If you’re renovating a bathroom rather than installing one from scratch, utilities like electricity, plumbing, and waste will almost certainly be connected. However, you may require additional wiring or plumbing in your bathroom, or you may need to adjust the arrangement of your sanitaryware.

While changing worn-out sanitaryware and taps does not require building permit permission, moving or constructing a bathroom does.

Similarly, any electrical work in or around wet areas, such as bathtubs and showers, as well as any work that expands or modifies existing drainage systems, must comply with building regulations.

This is another area where hiring a professional builder can be beneficial in guiding you through the process. Many builders can find trustworthy tradesmen to complete electrical and plumbing work for you if you’re project managing.

When the task is finished, your employees should pass over the requisite certification, verifying that the work complies with building codes, if applicable. If you used qualified trades, this is a routine aspect of the operation. Remember, it’s your responsibility to keep your certifications secure and present them when needed—potential purchasers will want to see compliance documents if you’re selling your home.

The time it takes to complete a full bathroom remodel can range from  4 to 5  days. Your builder can provide you with an estimate of timeframes so you know what to expect, but it’s also helpful to understand a typical bathroom installation timetable.

The following is an example of a typical work schedule for installing a bathroom:

1. Create a bathroom brief and budget.
2. Before choosing a builder, obtain three quotations.
3. Choose a builder, sign a contract, plan your work, and finalize the timetable. (Plan ahead, as most skilled builders won’t be ready to start right away.)
4. Confirm your final brief and select your sanitaryware, materials, fittings, and fixtures in partnership with your builder.
5. Remove the current bathroom.
6. Fix the plumbing and electrical systems, including adding new services and installing any pipes or wires that are no longer functional.
7. Plastering, leveling walls, and putting up plasterboard or tile backing board.
8. Repair and plaster the ceiling.
9. Level, reinforce (if necessary), screed, and waterproof the floor.
10. Install the second fix plumbing, including the toilet, heated towel rail, bath and taps, shower, shower enclosure, basin, and taps.
11. Install an extractor fan, shaver points, electric underfloor heating, light switches, and spotlights as part of the second fix.
12. Tile the walls and floors.
13. Complete decoration.
14. Ensure you receive the necessary credentials to keep secure.
15. Enjoy your first bath in the renovated bathroom!

Every bathroom is unique, and a lot depends on your preferences and the existing condition of your bathroom. Whether you choose a low-cost, mid-range, or high-end bathroom makeover, be sure to do your research and shop around. Set up a 15 percent contingency budget to cover unexpected expenses

One of the most expensive aspects of a bathroom renovation is relocating plumbing and electrical outlets, so if you can leave your bathroom’s layout approximately the same, you’ll save money. However, to achieve the desired style and feel, you may need to alter the floor layout. Additional structural or building work may be necessary, depending on your home and existing bathroom. Building materials and bathroom fixtures are two more key cost-influencing factors. Choose items that are simple yet high-quality and will last a long time. A decent extractor fan is essential, and a good heating system is also worthwhile.

Many bathrooms in Dublin houses are cramped and often lack natural light and ventilation. Using large mirrors and big panes of glass where needed for showers, along with keeping wall and tile colors light, helps brighten the room. It’s also essential to have bright task lighting that doesn’t cast shadows in critical locations to create a spacious and open feel. Additionally, consider adding LED strip lights under the vanity for gentle, ambient lighting in your new bathroom.

Many older and larger residences have been converted into flats, and because they were never designed to be self-contained apartments, bathrooms and kitchens were typically installed later. This might indicate that the space and arrangement are inconvenient and unsuited for a contemporary lifestyle. To obtain the desired style and feel, an alteration to the floor plan or even an expansion to the bathroom may be required. This is not always simple and takes meticulous planning, sophisticated design that maximizes space while adhering to all applicable construction codes, and a team of dedicated and experienced renovation builders and artisans to assure a successful outcome.

For many renovators in Dublin and the rest of Ireland, bathrooms are at the top of their priority list. A double sink, as well as a “his and hers” setup for towels and other items, is a must-have. If space is an issue, a single “statement” sink with unique surfaces and high-end fixtures is a terrific solution. Even if space is not an issue, a freestanding bath can be a show-stopper. There are many different bath types to choose from, but remember that stone baths are incredibly heavy and may require additional construction work to support the floor. Consider turning a traditional closet into a smart, convenient bathroom, especially in older homes.