One of the most common questions we hear: "How long will my bathroom remodel take?" The answer depends on scope, but here's a detailed breakdown of a typical full bathroom renovation.
Before Construction Begins: 2-4 Weeks
Before the first hammer swings, there's important prep work:
- Week 1-2: Design finalization, material selections, permit application
- Week 3-4: Material ordering (some items have lead times), permit approval
Pro Tip
Order your vanity, tile, and fixtures early. Supply chain issues can delay projects by weeks if you wait until construction starts.
Week 1: Demolition and Rough-In
Days 1-2: Demolition
Existing fixtures, tile, vanity, and sometimes drywall are removed. This is the messiest phase. Dust barriers protect the rest of your home.
Days 3-5: Rough Plumbing and Electrical
If you're moving fixtures or adding features, the rough plumbing and electrical are modified. This work happens inside the walls before they're closed up.
Week 2: Infrastructure
Days 6-7: Inspection
City inspector verifies rough plumbing and electrical meet code.
Days 8-10: Drywall and Cement Board
New drywall is installed where needed. Cement board goes in wet areas (shower walls, tub surrounds) as a moisture-resistant tile substrate.
Week 3: Tile Work
Days 11-14: Tile Installation
Floor tile and shower/tub tile are installed. This phase takes longer for complex patterns or large format tiles. Each section needs time to set before grouting.
Day 15: Grouting
Grout is applied and must cure for 24-48 hours before getting wet.
Week 4: Finishing Touches
Days 16-17: Vanity and Countertop
Vanity is set, countertop installed, sink and faucet connected.
Days 18-19: Toilet, Fixtures, Accessories
Toilet installation, shower fixtures, towel bars, mirrors, lighting fixtures.
Day 20: Final Details and Cleaning
Caulking, touch-up paint, final adjustments, thorough cleaning.
Factors That Extend Timeline
- Custom tile work: Add 3-5 days for intricate patterns
- Structural changes: Moving walls adds 1-2 weeks
- Custom cabinetry: Lead times of 4-8 weeks
- Permit delays: Varies by jurisdiction
- Hidden damage: Rot or mold discovered during demo
At Cal Coast Construction, we provide detailed schedules at project start and communicate proactively about any changes. Most standard bathroom remodels complete in 3-4 weeks of active construction.