In What Order Do You Renovate a Bathroom?
Renovating a bathroom can be both exciting and overwhelming. From selecting tiles to choosing fixtures, there are endless decisions to make. However, what often confuses homeowners the most is the order of operations. If you’re in Beverly Hills and planning to transform your bathroom into a modern, functional, and luxurious space, understanding the correct renovation sequence is essential. Following the right order ensures efficiency, minimizes mistakes, and helps you stay within budget. And when you want the finest results, hiring the Best Bathroom Remodeling in Beverly Hills can make all the difference.
Why Order Matters in Bathroom Renovation
The bathroom renovation process involves multiple trades — plumbing, electrical, tiling, painting, and more. If tasks are completed out of order, you risk damaging completed work, wasting materials, or facing costly delays. For example, painting walls before plumbing installation could lead to cracks or rework. The correct order saves time and ensures lasting results.
Step 1: Planning & Design
Every successful renovation starts with a plan. You’ll want to:
Decide your budget.
Identify your bathroom goals (luxury spa feel, functional family bathroom, or space-saving design).
Choose a design style (modern, classic, minimalist).
Create a layout with measurements.
Professional remodelers such as the Best Bathroom Remodeling in Beverly Hills can help with 3D design renderings, ensuring you visualize your dream bathroom before work begins.
Step 2: Demolition
Once plans are finalized, it’s time to strip the old bathroom. This includes:
Removing old tiles and flooring.
Taking out sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs.
Disconnecting old plumbing and electrical components.
Demolition must be performed carefully to avoid damaging structural elements like walls, joists, or plumbing lines.
Step 3: Plumbing & Electrical Rough-In
This stage is critical. Licensed plumbers and electricians run new lines for water, drainage, lighting, outlets, and ventilation. For example:
Installing water lines for sinks, showers, or bathtubs.
Running wires for vanity lights and overhead lighting.
Preparing circuits for heated floors (if included).
Doing this before closing walls or flooring ensures everything is hidden and functional.
Step 4: Framing & Structural Adjustments
If you’re relocating fixtures (like moving a shower to a different wall), framing adjustments may be needed. This step includes:
Reinforcing subfloors for heavy tubs.
Framing niches or storage spaces.
Adding supports for wall-mounted vanities.
Step 5: Insulation & Drywall
Bathrooms experience constant moisture, so moisture-resistant drywall (green board) and proper insulation are essential. This prevents mold and improves temperature regulation.
Step 6: Waterproofing
Waterproofing is one of the most critical steps in a bathroom remodel. Professional remodelers apply waterproof membranes on shower walls, floors, and around tubs to ensure no leaks. Skipping this step can lead to long-term water damage.
Step 7: Tiling & Flooring
Next comes tiling:
Floor tiles are laid first.
Wall tiles, backsplashes, and shower tiles follow.
Grouting and sealing ensure durability.
Choosing slip-resistant and water-resistant tiles is key for safety and longevity.
Step 8: Fixture Installation
Once the foundation is set, fixtures are installed:
Toilets
Vanities
Bathtubs or showers
Faucets and sinks
This is where your bathroom starts taking shape, reflecting both style and function.
Step 9: Lighting & Electrical Fixtures
Lighting enhances mood and function. Common options include:
LED recessed lighting for brightness.
Pendant or chandelier lighting for luxury.
Vanity lights for daily grooming.
Professionals ensure everything is wired safely and according to code.
Step 10: Painting & Finishing Touches
Walls and ceilings are painted last to avoid damage from earlier steps. Use high-quality, moisture-resistant paint. After painting, add finishing elements:
Mirrors
Towel racks
Shower doors
Decorative touches
The Value of Hiring Experts
While many homeowners try DIY projects, bathrooms require expert handling due to plumbing and electrical work. Working with the Best Bathroom Remodeling in Beverly Hills ensures:
Compliance with codes.
Access to premium materials.
A flawless finish with luxury appeal.
10 FAQs About Bathroom Renovation
Q1. What is the average timeline for bathroom remodeling?
A standard remodel takes 3–6 weeks depending on complexity.
Q2. How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Beverly Hills?
Luxury remodels can range from $20,000 to $50,000+, depending on size and finishes.
Q3. Can I remodel my bathroom without moving plumbing?
Yes, keeping plumbing in place reduces costs. Moving plumbing requires more labor and permits.
Q4. What flooring is best for bathrooms?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most durable and water-resistant.
Q5. Do I need permits for bathroom remodeling?
Yes, permits are required for plumbing, electrical, and structural changes.
Q6. How do I prevent mold in a new bathroom?
Proper ventilation, waterproofing, and moisture-resistant materials help.
Q7. Should I install a bathtub or shower?
This depends on your lifestyle. Showers save space, while bathtubs add luxury and resale value.
Q8. What lighting is best for bathrooms?
Layered lighting — overhead, task, and accent lighting — creates balance.
Q9. How do I choose the right contractor?
Look for experience, licenses, customer reviews, and a portfolio of past work.
Q10. Is bathroom remodeling a good investment?
Yes, bathroom remodels often yield a high ROI, especially in Beverly Hills’ luxury real estate market.