Install Bathroom Fixtures
If your home addition includes a bathroom, this is where it comes together. Installing the toilet, vanity, shower or tub, and all associated tile work transforms plumbing rough-ins into a functional, beautiful space.
Quick Summary
Time needed
3-7 days
Total cost range
$8,000-$50,000+
Professional help
Plumber + tile setter
Why This Step Matters
Bathrooms are complex spaces where plumbing, electrical, tile, and fixtures must work together seamlessly. Proper installation prevents leaks (water damage is expensive), ensures code compliance, and creates a space that's both functional and enjoyable to use.
Common Mistake
Skimping on waterproofing behind shower/tub tile. Cement board alone isn't waterproof—you need a membrane (Kerdi, RedGard, etc.) to prevent water infiltration. This hidden step prevents thousands in future damage.
Bathroom Cost Ranges
| Level | Cost Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $8,000-$15,000 | Fiberglass tub/shower, laminate vanity, basic tile |
| Mid-range | $15,000-$30,000 | Tile shower, solid-surface vanity, quality fixtures |
| Upscale | $30,000-$50,000+ | Custom tile, freestanding tub, designer fixtures |
Costs include fixtures, tile, and installation labor. Plumbing rough-in should already be complete from earlier construction phases.
Fixture-by-Fixture Guide
Toilet
Cost range
$150-$800
Installation
$150-$300
Time
1-2 hours
Modern toilets must be WaterSense certified (1.28 GPF or less). Options include two-piece (traditional, easier to transport), one-piece (easier to clean), and wall-hung (requires special carrier in wall).
Rough-in measurement: Standard is 12" from wall to center of drain. Measure before buying—10" and 14" rough-ins exist and require specific toilet models.
Vanity and Sink
Vanity cost
$200-$3,000+
Faucet
$50-$500
Installation
$200-$500
Vanities come as complete units (cabinet + top + sink) or as separate components. Standard widths are 24", 30", 36", 48", and 60". Double vanities typically start at 60".
- • Countertop options: Laminate ($), cultured marble ($$), quartz ($$$), natural stone ($$$$)
- • Sink types: Drop-in, undermount, vessel, integrated
- • Match existing: Consider matching vanity style to kitchen cabinets for cohesion
Shower or Tub
Option 1: Fiberglass/Acrylic Unit
One-piece or multi-piece units that include walls. Quick to install ($500-$2,000 installed) but limited design options. Good for budget bathrooms.
Option 2: Tile Shower/Tub Surround
Custom tile over cement board with waterproof membrane. More expensive ($3,000-$15,000) but offers unlimited design flexibility. Requires skilled tile installer.
Option 3: Walk-In Shower
Curbless or low-curb entry, typically tile with linear drain. ADA-friendly and modern aesthetic. Requires sloped floor for drainage ($5,000-$20,000).
Exhaust Fan
Fan cost
$50-$300
Installation
$150-$300
CFM rating needed
1 CFM per sq ft min
Code requires bathroom ventilation—either an operable window or exhaust fan vented to outside. Fans must vent through roof or wall, never into attic space. Quieter fans (1.0 sone or less) cost more but get used more.
Humidity sensor: Fans with humidity sensors turn on automatically when moisture is detected—great for preventing mold and ensuring the fan actually gets used.
Tile Work Essentials
Tile is the most visible (and often most expensive) element in a bathroom. Planning tile layout, selecting materials, and ensuring proper installation are critical.
Floor Tile
Must be slip-resistant (look for COF rating of 0.42 or higher). Porcelain is more durable than ceramic. Smaller tiles (2x2 mosaics) provide more grout lines for grip. Budget $5-$15/sq ft installed.
Wall Tile
Can be any material—ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone. Subway tile (3x6) is classic and affordable. Large format tiles (12x24+) look modern but require very flat walls. Budget $8-$25/sq ft installed.
Shower Floor
Must slope to drain (1/4" per foot minimum). Small mosaics (2x2 or smaller) conform to slope better. Pre-made shower pans eliminate slope concerns but limit size and drain location options.
Waterproofing is critical: Behind shower tile, use a waterproof membrane (Kerdi, RedGard, or similar) over cement board. Cement board resists moisture but isn't waterproof—water will get through grout and cause damage without proper membrane.
Electrical Requirements
Bathroom electrical has specific code requirements for safety in wet environments.
GFCI Protection (Required)
All bathroom outlets must be GFCI protected. This can be a GFCI outlet at each location, or standard outlets protected by an upstream GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker.
Outlet Location
At least one outlet required within 36" of each sink. Outlets cannot be installed within tub or shower spaces. Place outlets at comfortable heights (40-48") for hairdryers and shavers.
Lighting
Wet-rated fixtures required above tub/shower. Vanity lighting should be at face level (sconces) for even illumination—overhead only creates shadows. Consider dimmer for nighttime use.
Correct Installation Sequence
- 1Install tub/shower pan (before walls are finished)
- 2Install cement board on shower/tub walls
- 3Waterproof membrane on cement board
- 4Install wall tile in shower/tub area
- 5Install floor tile (let cure 24-48 hours)
- 6Grout all tile (cure another 24-48 hours)
- 7Install vanity and faucet
- 8Install toilet
- 9Install shower fixtures (showerhead, controls)
- 10Install accessories (towel bars, TP holder, mirror)
- 11Caulk all transitions (fixture-to-tile, tile-to-tub)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I install a bathtub or just a shower?
If this is the only bathroom, include a tub for resale value—families with young children need tubs. If it's a second or third bathroom, a walk-in shower is often preferred and adds a spa-like feel.
How long before I can use a newly tiled shower?
Tile needs 24 hours to set. Grout needs 24-48 hours to cure. After grouting, wait 3-7 days before sealing grout. Total: plan for 1 week before full shower use to ensure everything cures properly.
What height should the showerhead be?
Standard is 80" from shower floor, but 84" accommodates taller users. Rain showerheads mount at 84-90". Hand showers on adjustable slides offer the most flexibility for different users.
Do I need a permit for bathroom fixture installation?
Replacing fixtures in existing locations typically doesn't require permits. However, your addition already has a permit, and plumbing/ electrical inspections will verify proper fixture installation as part of final inspection.
Ready for the Next Step?
With bathroom fixtures installed, your addition is nearly complete. The final interior work focuses on blending old and new spaces—ensuring seamless transitions between the addition and your existing home.