A bathroom remodel is one of the most impactful renovations you can do — but it helps to know what to expect before the work starts. Here is a realistic week-by-week breakdown of a typical bathroom remodel in Los Angeles.
Before Construction Starts
Before any demolition happens, there is planning work that sets the project up for success:
- Walkthrough and scope: We assess the existing bathroom, discuss your goals, and define the scope of work.
- Material selections: Tile, vanity, fixtures, countertop, lighting — all selected before construction starts so there are no delays waiting for materials.
- Permits (if needed): If plumbing or electrical is being moved, we pull permits before starting.
- Material ordering: We order everything with enough lead time so materials arrive before they are needed on site.
Week 1: Demolition and Rough Work
- Day 1-2: Demolition — remove old tile, vanity, toilet, fixtures, and any damaged drywall or subfloor.
- Day 2-3: Plumbing rough-in — move or update supply lines and drains as needed.
- Day 3-4: Electrical rough-in — update wiring, add GFCI outlets, install exhaust fan, and prep for new lighting.
- Day 4-5: Waterproofing — install moisture barriers in the shower and wet areas. This is critical and cannot be rushed.
If permits were pulled, a rough inspection happens at the end of this phase before walls are closed up.
Week 2: Tile and Surfaces
- Day 6-8: Shower tile installation — walls first, then floor. Custom patterns, niches, and bench seats are installed during this phase.
- Day 8-9: Floor tile installation — porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone laid with proper spacing and leveling.
- Day 9-10: Grouting — all tile joints grouted and cleaned. Grout needs 24-48 hours to cure before getting wet.
Week 3: Fixtures and Finishing
- Day 11-12: Vanity and countertop installation — mounted, leveled, and connected to plumbing.
- Day 12-13: Toilet installation, faucet and showerhead installation, towel bars and accessories.
- Day 13-14: Glass shower door installation (if applicable) — measured after tile is complete for a perfect fit.
- Day 14-15: Painting, trim, baseboards, and final touch-ups.
Final Walkthrough
After everything is installed, we do a final walkthrough together. We check every detail — tile alignment, grout consistency, fixture operation, caulk lines, paint touch-ups. Any punch list items are addressed before we consider the project complete.
Timeline Variables
The 3-week timeline above is typical for a full bathroom remodel. Here is what can affect it:
- Faster (2 weeks): Simple refreshes — new vanity, fixtures, paint, and minor tile work
- Longer (4-5 weeks): Layout changes, moving plumbing, custom tile patterns, heated floors, or structural modifications
- Material delays: Custom-order items (specialty tile, custom vanities) can add 1-2 weeks if not ordered early
- Permit inspections: Scheduling inspections can add a few days depending on LADBS availability
Ready to Remodel Your Bathroom?
We provide a detailed timeline specific to your project during the estimate process — so you know exactly what to expect. Learn about our bathroom remodeling services or request a free estimate.