Knowing how long a bathroom renovation will take makes planning much easier. While every project is different, most standard bathroom renovations follow a similar sequence — planning and selections first, followed by demolition, plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, tiling, fixture installation and final finishing.
For a typical Brisbane or Logan bathroom renovation, the on-site work may take around 2–3 weeks once materials, selections and trades have been scheduled. More complex projects, structural changes or custom finishes can take longer. Here's what you can generally expect week by week.
Week 1: Planning, Selections & Preparation
The renovation starts before demolition. This is when the final layout, fixtures, tiles, colours and other finishes should be confirmed. Your renovation team should also confirm the scope of work, access arrangements and trade schedule.
- Confirm the bathroom layout and fixture positions
- Choose tiles, vanity, tapware, toilet and shower fittings
- Confirm lighting, electrical points and ventilation
- Finalise the renovation scope and quote
- Arrange materials and coordinate trades
Week 1: Demolition & Strip-Out
Once the project begins on site, the existing bathroom is carefully stripped out. Old fixtures, cabinetry, tiles and other unwanted materials are removed before the underlying walls and floor are assessed.
This stage can reveal hidden issues such as moisture damage, deteriorated materials or outdated plumbing. If unexpected problems are discovered, they should be discussed before additional work proceeds.
Week 1–2: Plumbing & Electrical Rough-In
With the room stripped back, plumbers and electricians can prepare the services for the new bathroom. If the toilet, shower or vanity is moving, this stage usually requires more work than a renovation that keeps the existing layout.
- Adjust water and waste connections where required
- Prepare new electrical points and lighting
- Install or adjust exhaust ventilation
- Prepare walls and surfaces for the next stages
"The smoother a bathroom renovation runs on site, the more preparation has been completed before demolition begins — especially fixture selections, layout decisions and material availability."
Week 2: Waterproofing & Floor Preparation
Waterproofing is one of the most important stages of a bathroom renovation. The wet areas are prepared and waterproofed according to the required system before tiles are installed.
For a curbless or walk-in shower, the floor fall and drainage details need particular attention because water must flow correctly without relying on a raised hob to contain it.
Week 2: Tiling & Surface Finishes
Once the required preparation and waterproofing stages are complete, tiling can begin. The exact duration depends on the bathroom size, tile format, layout and amount of cutting required.
Large-format tiles can create a clean, contemporary look, while smaller or more detailed patterns may require additional installation time. Grouting and silicone finishing follow the tile installation.
Week 2–3: Vanity, Shower, Toilet & Fixtures
As the finished surfaces are ready, the bathroom's main fixtures are installed. This typically includes the vanity, basin, toilet, shower fittings, screen, tapware, mirrors and other accessories included in the scope.
- Install vanity and basin
- Fit toilet and tapware
- Install shower fittings and screen
- Fit mirrors, accessories and towel rails
- Complete lighting and electrical fit-off
Week 3: Final Finishing & Handover
The final stage is about completing the details and checking that everything works as intended. Your renovation team should inspect the finished bathroom, complete any minor adjustments and leave the space ready for use.
- Final plumbing and electrical checks
- Silicone and finishing details
- Touch-up painting where required
- Clean the renovated space
- Complete final inspection and handover
What Can Delay a Bathroom Renovation?
Not every renovation follows the same schedule. Material availability, unexpected damage behind walls, plumbing changes, structural work and custom finishes can all extend the timeline.
- Unexpected water or structural damage
- Changes to the agreed layout during construction
- Delayed tiles, fixtures or custom cabinetry
- Additional plumbing or electrical requirements
- More extensive preparation needed before waterproofing or tiling
How to Keep Your Renovation on Schedule
- Choose your fixtures and finishes before demolition starts.
- Confirm that key materials are available before booking the renovation.
- Keep plumbing positions unchanged where possible if time and budget are priorities.
- Have the renovation scope clearly documented before work begins.
- Allow some contingency for older homes and unexpected conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
A typical bathroom renovation may take around 2–3 weeks of on-site work, although the total timeline depends on the scope, layout changes, materials and any unexpected issues discovered during construction.
What happens first in a bathroom renovation?
Planning and selections come first, followed by site preparation and demolition. Once the room is stripped out, plumbing and electrical rough-in work can be completed before waterproofing and tiling.
Can a bathroom renovation take longer than three weeks?
Yes. Structural changes, relocated plumbing, custom cabinetry, material delays or hidden damage can extend the construction period. A detailed scope and good pre-construction planning can help reduce avoidable delays.
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