Complete Guide to Planning Your Bathroom Remodel

Why Bathroom Remodeling Deserves Careful Planning

Your bathroom is one of the most-used rooms in your home, yet it's often the most outdated. A well-executed bathroom remodel enhances your daily routine, increases home value, and transforms a purely functional space into a personal retreat.

Bathroom renovations are complex projects involving plumbing, electrical, waterproofing, ventilation, and precise measurements—all in a relatively small footprint. At Peter Playdon Construction, we believe thorough planning is the foundation of successful bathroom remodeling. This guide walks you through every critical decision you'll face.

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Scope

Before selecting fixtures or choosing tile, clearly identify what you want to achieve with your bathroom remodel.

Common Bathroom Remodeling Goals

Remodel Scope Options

Cosmetic Refresh: Replace fixtures, resurface vanity, new paint, updated lighting, hardware, and accessories. Plumbing and layout stay the same. Budget: $3,000-$8,000. Timeline: 1-2 weeks.

Pull and Replace: Remove and replace all fixtures, flooring, vanity, toilet, shower/tub. Some tile work. Plumbing locations unchanged. Budget: $8,000-$20,000. Timeline: 2-3 weeks.

Full Renovation: Complete gut to studs. Move plumbing fixtures, relocate walls, upgrade electrical, new everything. Transform the space. Budget: $20,000-$40,000+. Timeline: 4-8 weeks.

Master Suite Addition: Expand existing space or create entirely new bathroom. Structural changes, new plumbing runs, luxury features. Budget: $40,000-$75,000+. Timeline: 8-12 weeks.

Key Questions to Consider

• Who uses this bathroom? Primary bath, kids' bath, guest bath, or powder room? Usage affects design priorities.
• What are your biggest frustrations? Insufficient storage, poor lighting, outdated style, cramped shower, lack of counter space?
• How long do you plan to stay in your home? Influences whether you design for personal taste or broader resale appeal.
• Do you need better accessibility? Consider current and future mobility needs for aging in place.
• What's your shower vs. tub preference? Many homeowners eliminate tubs for larger showers, but homes with children often need at least one tub.

Step 2: Establish Your Budget

Bathroom remodeling costs vary dramatically based on size, scope, fixture quality, and whether you're moving plumbing. Understanding typical costs helps you make informed decisions.

Bathroom Remodel Budget Ranges

Budget Breakdown (Typical Full Bath Renovation)

• Labor and Installation: 40-50% of total budget
• Fixtures (toilet, sink, tub/shower): 15-20%
• Cabinetry and Vanity: 10-15%
• Tile and Countertops: 10-15%
• Lighting and Electrical: 5-8%
• Plumbing Materials: 5-7%
• Flooring: 3-5%
• Paint and Finishes: 2-3%
• Accessories and Hardware: 2-3%
• Contingency: 10-20% for unexpected issues

Cost Factors That Increase Budget

• Moving Plumbing: Relocating drains and supply lines adds $1,500-$5,000+ per fixture moved
• Structural Changes: Moving or removing walls requires engineering, permits, and significant labor
• Expanding Space: Borrowing from adjacent rooms or bumping out requires framing, possibly foundation work
• Radiant Floor Heating: Electric radiant adds $10-$20 per square foot, hydronic costs more
• Luxury Shower Features: Steam systems, body sprays, rain heads, digital controls add $2,000-$10,000+
• High-End Materials: Natural stone, custom tile work, imported fixtures significantly increase costs
• Accessibility Features: Walk-in tub, curbless shower, grab bars, wider doorways add specialized costs

Step 3: Plan Your Layout

Bathroom layouts must balance aesthetics with strict plumbing requirements, building codes, and spatial constraints. Smart layout planning maximizes functionality in limited square footage.

Standard Bathroom Layouts

Single-Wall Layout: All fixtures along one wall. Compact and budget-friendly since plumbing is concentrated. Works well for powder rooms or narrow spaces. Minimum dimensions: 5' x 8'.

Corridor/Galley Layout: Fixtures on two parallel walls create efficient corridor. Vanity on one side, toilet and tub/shower on the other. Common in older homes. Minimum dimensions: 5' x 9'.

L-Shaped Layout: Fixtures arranged along two perpendicular walls. Opens up floor space and provides good work triangle. Minimum dimensions: 6' x 8'.

Compartmentalized Layout: Separates toilet/shower from vanity area. Allows multiple users simultaneously. Excellent for family bathrooms. Requires larger footprint.

Open Master Layout: Large bathroom with distinct zones—shower, tub, dual vanities, separate toilet room. Luxurious and functional. Typically 100+ square feet.

Critical Code Requirements and Clearances

Should You Move Plumbing?

Keeping plumbing fixtures in their current locations saves significant money but may limit design possibilities. Consider moving plumbing if:

• Current layout is dysfunctional and better arrangement dramatically improves use
• You're doing major structural work anyway (moving walls, expanding space)
• You want to change from tub to walk-in shower and need different drain location
• Current fixtures are poorly positioned relative to modern standards

Keep plumbing in place if:

• Budget is limited and current layout is adequate
• Moving plumbing requires cutting floor joists or major structural modifications
• Home is on slab foundation (very expensive to move plumbing in concrete)
• Current arrangement is logical and functional

Step 4: Select Your Tub and Shower

The tub and shower represent a major portion of your bathroom budget and define much of its character. This decision affects daily use, resale value, and space allocation.

Shower vs. Tub Considerations

Keep a Tub If:

• You have young children who need bathing
• This is the only bathroom in your home
• You personally enjoy soaking baths
• You're concerned about resale value (most buyers prefer at least one tub)
• You have pets that need bathing

Replace Tub with Shower If:

• You never use the tub
• You have multiple bathrooms with at least one tub elsewhere
• You need more shower space than current tub/shower combo provides
• You want to maximize accessibility with a walk-in or curbless shower
• You're creating a luxury master bath with separate tub and shower

Tub Options

Alcove Tub: Most common—fits into a three-walled enclosure. Standard 60" length. Budget-friendly and space-efficient. Fiberglass, acrylic, or cast iron available. Cost: $300-$1,500 for tub, plus installation.

Drop-In Tub: Installed into a built-up platform or deck. More design flexibility. Requires deck framing and finish work. Cost: $500-$2,500 for tub, plus deck construction.

Freestanding Tub: Dramatic focal point that stands alone. Requires floor-mounted or wall-mounted faucet. Modern or vintage styles available. Cost: $1,000-$5,000+ for tub, plus specialized plumbing.

Soaking Tub: Deeper than standard (22-24" vs. 14-16" water depth). Allows full-body immersion. Available in various styles. Cost: $800-$4,000+.

Whirlpool/Air Tub: Jets provide massage action. Requires dedicated electrical circuit. More maintenance than standard tubs. Jetted tubs have fallen out of favor somewhat. Cost: $1,500-$5,000+.

Walk-In Tub: Accessible option for seniors or those with mobility issues. Door opens for easy entry. Must wait for tub to fill before soaking. Cost: $3,000-$10,000+.

Shower Options

Prefab Shower Unit: Single-piece or multi-piece fiberglass or acrylic unit. Most affordable and easiest to install. Limited design options. Standard sizes 32"x32", 36"x36", or 48"x34". Cost: $400-$1,200 installed.

Tiled Shower: Completely custom size and design. Tile on cement board or mud bed. Infinite design possibilities. Requires skilled tile installation and proper waterproofing. Cost: $2,000-$8,000+ depending on size and tile selection.

Walk-In Shower: Curbless or low-threshold entry for accessibility. Requires careful floor pitch for drainage. Modern and luxurious. Cost: $3,000-$10,000+.

Steam Shower: Enclosed shower with steam generator. Creates spa experience at home. Requires ceiling height limitations, proper enclosure, and electrical. Cost: $4,000-$12,000+.

Glass Block Shower: Thick glass blocks create translucent walls. Provides light and privacy. Retro style making a comeback. Cost: $2,500-$6,000+.

Shower Features to Consider

Step 5: Choose Your Vanity and Sink

The vanity anchors your bathroom's style while providing essential storage and counter space. This choice significantly impacts both function and aesthetics.

Vanity Styles

Stock Vanity: Pre-made standard sizes (24", 30", 36", 48", 60", 72"). Ready to purchase at home centers. Limited styles but affordable. Typically includes basic countertop. Cost: $200-$800.

Semi-Custom Vanity: Made-to-order with more size options, door styles, and finishes. Better quality construction. 4-8 week lead time. Good balance of customization and value. Cost: $800-$2,500.

Custom Vanity: Built specifically for your space. Unlimited design options. Highest quality. Can accommodate unusual dimensions or special features. Lead time 8-12 weeks. Cost: $2,000-$6,000+.

Furniture Vanity: Converted furniture piece (dresser, buffet, antique cabinet). Unique character. Requires modification for plumbing. One-of-a-kind look. Cost varies widely based on furniture piece.

Floating Vanity: Wall-mounted without legs. Modern aesthetic and makes small bathrooms feel larger. Easier floor cleaning. Requires proper wall support. Cost: $400-$2,000+ depending on style.

Sink Types

Undermount Sink: Mounted below countertop for seamless look. Easy counter cleanup—debris wipes directly into sink. Works with stone, solid surface, or composite counters. Cannot use with laminate. Cost: $150-$600.

Vessel Sink: Sits on top of counter like a bowl. Dramatic design statement. Requires special faucet mounting. Can be uncomfortable height for some users. Cost: $100-$800.

Drop-In/Self-Rimming Sink: Rim sits on top of counter. Easy to install. Most affordable option. Rim collects debris and can look dated. Cost: $50-$300.

Integrated Sink: Sink and countertop are one seamless piece. Ultimate easy cleaning. Limited design options. Available in solid surface, quartz, or cast concrete. Cost: $500-$2,000.

Pedestal Sink: Classic look with exposed plumbing. No storage. Good for powder rooms or small spaces. Saves floor space. Cost: $150-$800.

Wall-Mount Sink: Attaches directly to wall with no vanity. Very minimal. Easy floor cleaning. No storage. Good for modern or very small bathrooms. Cost: $150-$600.

Vanity Sizing Guidelines

• Powder Room: 18-24" wide vanity. Minimal counter space needed.
• Guest Bath: 24-36" wide vanity. Adequate counter and storage for guests.
• Primary Bath (Single Sink): 36-48" wide vanity. Comfortable counter space for daily routine.
• Primary Bath (Double Sink): 60-72" wide minimum. Each person needs 30-36" of vanity width.

Countertop Materials

• Quartz: Most popular choice. Durable, non-porous, low maintenance. Wide variety of colors and patterns. Cost: $60-$150 per square foot installed.
• Granite: Natural stone with unique patterns. Requires periodic sealing. Heat and scratch-resistant. Cost: $50-$150 per square foot installed.
• Marble: Luxurious but requires high maintenance. Stains and etches easily in bathrooms. Best for low-use powder rooms. Cost: $75-$200 per square foot installed.
• Solid Surface: Corian and similar products. Repairable, seamless sinks, but can scratch. Cost: $40-$80 per square foot installed.
• Laminate: Most affordable option. Looks better than ever but still not as durable. Good for budget remodels. Cost: $20-$40 per square foot installed.
• Concrete: Custom, artisan look. Can be stained or polished. Requires sealing. Cost: $75-$150 per square foot installed.

Step 6: Select Tile and Flooring

Tile decisions affect both aesthetics and functionality. Bathrooms require moisture-resistant, slip-resistant materials that can withstand daily use.

Floor Tile Options

Ceramic Tile: Most affordable, water-resistant, available in countless styles. Softer than porcelain, may chip easier. Good for moderate traffic. Cost: $3-$8 per square foot installed.

Porcelain Tile: Harder and denser than ceramic. Superior water resistance and durability. More expensive but worth it for floors. Can mimic wood, stone, or any design. Cost: $5-$15 per square foot installed.

Natural Stone (Marble, Travertine, Slate): Elegant natural beauty. Each piece unique. Requires sealing and more maintenance. Can be slippery when wet—choose honed or textured finishes. Cost: $10-$30 per square foot installed.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Waterproof, affordable, comfortable underfoot. Realistic wood appearance. Easy DIY installation. Great for busy family bathrooms. Cost: $3-$8 per square foot installed.

Heated Floor Tile: Electric radiant heating under tile floor. Warm and luxurious. Adds $10-$20 per square foot to tile installation but worth every penny in cold climates.

Shower and Tub Surround Tile

Subway Tile: Classic 3"x6" rectangular tile. Timeless appeal. Affordable and versatile. Can create different looks based on layout (running bond, herringbone, vertical stack, etc.). Cost: $8-$15 per square foot installed.

Large Format Tile: 12"x24" or larger tiles. Fewer grout lines mean easier cleaning and more modern look. Requires perfectly flat substrate. Cost: $10-$20 per square foot installed.

Mosaic Tile: Small tiles (typically 2" or less) on mesh backing. Adds texture and visual interest. Great for accent walls or borders. More grout to maintain. Cost: $12-$25 per square foot installed.

Natural Stone: Marble, slate, travertine create spa-like elegance. Requires sealing, especially in showers. More maintenance than porcelain. Cost: $15-$40 per square foot installed.

Glass Tile: Reflects light beautifully. Available in many colors. Often used as accents. Can be slippery in showers. Cost: $15-$30 per square foot installed.

Patterned/Encaustic Tile: Bold patterns add personality. Can be overwhelming if overused. Excellent for accent walls. Cost: $15-$35 per square foot installed.

Design Tips for Tile

• Take tile to ceiling in showers for easier cleaning and more luxurious look
• Continue floor tile up shower curb for cohesive appearance
• Use matching tile for shower floor and bathroom floor for unified design
• Light-colored grout shows less dirt in showers; darker grout can look more intentional on floors
• Choose slip-resistant tile for shower floors—smaller tiles provide more grout lines for traction
• Plan tile layout carefully around windows, niches, and fixtures to avoid awkward cuts

Step 7: Select Your Toilet

While often overlooked in planning, your toilet selection impacts comfort, water usage, and cleaning ease. Modern toilets offer surprising variety.

Toilet Types

Two-Piece Toilet: Separate tank and bowl. Most common and affordable. Standard height (15") or comfort height (17-19"). Many styles available. Easy to replace parts. Cost: $150-$500.

One-Piece Toilet: Tank and bowl integrated. Sleeker appearance, easier to clean (no crevice between tank and bowl). More expensive. Cost: $300-$800.

Wall-Hung Toilet: Bowl mounts to wall, tank concealed in wall. Modern European look. Saves floor space, easier cleaning. Requires in-wall carrier system. More expensive installation. Cost: $400-$1,200 for toilet, plus $400-$800 for carrier installation.

Comfort Height Toilet: 17-19" seat height (vs. standard 15"). Easier for tall adults and those with mobility issues to sit and stand. Now preferred by most people. Cost: similar to standard height.

Smart Toilet: Bidet functionality, heated seat, night light, automatic open/close, air dryer, deodorizer. Luxury feature increasingly popular. Requires electrical outlet near toilet. Cost: $1,500-$5,000+.

Flushing Technology

• Gravity-Feed: Traditional system using water weight to create flush. Reliable and quiet. Good for most homes.
• Pressure-Assisted: Uses air pressure for more powerful flush. Noisier but clears bowl better. Good for high-traffic bathrooms.
• Dual-Flush: Two buttons—light flush for liquid waste (0.8-1.0 gallons), full flush for solids (1.6 gallons). Water-saving option.
• WaterSense Certified: EPA certification for toilets using 1.28 gallons per flush or less while maintaining performance. Saves water and money.

Important Features

• Round vs. Elongated Bowl: Elongated bowls are 2" longer, more comfortable for adults but require more space. Round bowls save space in small bathrooms.
• Soft-Close Seat: Prevents slamming. Quiet operation. Available on most mid-range and up toilets.
• Easy-Clean Coating: Glazes like Cefiontect or EverClean reduce bacteria growth and make cleaning easier.
• Concealed Trapway: Smooth exterior without exposed curves. Much easier to clean around.

Step 8: Plan Lighting and Ventilation

Proper lighting and ventilation are essential for bathroom functionality, safety, and preventing moisture damage.

Lighting Layers

Ambient Lighting: General illumination for the entire bathroom. Recessed ceiling lights, flush-mount or semi-flush fixtures, or combination with exhaust fan. Should provide even, shadow-free light. Use 75-100 watts equivalent per 100 square feet.

Task Lighting: Focused light for grooming at mirror. Most important lighting in bathroom. Ideal placement is vertical fixtures on each side of mirror at eye level (60-70" off floor). Alternatively, horizontal fixture above mirror. Use 75-100 watts equivalent per fixture. LED bulbs at 3000-3500K color temperature provide best skin tones.

Accent Lighting: Creates ambiance and highlights features. Recessed lights above tub, LED strips under floating vanity, illuminated mirror, or decorative chandelier. Dimmable controls allow mood adjustment.

Lighting Fixtures by Location

• Vanity Lighting: Sconces flanking mirror provide best, most even facial lighting. 36-40 inches apart for single sink, one per sink for double vanity. Alternative: linear fixture above mirror, minimum 24 inches long.
• Shower Lighting: Requires damp or wet-rated fixtures. Recessed shower trims or surface-mount fixtures rated for wet locations. Never use regular fixtures in showers.
• Tub Lighting: Recessed lights above tub or small chandelier if ceiling height allows. Dimmable for relaxing baths. Must be properly rated for location above tub.
• General Lighting: Recessed cans (4-6 inches) spaced 4-6 feet apart. Or combination fan/light fixtures. LED bulbs recommended for efficiency.

Ventilation Requirements

Proper ventilation prevents mold, mildew, peeling paint, and moisture damage. Building codes require either an operable window or mechanical ventilation.

Exhaust Fan Sizing: Minimum 50 CFM (cubic feet per minute) for bathrooms up to 100 square feet. Add 10 CFM per additional square foot. If toilet is in separate room, it needs its own 50 CFM fan.

Fan Quality Matters: Look for quiet operation (1.0 sones or less), ENERGY STAR certification, and adequate CFM. Panasonic WhisperCeiling, Broan Ultra Series, and Delta Breez are quality brands. Don't skimp—good fan costs $100-$300 but lasts decades.

Additional Features: Combination fan/light fixtures save ceiling space. Some include humidity sensors that turn on automatically. Night lights and Bluetooth speakers available in premium models.

Step 9: Select Fixtures and Finishes

The fixtures and hardware you choose complete your bathroom's look and tie everything together.

Faucet Styles

Widespread Faucet: Three separate pieces—two handles and spout. Requires three holes in counter. Classic, elegant appearance. Typically 8-inch spread. Cost: $150-$600.

Centerset Faucet: Single base with both handles and spout mounted together. Requires three holes or can use single-hole with deck plate. Most common for standard vanities. Compact design. Cost: $100-$400.

Single-Hole Faucet: Single-handle control, requires one hole. Modern and minimalist. Easy single-hand operation. Cost: $100-$500.

Wall-Mount Faucet: Mounted on wall above vessel or trough sink. Dramatic modern look. Plumbing must be positioned correctly in wall. Cost: $200-$800.

Touchless Faucet: Sensor activation. Hygienic and water-saving. Requires electrical connection or batteries. Good for family bathrooms. Cost: $200-$500.

Popular Finish Options

• Chrome: Classic, affordable, easy to clean. Shows water spots. Pairs with any style.
• Brushed Nickel: Most popular finish. Hides water spots and fingerprints well. Warm appearance.
• Matte Black: Trending modern finish. Bold statement. Shows water spots and requires more cleaning.
• Brushed Gold/Champagne Bronze: Warm, elegant luxury. Higher price point. Statement finish.
• Oil-Rubbed Bronze: Dark brown with copper highlights. Traditional, old-world feel. Living finish that patinas.
• Polished Nickel: Silvery white with slight warmth. Between chrome and brushed nickel. Classic elegance.

Hardware and Accessories

Step 10: Understand the Timeline

Most bathroom remodels take 3-6 weeks, though extensive projects can require 8-10 weeks. Timeline varies based on scope and whether you're moving plumbing.

Living Without Your Bathroom

Your bathroom will be unusable during much of the renovation. Plan accordingly:

• Use another bathroom in your home for the duration
• Rent a portable toilet if renovating your only bathroom (seriously)
• Arrange to shower at a friend's house, gym, or relative's home
• Consider staying elsewhere during the most disruptive phases
• Keep the job site sealed off to minimize dust spreading
• Stock the temporary bathroom with extra supplies

Accessibility and Aging-in-Place Features

Including accessibility features during your remodel provides future-proofing and universal design benefits for all users.

Accessible Design Elements

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Selecting the right contractor is crucial for bathroom remodeling success. Ask these questions during interviews:

Common Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

• Inadequate Ventilation: Skimping on exhaust fan quality leads to mold, peeling paint, and moisture damage. Invest in a good fan and proper venting.
• Poor Lighting: Single overhead light creates shadows at the mirror. Invest in proper vanity lighting for functional use.
• Ignoring Storage: Not planning adequate storage leaves counters cluttered. Include medicine cabinets, vanity drawers, and recessed niches.
• Trendy Over Timeless: That bright turquoise tile might be in now but could date your bathroom quickly. Choose classic elements with personality in changeable items.
• Wrong Tile Size: Tiny tiles in a small bathroom feel busy. Large tiles make spaces feel bigger. Choose proportionate to space.
• Cheap Fixtures: Bargain faucets and showerheads often fail quickly. Invest in quality fixtures you'll use daily for years.
• Ignoring Waterproofing: Proper waterproofing behind tile is invisible but critical. Never skip this step—water damage is costly.
• Insufficient Electrical: Modern bathrooms need more outlets and proper GFCI protection. Plan for hair dryers, electric toothbrushes, and other devices.
• Forgetting Comfort Height Toilet: Most people prefer taller toilets. Once you've used one, standard height feels too low.
• Rushing Decisions: You'll live with these choices daily for years. Take time to make thoughtful decisions about layout, fixtures, and finishes.