The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house… and also one of the most technical to renovate. As a space for relaxation, hygiene, and sometimes even style, it must combine comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. Here is a complete guide to the major steps involved in renovating a bathroom, designed to help you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure a long-lasting and harmonious result.
Needs Analysis and Planning
Every renovation project begins with an analysis phase. This is when you need to identify your family’s specific needs, the irritants of the current layout (such as lack of storage, poor ventilation, awkward circulation, etc.), and the and essential elements you want to include, like a glass-enclosed shower, a freestanding bathtub, or a double-sink vanity.
Planning also involves taking precise measurements, creating a layout plan (either manually or using 3D software), and choosing a decor style (modern, rustic, spa-inspired, industrial…). This step is essential for optimizing the available space, especially in small bathrooms
Setting the Budget
Once your needs are clearly defined, the next step is to establish a realistic and detailed budget. This should include:
- Labor costs (plumber, electrician, tiler, designer, etc.)
- Materials (flooring, furniture, plumbing fixtures)
- Accessories (mirrors, lighting, faucets, etc.)
- Demolition and cleaning costs
- A 10 to 20% margin for unexpected expenses
A well-planned budget helps you make informed decisions, avoid financial overruns, and align your ambitions with your resources.
Shopping and Order Management
Once your budget is set, it’s time to shop for materials, fixtures, and accessories. It’s crucial to begin this step as early as possible, since many products—such as vanities, showers, faucets, or tiles—can have long delivery times or even be out of stock.
Take time to compare models, prices, and lead times. Also, be sure to check return and warranty policies. Some items, like custom furniture or special orders, may require several weeks to manufacture.
Proper planning of your purchases helps you avoid delays and stick to your schedule once the renovation work begins.
Demolition: Safe and Efficient
The demolition phase is often underestimated. It involves removing old fixtures (toilet, sink, bathtub), wall and floor coverings, and any outdated structures. This step must be carried out carefully to avoid damaging existing plumbing, load-bearing walls, or electrical wiring.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
This is the technical core of the project. Any change in layout (relocating the shower, adding a wall-mounted faucet, or installing recessed lighting…) requires updates to the plumbing and electrical systems. This step must comply with current safety standards and should be handled by certified professionals.
It’s best to coordinate the specialists (plumber, electrician, general contractor) early in the planning phase to avoid delays once construction begins.
Consider integrating modern features such as:
- A power outlet inside the vanity
- Heated flooring
- Dimmable LED lighting
- Effective ventilation (mandatory in Quebec)
Surface Preparation
Before installing coverings, it’s essential to ensure that all surfaces are properly prepared: walls must be straight, the floor leveled, and waterproof membranes applied in wet areas. Instal moisture-resistant drywall, apply primers and waterproofing membranes and carefully verify angles and slopes in the shower.
Proper preparation is crucial for the longevity of the materials and the quality of the final result.
Installation of Wall and Floor Coverings
Now it’s time for the aesthetic phase! There’s a wide range of materials to choose from: aluminum wall panels, ceramic, porcelain, waterproof vinyl, natural stone… Depending on your desired style and budget, you can create contrasts between walls and flooring or go for a more uniform look.
The installation must be precise, especially for tiles, (proper alignment, even joints, clean cuts). This is also the stage when built-in elements, like recessed shower niches, are installed.
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Installation of Sanitary Fixtures
Once the major work is complete, it’s time to install the fixtures: bathtub, shower, toilet, vanity, faucets, and mirror. Each element must be:
- Properly positioned (height, depth, alignment)
- Fully sealed (with silicone, joints, and fittings)
- Easy to maintain daily
For the shower, tempered glass panels with anti-limescale systems, like the ZittaClean system from Zitta Group, are a popular choice. As for bathtubs, freestanding or built-in models offer different styles to suit your taste.
bathtubs, freestanding or built-in models offer different styles to suit your taste
Finishing Touches and Accessories
Finishes are often what make all the difference. This is when moldings, trim pieces, hooks, towel racks, and wall shelves are installed. It’s also the perfect time to consider:
- Ambient or makeup lighting
- Heated or backlit mirrors
- Smart outlets, motion sensors or touch switches
These small details help create a bathroom that is functional, comfortable, and enjoyable to use.
Inspection, Cleaning, and Commissioning
Before declaring the renovation complete, a thorough inspection is essential: check for leaks, test the ventilation, ensure all lights work, and verify proper water drainage. Everything must be in perfect working order before the bathroom is officially put into use.
Once everything is verified, proceed with a full cleanup, remove protective coverings, polish surfaces…and finally, enjoy your brand-new bathroom!
nouvelle salle de bain !
In Conclusion
Renovating a bathroom is a complex project, but also an extremely rewarding one. By carefully planning each step, you greatly increase your chances of creating a space that is both beautiful, functional, and long-lasting. Keep in mind that the success of a renovation rests on three pillars: smart planning, quality materials… and meticulous attention to detail.
Zitta Group partners with a wide network of retailers. Visit the store nearest you using our store locator. They’ll be able to guide you and advise you on quality products to meet your needs.
Happy renovating and enjoy your new space!!
