How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?

Are you planning to upgrade your bathroom? Whether it’s a small change or a complete remodel, one of your first questions is, “How long will it take?”

With 19 years of experience as a remodeling contractor, I’ve helped homeowners transform outdated bathrooms into beautiful, functional spaces.

In this guide, I’ll explain how long bathroom remodeling usually takes, what can affect the timeline, and how you can speed up the process to get your dream bathroom faster. Let’s dive in!

Average Time to Remodel a Bathroom

Bathroom remodels can take different amounts of time, depending on the project’s size and complexity. Generally, most bathroom renovations require 3 to 6 weeks to finish the actual work involved.

However, planning, ordering materials, and getting the necessary permits can take an additional 2 to 4 weeks, so from start to finish, you should expect the process to take 4 to 8 weeks total.

Quick Breakdown of Bathroom Remodel Timelines:

Small bathroom (5×7 ft): 1 to 2 weeks
Mid-size bathroom: 2 to 3 weeks
Main bathroom: 3 to 4+ weeks

The timeline can change based on the complexity of your project, the materials used, and whether any unexpected issues arise during the remodel.

Key Factors That Affect the Timeline

Several factors influence how long your bathroom remodel will take. Understanding these factors can help you set realistic expectations and prepare for the project.

1. Scope of the Project

The first thing that affects the timeline is the size and complexity of the remodel. Are you simply updating the vanity and sink or doing a complete bathroom renovation with new plumbing, electrical work, and a fresh layout?

Typical Time Frames for Different Remodels:
Cosmetic updates (painting, replacing fixtures, small changes): 1–2 weeks
Complete renovation (new tile, plumbing, layout changes): 3–4+ weeks

For example, if you add a new bathtub and update the plumbing, the project will take longer than if you just replace a faucet and add new paint. On average, full renovations take 3 to 6 weeks, while a simple update will likely take 1 to 2 weeks.

Pro Tip: [If you’re planning a larger home remodeling project that includes areas beyond the bathroom like your basement be sure to check out our detailed guide on what to know before remodeling a basement (beginner’s guide). This guide will help you get a clearer picture of managing bigger renovations.]

2. Availability of Materials

The materials you choose greatly affect the length of your remodel. Custom items like vanities, imported tiles, or speciality finishes often take longer to ship and install, causing delays.

If you’re looking for unique, custom items for your remodel, order them early.

That way, you won’t have to wait for backordered materials once the project has started. Work with your contractor to ensure all materials are available ahead of time so the project can move smoothly without interruptions.

3. Permits and Inspections

Some bathroom remodels require permits, especially if you’re changing the space’s plumbing, electrical systems, or layout.

Getting these permits can take time, depending on local building codes and how quickly the approval process goes.

To avoid delays, get your permits early. If inspections are required at different project stages, scheduling them ahead of time can also prevent holdups. The last thing you want is to wait for approval or an inspection, which can set back the timeline.

4. DIY vs Hiring a Pro

A lot of homeowners opt to tackle the remodel on their own in order to cut costs. While this might seem like a good idea, DIY bathroom remodels often take longer than hiring a professional.

Without experience, you may encounter challenges, mistakes, or even delays that stretch the timeline.

For example, DIY bathroom remodels often take several weeks longer than those handled by experienced contractors. Plus, depending on your schedule and availability, you can only work on the remodel during weekends or evenings, further stretching the timeline.

Hiring a professional contractor can save you time, as they know precisely what to do, avoid common mistakes, and keep the work on track. Contractors can handle everything efficiently, and their expertise helps get the job done on time and to code.

👉 Not sure if your project is suitable for a DIY approach or requires a full structural change? Read this helpful guide: Renovation vs. Remodel.

5. Hidden Issues

Even with the best planning, sometimes unexpected issues come up.

For example, once you start tearing down walls or removing old fixtures, you might discover water damage, mold, or old wiring that needs to be repaired before continuing.

These hidden issues can push back the timeline by several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the problem.

While these surprises can’t always be avoided, having your contractor thoroughly inspect the space before starting will help identify any potential issues. This way, you can address them before work begins and reduce delays during the remodel.

Week-by-Week Remodeling Timeline

Now that you know what factors impact the timeline, here’s a general idea of what your bathroom remodel might look like, week by week. Keep in mind that this timeline can vary depending on your specific project.

Pre-Remodel Phase (1–4 Weeks)

Before the actual work begins, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes planning:

• Plan your design and layout: You’ll decide on your bathroom’s overall look and feel—layout, colours, and materials.
  
• Select materials and fixtures: Pick your flooring, tiles, vanity, sink, lighting, and other key features.
  
• Get estimates: This is when you’ll receive bids from contractors and choose the one that fits your needs and budget.
  
• Order materials: If you need custom or special items, order them early to avoid delays.
  
• Obtain permits: Your contractor will submit any necessary permit applications during this phase.
  

Week 1: Demolition and Prep

The first week focuses on clearing out the old and preparing the space for the new:

• Remove old fixtures and tiles: The sink, toilet, tub, and old flooring are all removed.
  
• Prep the space: The walls, floors, and plumbing will be prepared for the new installations.
  
• Fix hidden issues: If any water damage or mold is found, it will be dealt with during this phase.
  

Week 2: Plumbing and Electrical

This is all about updating the plumbing and electrical systems:

• Update plumbing lines: Any plumbing changes, such as moving a sink or adding a shower, will be done.
  
• Install electrical wiring and lighting: Any new light fixtures, outlets, or switches will be installed.
  
• Inspection (if needed): If your remodel requires plumbing or electrical work inspections, they will occur during this week.
  

Week 3: Walls, Floors, and Tile

By now, your bathroom will start taking shape:

• Install drywall: New drywall will be installed if you change the layout.
  
• Paint: The bathroom will be painted with the colour you selected.
  
• Lay flooring and tile: Your new flooring and tile will be installed.
  

Week 4: Fixtures and Finishing Touches

In the final week, everything comes together:

• Install the vanity, toilet, and tub/shower: The main fixtures are in place.
  
• Hook up plumbing: The plumbing is connected to the new fixtures, ensuring everything works properly.
  
• Add lighting and accessories: Mirrors, towel bars, and other accessories are installed.
  
• Final inspection (if needed): A final inspection ensures everything meets building codes.
  

How to Speed Up Your Bathroom Remodel

If you’re eager to finish your bathroom remodel quickly, here are a few tips to help you speed up the process:

• Finalize your design early: The sooner you know what you want, the sooner work can begin.
  
• Order materials early: Avoid waiting for back-ordered items by ordering everything before work starts.
  
• Hire experienced contractors: Professional contractors can complete the job faster, and they know how to handle problems quickly.
  
• Get permits early: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for permits. You can check with the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) for industry standards and tips on permits. NKBA’s Official Website
  
• Stay available for questions: Be ready to make quick decisions and answer any questions from your contractor to keep the work on schedule.
  
• Consider using tile for an affordable remodel: Looking for a cost-effective and quick way to update your bathroom? Check out our guide on remodeling a bathroom with tile for easy and affordable ideas.

Final Thoughts

A bathroom remodel can take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the project. The timeline will vary based on your goals, materials, and whether you go DIY or hire professionals.

Planning ahead and staying organized ensures your bathroom remodel goes smoothly and is completed faster. Whether upgrading a small bathroom or completely renovating your master bath, having a clear timeline will make the process much easier to manage.

Need help planning your remodel? We are a leading bathroom remodeling contractor with 19 years of experience. Call us today at (717) 984-1276 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can bring your bathroom remodeling vision to life!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to remodel a small bathroom?
On average, remodeling a small bathroom takes 7 to 14 days once work begins. If it’s just cosmetic updates—like painting, replacing fixtures, or updating lighting—it may take under a week. But if tile work, plumbing changes, or structural updates are involved, expect closer to two weeks.

2. Can a full bathroom remodel be completed in under a month?
Yes, a full remodel can usually be completed within 3 to 4 weeks of active work—if materials are ready, permits are secured, and no major issues arise. However, including the planning phase, the total timeline may extend to 6 to 8 weeks.

3. What causes delays during a bathroom remodel?
The most common delays are due to backordered materials, waiting on permits or inspections, and hidden issues like water damage or old wiring discovered during demolition. Working with an experienced contractor helps anticipate and reduce these delays.

4. Can I remodel my bathroom myself to save time and money?
While DIY can save money upfront, it often takes significantly longer and increases the risk of mistakes. Without experience, even small setbacks can stretch a project over several weekends. By hiring a professional, you can be confident that the job will be completed correctly, on time, and in compliance with all regulations.

5. How early should I order materials for my remodel?
Ideally, before demolition begins. Ordering all fixtures, tiles, and custom items in advance prevents work from stalling mid-project. Lead times for certain items—like vanities, imported tiles, or custom glass—can be several weeks.

6. What’s the best way to speed up a bathroom remodel?
Finalize your design early, select in-stock materials, and work with an experienced, organized contractor. Staying available to answer questions quickly also helps keep the project moving.