The Ultimate Bathroom Remodel Checklist: What to Know Before You Start

  • Dreaming of a bathroom that feels like a personal oasis?
  • A bathroom space that's not just functional, but beautiful and perfectly tailored to your needs? 
  • A bathroom remodel can dramatically enhance your home's comfort, style, and even its value.


But before you dive in TO YOUR PITTSBURGH BATHROOM REMODEL, takE the time to plan

To help you navigate the exciting journey, we've put together the ultimate bathroom remodel checklist. Consider this your essential guide to understanding what to know before you start swinging that sledgehammer!


Define Your "Why" & Your Vision
Before anything else, ask yourself:

Why are you remodeling your bathroom?


Aesthetics?

Is it just outdated and ugly?

Functionality?

Do you need better storage, a more accessible shower, or a layout change?

Value?

Are you looking to boost your home's resale appeal?

Accessibility?

Do you need to accommodate aging-in-place or specific mobility needs?

Water Damage?


Are there underlying issues that need fixing?

Your "why" will heavily influence every decision that follows. Once you're clear on the purpose, start gathering inspiration! Create a Pinterest board, clip magazine photos, or save images online.


Think about your bathroom:

Style:

Modern, traditional, farmhouse, minimalist, transitional?

Color Palette:

Warm, cool, neutral, bold?

Desired Features:

Walk-in shower, soaking tub, double vanity, smart toilet, linen closet, specialized lighting?


Establish Your Budget (Realistically!)

This is arguably the most critical step. A bathroom remodel can range from a simple refresh to a full gut renovation, with costs varying widely.

Set a realistic budget range:

Research average costs for bathroom remodels in your area. Don't forget to include a 10-20% contingency fund for unforeseen issues (they always pop up!).

Prioritize your splurges and savings:

Decide where you want to invest (e.g., high-quality tile, custom vanity) and where you can cut back (e.g., standard fixtures, DIY painting).

Pittsburgh Tub and Shower will get you a quote:

Once you have a general idea, reach out to us for a detailed bathroom remodeling estimate based on your vision. Be transparent about your budget.


Consider Bathroom Layout & Functionality

This is where the magic happens.

Current bathroom layout vs. dream layout:

Are you keeping the existing footprint, or do you want to move walls, plumbing, or electrical? Major layout changes significantly impact cost and timeline.

Traffic flow in your bathroom:

How do people move within the space? Is it comfortable and efficient?

Bathroom storage solutions:

Where will towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies go? Think about built-in niches, vanity drawers, medicine cabinets, and linen towers.

Bathroom Lighting:

Beyond a single overhead light, consider task lighting around the vanity, accent lighting for ambiance, and natural light sources.


Select Your Materials & Finishes
This is where your vision truly comes to life! There are countless options, so do your research.

Flooring:

Tile (porcelain, ceramic), luxury vinyl plank (LVP), natural stone. Consider durability, water resistance, and slip resistance.

Walls:

Tile (showers, wainscoting), paint, wallpaper.

Countertops:

Quartz, granite, marble, solid surface. Think about maintenance, durability, and aesthetics.

Vanity & Cabinets:

Stock, semi-custom, custom. Consider size, storage, and style.

Fixtures:

Faucets, showerheads, toilet, tub. Choose finishes (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black) and styles that match your overall design.

Lighting fixtures:

Vanity lights, recessed lighting, decorative pendants.

Hardware:

Drawer pulls, cabinet knobs.


Ask about our bathroom remodeling process...

Mike will assist thru every step. He has done so many bathroom remodels that he knows what to look outfor and has a million great ideas.  

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Plan for Some Disruption

A bathroom remodel, no matter the size, will disrupt your daily routine.

We take care to keep disruption at the bare minimum and discuss it with you.


Ready to Get Started?

A well-planned bathroom remodel can transform your home and improve your daily life.

By following this checklist and taking the time for thorough preparation, you'll set yourself up for a smoother process and a stunning final result you'll love for years to come.


Ready to turn your bathroom dreams into a reality?

Contact us today for a personalized consultation and let's start planning your ultimate bathroom transformation!