Planning a Bathroom Remodel: What to Know Before You Start

Are you planning to remodel your bathroom? Be prepared—many issues can arise. It’s essential to understand the process before you begin.

To make life easier, here’s a concise list of common bathroom-remodel pitfalls and how to avoid them. It’ll help you save time, money, and sanity.

Make a Plan Before You Start

The first step is defining scope and budget. Sketch a simple floor plan—this becomes the foundation for the project. From there, build a materials list that fits your budget.

Because the shower is usually the focal point, decide early: tile vs. panels, steam features, linear drain, curbless entry, etc.

Choose vendors/suppliers during planning. Good suppliers can help with layout, product selection, and keeping you on budget. Large retailers often offer design services, too.

Planning Questions to Kick Off

• Built-in or stand-alone cabinets?

• Shower only or bath/shower combo?

• How big should the shower be?

• Where will fixtures go (toilet, cabinets, closet)?

• Do I need more lighting—and where?

• What design style guides the colors, finishes, and cabinet types?

Contractor or DIY?

Many remodel problems are preventable with a reputable contractor—check reviews and meet candidates before deciding. The wrong hire can turn the project into a nightmare.

DIY can be rewarding if you have the skills and prep. If you’re newer, lean on quality resources:

• Curated YouTube channels (avoid low-quality advice)

• Good reference books

• Experienced friends/family with real home-improvement background

Use the Right Tools

If you’re going DIY, invest in reliable, contractor-grade tools. They’re safer, reduce fatigue, and speed up work. Consider specialty plumbing/tiling tools if you plan future projects. Upfront cost pays off in durability and performance.

Understand Scope and Size

Bathrooms were originally built for function first—but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style.

In a typical 5' × 8' bath, planning is crucial. To make the space feel larger, upgrade from old 4"×4" wall tiles and tiny mosaics to larger-format ceramic/porcelain or faux-tile wall panels—both modernize and visually expand the room.

Prefabricated shower pans can look cost-effective at first, but drain placement and plumbing relocation can erase savings. A low-cost 60" × 32" pan may require costly plumbing changes. Foam-based pans are customizable and let you place the drain where you need it. Always compare total installed cost (materials + labor), not just sticker price.

Selecting Your Finishes

Details matter. For faucets and hardware, consider color and manufacturer lines. Stay within the same product line for cohesion.

Be cautious with niche finishes that are hard to match across brands. Matte Black, Chrome, Brushed Stainless, and Polished Brass are common and easier to coordinate with door hardware and accessories.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential—especially in older homes. Poor venting traps humidity, leading to mold/mildew and potential health issues.

Bathrooms need a ducted exhaust fan to the exterior. Choose a powerful, quiet, efficient unit.

Simple test: Run a hot shower with the fan on. If walls sweat or mirrors stay fogged long after, upgrade the fan/ducting. If you discover black mold during demo, consult a pro for remediation before proceeding.

Local wholesalers and DIY stores can help you size and select the right system.

Plumbing and Electrical

Plumbing and electrical are complex and potentially dangerous. Unless you’re qualified, hire licensed pros. If you DIY, follow local codes, pull permits as required, and don’t cut corners.

Waterproofing Your Shower

Picking materials can be hard—picking the right waterproofing system shouldn’t be.

Foam systems are popular and widely available. Choose a complete, single-manufacturer system to keep warranty coverage. Mixing parts from different brands (pan from one, boards from another) can void warranties and leave you exposed if something fails.

Prioritize ease of installation, comprehensive warranty, and proven performance—not just price. Proper waterproofing prevents expensive water damage and hidden mold.

HydroBlok™ offers a warrantied, installer-friendly system that, when installed correctly, delivers a fully waterproof shower.

Shower Enclosures

Enclosures keep water inside the shower. Rotating doors that puddle water or framed sliders with grime-collecting bottom tracks are common pain points.

Solid-panel glass enclosures offer a clean, open look and are easier to keep clean. Sliding or hinged, modular or custom—pick what fits your layout and maintenance preferences.

Shower Storage

Recessed niches and corner shelves are popular. If adding niches, plan stud placement and framing in advance, especially for custom sizes.

Location of Your Mixing Valve

Avoid the cold-blast start. If the valve is directly under the showerhead, you’ll step into cold water to turn it on. Place the valve where you can reach in from outside the spray zone.

Tile or Prefabricated Walls?

“Bath-in-a-day” acrylic panels can be tempting, but covering old tile can trap moisture if hidden mildew exists. If you don’t remediate underlying issues, problems continue.

Nothing beats the timeless look, design flexibility, and durability of tile or stone—installed over a proper waterproofing system.

Shower Curb or No Curb?

Consider current and future mobility needs. A low-profile or curbless entry may be the smarter long-term choice. There are many barrier-free options—balance cost, installation complexity, and value for your situation.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it gives you a solid foundation for planning and executing a professional-quality bathroom remodel. Careful planning pays off—your bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house.

HydroBlok™ Shower System components are lightweight and straightforward. Installed properly with HydroBlok™ sealant, the system is 100% waterproof, so you can start tiling in a few hours—no extra, time-consuming steps. Accessories are lightweight, strong, and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Our mission is simple: provide high-quality, time-saving products that protect your investment. If you want the highest quality, DIY-friendly shower system at an affordable price—with detailed video instructions—HydroBlok™ is ready when you are.