Bathroom Projects
From a weekend refresh to a complete remodel, find the right project for your budget, timeline, and goals. Our step-by-step guides walk you through every phase.
Choose Your Project Type
Not sure where to start? Pick based on your budget, available time, and how much change you want to see.
Weekend Project
Bathroom Refresh
Deep clean, declutter, update accessories, add greenery, and improve lighting for a spa-like feel without any construction.
Budget
$100 - $500
Timeline
1 weekend
Includes
- Deep cleaning & grout refresh
- New towels & accessories
- Better lighting
- Organization solutions
Visible Changes
Bathroom Update
Replace fixtures, update hardware, paint, and add new accessories for a noticeable transformation without major work.
Budget
$500 - $3,000
Timeline
1-2 weeks
Includes
- New faucet & showerhead
- Updated mirror & lighting
- Fresh paint
- New hardware & accessories
Major Upgrade
Bathroom Renovation
New vanity, toilet, tile, and fixtures while keeping the existing layout. Significant change without moving plumbing.
Budget
$5,000 - $15,000
Timeline
2-4 weeks
Includes
- New vanity & countertop
- Toilet replacement
- Tile flooring
- Updated fixtures
Complete Transformation
Bathroom Remodel
Gut renovation with potential layout changes, new plumbing, electrical, and premium finishes throughout.
Budget
$15,000 - $50,000+
Timeline
4-8 weeks
Includes
- Layout reconfiguration
- New plumbing & electrical
- Custom tile work
- Premium fixtures
Quick Comparison
| Project | Budget | Timeline | DIY Friendly | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bathroom Refresh | $100 - $500 | 1 weekend | Yes | Renters |
| Bathroom Update | $500 - $3,000 | 1-2 weeks | Mostly | Homeowners |
| Bathroom Renovation | $5,000 - $15,000 | 2-4 weeks | Partial | Outdated bathrooms |
| Bathroom Remodel | $15,000 - $50,000+ | 4-8 weeks | Hire pros | Layout changes needed |
Popular Starting Points
Jump directly to the most common bathroom projects
Clean & Restore Grout
Make old tile look new again with proper grout cleaning
Upgrade Your Showerhead
Instant improvement to your daily shower experience
Add Storage Shelves
Maximize vertical space with floating or built-in shelves
Install a New Vanity
The centerpiece of any bathroom transformation
Choose Floor Tile
Compare porcelain, ceramic, vinyl, and natural stone options
Plan Your Layout
Optimize flow and function in your bathroom design
Bathroom Budget Guide
Where your money goes in a typical bathroom project
Average Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range Remodel)
Based on $15,000 mid-range bathroom remodel
Ways to Save Money
Keep plumbing in place (Save $1,500-5,000)
Moving drains and supply lines is expensive
Reglaze instead of replace tub (Save $2,000-4,000)
Professional reglazing costs $300-600
Use ceramic over natural stone (Save 40-60%)
Porcelain looks great at a fraction of the cost
Stock vanity vs. custom (Save $500-2,000)
Big box stores have great options
DIY demo and painting (Save $500-1,500)
Sweat equity on unskilled labor
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bathroom renovations
How much does a bathroom remodel cost?
Bathroom costs vary widely: refreshes run $100-$500, updates cost $500-$3,000, renovations range $5,000-$15,000, and full remodels typically cost $15,000-$50,000+. A mid-range full bathroom remodel averages about $12,000-$25,000 nationally. Master baths with premium finishes can exceed $50,000.
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
Timeline depends on scope: weekend refreshes take 1-2 days, updates need 1-2 weeks, renovations require 2-4 weeks, and full remodels take 4-8 weeks. If you have only one bathroom, plan for at least 2 weeks without full use. Custom tile work and fixture lead times can extend schedules.
Can I renovate a bathroom myself?
Many bathroom projects are DIY-friendly: painting, accessories, basic fixture swaps, and organization. Toilet replacement is manageable for handy homeowners. However, plumbing rough-in, electrical work, waterproofing, and tile installation are best left to professionals to avoid costly water damage.
What bathroom upgrades add the most value?
Best ROI comes from: updated vanity and lighting (70-80% return), new toilet (60-70%), fresh grout and caulk (nearly 100% - costs little, big visual impact), and good ventilation. Full gut remodels often return only 50-60% of cost, so targeted updates usually make more financial sense for resale.
Do I need a permit for bathroom remodeling?
Permits are typically required for: moving or adding plumbing, electrical changes, structural modifications, and adding a new bathroom. Cosmetic changes like paint, fixtures, vanity swaps (same location), and accessories don't need permits. Always check local requirements - unpermitted work can cause problems at sale.
How do I deal with only one bathroom during renovation?
Plan ahead: ask your contractor for a tight schedule, consider a portable toilet for longer remodels, coordinate with neighbors or nearby family, or time the project when you can stay elsewhere for a few days. Many contractors can keep the toilet functional until the last possible moment.
Ready to Start Your Bathroom Project?
Pick the project that fits your budget and timeline, then follow our step-by-step guide.