How Long Should a Bathroom Remodel Take? (Timeline Breakdown)

You’re excited to remodel your bathroom, but one big question looms: how long will it take? 

Whether you’re hosting guests, coordinating a busy schedule, or simply eager to enjoy your new space, it’s crucial to understand the timeline. Unfortunately, many homeowners underestimate or overestimate how long bathroom remodels take, leading to delays, stress, and unmet expectations.

Here at JSB, we remodel on average 150 bathrooms every year. We’ve handled everything from simple updates to intricate custom builds and know how long it takes to complete each task within a bathroom remodel.  By understanding project timelines, you can set realistic expectations for your bathroom project, setting you up for a great remodeling experience.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of how long your bathroom remodel should take, no matter what contractor you work with. You’ll also find factors that influence timelines and how to choose the right type of remodel for your needs.

Table of Contents:

• What Factors Affect a Bathroom Remodel Timeline?
• How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?
  • Facelift Renovation - A Simple Refresh
  • Remove & Replace Remodel - Comprehensive Yet Streamlined
  • Design-Build Remodel - Limitless Customization
• Tips to Keep Your Remodel on Track

What Factors Affect a Bathroom Remodel Timeline?

Every bathroom remodel is unique, but several key factors play a role in determining how long your project will take.

1. Size of the Bathroom: Smaller bathrooms, like powder rooms, typically take less time than larger spaces with more features.
2. Scope of the Project: Cosmetic updates are faster than full renovations involving structural changes or custom designs.
3. Materials and Product Availability: Readily available items can keep things on track, while custom orders can take longer to be delivered.
4. Permits and Approvals: Changes to plumbing, electrical, or structural elements may require permits, adding time to the process. An experienced contractor can plan ahead when scheduling permits to minimize the time spent waiting around for an inspector.
5. Contractor Schedules: Experienced professionals are often in high demand, so booking them early is essential. 

By understanding these variables, you can better plan your remodel and avoid unnecessary delays.

How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?

Remodel timelines vary based on the type of project. Below, we break down three common scenarios to help you decide what fits your needs.

Facelift Renovation - A Simple Refresh

If you’re looking for quick updates that give your bathroom a fresh look without major work, a facelift renovation might be the answer. Total time spent on the project is almost always less than a week, with active work being done in just a couple of days.

Example Tasks Include:

• Painting walls and ceilings.
• Replacing fixtures like faucets, showerheads, or lighting.
• Adding new accessories, such as mirrors or shelves.

Steps:

1. Project Planning and Material Selection: 1–2 days.
2. Get On Contractor’s Schedule (unless going DIY): Will vary by contractor. Be sure to ask about their lead times to know how long you will have to wait between signing a contract and the start of work.
3. Ordering Supplies: Minimal lead time for in-stock items.
4. Active Work: Painting and installations completed in 1–3 days.

Is This Remodel Right for You?

A Facelift Renovation is ideal for homeowners who want to enhance their bathroom’s appearance without altering its layout or replacing major components. It’s perfect for small budgets and quick turnarounds. However, if your bathroom has outdated plumbing or extensive wear, you may need a more comprehensive approach.

Remove & Replace Remodel - Comprehensive Yet Streamlined

For those wanting a brand-new look without changing the layout, a Remove & Replace remodel strikes the perfect balance between transformation and efficiency. A full bathroom can usually be completed in 3 to 5 days of active construction. This is the type of remodel that JSB uses for our bathroom projects.

Example Tasks Include:

• Removing all old materials, such as flooring, cabinetry, and fixtures.
• Installing updated replacements, including shower walls, plumbing fixtures, and vanities.

Steps:

We will use JSB’s process and timelines as an example here. These will vary by contractor but it will help you get an idea of what a remove & replace project timeline looks like.

1. Initial Consultation and Planning: This happens at our initial consultation, typically in your home, and lasts about 45 minutes.
2. Contract Finalization and Material Selection: This happens at our 2-hour showroom appointment.
3. Schedule Project: At JSB, on average, we schedule projects out 12 - 14 weeks from when you sign the contract. This waiting period is called lead time. 
4. Lead Time: 12 - 14 weeks; pulling permits, ordering materials, and making final measurements to ensure everything is ready before construction begins.
5. Active Construction: 3–5 days for demolition, replacement, and cleanup.
6. Final Touches: Things like paint if needed and decor can be added at your leisure and then your new bathroom is ready to use!

Is This Remodel Right for You?

This option is ideal if you want to modernize your bathroom with new materials and finishes and don’t need to move plumbing or change the layout. It’s a great choice for families who need quick results with minimal disruption. However, it’s not suitable if you’re looking to expand your space or create a custom design.

Design-Build Remodel - Limitless Customization

When you’re ready to create a completely personalized bathroom, a Custom, Design-Build Remodel offers the ultimate flexibility and creativity. The overall timeline for a design-build bathroom remodel is 4 - 7 months from start to finish. Active construction usually takes 1-3 months.

Example Tasks Include:

• Possibly redesigning the layout, including plumbing and electrical work.
• Structural modifications or additions, if desired.
• Using custom designs, materials, and finishes to fit your vision.

Steps:

1. Consultation and Design: 4 - 8 weeks for planning, sketches, and revisions.
2. Permitting and Contracts: 2 weeks for necessary approvals.
3. Gathering Materials: 6 - 10 weeks for custom and special-order items.
4. Active Construction: 1 - 3 months, depending on complexity and any unforeseen challenges.

There is one caveat with design-build: this type of project can be as large or small as you need, so the timeline can vary drastically from one project to the next. It’s best to talk to a design-build contractor to get a better timeline estimate for your specific project.

Is This Remodel Right for You?

This option is perfect if you’re looking to transform your bathroom completely, whether by expanding its footprint, adding new features, or using high-end custom materials. While the timeline is longer, the result is a one-of-a-kind space that reflects your unique style and needs. However, this approach isn’t ideal if you have a tight budget or need a quick turnaround.

Tips to Keep Your Remodel on Track

No matter the scope of your project, these tips can help ensure a smooth progress with realistic expectations and minimal stress:

1. Plan Ahead: Work with your contractor to create a realistic timeline and secure materials early. 
2. Hire a Reliable Contractor: Choose a contractor with strong references and clear communication. An experienced contractor knows how long each piece of your project will take. This will help set up a project timeline that minimizes wasted time and gets you in your bathroom sooner.
3. Prepare for Delays: Build buffer time into your plan to account for unexpected issues. This is especially true of larger projects. Again, an experienced contractor knows how to plan for contingencies and overcome problems correctly and efficiently.

How Can You Plan for Your Bathroom Remodel Project?

A bathroom remodel is an exciting opportunity to improve your home, but understanding the timeline is key to a successful project. By selecting the right type of remodel and planning thoughtfully, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy the process. Whether you’re opting for a quick refresh, a modern update, or a custom transformation, a clear plan will set you on the path to your dream bathroom.

The best thing you can do for your bathroom remodel is to identify what your bathroom needs are and hire the best company that can meet your specific goals. To help you do that, check out our blog article comparing facelift, remove & replace, and design-build remodeling to figure out which project type your bathroom falls into.

Next, download our Remodeling Company Comparison Guide. This has sample questions you should ask of any contractor you talk to about a bathroom project. There is also room for you to fill in their answers to keep all the information organized. JSB’s answers are already filled in so you can see what type of information companies should be able to provide.

If you are ready to take the next step? Contact a trusted contractor today and turn your vision into reality!