How to plan a bathroom remodel.

There are two reasons that people choose to remodel a bathroom. The first reason is to improve the bathroom’s appearance. This is referred to as a surface remodel, as you are just replacing things to make it prettier. The second reason is to improve the bathroom’s functionality or repair damaged pipes and fixtures. The highest cost in remodeling bathrooms is the plumbing and the plumbing fixtures, and the second big cost is ceramic or marble tile.

The number one thing to consider, even if you are only doing a surface remodel, is to hire a professional plumber come to out and inspect the area you want to redo. A professional plumber will examine the opened-up floors and walls and check the existing pipes to see if any need replacing.

Sometimes, shortly after you finish a nice surface remodel, one of the pipes underneath gives way and starts leaking, and you realize that during the remodeling process you should have gone deeper to assess the condition of the plumbing before finishing the project.

The second thing to consider is how the room is laid out. Often, people will do a remodel and put things back in the exact same places where they were installed. St Paul Pipeworks recommends having a plumber come in early in the process to give you the basics on how much space each fixture requires to use comfortably and to make sure the dimensions are up to code.

The thing that’s most difficult to reposition is the toilet. The pipe that goes to the toilet is a larger pipe, and it has length limitations from the stack wood. Also, you have to verify whether you can make holes in the structural wood.

Bathroom Remodels Require Trade Professionals

When fully remodeling a bathroom, you generally need every trade professional that you would need for any other room in your house. The first person to start work is the general contractor or carpentry contractor, who will handle the main demolition. The plumber comes in next and does the rough-in work, including the pipework.

As part of the rough-in, the plumber sets the bathtub or walk-in shower base. Often the heating professional and electrician come in next. Once all that work is complete, the carpenter puts the insulation back in and pulls everything back together.

Toward the end of your project, the ceramic professional, painter, and other finish professionals will come to complete the tile and wall work. Usually, the plumber is the last subcontractor to come back to set all the final fixtures. Most people think that these jobs can go fairly quickly. Unfortunately, because you have so many contractors involved, scheduling and other delays can stretch out the job.

Bathroom Remodels Take Time

It is not unusual for a bathroom remodel project to take three to four weeks. Because you need so many trades and it’s usually a smaller room, it can be the most expensive room to remodel in your house.

The permitting and inspection requirements can also lengthen the process. Each of the licensed trades has a rough-in inspection, which means the inspector needs to come when the walls are still open so they can verify the work has been completed to code. Then, after all the walls are closed up, there is a finish inspection with each of the trades.

The hard part can be getting your city inspectors available and scheduling times for them to come out. Unfortunately, this can drag out the process if you need to leave your walls open for these inspectors to do their job.

If you are thinking about remodeling a bathroom in your home or are just looking for a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today

Yours truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager

FAQs

How long does a bathroom remodel typically take?

The duration of a bathroom remodel can vary depending on several factors, including the bathroom’s size, the project’s complexity, and any unforeseen issues that arise. Generally, a bathroom remodel can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to complete.

Will I be able to use my bathroom during the remodel?

While it’s possible to retain partial functionality of your bathroom during a remodel, there may be certain periods when the bathroom is temporarily unavailable. For instance, during major plumbing or fixture installations, you may need to make alternative arrangements. Your contractor will work with you to minimize any inconvenience and discuss the best approach to ensure you have access to bathroom facilities whenever possible.

How can I prepare for a bathroom remodel?

Before your bathroom remodel starts, it’s helpful to clear the space by removing any personal items, toiletries, and other belongings. It’s also advisable to discuss any specific preferences or requirements you have for the remodel with your contractor. Additionally, you may want to consider setting aside a budget for unexpected expenses that may arise during the remodeling process.

Do I need permits for a bathroom remodel?

The need for permits during a bathroom remodel can vary depending on the project’s scope and local regulations. Generally, if your remodel involves major structural changes, plumbing modifications, or electrical work, permits may be required. It’s essential to consult with your contractor and local authorities to determine which permits are required and ensure compliance with building codes.

How do I choose the right fixtures and materials for my bathroom remodel?

Selecting fixtures and materials for your bathroom remodel can be an exciting process. It’s recommended to consider factors such as your personal style, budget, durability, and functionality when making choices. Your contractor can provide guidance and suggestions based on their experience, and they may also direct you to suppliers or showrooms where you can explore various options to find the perfect fit for your remodel.