Planning a bathroom remodel is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You might be wondering how much you should budget, whether your dream features will fit in your space, or how to find a trustworthy contractor. Without the right plan, unexpected costs and delays can quickly derail your project.
At Custom Built, we’ve guided many homeowners through bathroom remodels, helping them make informed decisions that balance function, style, and budget. We understand the challenges that come with remodeling, and we’re here to provide clarity so you can move forward with confidence.
Before you start tearing out old tiles, take a step back and ask yourself these eight essential questions. They’ll help you plan your remodel the right way—ensuring a smoother process and a final result that truly fits your needs:
- What’s My Budget and How Will I Prioritize My Investing?
- How Do I Want My Bathroom to Function?
- What Style and Features Best Fit My Home?
- Do I Need to Change My Bathroom Layout?
- Who Will I Hire to Complete the Remodel?
- What Permits and Inspections Will Be Required?
- What’s My Timeline for Completion?
- How Will I Maintain My New Bathroom?
1. What’s My Budget and How Will I Prioritize My Investing?
Before starting your bathroom remodel, it's crucial to determine how much you're willing to invest. A well-planned budget ensures you don’t overbuild while still covering all your needs. Every material and fixture has a wide range of pricing, so making informed choices will help keep costs in check.
For example, if you're on a tight budget, consider:
- Shower Tiles: Opt for durable, budget-friendly options instead of imported Italian tile.
- Flooring: Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a softer, warmer, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional tile.
- Vanities, Faucets, and Countertops: These elements come in a variety of price points (Vanities: $200 - $10,000, Faucets: $50 - $2,000, Countertops: $30 - $300), so you don’t have to overspend to achieve a beautiful look.
A full bathroom remodel starts at around $30,000. If you're only replacing a shower or vanity, your costs will be lower. The key is setting realistic expectations and prioritizing what matters most.
2. How Do I Want My Bathroom to Function?
The function of your bathroom plays a major role in the remodel. If you’re looking for a simple upgrade, keeping your fixtures in place is more budget-friendly. However, if you need to relocate elements—like moving a toilet or expanding a shower—costs can rise quickly.
Consider:
- Do you want a separate tub and shower, or a combined unit?
- Is this a high-traffic family bathroom or a personal retreat?
- Do you need additional storage for toiletries, towels, or cleaning supplies?
3. What Style and Features Best Fit My Home?
A bathroom remodel can be as simple or as high-end as you make it. While luxury features like European glass showers, heated towel racks, and radiant floor heating are tempting, it’s important to balance your investment with your home’s value.
If this is your forever home, focus on what makes you happy. But if resale value is a concern, consider your neighborhood’s median home price before making high-end upgrades. We’ll guide you through selections that fit your lifestyle while keeping your investment in mind.
4. Do I Need to Change My Bathroom Layout?
Changing your bathroom layout—such as moving plumbing lines for a new tub, toilet, or sink—can significantly impact costs. Keeping fixtures in their existing locations while upgrading materials is the most cost-effective approach.
Before making changes, ask yourself:
- Does the current layout work for my needs?
- Would relocating fixtures improve functionality?
- Am I prepared for the added expense of moving plumbing and electrical work?
5. Who Will I Hire to Complete the Remodel?
Choosing the right contractor is essential for a successful remodel. Look for professionals with a builder’s license, insurance, and a solid reputation. Ask for references and check their standing with the Better Business Bureau.
Some homeowners consider self-managing their remodel by hiring subcontractors, handling permits, and coordinating schedules. While this can save money, it also requires significant time and effort. DIY remodeling is another option, but it demands careful research and planning—otherwise, you risk being without a functional bathroom for months.
6. What Permits and Inspections Will Be Required?
Bathroom remodels often require permits, especially if you're relocating plumbing or electrical components. Building codes ensure your remodel meets safety and efficiency standards.
Consider:
- What permits do I need for my remodel?
- Will my contractor handle permits, or will I need to apply for them myself?
- How will inspections impact my project timeline?
Ignoring permits can lead to costly mistakes, so it’s essential to get everything approved upfront.
7. What’s My Timeline for Completion?
A bathroom remodel doesn’t happen overnight. From design to demolition to installation, the process can take weeks—or even months—depending on complexity.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have an alternate bathroom to use during construction?
- Are there specific deadlines (e.g., hosting guests or a family event)?
- Am I prepared for potential delays due to material availability or unforeseen issues?
Understanding the timeline upfront helps manage expectations and minimizes stress.
8. How Will I Maintain My New Bathroom?
Once your remodel is complete, keeping it in top shape requires proper maintenance. Different materials require different levels of care:
- Natural stone needs sealing to prevent stains.
- Glass shower enclosures require frequent cleaning to prevent water spots.
- Grout needs regular scrubbing to avoid mold and mildew buildup.
Thinking ahead about maintenance can influence your material choices and keep your new bathroom looking great for years to come.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Bathroom
A well-planned bathroom remodel balances budget, functionality, style, and layout to create a space that meets your needs.
With these key questions answered, you’re better prepared to make informed decisions, whether sticking to a budget, upgrading features, or choosing between DIY and professional help.
At Custom Built, we guide homeowners through every step of the remodeling process to ensure a smooth, successful transformation.
Ready to get started? Schedule a consultation with our team to bring your vision to life.
Now that you know more about questions to ask yourself before starting a bathroom remodel, let’s explore the first step of your project with Custom Built, how much your bathroom will cost, and the factors that influence that final price:
- What is a Discovery Call with Custom Built? - This article details what your first call with Custom Built looks like as you start planning your remodel.
- How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - Discover accurate price ranges for your potential bathroom remodeling project.
- 10 Factors That Affect the Cost of Bathroom Remodels - Learn more about the details that impact the cost of your bathroom remodel before you sign the dotted line.
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