How Long Should a Bathroom Renovation Take? Tips and Timeline

Jul 7, 2025

Wondering how long a bathroom renovation could take? Simple updates can be done in a few days. A full remodel usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. 

For luxury projects, plan for up to six weeks. Read on to understand how each type of renovation impacts the timeline and what factors influence the duration.

Key Takeaways

  • Typical bathroom renovations take around six weeks, but timelines vary greatly depending on the scope, ranging from a few days for simple updates to several months for luxury refurbishments.
  • Understanding factors like design complexity, size, and material availability can help manage and set realistic timelines for your renovation project.
  • Effective planning, hiring skilled professionals, and maintaining clear communication are key to ensuring a smooth and successful bathroom renovation.

Typical Duration of Bathroom Renovations

The timeline can vary significantly depending on the project’s scope and complexity. A standard bathroom renovation usually takes approximately six weeks to complete, though the duration can range from just a few days to several months, depending on the specific circumstances.

Simple updates, full remodels, and luxury refurbishments each have distinct timelines. Knowing these differences helps in setting realistic expectations and planning effectively.

Simple Updates and Cosmetic Changes

If your bathroom renovation involves minor changes like painting or replacing fixtures, these projects can often be completed in just a few days. Simple updates such as swapping out taps, replacing light fixtures and giving the walls a fresh coat of paint can transform the look of your new bathroom without the need for extensive work.

These quick fixes are perfect for giving your bathroom a makeover without disrupting your daily routine for long.

Full Bathroom Remodels

A full bathroom remodel is a more comprehensive project that typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks to complete. This involves replacing major components like the bath, shower, toilet, and basin and updating wall tiles and flooring.

The size of your bathroom space plays a significant role in determining the timeline; larger bathrooms naturally require more time for installations and finishes. Additionally, if your existing bathroom is in good condition, this can shorten the renovation timeline.

However, issues like outdated plumbing, water damage, or mould can introduce significant delays, making planning for a complete bathroom essential.

Luxury Bathroom Refurbishments

When it comes to luxury bathroom refurbishments, the timeline can extend to around six weeks due to the bespoke elements involved.

High-end renovations often feature custom designs and premium materials like marble, granite, and exclusive tiles, which require careful planning and execution. The custom nature of these projects means that each element is tailored to your specific tastes, adding time to the overall renovation process.

Choosing a luxury bathroom refurbishment not only enhances the aesthetics of your bathroom but also ensures a high-quality finish that adds significant value to your home. While these projects take longer, the end result is a stunning bathroom that feels like a personal spa retreat.

Factors Influencing Renovation Timelines

Several factors can influence the timeline of your bathroom renovation. Understanding these can help you plan more effectively and set realistic expectations.

Generally, the complexity of the design, the size and condition of the existing bathroom, and the availability of materials all play crucial roles in determining the length of the renovation.

Design Complexity and Customisation

Intricate designs and custom features typically require additional time to execute during bathroom renovations. Custom installations, such as bespoke tile patterns or unique fixtures, demand more time and skill compared to standard installations.

The time needed for tile installation, for instance, can vary based on the complexity of the design and the size of the tiles being used.

Size and Condition of Existing Bathroom

The size and condition of your existing bathroom are significant factors that influence the renovation timeline. Larger bathrooms naturally require more time for demolition, preparation, and installation.

For instance, a small space may be quicker to renovate, but if it has underlying issues like outdated plumbing or water damage, these problems can add significant time to the overall project.

Additionally, if your bathroom is in poor condition, extensive repairs may be necessary, prolonging the renovation process.

Assessing the size and condition of your bathroom beforehand can help set realistic timelines and avoid unexpected delays.

Ensuring that you have a clear understanding of your bathroom’s current state can help in planning a more accurate renovation timeline.

Material Availability and Lead Times

Material availability is another crucial factor that can influence your bathroom renovation timeline. If materials are not readily available, special orders for them can lead to significant delays.

Carefully selecting luxurious materials like marble and exclusive tiles enhances your bathroom’s aesthetic and durability. However, sourcing these top-tier materials might require additional lead time, so planning ahead is essential to avoid delays.

Typical Stages of a Bathroom Renovation

A bathroom renovation typically involves a series of stages, each taking a specified amount of time. The main stages include:

  • Planning and design
  • Demolition and preparation
  • Plumbing and electrical work
  • Tiling and flooring
  • Installation of fixtures and fittings
  • Final touches and clean-up.

Each stage is crucial, and skipping or rushing through any phase can lead to issues later on.

Planning and Design

The planning and design stage typically lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, but it can also extend to several weeks. This phase is crucial as it lays the groundwork for how the renovation will progress.

During this week, you’ll gather ideas, obtain quotes, and finalise your plans. Hiring a general contractor can be beneficial if multiple trades are involved in your project, ensuring that everything is coordinated smoothly.

Clear communication with contractors and suppliers is crucial for staying on schedule and avoiding misunderstandings.

Demolition and Preparation

The demolition and preparation phase involves tearing down the existing structures and getting the space ready for the new installations. This stage typically ranges from 1 to 3 days, depending on the size of your bathroom and the scope of the work involved. In a small bathroom remodel, demolition usually takes about 2 days.

Making sure walls are straight and surfaces are ready for waterproofing is critical before tiling.

Plumbing and Electrical Work

Plumbing and electrical work is a critical phase of bathroom renovations that typically takes between 2 to 5 days. For small bathroom remodels, rough plumbing usually requires about 1 to 2 days.

Individually testing plumbing and electrical system fittings ensures all components function correctly and addresses any structural problems that might arise.

Tiling and Flooring

The tiling and flooring stage generally takes around 3 to 5 days during a bathroom renovation. Preparation for tiling involves sheeting the bathroom walls and ceilings, which is a critical step to ensure a smooth and durable finish.

This preparation may also include plastering and preparing the walls, taking about 1 to 2 days. The overall tiling process typically lasts between 3 to 5 days, depending on the complexity and size of the tiles being installed.

Installing new bathroom flooring typically aligns with the entirety of the tiling process, taking around 2 days. In smaller bathroom remodels, tiling can often be completed in about 2 days, making this phase relatively quick yet crucial for the overall aesthetic and functionality of your bathroom.

Installation of Fixtures and Fittings

The installation of fixtures and fittings in a bathroom renovation generally lasts between 2 to 4 days. Installing main fixtures like basins, toilets, and showers typically takes around 2 days.

Adding additional fixtures and fittings can take about 1 day, ensuring that everything is in place and functioning correctly.

Final Touches and Clean-Up

The final touches and clean-up phase typically takes 1 to 2 days. This stage involves final cleaning and installing accessories to complete the renovation and prepare the bathroom for use.

Tips for a Smooth Bathroom Renovation

Successful renovations require careful planning and a structured approach. Transparent communication and meticulous planning are key to completing renovations efficiently.

Effective Planning and Budgeting

Creating a detailed layout on paper can help visualise space and prevent design errors. Separating the costs of materials and labour can help you manage your renovation budget more effectively in construction.

Setting aside 10-20% of your budget for unexpected expenses ensures you are financially prepared for surprises during the renovation.

Hiring Skilled Professionals

Hiring experienced contractors ensures quality workmanship. Finding skilled professionals for bathroom renovations is essential, given the high demand for experts.

Checking their experience, references, and previous projects can help ensure that you are hiring the best bathroom fitters for the job.

Clear Communication and Flexibility

Regular communication with your team is essential for addressing concerns and ensuring project alignment. Effective planning and budgeting provide a structure for communication and clarify project expectations.

Being prepared for unexpected issues is essential, as renovations can unveil unanticipated challenges that need immediate attention.

Why TMT Central Bathrooms Is Your Ideal Renovation Partner

At TMT Central Bathrooms, we understand that a bathroom renovation isn’t just about replacing tiles or fixtures; it’s about creating a space you’ll love for years to come. Based in London, we specialise in delivering everything from quick upgrades to high-end, fully bespoke refurbishments.

We handle every stage of the process in-house, ensuring your project stays on schedule, on budget, and up to the highest standards. You’ll have one dedicated point of contact, so there’s no juggling multiple tradespeople or chasing suppliers as we coordinate it all seamlessly for you.

We know timelines matter, which is why our experienced team is laser-focused on planning, precision, and execution. From helping you choose the right materials to managing complex plumbing and electrical work, we anticipate challenges before they become delays. For your home, we will deliver a stress-free renovation that finishes on time and looks even better than you imagined.

Book your free consultation today, and let’s create the perfect bathroom on schedule.

We Bring Design Vision and Practical Know-How

A bathroom can be beautiful, but if it isn’t functional, it won’t truly serve your needs. That’s why we blend creative design with practical expertise. Our in-house designers work closely with you to understand your lifestyle, storage needs, and style preferences. Then we pair that vision with clever layouts, durable finishes, and efficient installations to ensure your bathroom is as practical as it is stunning.

From spa-like luxury retreats to sleek, space-saving city bathrooms, we bring fresh ideas, premium craftsmanship, and precision detailing to every project. The end result isn’t just a renovation, it’s a transformation that enhances your home’s comfort and value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a bathroom renovation take near London?

A bathroom renovation near London typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks, with simpler projects finishing in about 10 to 14 days. It’s a good idea to plan accordingly.

What should be considered before starting bathroom renovations?

Before starting bathroom renovations, it’s crucial to think about your budget, available space, desired style, and the essentials like plumbing and lighting. This will help ensure a smooth renovation process.

Do I need planning permission to remodel my bathroom in London?

You usually won’t need planning permission to remodel your bathroom in London unless you’re making major structural changes. Just keep that in mind while you plan your updates!

How do I choose the best bathroom fitter for my refurbishment project?

You really want to look for a bathroom fitter with solid experience and good references. Make sure they have a track record of quality work and can communicate clearly throughout your project.

How much does a bathroom renovation cost in London?

A bathroom renovation in London typically costs between £5,000 to £15,000, depending on size, design complexity, and materials used. Keep these factors in mind as you plan your project.

Conclusion

The time it takes to renovate a bathroom depends on many factors, including design complexity, the size and current condition of the space, and how quickly materials are available.

Careful planning, efficient organisation, and skilled workmanship are essential to keeping the project on schedule. That’s exactly why homeowners choose TMT Central Bathrooms. 

We precisely handle every stage of your renovation, from concept to completion, using premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and seamless project management. Our bathrooms don’t just look beautiful; they feel like stepping into a luxury boutique hotel every single day.

When you want your renovation done right, on time, and without the stress, TMT Central Bathrooms is the smart choice. Let us transform your bathroom into a space you’ll love for years to come.