How to Survive a Bathroom Renovation

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (1 Ratings)

For those of us with only one bathroom in the house, a bathroom renovation may seem impossible. Toilets are a necessity, showers are preferable and privacy is always essential! And, remodeling a bathroom means that all three of these things will be temporarily gone. However, if you plan ahead and work closely with your contractor, you will get that new bathroom and it will be easier than you think.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Contractor
Timeline
Budget

Step1

Work closely with your contractor to create an estimated bathroom remodeling price.

Step2

Choose fixtures, paint colors and make all major decisions prior to your contractor starting work on your bathroom. Changes to the agreed plans can cause delays and may increase your cost. Also, make sure all items are ordered and received before starting your renovation.

Step3

Create a timeline, including how long certain amenities will be unavailable. Talk openly with your contractor to ensure that he accommodates your family's needs during renovation. You may need to make plans with your family or neighbors in case you need to use their bathrooms for a day or two.

Step4

Determine what time your contractor and crew will be starting each morning, and create a temporary bathroom schedule with your family that accommodates their starting and ending times.

Step5

Use the kitchen or laundry room sinks for daily needs. Set up a small table, if necessary, for toiletry items and a mirror.

Step6

Consider staying with friends or relatives for the duration of your bathroom renovation.

Tips & Warnings

If you don't feel comfortable asking friends and family for use of their bathrooms, then you will have to get creative. For example, you can use your bathroom renovation as an excuse to get to the gym more frequently, and use their facilities while you are there!
Take before and after pictures of your project.
A total bathroom renovation can take, on average, up to 18 working days to complete, so make sure you have a solid timeline in place and have talked with your contractor about getting items, such as the toilet and sink, in place as quickly as possible.
If you have children, talk to your contractor about cleaning up tools and other construction equipment at the end of the day, for their safety.