Bathroom Remodeling
Full bathroom renovations. The waterproofing behind the tile is the part that decides whether it lasts.
What goes wrong in bathrooms
Bathroom failures are almost always water getting somewhere it should not, and almost always behind the tile rather than on it. Tile and grout are not waterproof. The membrane behind them is.
The second failure is sequencing. Fixtures ordered late, rough in covered up before it was inspected, a tile choice changed once the layout is already set. That is coordination, and it is what turns a three week bathroom into a nine week one.
How we do it
Every job runs the same sequence. If something changes it, you hear about it the day we find it.
Scope and select first
Fixtures, tile and vanity chosen before demolition, because layout depends on them and lead times are real.
Demo and assess
Old finishes out. Older homes frequently hide water damage in the subfloor and we would rather find it now.
Rough in and inspection
Plumbing rough in by the licensed trade, inspected before anything is closed up.
Waterproof properly
Membrane or backer board system, correctly detailed at the corners and the curb. This is the step that is invisible and decides the outcome.
Tile, fixtures, finish
Set, grouted, fixtures fitted, and cleaned up.
What it costs
What moves the number
Bathrooms vary enormously with fixture selection, which is usually the single biggest lever you control.
| Work | What changes the price |
|---|---|
| Hall or guest bathroom, full gut | Size, tile, and fixtures |
| Primary bathroom, full gut | Size, custom tile, and fixtures |
| Tub to walk-in shower conversion | Waterproofing, glass, and tile |
| Layout change moving plumbing | Drain relocation and floor structure |
Moving the drain is the expensive change, because it means opening the floor. Keeping fixtures where they are saves real money.
We price off a site visit, not off a photograph, so you will not find a number on this page. You will get a written scope with a fixed price in it, and it will say what is included and what is not before you are asked for anything.
The work
Photographs from our own jobs.
How long does a bathroom take?
Three to six weeks for a full gut, assuming selections are made up front and inspections are scheduled without delay. Waiting on a fixture that was ordered late is the most common delay.
Can I use the bathroom during the work?
Not the one being renovated. If it is your only bathroom, that is worth planning around before the schedule is set.
Who does the plumbing?
A licensed plumber, coordinated by us. Allegheny County requires a registered master plumber for that work, and we do not hold that license.
What is the most common thing you find during demolition?
Water damage in the subfloor around the toilet or tub. It is common in older homes and it is much better to find it than to tile over it.
Need bathroom remodeling in the North Hills?
Send a few photos and what you have in mind. You get a straight answer about scope and what the job involves before anyone asks you for money.