The challenge of updating an old, dated bathroom can be daunting to say the least. You may have many concerns when planning your dream space, our blog will provide you with some realistic timelines, budgets, and a detailed plan to alleviate the stress.

As with any remodeling project, the time it takes to renovate your bathroom depends entirely on the proposed scope of work. A very simple remodel or update might only take 3-5 days. However, a complex job can span 2 to 3 weeks depending on permitting, inspections and booking of certified trades. Having a qualified, experienced contractor explain the process step by step, and provide a detailed estimate will help your project to run more efficiently. Understanding the steps in which your remodel will undergo is very important, doing things incorrectly or in the wrong order will result in extra costs, and big delays in regards to permits and inspections. Always do your research first if your work requires a permit, in the end the liability will fall on the homeowner if work is conducted without a permit.

Here is the step by step process in remodeling your bathroom:

• Design/Approval/Permits
  – Consultation with your contractor, request proof of liability insurance, wcb clearance letter, and business license. After establishing your wants and needs for your project, a detailed drawing or CAD should be provided, explained and signed between both parties acknowledging the plans, product selections or allowances. This helps to alleviate any corners being cut and/or extra costs incurring to the homeowner. The contractor will collect a deposit depending on the agreed upon payment schedule, then pull appropriate permits if necessary.
• Demolition
  – Depending on the scope of the renovation, demolition will vary. Plumbers will come install shut off valves to any existing water lines that do not already have them, this then allows the contractor to remove old fixtures, shower valves and toilets. Tile, drywall, cabinets etc will then be removed. Often times the existing subfloors should be replaced as they will likely be damaged during floor tile removal. Keep this in mind when reviewing your estimate, as this may become a costly “extra”.
• Rough Carpentry
  – After demolition and site clean occur, the rough carpentry will begin. In most cases any new walls, or framing changes will occur prior to plumbing/electrical work. Ensure you have a drawing or plan signed between yourself and the contractor, this will give you a reference point during the rebuild procedure. Many homeowners feel lost during the rebuild process, feel free to ask as many questions as you have, a qualified contractor will be able to answer them and reduce your concerns!
• Plumbing/Electrical Rough-In
  – Once any framing/layout changes have been completed, a certified electrician and plumber will come and perform their scope of work. Often times in renovations to older properties, an updated GFCI receptacle and new exhaust fan are needed. This is another thing to make sure is included in your estimate, adding that the exhaust fan should be properly vented to the exterior of your home (not just popped into your attic space.) Any plumbing changes will be completed at this point, which often include opening up the subfloor for toilet flange placement and running of water lines/drains if shower spaces have changed. Request pictures of the building process from your contractor at each progress payment stage. This will ensure that all products are being installed as per the job specifications, as well as quality of installations.
• Rough-In Inspection
  – After all plumbing and electrical work has been completed, your contractor will call for rough in inspections. This should only take a couple days if things are properly scheduled and trades are organized ahead of time. Having competent, trusted tradesmen is a huge asset to General Contractors and trusting that their work will be performed on time, and up to code is a necessity.
• Rebuild/Finishing
  – After electrical and plumbing inspections pass (if applicable), the next step is drywall and tile backer/waterproofing. Tile installation, grout, finishing carpentry, paint, countertops, etc will occur in different order depending on the job specs. Prior to the final stage, we encourage our clients to express and explore any and all concerns, as changing things during this period results in a lot of delays and extra costs due to bumping trades and product selection changes.

Hopefully after reading our blog, we have provided you with some insight and knowledge towards your future project. Our goal at CE Developments Ltd. Is to be efficient, organized, and to help alleviate your concerns as a homeowner during your renovation. Contact us for a free in home estimate today!