A full bathroom remodel is one of the highest-impact projects you can do — and one where homeowners most want to know: “how long am I without my bathroom?” For a typical full renovation, the answer is about 2–4 weeks of active work.
Here's the honest week-by-week rundown, based on how we run bathroom projects across West Lafayette and Greater Lafayette — including the one we recently took from a dated 1970s bath to a subway-tiled, all-new space (see the before/after on our projects page).
Before week 1: selections and ordering
The schedule is won or lost before demo. Tile, vanity, tub or shower unit, fixtures and lighting all get selected and ordered up front — some vanities and glass take 2–4 weeks to arrive. We don't swing a hammer until the critical materials are on hand.
Week 1: demo and rough-in
- Day 1–2: protect floors and walls along the path, then demo — old tile, tub, vanity, flooring, down to the studs where needed.
- Day 2–3: any framing changes and inspection of what demo revealed (subfloor condition, old plumbing, hidden moisture).
- Day 3–5: plumbing and electrical rough-in — new valve, drain moves, outlets, vent fan and lighting.
Week 2: closing up and tile
- Insulation, drywall or cement board, and waterproofing membrane in the wet areas — the step you never see but that protects everything.
- Tile floors and walls, then grout. Tile is the longest single phase; intricate patterns and niches add days.
- Prime and paint while grout cures.
Week 3: fixtures and finish
- Tub or shower glass, vanity and countertop set, toilet, faucets and trim installed.
- Lighting, mirror, hardware, accessories and final caulk.
- Punch-list walkthrough — we fix everything on the list before we call it done.
What can stretch the timeline
The usual suspects: material backorders, hidden water damage or rot found during demo, mid-project design changes, and inspection scheduling on permit work. We price honestly for the surprises common in older Lafayette homes so week 1 discoveries don't blow up the plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full bathroom remodel take?
2–4 weeks of active work for a full renovation, once materials are on site. Small refreshes can take under a week; expansions or layout changes can run longer.
Can you remodel a bathroom in winter?
Yes — bathroom remodels are interior work and happen year-round. Winter is often easier to schedule.
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in the Lafayette area?
Cosmetic updates run a few thousand dollars; a full gut remodel of a standard-size bathroom typically lands in the low-to-mid five figures depending on tile, glass and fixtures. Get a free estimate for a real number.
Do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom?
If plumbing or electrical is being moved or added, yes. JPL Construction pulls the required permits and schedules inspections as part of the job.