Remodeling your bathroom is the perfect opportunity to create a space that reflects your style, supports your daily routine, and adds long-term value to your home. In Central Florida, where heat, humidity, and lifestyle trends all play a role, planning the right bathroom renovation takes careful thought and the right guidance.
Maybe you are ready to tear out an old bathtub, upgrade to a sleek new shower, or finally replace that leaky toilet that has been driving you crazy. Or you might want a full bathroom remodel with contemporary tile, stylish fixtures, and a smart layout that makes mornings easier and more enjoyable.
Whatever your vision looks like, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to remodel a bathroom from start to finish.
You will learn how to plan your project, build a budget, and choose the right new fixtures for your space. We will also walk through the prep work and explain how to install key elements like cement board, flooring, and a brand-new sink.
Whether you’re refreshing a guest bath or taking on a complete bathroom remodel, you will find practical tips to help you make confident choices and avoid unnecessary delays.
Planning and Design
Before you grab your tools or head to the tile store, take a step back and think through the big picture. Solid planning now will make every part of your bathroom remodel easier later.
Start with a clear vision
Take time to determine the scope of your bathroom renovation and set realistic goals. Are you aiming for a complete remodel of your bathroom from top to bottom with updated plumbing, fresh tile, and all-new fixtures? Or are you focused on one key upgrade, like swapping the tub for a walk-in shower?
Figure out what matters most
Think about what’s most important for your household and your family members. Maybe you want a more accessible layout, a double sink for a shared bath, or better storage to eliminate clutter. These decisions will guide the rest of your plan.
Know when to call in the pros
If you want expert guidance from the start, this is the perfect time to get help from professionals. Working with an experienced team can also help you avoid costly mistakes, especially during the layout and plumbing phases.
At CSL Construction, we specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodels throughout Central Florida, offering tailored designs and hands-on project management. Our team will walk you through the planning process, help you source quality materials, and make sure every detail is handled with care, from layout decisions to how and where to install essentials like cement board behind wet walls.
Match your design to your skill level
If you’re leaning into DIY projects, choose a design that matches your skill level. Replacing a shower curtain and repainting the ceiling might be manageable, while building a custom shower or tiling a curved wall might require a seasoned tile guy.
Choose materials and finishes wisely
Spend time researching materials and finishes that suit your space. Ceramic tile and glass door features are smart, durable options for Central Florida homes. And don’t forget the details. Lighting, fixtures, and paint and color schemes can make just as much of an impact as structural changes.
Visualize your layout
Once you have your ideas in place, sketch out the layout or create a mood board. This visual reference will help you stay focused and communicate your vision clearly, whether you’re tackling the project yourself or working with a professional team.
If you’re still exploring styles or layouts, browsing through the latest bathroom design trends can spark inspiration and keep your bathroom remodel flush with stylish ideas you may not have thought of yet.
Setting a Budget and Timeline
Once your plan for your bathroom remodel is in place, it’s time to get practical. Laying out a clear budget and timeline will keep your bathroom remodel grounded, organized, and stress-free
Build a realistic budget
Setting a budget upfront helps you control the overall cost of your bathroom remodel. Start by listing out your expected material costs, labor fees, and a contingency fund for any surprises that might come up.
Even the most organized projects can hit a snag that ends up costing you several thousand dollars, especially in older homes where hidden issues like corroded pipes or rotted subfloors may need attention.
Map out your timeline
Break the remodel into stages and set a clear timeline for each phase. Include key milestones, such as demolition, floor prep, plumbing rough-ins, or tile installation. Deadlines help keep the process moving and give you a sense of progress along the way.
Prioritize your upgrades
Think about your must-haves and where you’re willing to compromise. If the toilet is leaking or the fixtures are out of date, those upgrades should come first. Once the essentials are covered, you can decide where to invest a little more. A stylish new vanity, statement lighting, or even a fresh coat of paint can make the whole bathroom feel brand new.
Shop around
You can stretch your budget and keep costs down further by shopping smart. Most homeowners often score better prices by comparing local suppliers with online shopping options. Sometimes, you’ll find the exact same sink or tile at a lower cost just by doing a little extra research.
Plan for the unexpected
Be sure to include a financial buffer in your budget. Delivery delays, unexpected repairs, or last-minute design tweaks can all lead to added expenses. Planning for them ahead of time reduces stress and keeps your remodel on track.
Know your limitations
Consider when certain upgrades require professional help. Some installations, like new plumbing lines or electrical rewiring, need to follow Florida building codes. Budgeting for a licensed contractor to install these elements properly will save you time and potential rework later.
Decide if you need a general contractor
If your bathroom remodel includes multiple trades, structural changes, or permitting requirements, working with a general contractor can simplify the process. A licensed contractor manages the schedule, oversees subcontractors, and ensures that all work meets Florida code. It’s an investment that often pays off in peace of mind and professional results.
Preparation and Demolition
Before you begin, prep your bathroom for the transformation. Clear out all personal items, remove anything breakable, and cover the floors and walls with protective sheeting. This helps contain dust and debris while keeping nearby surfaces safe.
Then, it is time to demo. Remove old fixtures, such as your outdated shower head, shower curtain, and faucet. If you’re replacing your tub or expanding the tub area into a walk in shower, you will likely need to tear out plaster walls, pull down any tile, and cut away lath to expose the wall cavities. Taking the time to strip everything back to the studs gives you a clean slate for your bathroom renovation.
Before moving forward with any tile installation or surface finishes, now is the time to complete rough plumbing updates. Replace or reroute any plumbing pipes for your shower, tub, or sink while the walls are still open. Handling rough plumbing at this stage ensures the final installation of fixtures like shower heads and faucet trim will go smoothly later on.
This is also when you should complete any rough electrical work. Running new wires for outlets, lighting, or an exhaust fan must happen before the walls are closed and any paint work begins. Finishing electrical work, like installing light fixtures or outlet covers, happens after the drywall is up and the painting is done.
Peeling up vinyl flooring reveals the subfloor underneath. Check it for signs of water damage or sagging, then make repairs as needed before you lay your floor tiles. A flat, level base is critical if you want your tile to last and your fixtures to sit correctly.
If you’re working in an older home, expect to uncover a few surprises. You may find outdated pipes, uneven framing, or even hidden damage behind an old bathtub. In some cases, aging plumbing pipes will need to be replaced entirely before you can move forward with new fixtures or wall finishes. While it might slow things down, dealing with these issues now will help you remodel a bathroom that is safer, more efficient, and built to last.
This stage can be messy and time-consuming, but it’s essential. You’re building a solid foundation for everything that comes next.
Installing a Walk-in Shower
If you’ve been thinking about replacing an old shower stall or a dated tub-shower combo, upgrading to a walk in shower can completely change how your bathroom feels and functions. These open-style showers are sleek, accessible, and ideal for creating a spacious, spa-like atmosphere.
Choose a location that is code-compliant and easy to access. A level foundation is important, but a correctly sloped shower floor is even more critical. Water should naturally flow toward the drain without pooling, preventing long-term damage and ensuring proper drainage every time you use the shower. If you’re still finalizing the layout, browsing through different walk in shower ideas can help you visualize what might work best in your space.
Start by installing a new shower curb, drain, and pan liner to protect the subfloor and prevent leaks. Once installed, block the drain and fill the pan with water, marking the water line to test that the pan holds water properly for at least 24 hours. This flood test ensures your pan is watertight before moving forward.
After testing is complete, install a mortar bed inside the pan liner, shaping it with a gentle slope toward the drain to allow for proper drainage. Allow the mortar bed to cure fully before proceeding.
Once the floor base is ready, you can install cement board over the exposed wall studs. Nowadays, no additional moisture barrier is needed behind the cement board, as it is designed to resist moisture on its own.
Now comes the tile work. Lay your floor tiles first, then move up to the shower walls. A skilled tile guy can ensure a seamless look, but confident DIYers can also handle this stage with the right tools and planning.
To complete the space, you can install a fixed glass door, a frameless panel, or even leave the entrance open, depending on your layout and preference. Many walk-in designs work beautifully without a door at all, offering a modern, airy feel that’s easy to maintain.
If you plan to remodel a bathroom around this feature, consider updating nearby elements to match. A new sink, stylish fixtures, or a floating vanity can complement the shower and tie the space together. These finishing touches add function and create a unified, polished look.
Flooring and Painting
Choosing the right flooring material can make or break your renovation. In Central Florida, where humidity levels are high, ceramic tile and vinyl flooring are your best bet for durability and water resistance.
Whether you go DIY or hire a pro, make sure the subfloor is even before you lay any new flooring. This is also a great time to replace or add baseboards, especially if your new floor height differs from the original. If you plan to install a freestanding bathtub or larger vanity, double-check your layout for spacing and alignment.
Once the floor is done, grab your paintbrush. Use water-resistant paint designed for bathrooms on your walls and ceiling to guard against moisture buildup. Choosing the right color can transform the space. Explore some of the most recommended bathroom color palettes used by designers to find a shade that complements your overall style. Light, bright colors can open up smaller spaces, while deeper hues add warmth and sophistication. Richer tones and layered lighting also work well in larger bathrooms, especially when paired with textured tile or matte finishes.
A well-coordinated new vanity and matching bathroom fixtures add a polished look and give your new design serious staying power. Even smaller updates like updated drawer pulls or a fresh faucet can elevate the entire space.
Plumbing and Fixtures
With the shell of your bathroom in place, now is the time to upgrade your plumbing and fixtures. Swapping out an old shower head or faucet is not just about appearance. Many newer models are designed to save cold water and reduce energy use without sacrificing performance.
Replacing your toilet can instantly modernize the space while improving water efficiency. Look for sleek, low-flow models or units with integrated bidet features, which are becoming increasingly popular across Central Florida homes. Whether you’re designing a compact guest bath or planning to remodel a bathroom from scratch, a smart toilet is a worthwhile investment.
While you’re at it, consider whether now is the right time to install a second sink or upgrade to a more functional layout. Double vanities are especially useful for shared spaces and busy households.
Adding new fixtures like towel bars, robe hooks, or updated shut-off valves completes the picture. If your older home still has outdated pipes or fittings, take this opportunity to update the plumbing behind the walls. Catching problems early helps prevent costly repairs and ensures that everything runs smoothly for years to come.
Planning these upgrades during your remodel is one of the best ways to prevent water damage before it starts. Coordinating any plumbing work now, while walls are still open, will make future repairs or upgrades much easier.
Lighting and Electrical
Poor lighting can turn even a beautiful bathroom into a dull and shadowy space. Refresh your setup with new lighting that suits function and ambiance. Good lighting makes a big difference. Consider adding:
- Wall sconces for soft side lighting
- Recessed ceiling lights for full-room brightness
- An overhead LED light for brightening the space for shaving or applying makeup.
Don’t forget to add or reposition electrical outlets for hair dryers, charging stations, and other daily essentials. Upgrading switches and light fixtures also supports energy efficiency, which is a key concern for homeowners across Florida looking to reduce long-term energy bills.
If you are planning to remodel a bathroom with layered lighting in mind, consider incorporating dimmer switches or motion-sensor features to make the space more flexible. The ability to shift from soft, calming light in the evening to bright, focused lighting in the morning can dramatically improve comfort and function.
Hiring a professional electrician to install new lighting ensures the work is done safely and up to code. If you’re looking for reliable professionals, this NECA directory of electrical contractors in Central Florida is a great place to start when hiring for your bathroom remodel.
Cabinets and Vanity
The choice of vanity is a big deal in any bathroom remodel. The vanity is where your day starts and ends, so you want something that looks great and works hard. Pick a new vanity that fits your space, matches your style, and keeps you on budget.
For inspiration, explore stylish bathroom vanity ideas that blend form and function with a designer’s touch. Think about how much counter space you need, where the drawers open, and how it plays with your tile, paint, and lighting.
Once you’ve made your choice, it’s time to install. Set the vanity, connect the sink and faucet, and double-check for leaks. A quick test now saves you from headaches later. Swapping in new hardware like handles or drawer pulls is a small upgrade that makes a big difference in the final look.
If you need more storage, add a few cabinets or floating shelves nearby. You can tuck them over the toilet, beside the mirror, or in a corner you hadn’t thought to use. In a small bathroom, smart storage changes everything. If you’re planning to remodel a bathroom completely, tying your vanity and fixtures together in the same finish keeps the whole room feeling clean and cohesive.
Final Inspection and Touch-ups
Before you call the project finished, do a thorough walkthrough of your bathroom renovation. Look for surface imperfections, missing grout, or misaligned tile. Open and close every drawer and cabinet, turn on each light, and test all fixtures, including the toilet, shower, sink, and switches. Make sure everything works exactly how it should.
Small details matter here. Add a little skim coat to smooth out uneven walls, seal any gaps with caulk, and wipe away leftover dust or smudges from the installation process. These quick touch-ups can elevate the entire space.
This is also a good time to confirm that everything you planned to install was completed correctly. Treat this as the last quality check before wrapping up. A little extra attention now ensures your bathroom remodel not only looks great but works exactly how you need it to, every single day.
Maintenance and Upkeep
A brand-new bathroom looks amazing, and with the right care, it will stay that way. Clean regularly using products that are safe for your tile, fixtures, and painted surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals that can wear down finishes or damage grout over time.
Check your plumbing and electrical systems at least once a season. Even a slow drip from the sink or a buzzing light fixture can be signs that something needs attention. Early fixes are usually simple and inexpensive, especially if you catch them before they turn into bigger issues.
If you recently installed new features during your bathroom remodel, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Some fixtures may need occasional tightening, resealing, or filter changes to perform at their best.
To stay on track, create a simple maintenance checklist that includes:
- Resealing grout
- Scrubbing the shower and tile
- Checking for mold or mildew
- Cleaning the exhaust fan
- Inspecting plumbing and fixtures
Just a little time each month keeps your bathroom in great shape and helps protect your investment for years to come.
Planning Your Central Florida Bathroom Remodel
A successful bathroom renovation doesn’t happen by accident. It takes planning, smart choices, and a little patience along the way. From choosing the right materials to managing your timeline and budget, every step you take brings you closer to a space that looks good and works even better.
Whether you’re ready to completely remodel a bathroom or focus on one major upgrade, staying organized makes all the difference. Think ahead, stay flexible, don’t rush the details, and use a little common sense when making choices along the way. The time you spend now will pay off for years in daily comfort and added value to your home.
If you’re not sure where to begin, or if you’d rather not handle every step on your own, reaching out to experienced pros can take the pressure off. From the first layout sketch to the final install, the right help makes the process smoother and the results even better.
If you’re ready to get started, contact CSL Construction today to turn your Central Florida bathroom remodel into a reality. Our experienced team will guide you from planning through completion, with expert craftsmanship and personalized service every step of the way.
