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The Average Bathroom Remodel Cost & Timeline for DIYers

Holly Honeycutt

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated December 26, 2024

Starting a bathroom remodel yourself? Take the first step and get organized. Create a budget that considers the entire cost of a bathroom renovation and a timeline to keep you organized. A smart and detailed plan helps ensure success.

Are You Ready for a DIY Bathroom Remodel?

Bathroom makeovers are about more than just looks. Due to the level of skill involved, most cities and counties require permits for remodeling projects. Some even require homeowners to pass proficiency exams before starting the work. Know what the norm is in your area before you start, so you can make sure your work passes the required inspections.

Poorly done bathroom remodeling jobs look bad, turn off future homebuyers and create expensive-to-fix safety and structural problems. The below questions are an excellent way to make sure you're prepared and able to complete a bathroom DIY project yourself.

Before You Start a Bathroom Remodel

- Do you understand the entire scope of the job completely, from budget to materials to building codes?

- Do you have the knowledge, experience and tools needed for a bathroom renovation?

- Do you have the time to deal with both your day job and the bathroom remodel?

- Can you obtain the permits, licenses and inspections?


Average Bathroom Remodel Cost

A woman in a bathroom pouring light green paint into a paint tray.

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), a bathroom redesign budget is typically dictated by size, which averages $125 a square foot. If you decide to sell your home, an updated bathroom is an attractive selling point, and the expected return on your investment is more than 60% on a major remodel.

Think about everything that you'd like to update, replace and/or add in your bathroom. Use these estimates to get an idea of how much your renovation project might cost you.

A Minor Bathroom Makeover

A bathroom refresh can typically range between $200 and $5,000. Projects that might be included in a refresh are:

A Minor Bathroom Remodel

A small bathroom remodel can typically range between $5,000 and $15,000. Projects that might be included in a redesign are:

  • New bathroom faucets, sink, shower and toilet
  • New bathtub/shower or whirlpool
  • Moving bathroom fixtures
  • New bathroom supply lines, drain pipes, electrical
  • New or additional bathroom cabinets/vanity
  • Building dividing walls
  • Replacing bathroom flooring

A Major Bathroom Remodel

A major bathroom remodel typically exceeds $15,000. Projects that might be included in a large renovation are:

  • New bathroom cabinet and fixture layout
  • Adding or removing doorways
  • Moving and/or expanding a bath
  • Redoing bathroom plumbing and electrical
  • Upgrading bathroom surfaces and finishes
  • Adding skylights and/or windows

Planning for Your Bathroom Remodel

A woman placing a green plant next to a black and white clawfoot tub in a bathtub.

Every project is different, but this timeline gives you an example of what you need to think about as you approach your bathroom renovation start date.


Six Months Till Your Bathroom Remodel 

Research local building regulations and find out which permits and rules govern your DIY project plans. Some communities require homeowners doing their own work to pass tests before taking on renovation projects. Create a design workbook and open a MyLowe's account to save examples of products, ideas and rooms you like. Need help getting started? Refer to our Bathroom Ideas & Inspiration page.

Four Months Till Your Bathroom Remodel
Draw an accurate floor plan of your bathroom, or hire a professional to do one. Make copies and carry it with you. Make a list of all the things you need to buy or secure, project by project, including tools and equipment. Visit Lowe's and Lowes.com to check out options and products. Make a detailed budget for the project.

Three Months Till Your Bathroom Remodel
Decide on bathroom materials and products, and place orders at Lowe's or Lowes.com.

One Month Till Your Bathroom Remodel
Find a secure place to store materials, tools, products and equipment. Make an audit of what is stored. Arrange for a dumpster if needed. Set up a bathroom contingency plan.

One Week Till Your Bathroom Remodel 

Take before pictures of the bathroom. Empty the bathroom of all items. Make secure arrangements for pets, children and power tools. Arrange a workspace for cleaning tools. Alert neighbors of the remodeling plan and give them your contact information in case of noise or other concerns. Put up protective covering to protect floors, nearby rooms and air vents.

When the Bathroom is Done

Make sure all work meets code and has passed inspection according to local regulations. Ensure the site has been thoroughly cleaned, including air vents. Scan warranties for purchased materials and products (store them in your MyLowe's account). Make sure all bills have been paid and keep copies.

Tip

Try to plan your bathroom project so that it’s not taking place at a busy time of year. Consider work and school schedules, children’s activities, holidays, travel plans and visits by friends or relatives. For example, if you’re having guests for the holidays, that could be a great motivation to start planning a bathroom refresh early in the year.

Get more bathroom and bathtub ideas with these inspirational articles.

Good to Know

If you don’t have the time or skill needed to complete a bathroom refresh yourself, Lowe's has you covered with our bathroom installation service.