Planning a bathroom remodel can be exciting—but also overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. You may be asking yourself: What comes first when remodeling a bathroom? Should you start with demolition, picking materials, or hiring a contractor?
At Magna Custom, we’ve walked dozens of homeowners in Pine Plains and the surrounding Hudson Valley through successful bathroom remodels—from small updates to full custom overhauls. In this guide, we’ll break down the first steps of a bathroom remodel so you can feel confident and prepared before any tile is torn up.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before you talk to contractors or browse tile samples, take a moment to define your goals.
Ask yourself:
- What do I want to change about this bathroom?
- What isn’t working with the current layout or design?
- Is this a cosmetic update or a full renovation?
- What’s my ideal outcome?
Whether it’s maximizing storage in a small bathroom or creating a spa-like master retreat, being clear on your goals will guide every decision moving forward.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
Next, determine how much you’re comfortable spending. Your budget will influence the scope, materials, and design choices.
In Pine Plains, most bathroom remodels fall between $10,000 and $30,000, depending on size and complexity. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Minor updates (paint, fixtures): $5,000–$10,000
- Standard full remodel: $12,000–$20,000
- Master bath renovation: $20,000–$35,000+
Don’t forget to include a 10–15% cushion for unexpected issues like water damage or plumbing updates—especially in older homes.
Step 3: Find the Right Contractor
One of the first major actions you should take is hiring a reputable contractor. A good bathroom remodeling contractor will:
- Help you refine your design vision
- Provide a detailed quote
- Manage scheduling and subcontractors
- Handle permits and inspections
- Deliver a high-quality result
Magna Custom specializes in bathroom remodels throughout Pine Plains, NY. Our process begins with a free in-home consultation, where we learn about your goals, take measurements, and begin designing a space that fits your budget and style.
Step 4: Design and Material Selection
Once you have a contractor on board, you’ll move into the design phase. This is where the fun starts—choosing tile, paint, lighting, vanities, and more.
But it’s more than just picking pretty finishes. A smart design balances:
- Function and flow
- Storage needs
- Lighting and ventilation
- Code compliance
At Magna Custom, we walk you through material options and provide design guidance to help you make confident choices. We also recommend selecting and ordering materials early so they’re on-site when work begins—this helps prevent delays.
Step 5: Finalize the Scope and Schedule
With design decisions made and materials selected, it’s time to finalize the project scope and timeline. Your contractor should give you:
- A written contract
- A detailed schedule (start and finish dates)
- A payment plan
- A list of what’s included—and what’s not
At this point, any necessary permits will also be pulled by your contractor, especially if plumbing or electrical work is involved.
Step 6: Demolition and Prep Work
Now the physical work begins. The first phase of construction is demolition, where your old bathroom is carefully torn out. Depending on the size of the space and complexity, this usually takes 1–3 days.
Magna Custom uses dust control and floor protection methods to minimize disruption in your home during this phase.
After demolition, we’ll inspect the underlying structure and make sure everything is ready for the next step—framing, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins.
Step 7: Rough-Ins and Behind-the-Walls Work
Before new tile or drywall can go in, your remodel will move through what’s called the “rough-in” stage:
- Plumbing lines are adjusted or replaced
- Electrical wiring is rerouted or upgraded
- Ventilation is updated if needed
Once complete, this work will be inspected by local building officials before closing up the walls.
Summary: What Comes First?
Here’s a quick recap of what to do first when remodeling a bathroom:
- Define your goals
- Set your budget
- Hire a qualified contractor
- Make design decisions and select materials
- Finalize scope, timeline, and permits
- Begin demolition and construction
Trust Magna Custom to Guide You Every Step of the Way
At Magna Custom, we’ve helped with bathroom remodeling in Pine Plains and beyond. From first consultation to final walkthrough, we’re here to simplify the process and deliver stunning results.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you plan, budget, and remodel with confidence—starting with the very first move.
