How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?

How long does a full bathroom remodel take from start to finish?

There are two clocks to think about. The first is the work itself, which HomeGuide puts at 15 to 25 days for a complete remodel. The second is the full project, which includes everything before the first wall comes down.

In a Homes and Gardens article, one bathroom designer said a remodel typically takes 8 to 12 weeks when everything goes to plan. That longer window covers design choices, permits and material orders, not just work in your bathroom.

What are the phases of a bathroom remodel?

Most projects follow the same order. The Homes and Gardens article gives these rough ranges from a designer:

1. Planning and design: 1 to 3 months to pick a layout, choose materials and set a budget
2. Permits: 2 to 4 weeks
3. Ordering materials: 1 to 2 weeks
4. Tear out: 1 to 2 weeks to remove fixtures, flooring and sometimes walls
5. Rough plumbing and electrical: 1 to 2 weeks
6. Installing new materials and painting: 3 to 6 weeks, depending on what is in stock
7. Finishing touches: 1 to 2 weeks

Not every job needs every step at full length. A simple update with the same layout moves much faster than a project that moves walls or plumbing. You can see what a full project includes on our bathroom remodel page.

How long does a shower remodel or tub to shower conversion take?

A shower only project is usually much quicker than a full remodel. HomeGuide lists smaller renovations at about 1 to 2 weeks. Prefab panel systems can be very fast. Kohler, for example, says its shower can be installed in as little as a day or two.

A custom tiled shower takes longer. Tile has to be set, grouted and allowed to cure. Custom glass also adds time. In the Homes and Gardens article, a builder notes that custom shower glass is measured after all the tile is in, and then it takes several weeks to make. Learn more on our shower remodel page.

How do permits affect the timeline in New Jersey?

Permits can add time, so it helps to plan for them. Under New Jersey's Uniform Construction Code, the local office must approve or deny a complete permit application within 20 business days. Some work is classified as "minor work," which can start once the town is notified, before the permit is issued.

Inspections happen at set points, such as before walls are closed. The state's guide says inspections are to be done within 3 business days of a request. A good schedule builds those waits in. We explain the rules in our post on bathroom remodel permits in New Jersey.

What causes bathroom remodel delays?

Even well planned jobs can hit bumps. The most common causes include:

• Hidden damage. Rot, leaks or mold behind walls or under floors must be fixed first.
• Long lead times. A designer in the Homes and Gardens article says custom cabinets can take 10 to 14 weeks or more.
• Old code problems. Hidden work that does not meet code may need to be corrected.
• Inspections. Waiting for an inspection slot can pause the work.
• Lead paint or asbestos. Older materials may need testing and special removal.
• Changes mid project. Switching tile or fixtures after work starts often means waiting for new orders.

How can you speed up your bathroom remodel?

You cannot control everything, but you can control a lot:

1. Make your choices early. Pick tile, fixtures, vanity and glass before work starts.
2. Order long lead items first. Cabinets and custom glass take the longest.
3. Keep the layout. Leaving the toilet, sink and shower where they are saves time.
4. Consider prefab. A prefab shower goes in faster than custom tile.
5. Avoid changes after work starts. Every change can add days.

Can you live at home during a bathroom remodel?

Most people do. The key question is whether you have another bathroom to use. If this is your only full bath, ask about the schedule up front so you know how many days you will be without a shower. A shower only update, or a prefab system, can keep that window short.

FAQ

How long does a small bathroom remodel take? HomeGuide lists smaller bathroom renovations at about 1 to 2 weeks of work. A simple update with the same layout is the fastest. Planning and ordering materials can add time before work begins.

How long does it take to remodel a full bathroom? HomeGuide says a complete bathroom remodel takes about 15 to 25 days of work, or 3 to 4 weeks. Counting design, permits and material orders, the whole project often takes longer.

How long will I be without a shower? It depends on the job. Some prefab shower systems can be installed in a day or two, while a custom tiled shower takes longer because tile and grout need time to set. Ask for a day by day schedule before work starts.

Do permits slow down a bathroom remodel in NJ? They can add some time. New Jersey says a complete permit application must be approved or denied within 20 business days, and inspections are to happen within 3 business days of a request. Minor work can start once the town is notified.

Want a timeline for your bathroom?

Every bathroom is different. We can walk through your space and give you a clear plan and schedule. Call us at (201) XXX-XXXX or request a free estimate. Serving Paramus, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Oradell, River Edge, Rochelle Park and Hackensack.