Wondering how long does a bathroom remodel take? On average, it takes 3 to 6 weeks to remodel a bathroom, depending on the size, design, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a pro. A small bathroom might take just 2 weeks, while a larger or more complex remodel can take over a month. From planning and demolition to tiling and final touches, each step needs time and care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process in simple words—so you know exactly what to expect before you start your bathroom renovation journey.
Average Time It Takes to Remodel a Bathroom
So, how long does a bathroom remodel take on average? Most bathroom remodels take between 3 to 6 weeks. But this can change based on how big the bathroom is, what changes you’re making, and if you’re hiring professionals or doing it yourself. Some remodels are quick and simple, while others need more time and planning.
Here’s a simple table to help you understand the typical timeline for different types of bathroom remodels:
| Remodel Type | Estimated Time |
| Small Bathroom | 2 to 3 Weeks |
| Full Bathroom | 4 to 6 Weeks |
| Luxury Remodel | 6+ Weeks |
A small bathroom remodel is usually quicker because there’s less space and fewer materials.- A full bathroom remodel takes longer as it may include new plumbing, flooring, and fixtures.
- A luxury remodel can take over 6 weeks, especially if you’re adding high-end features or custom designs.
What Affects How Long a Bathroom Remodel Takes?
The time it takes to remodel a bathroom doesn’t just depend on the work being done. Many different factors play a role in how fast (or slow) the project moves. Let’s break it down in simple terms:
Bathroom Size and Layout
- Small bathrooms usually take less time to remodel because there’s less space to work with.
- If your bathroom has a complex layout (like tricky plumbing or unique shapes), it may take longer to plan and build.
Design Complexity
- A basic remodel (like replacing tiles and fixtures) is much faster than a full luxury upgrade.
- If you’re adding custom features such as a walk-in shower, soaking tub, or moving plumbing lines, expect the remodel to take more time.
Materials and Product Delays
- Some products, like special tiles, bathtubs, or vanities, may take weeks to arrive if they are not in stock.
- To save time, it’s smart to choose in-stock items that are ready for delivery before starting the remodel.
DIY or Hiring a Pro
- Hiring a professional contractor usually means faster, high-quality results, but it does cost more.
- Doing it yourself (DIY) can be fun and budget-friendly, but it may take twice as long, especially if you’re learning as you go.
Step-by-Step Timeline of a Bathroom Remodel
A bathroom remodel is a multi-step process, and understanding each phase can help you plan and manage the timeline better. Below is a simple breakdown of the typical steps involved, along with average time estimates:
Planning & Design (1 week)
- The first step is all about creating a vision for your new bathroom. This includes measuring the space, choosing materials, and deciding on the layout.
- You’ll work on figuring out what changes you want, like new tiles, fixtures, or maybe custom features. This process usually takes about a week.
Getting Permits (1-2 weeks)
- If you’re making changes that involve plumbing or electrical work, you’ll need to obtain permits.
- Depending on your location and the scope of work, getting the right permits can take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks.
Demolition (1-2 days)
- This step is where the old materials come out. Whether it’s tearing down old tiles, removing the bathtub, sink, or toilet, the demolition process usually takes 1 to 2 days.
- It’s an exciting part of the remodel, as it makes room for the fresh new look!
Plumbing and Electrical (3-5 days)
- If your remodel involves moving pipes or running new electrical wiring, it will take around 3 to 5 days to get this work done.
- These are critical steps that need to be handled by professionals to ensure everything is safe and up to code.
Structural Work or Layout Changes (if any)
- If you’re planning to change the layout of the bathroom, it might include moving walls or fixing the subfloor.
- This step could add extra days depending on the complexity of the changes, but it typically doesn’t take longer than 2-3 days for most cases.
Tiling and Flooring (3-4 days)
- Tiling the walls and flooring is a critical part of the remodel.
- This can take anywhere from 3 to 4 days, depending on the complexity of the design and the drying time for the grout.
Painting and Wall Finishes (1-2 days)
- Once the tiles are up, the next step is to finish the walls with moisture-resistant paint and trim.
- This step usually takes 1 to 2 days, allowing time for drying and touch-ups.
Fixtures & Final Installations (2-4 days)
- After the walls and floors are done, the next step is to install all the fixtures and final pieces like the toilet, sink, bathtub, lights, and cabinets.
- This usually takes about 2 to 4 days, depending on the complexity of the features being installed.
Final Touches & Clean-up (1-2 days)
- In the final step, the team will conduct an inspection of the work, apply any final caulking, and give everything a good clean-up.
- This part of the process takes about 1 to 2 days and ensures your bathroom is ready for use.
How Long Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Take?
When it comes to small bathroom remodels, the timeline is generally shorter due to the smaller space and fewer changes. On average, a small bathroom remodel can be completed in 2 to 3 weeks with proper planning and organization.
Since the space is limited, most of the work focuses on surface upgrades, such as replacing fixtures and updating finishes. Here’s a quick breakdown of what can be done within this time frame:
Quick Upgrades for a Small Bathroom Remodel
- Replace Sink: Installing a new sink can make a big impact without requiring major plumbing changes. This can typically be done in 1 day.
- Update Tiles: Changing the tiles on the floor or walls can refresh the look. Depending on the complexity, this usually takes 2 to 3 days.
- New Lighting: Installing new lighting fixtures is a relatively simple task. Expect this to take 1 day for installation.
- Paint Walls: A fresh coat of paint can instantly upgrade a bathroom’s appearance. Allow 1 to 2 days for painting and drying.
Why Small Bathroom Remodels Are Quicker
- Limited Space: Smaller bathrooms naturally mean fewer materials and less labor.
- Fewer Structural Changes: Most small bathroom remodels don’t involve major plumbing or electrical work, reducing the time needed.
- Faster Materials Selection: With a small space, you don’t need as many materials, so decisions and deliveries tend to be quicker.
A well-planned small bathroom remodel can be completed efficiently, often within a 2 to 3-week timeframe. By focusing on simple upgrades, you can achieve significant improvements without the extended timeline of a larger project.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Bathroom from Scratch?
Building a bathroom from scratch, whether it’s for a new home addition or an unfinished basement, typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The extended timeline is due to the amount of work involved, including plumbing rough-ins, framing, insulation, and more. This process is more complex compared to remodeling an existing bathroom, as it involves starting from the ground up.
Factors Contributing to the Timeline
- Plumbing Rough-Ins: Installing new water lines, drains, and vent pipes can take a few days, depending on the complexity of the bathroom layout and the location of the water supply.
- Framing and Insulation: Building the bathroom’s structure and ensuring proper insulation can take 1 to 2 weeks. This step is essential for creating a solid foundation.
- Electrical Work: Running electrical wiring for lights, outlets, and other fixtures takes several days, especially if the bathroom requires additional circuits.
- Drywall and Tiling: Once the basic structure is in place, drywall installation, followed by tiling and flooring, can take around 1 to 2 weeks. Allow for extra time for the grout to dry.
- Final Installations: Installing bathroom fixtures such as the tub, toilet, sink, and cabinets will take about 3 to 4 days.
Why It Takes 4 to 8 Weeks
- Complexity: Building from scratch involves a lot more steps than remodeling. Each stage must be completed properly to ensure safety and functionality.
- Permits and Inspections: Building a bathroom from scratch usually requires permits, and inspections will be needed at various stages of the process.
- Custom Features: If you’re adding custom features such as a large shower, soaking tub, or additional cabinetry, these will add to the time frame.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost (And Does It Affect Time)?
The cost of a bathroom remodel can vary widely based on factors such as the size of the bathroom, the extent of the remodel, and the materials used. On average, a bathroom remodel can range from $3,000 to $15,000+, depending on the scope of the work.
Cost Breakdown and How It Affects Time
- Small Bathroom Remodel: Typically, a smaller remodel that involves basic updates (like replacing fixtures, painting walls, or updating tiles) can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. These types of projects usually take 2 to 3 weeks.
- Full Bathroom Remodel: A more extensive remodel, including replacing the tub, shower, vanity, and flooring, can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000. This will likely take 4 to 6 weeks, due to the added complexity.
- Luxury Remodel: If you’re opting for high-end materials, custom features like walk-in showers, or extensive structural changes, your costs could range from $12,000 to $15,000 or more. These luxury remodels can take 6+ weeks to complete.
How Cost Affects Remodel Time
The cost is often directly related to how long the remodel takes:
- Complexity of Design: More expensive materials and custom designs require additional planning, sourcing, and installation, which naturally extends the timeline.
- Hiring Professionals: If your remodel requires highly skilled labor (such as electricians, plumbers, or custom contractors), this can slow the process down. However, professional help ensures that the job is done correctly, albeit at a higher price.
- Product Delays: Luxury products and custom orders often take longer to arrive, further delaying the remodel.
Budgeting Tips
- Set a Realistic Budget: Knowing your budget upfront helps narrow down options and manage expectations. Always account for an extra 10-20% in case of unforeseen costs.
- Prioritize Key Areas: If you’re on a tight budget, focus on updating essential elements like plumbing, fixtures, and flooring, while leaving luxury features for later.
- Opt for In-Stock Materials: To save time and money, choose readily available products rather than custom-made ones.
- DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: While DIY can reduce costs, it can also extend the remodel time significantly. If you want faster results, hiring a professional is a more reliable choice.
The cost of a bathroom remodel can range from $3,000 to $15,000+, with higher costs usually correlating with longer remodel timelines due to the complexity, product availability, and professional labor required. By setting a clear budget and prioritizing essential updates, you can manage both cost and time effectively.
Bathroom Remodel in 5 Days — Is It Realistic?
Can you really remodel a bathroom in just 5 days? The answer is yes, but only under specific conditions. A 5-day bathroom remodel is realistic if the work is limited to cosmetic updates, there are no major plumbing or structural changes, and everything is fully planned ahead of time.
When a 5-Day Remodel Works
A quick remodel like this usually involves surface-level changes. This can be done either by experienced professionals or a well-prepared DIY homeowner. The key is to have all materials and tools ready before the work begins.
What Can Be Done in 5 Days?
Here are examples of updates that can fit into a tight 5-day schedule:
- Replace the toilet with a new, modern model
- Paint the walls with moisture-resistant paint
- Update light fixtures for better lighting and style
- Swap out the old vanity for a pre-assembled one
- Install a new mirror and towel bars
- Add peel-and-stick tiles or simple vinyl flooring
What’s Not Possible in 5 Days?
- Full plumbing rework
- Building custom showers or bathtubs
- Waiting on special-order materials
- Major layout or structural changes
How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take? (Bonus Tip)
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel, you might also be wondering: How long does a kitchen remodel take? It’s a common question for homeowners improving multiple spaces at once.
Average Kitchen Remodel Timeline
In general, a kitchen remodel takes about 6 to 12 weeks. The timeline depends on several factors, such as the kitchen size, design complexity, and whether you’re changing the layout or keeping it simple.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Kitchen Remodel Type | Estimated Time |
| Small kitchen, basic upgrades | 6–8 weeks |
| Medium-sized kitchen with layout changes | 8–10 weeks |
| Large or luxury kitchen remodel | 10–12 weeks or more |
Why Kitchen Remodels Take Longer
Unlike bathrooms, kitchens have more cabinets, appliances, and electrical work. Custom cabinetry, countertop installations, and plumbing adjustments can stretch the timeline. Plus, coordinating multiple contractors like electricians, carpenters, and countertop installers can take extra time.
FAQs About Bathroom Remodel Timelines
1. How long does it take to renovate a bathroom?
Most bathroom renovations take 3 to 6 weeks. It depends on size, design, and how fast materials arrive.
2. Can you remodel a bathroom in 3 days?
Only small cosmetic updates like painting or changing lights are possible in 3 days—not full remodels.
3. What is the hardest part of the bathroom renovation?
Plumbing and layout changes are often the hardest because they involve permits and professional work.
4. Can you remodel a bathroom in a week?
Yes, a basic remodel with no major changes can be done in 7 days if everything is pre-planned.
5. Can a bathroom be remodeled in one day?
A full remodel is not possible in one day, but minor fixes like new fixtures or paint can be done.
6. What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel?
A basic remodel costs around $3,000–$7,000, while luxury upgrades can go $15,000 or more.
7. What comes first in bathroom remodeling?
Planning and design always come first—this includes choosing layouts, colors, and materials.
8. How long should a bathroom take to complete?
A full bathroom remodel usually takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on size and complexity.
9. Does hiring a contractor speed up the bathroom remodel?
Yes, professionals work faster and manage tasks better than DIY projects.
10. Do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom?
Yes, if you change plumbing, electrical, or structure, most cities require a permit.
11. How can I remodel my bathroom faster?
Choose in-stock materials, avoid layout changes, and have a clear plan before starting.
12. What delays a bathroom remodel the most?
Delays usually happen due to material backorders or unexpected issues behind walls or flooring.
Conclusion
On average, a bathroom remodel takes 3 to 6 weeks, but the exact time depends on several key factors. The size of the bathroom, the complexity of the design, materials availability, and whether you choose DIY or hire a professional all affect how long the remodel will take.
If you’re wondering how long does a bathroom remodel take, remember that smart planning and preparation can make the process smoother and faster. Choose in-stock materials, plan your layout early, and decide if you need professional help. With the right approach, your dream bathroom can become a reality—on time and on budget!
