How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?
Quick Answer: A bathroom remodel typically takes 2 to 6 weeks depending on scope. A cosmetic refresh with new fixtures and paint takes 1-2 weeks. A standard remodel with new tile, vanity, and fixtures takes 3-4 weeks. A full gut renovation involving layout changes, plumbing relocation, or structural work takes 5-8 weeks or longer.
Realistic Bathroom Remodel Timelines
Bathroom remodeling timelines depend on the scope of work, the age and condition of your home, permit requirements, and material availability. Homeowners in the Chicago suburbs should also factor in potential weather-related delays for projects that affect exterior walls or ventilation.
Timeline by Project Scope
- Cosmetic refresh (1-2 weeks): Painting, replacing the vanity and faucet, new light fixtures, updating hardware, and installing a new mirror. No structural, plumbing, or electrical changes. This level of update can dramatically improve a bathroom's appearance at a modest cost.
- Standard remodel (3-4 weeks): New tile flooring and shower surround, replacement of the tub or shower, new vanity and countertop, updated lighting and electrical, and fresh paint. Plumbing and electrical remain in approximately the same locations.
- Full renovation (5-8 weeks): Gutting the bathroom to the studs, reconfiguring the layout, relocating plumbing and electrical, installing new subflooring, waterproofing, custom tile work, heated floors, and all new fixtures. This scope requires building, electrical, and plumbing permits in most Illinois municipalities.
Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
A standard bathroom remodel follows this general sequence:
- Demolition (1-2 days): Removing old fixtures, tile, vanity, and drywall as needed.
- Rough-in work (2-4 days): Plumbing, electrical, and any framing modifications. Inspections occur at this stage.
- Drywall and waterproofing (2-3 days): Hanging and finishing drywall, applying waterproof membrane in wet areas.
- Tile installation (3-5 days): Floor and wall tile, including setting and grouting time.
- Fixture and vanity installation (2-3 days): Setting the toilet, vanity, faucets, shower fixtures, and accessories.
- Painting and finishing (1-2 days): Painting walls, installing trim, final cleanup.
Common Causes of Delays
Several factors can extend your timeline beyond initial estimates:
- Hidden water damage or mold discovered during demolition
- Outdated plumbing or electrical that must be brought up to code
- Custom or backordered materials — especially tile and vanities
- Permit processing and inspection scheduling
- Changes to the scope of work mid-project
Working with an experienced contractor helps minimize unexpected delays. R-Deco Painting and Home Improvements has completed hundreds of bathroom remodels in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, and we provide detailed project schedules so you know what to expect each week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my bathroom during a remodel?
In most cases, no. Once demolition begins, the bathroom will be out of service until the project is complete. For homes with only one bathroom, discuss interim arrangements with your contractor before work starts. Some homeowners arrange temporary solutions, and contractors can sometimes phase the work to minimize disruption. If you have a second bathroom, the inconvenience is much more manageable. R-Deco works efficiently to keep project timelines as short as possible and always provides a clear schedule so you can plan accordingly.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
Labor is typically the largest single cost in a bathroom remodel, accounting for 40-60% of the total budget. Among materials and fixtures, custom tile work and cabinetry tend to be the most expensive elements. Plumbing changes — especially relocating a shower, tub, or toilet — add significant cost because they require opening walls and floors. A walk-in shower conversion from a tub is one of the most requested upgrades in Chicago-area homes and typically costs $5,000 to $12,000 depending on tile selection and fixture quality.
Should I remodel my bathroom before selling my house?
A bathroom remodel is one of the highest-ROI home improvement projects, typically returning 60-70% of the investment at resale. In the competitive Chicago real estate market, updated bathrooms are a strong selling point. However, a full gut renovation is not always necessary. A well-executed cosmetic refresh — new vanity, modern fixtures, fresh tile, and paint — can deliver an excellent return at a fraction of the cost. Focus on a clean, modern, and neutral design that appeals to the widest range of buyers.
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