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Bathroom
DIY Bathroom Remodel Step-by-Step
DIY Bathroom Remodel Step-by-Step: How We Completely Transformed Our Space
We’ve wanted to change the bathroom design ever since we moved into our home. Luckily, the building we live in was planning to replace all the water pipes, so we decided this was the perfect opportunity to take on our most ambitious project yet: a full bathroom remodel. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll share how we tackled each part of the renovation, from tearing down walls to finishing with a stunning modern look. If you’ve ever wondered how to approach a DIY bathroom remodel step-by-step, this guide is for you!
Before and after picture
Before We Started: A Fresh Start for the Bathroom
Our bathroom was cramped and outdated. The old tiles, low ceiling, and unused pipes cluttered the space and made it feel smaller than it actually was. We decided to give it a full makeover to create a more spacious, modern, and functional room. Here’s how we did it!
Step 1: Take Down the Ceiling and Sink Cabinet
We started our DIY bathroom remodel step-by-step by clearing out the existing ceiling and removing the sink cabinet. Since we planned to raise the ceiling and replace the sink, we needed to create an open, blank canvas for the new design.
How We Did It:
- First, we unscrewed and disconnected the sink from the plumbing, carefully removing it from the wall.
- Next, we took down the ceiling using a crowbar to pry the panels away. It was a messy job, but once the ceiling came down, we already noticed the room feeling more open.
- We also removed any old fixtures, lights, and vents that were attached to the ceiling.
Pro Tip: Before removing fixtures, make sure to turn off the water supply and electricity to the bathroom to avoid accidents.
Tools Used: Crowbar, Screwdriver, Wrench
Materials Removed: Ceiling Panels, Sink Cabinet
Step 2: Cut Down Half of the Wall Over the Toilet to Open Up the Space
The bathroom had a half wall above the toilet that made the space feel cramped. To create a more open and spacious feel, we decided to cut down this wall.
How We Did It:
- We used a saw to carefully cut through the drywall of the half wall, exposing the underlying framework.
- Once the wall was open, we removed the supporting studs, taking care not to damage the surrounding structure.
- After the wall was removed, we patched up any exposed edges to create a smooth finish.
Pro Tip: Always check for hidden pipes or electrical wires inside the wall before cutting. Use a stud finder and consult building plans if necessary.
Tools Used: Saw, Crowbar, Stud Finder
Materials Removed: Drywall, Wooden Studs
Step 3: Remove Old, Unused Pipes to Create More Space
Next, we tackled one of the most challenging parts of this DIY bathroom remodel step-by-step: removing old, unused pipes in the corner behind the wall. This was a tricky task due to the thickness and position of the pipes.
How We Did It:
- We carefully opened the drywall in the corner to expose the pipes. Using a pipe cutter, we cut away the sections of pipe that were no longer in use.
- We then patched up the drywall, filling in the gaps left by the pipes to create more usable space in the bathroom.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about removing pipes, consult a professional plumber. Working with plumbing requires caution to avoid damaging essential water lines.
Tools Used: Pipe Cutter, Crowbar, Drywall Patching Kit
Materials Removed: Old Pipes, Drywall
Step 4: Rebuild the Wall in the Shower Area
When the pipe-chasing company replaced the water pipes, they had to open up the wall in the shower. To restore this wall, we needed to build a new structure that was waterproof and durable.
How We Did It:
- We first built a wooden frame to outline the shape of the new wall.
- Next, we covered the frame with moisture-resistant drywall to prevent any water damage.
- For additional protection, we applied a layer of 100% waterproof membrane over the drywall, ensuring that the wall could withstand the moisture of a shower area.
Pro Tip: Use damp-resistant drywall in bathrooms to prevent mold and water damage. Applying a waterproof membrane adds an extra layer of protection.
Tools Used: Saw, Screwdriver, Waterproof Membrane
Materials Used: Wooden Beams, Damp-Free Drywall
Step 5: Even Out the Walls with Cement
Removing the old tiles would have been a time-consuming and messy process, so instead, we opted to even out the walls using cement to create a smooth surface for the new design.
How We Did It:
- We applied a layer of cement over the existing tiles, smoothing it out with a trowel.
- We continued this process around the entire bathroom to ensure all the walls were level and ready for the next steps.
Pro Tip: Applying cement directly onto old tiles is a great way to save time and create an even surface for new finishes.
Tools Used: Trowel, Mixing Bucket
Materials Used: Cement
Step 6: Build the New Sink Cabinet
Instead of buying an expensive sink cabinet, we built a custom one using a small IKEA drawer system and MDF plates. This allowed us to customize the size and look of the cabinet.
How We Did It:
- We started by assembling the IKEA drawer system and then cut MDF plates to create a tabletop and additional cabinet space.
- We attached the MDF plates to the IKEA drawers, securing them with screws to create a sturdy frame.
Pro Tip: MDF is easy to work with and can be cut to any shape, making it perfect for custom projects like this.
Tools Used: Saw, Screwdriver, Drill
Materials Used: IKEA Drawer System, MDF Plates
Step 7: Create a Rounded Corner with Bendable MDF
Annie wanted a rounded corner for the cabinet, so we used bendable MDF to achieve this unique design element.
How We Did It:
- We cut a piece of bendable MDF to the desired size and shape.
- Using screws and wood glue, we carefully attached it to the cabinet, shaping it into a smooth, rounded corner.
Pro Tip: Bendable MDF is perfect for creating curves and unique shapes in furniture projects. Be patient while securing it to maintain the curve.
Tools Used: Saw, Screwdriver, Clamps
Materials Used: Bendable MDF, Wood Glue
Step 8: Apply Micro Cement to Walls and Cabinet
Now it was time to give the bathroom its new look by applying micro cement to the walls and cabinet. Micro cement is a versatile and waterproof material that can be applied to different surfaces, making it ideal for bathroom use.
How We Did It:
- In the shower area, we first applied a layer of 100% waterproof membrane over the new drywall, then applied the micro cement on top.
- We used a trowel to spread the micro cement evenly across all the walls, including the surface of the sink cabinet.
Pro Tip: Apply micro cement in thin layers to avoid cracks and ensure a smooth finish. Use a waterproof sealer afterward to protect the surface.
Tools Used: Trowel, Waterproof Membrane, Paint Roller
Materials Used: Micro Cement, Waterproof Sealer
Step 9: Raise the Ceiling
One of the most transformative changes was raising the ceiling in the toilet area by 40 centimeters. This made the room feel more spacious and open.
How We Did It:
- We built a wooden frame on the ceiling to create a new support structure.
- Next, we attached damp-free drywall to the frame, providing a smooth surface for painting later on.
Pro Tip: Ensure proper ventilation in the ceiling to avoid moisture buildup.
Tools Used: Saw, Screwdriver, Drill
Materials Used: Wooden Beams, Damp-Free Drywall
Step 10: Add Ventilation and Hatch for Water Pipes
Proper ventilation is essential in any bathroom. We added a vent to the ceiling to keep moisture levels in check. Additionally, we included a hatch for easy access to the water pipes, allowing for future maintenance.
How We Did It:
- We cut a hole in the ceiling drywall for the vent and hatch, then secured them in place using screws.
Pro Tip: Adding a hatch provides convenient access to utilities while keeping them hidden from view.
Tools Used: Saw, Screwdriver
Materials Used: Vent, Access Hatch
Step 11: Spackle the Ceiling
To give the ceiling a smooth, finished look, we applied a layer of spackle over the seams and screws.
How We Did It:
- Using a putty knife, we spread the spackle evenly over the joints and screw holes.
- After it dried, we sanded it down for a flawless finish.
Tools Used: Putty Knife, Sandpaper
Materials Used: Spackle
Step 12: Install the Sink, Faucet, and Shower
With the structure in place, it was time to install the new sink, faucet, and shower. We carefully followed the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper installation.
How We Did It:
- We connected the plumbing fixtures to the water lines, securing them in place with wrenches and plumber’s tape.
Tools Used: Wrench, Plumber’s Tape
Materials Used: Sink, Faucet, Shower Fixtures
Step 13: Paint the Ceiling
We painted the ceiling with a moisture-resistant paint to match the rest of the bathroom’s sleek, modern look.
Pro Tip: Use moisture-resistant paint in bathrooms to prevent mold and mildew.
Tools Used: Paint Roller, Brush
Materials Used: Moisture-Resistant Paint
Step 14: Add Gray Floor Tiles
To give the bathroom a polished finish, we installed large gray tiles on the floor.
How We Did It:
- We primed the old floor and cut the tiles to fit the space.
- We applied tile adhesive and laid the tiles down, making sure to slope the area around the shower for drainage.
Pro Tip: Use spacers to ensure even gaps between tiles and achieve a professional look.
Tools Used: Tile Cutter, Trowel
Materials Used: Floor Tiles, Tile Adhesive, Primer
Step 15: Install a Small Glass Wall in the Shower
To prevent water from splashing out of the shower, we installed a small glass wall.
How We Did It:
- We drilled holes for the brackets, then secured the glass panel in place.
Tools Used: Drill, Screwdriver
Materials Used: Glass Panel, Brackets
Step 16: Apply Sealer to the Micro Cement
Finally, we added a sealer to the micro cement to protect the surface and ensure it remains waterproof.
How We Did It:
- We used a paint roller to apply the sealer evenly across the walls and sink cabinet.
Tools Used: Paint Roller
Materials Used: Waterproof Sealer
Final Result: Our Dream Bathroom Remodel Complete!
And that’s it! Our DIY bathroom remodel step-by-step transformed our outdated space into a modern, sleek, and functional bathroom. From raising the ceiling to installing custom cabinetry, this project was a labor of love, and we couldn’t be happier with the result.
