A Weekend Warrior’s Renovation Series: Bathroom Remodel – Episode 3
The Master Plan
“Vision without execution is hallucination” -- Thomas Edison
In the second installment of this series, I outlined the major design decisions related to layout, fixtures, surfaces and finishes for my bathroom renovation. Before I begin work, I like to layout tasks and projects into a work plan or checklist. There are lots of dependencies for things to keep moving along without downtime, so this really helps me get organized. While this plan is specific to my project, perhaps it will help you think through a work plan for your project.
Always be sure to check local codes and secure any necessary permits with your local building authority. For instance, because our home was built in 1960, we obtained a lead-free certification from a state-certified inspector prior to performing our first project in our home four years ago.
The Task List
Here we go!
- Demolition
- Rough electrical for recessed lights, vanity lights, vent fan, switches, and outlets
- Construct partition wall
- Install alcove tub
- Rough plumbing
- Install blocking in walls to support panel radiatorand floating makeup vanity as needed
- Install insulation and vapor barrier as needed
- Take pictures and video while walls and ceilings are open for future reference
- Hang 1/2" Hardie Backer Board for tub and shower walls
- Hang plaster board (blue board) on ceilings and then on walls
- Veneer plaster application on walls and ceilings
- Reinstall original wood medicine cabinet
- Shower wall waterproofing
- Shower wall tile installation
- Wall tile grout installation
- Prime and paint walls and ceilings
- Radiator installation, including re-piping supply/outlet in floor
- Patch and level subfloor
- Put down 1/4" Hardie Backer Board floor tile underlayment
- Mud seams and waterproof floor tile underlayment
- Floor tile installation
- Floor tile grout installation
- Seal all grout
- Install double vanity
- Finish plumbing for tub/shower and toilet
- Install new pre-hung entry door
- Install door and window casings, and baseboard trim
- Construct base/support for floating makeup vanity
- Templating for quartz vanity tops
- Finish plumbing for vanity sinks and faucets
- Finish electrical
- Final caulking and painting
- Final mounting of bath accessories, wall decor, window coverings, etc.
After demolition - walls down to the studs.
Plaster board on walls and ceiling. Recessed ceiling lights and rough electrical installed.
Shower wall tiling completed, and alcove bathtub installed.
Floor tile and grout installation, and baseboard radiator installed.
Double vanity installed - quartz countertop with drilled holes for faucets.
Did I say three months for this project? Reality has set in, and there’s a lot to do! I’d better get working. Stayed tuned for more updates.
