A bathroom remodel looks simple after it is finished, but there are many decisions behind the final result.
Tile, shower design, flooring, lighting, vanity size, storage, plumbing fixtures, and finish details all need to work together. Before starting a bathroom remodeling project, use this checklist to plan the project more clearly.
1. Decide What Type of Bathroom Remodel You Need
Not every bathroom needs the same level of work.
A basic bathroom update may include:
- New vanity
- New mirror
- New faucet
- New light fixture
- New flooring
- Fresh paint
- Updated hardware
A mid-level bathroom remodel may include:
- New shower or tub
- New tile
- New vanity
- New flooring
- New fixtures
- Improved lighting
- Better storage
A full bathroom remodel may include:
- Layout changes
- Plumbing updates
- Electrical updates
- Walk-in shower
- Custom vanity
- New tile walls
- New flooring
- Full finish replacement
The bigger the changes, the more planning the project needs.
2. Plan the Shower or Tub Area First
The shower or tub is usually one of the most important parts of a bathroom remodel.
Common shower upgrades include:
- Walk-in shower
- Tile shower walls
- Glass shower door
- Shower niche
- Bench seat
- Rain shower head
- Handheld shower
- Updated plumbing fixtures
If the current tub or shower is outdated, damaged, hard to clean, or uncomfortable to use, this is often the best place to start.
3. Choose the Right Bathroom Flooring
Bathroom flooring needs to handle moisture, daily use, and cleaning.
Common bathroom flooring options include:
- Tile
- Waterproof luxury vinyl plank
- Water-resistant flooring
- Stone-look tile
- Large-format tile
Do not choose bathroom flooring only because it looks good. Also consider water resistance, slip resistance, durability, maintenance, comfort, style, and cost.
Good bathroom flooring should look clean, hold up well, and make sense for how the bathroom is used.
4. Think Through Vanity and Storage
A bathroom can look nice and still be frustrating if it does not have enough storage.
Plan for:
- Single or double vanity
- Drawer storage
- Medicine cabinet
- Linen storage
- Countertop space
- Outlet placement
- Mirror size
- Towel storage
- Cleaning product storage
For some bathrooms, a custom vanity or built-in storage may work better than a standard vanity.
5. Do Not Ignore Lighting
Lighting has a major impact on how the bathroom feels and functions.
Consider vanity lighting, ceiling lighting, shower lighting, natural light, warm vs. cool light, and dimmer options.
Good lighting makes the bathroom easier to use and helps the finished remodel look better.
6. Pick Finishes That Will Age Well
Bathroom trends change fast. The safest approach is to use clean, durable finishes that will still look good several years from now.
Good finish choices usually include neutral tile, clean vanity style, simple fixtures, durable flooring, quality hardware, practical storage, and easy-to-clean surfaces.
The goal is not to make the bathroom look trendy for one year. The goal is to make it look clean, functional, and finished for the long term.
7. Take Photos Before Requesting an Estimate
Before contacting a contractor, take photos of the full bathroom, shower or tub, vanity area, flooring, walls, ceiling, plumbing fixtures, and any damaged or areas you want changed.
Photos help the contractor understand the project faster.
8. Questions to Ask Before Starting
Before moving forward with a bathroom remodel, ask:
- What parts of the bathroom are being replaced?
- Is the layout staying the same?
- Are plumbing changes needed?
- Are electrical changes needed?
- What materials are included?
- How long will the project take?
- Who is responsible for buying materials?
- Are permits needed?
- What is not included in the estimate?
Clear answers reduce confusion during the project.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom remodel should improve both appearance and function. It should be easier to use, easier to maintain, and better suited to the home.
MVM Custom provides bathroom remodeling, shower updates, tile work, vanities, flooring, and general contracting services for homeowners in Sacramento and nearby areas.
Planning a bathroom remodel?
Contact MVM Custom to request a free estimate for bathroom remodeling, tile work, flooring, vanities, and general contracting services.