Space: Once materials arrive, you may need temporary storage if the installation phase has not started. Keep items in a safe, dry area to avoid damage.

Step 4: Demolition and Preparation (1 Week)

Key Actions:

• Clearing the Space: This phase includes tearing out old fixtures, removing tiles, and addressing any outdated plumbing and electrical work.
• Inspect for Issues: After demolition, your contractor should inspect the area for issues like water damage, mould, or outdated wiring. If problems are discovered, adjustments may need to be made to the budget and timeline.
• Prep for New Fixtures: After demolition, the space should be cleaned and prepped to start installing plumbing and electrical work for the new design.

Step 5: Plumbing and Electrical Installation (1-2 Weeks)

Key Actions:

• Install New Plumbing and Electrical Work: Now, the rough-in work for plumbing and electrical elements begins. This includes running new pipes, installing lighting fixtures, and setting up any in-floor heating.
• Conduct Inspections: Ensure all plumbing and electrical work passes any required inspections before moving forward. This step is crucial to avoid future issues.

Step 6: Wall and Floor Installation (1-2 Weeks)

Key Actions:

• Plasterboard Installation: Install plasterboard, ensuring it is moisture-resistant. This provides a clean surface for painting or tiling.
• Waterproof/Tank your room: Make sure you or your installer tanks your area before they begin tiling. A new UK legislation has advised that all wet areas must be tanked and waterproofed before tiles are fit. If they are not - this may affect your insurance if any leaks occur! 
• Tile and Flooring: Floor and wall tiles come next, and the space begins to take shape. Choose grout and silicone colours that complement your tile choice for a seamless look. Our team will be able to assist with this. Making sure that the tiles you choose are perfect for you, the adhesive and grout supplied is the best quality, that the silicone matches the grout and the tile trim will be the perfect complement.

Step 7: Fixture Installation (1-2 Weeks)

Key Actions:

• Install Major Fixtures: Once the walls and floors are complete, major fixtures like the bath, shower, toilet, and vanity can be installed (if these were not installed beforehand). This is where your design vision starts to come to life.
• Add Accessories: Install additional features like mirrors, towel racks, and shelving. Adding accessories at this stage helps to avoid damage to the walls or fixtures during earlier stages.

Step 8: Final Touches and Inspection (1 Week)

Key Actions:

• Paint Touch-Ups and Cleaning: If you have tiled half-height in any area and painted above, this is when you will finish any minor painting touch-ups and do a thorough cleaning to remove dust and debris.
• Conduct a Final Walkthrough: Go through each detail with your contractor, ensuring everything is installed to your satisfaction and all aspects of the project are complete.
• Final Inspection and Approval: Make sure any local inspections have passed, confirming the work meets building codes.

Estimated Bathroom Renovation Timeline Recap

Planning a bathroom renovation involves multiple phases, each with unique challenges and timelines. With careful planning, clear communication with contractors, and a flexible approach, your bathroom remodel can stay on schedule and within budget. By following this guide, you’ll have a beautifully upgraded bathroom that adds value to your home and enhances your daily routine. If you have a project that must be finished earlier than the suggested time above, please do let us know and we will do everything we can to make sure your tiles are here and you are ready to go.

Ready to start planning your bathroom renovation? Contact us today for a consultation and let us help bring your vision to life!