This post was inspired by my last post where I list off the ways in which you can survive a live-through kitchen renovation. This posts all about living through a bathroom renovation.

Albeit easier, a bathroom renovation still takes it’s toll on your every day life. Here’s how to make the best of it:

Move Out Temporarily

I’ll preface this one by saying this is optional if you have multiple bathrooms. If you have a big family, I would consider how much impact you’ll have their lives if you’re all sharing a bathroom for a few months.

I know moving out doesn’t technically qualify it as a ‘live-through’ option but you’ll be the most comfortable if you decide to move out.

Click here to see how long a bathroom renovation typically takes and why.

Design & Plan In Advance

Just like a kitchen renovation, a bathroom renovation needs planning. We’ll start you off with a style guide, then we’ll create a 3D drawing of the space so you can get an idea of what you bathroom will look like when the reno is complete. Next we’ll start the 2D drawings and create a spec sheet for you (a spec sheet is just a list of the materials we’ll need for your project and where to source them from). Finally, we’ll pre-purchase all of the materials before we start to make sure the reno isn’t delayed by waiting for cabinets or tile etc.

Here’s the step by step list in bullet point form:

-Create a style guide for your space

-Develop a 3D drawing if that will help you to visualize the space

-Design the project fully on paper (PDF) with no detail overlooked

-Put together a spec sheet that notes the counter top type and thickness, the cabinet finishes on the exterior and the interior, the number of handles and pulls, even the name of the salesperson at the appliance store.

-Develop a fixed price proposal that denotes EVERYTHING

-Apply for and receive a building permit if required.

-Order as many materials and appliances as we can before we start demolition

Create Your Own Movable Bathroom Kit

If you’re sharing a bathroom with someone else (or multiple family members), it helps to have a bathroom kit you can take in and out of the bathroom as needed. A little box or bag with all of your things helps, but a large makeup box with a handle is usually your bet. Check out this one on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Haundry-College-Bathroom-Organizer-Handles/dp/B0734X5DS9

Sometimes, even bringing in a dedicated shelf/furniture piece where you can put your things will help make the whole process easier and less of a hassle.

Here’s a note too: Once the vanity goes in and you’re waiting on the top to arrive, we can sometimes install your old sink and faucet on a sheet of plywood to make sure you get to use your new bathroom right away. Sometimes this isn’t a perfect solution, every home and family is unique.

Have Fun With It

I know, renovations aren’t ‘supposed’ to be fun, but whatever! It’s 2023, let’s have fun with renovating because it really can be a fun process if we plan it well. Happy bathroom renovating, and remember, the discomfort of renovating pales in comparison to the joys of a luxurious new bathroom space.