How long does a bathroom renovation take? Complete timeline per phase

Direct answer: A bathroom renovation takes on average 2 to 4 weeks for a standard project (5-7m², new pipes, no structural work). Cosmetic refresh: 1-2 weeks. Full strip + custom work: 5-7 weeks. Plus 1-2 weeks in advance for planning and orders.

The most frequently asked question we get, after "what does it cost", is "how long will it take?". The honest answer: it depends. But in this guide we give you the realistic lead times per type of renovation and per phase, based on 187+ projects we carried out in 2024-2025.

Timeline by Renovation Type

Full timeline: standard renovation (3-4 weeks)

Week 0 — Preparation (before the works begin)

1. Day 1-2: Quote + final choice of materials (tile showroom, sanitary ware, taps)
2. Day 3-5: Order sanitaryware — delivery time 5-10 business days for common brands, 2-4 weeks for custom work
3. Day 6-7: Planning, permit check (usually not required for renovation, but required for structural changes)
4. Day 8-10: Arrange workers (if you are not working with your own contractor)

Week 1 — Demolition + Piping

• Day 1-2: Demolition of the old bathroom. Container, rubble removal. Dust and noise — don't be alarmed.
• Day 3-5: Run new pipes (hot, cold, drain). Relocate pipes if the sanitary fixtures will be on a different wall.
• Day 5-7: Electricity: new cables for lighting, sockets, ventilation.

Week 2 — Preparatory work + waterproofing

• Day 8-9: Screed (levelling layer) on floor. Thickness 3-5 cm. Drying time: 3-5 days.
• Day 10-11: Apply waterproofing (liquid membrane). Two coats, 24h drying time between.
• Day 12-13: Inspect wall substrate and level if necessary.

Week 3-4 — Tiling + sanitary

• Day 14-18: Tiling. Wall first, then floor. This is the longest phase and cannot be shortened.
• Day 19-20: Grouting + curing (24-48h).
• Day 21-22: Install sanitary fixtures: shower, bath, toilet, washbasin, taps.
• Day 23-24: Silicone sealing, final assembly, electrical finishing (lighting, switches).
• Day 25-28: Handover + small touch-ups + handover documents.

After week 4 — Ready for use

Usually, you can start using the bathroom on day 28-30. The screed must cure for 4 weeks before heavy loading, but light use (showering) is possible sooner.

What can extend the schedule?

1. ⏰ Sanitaryware not in stock — typically 2-4 weeks delay for custom work. Order 6 weeks in advance.
2. ⏰ Asbestos or hidden problems — homes built before 1990 may contain asbestos in tile adhesive or screed. First asbestos removal (€1.500-€3.500, +1 week).
3. ⏰ Hidden pipes — old lead pipes or concrete screed that needs to be stripped.
4. ⏰ Waiting for materials — special tiles or taps can have a delivery time of 4-6 weeks.
5. ⏰ Moisture problems discovered during works — if we open the wall and find mould, this must be treated first (€500-€2,000 extra).
6. ⏰ Changes during the works — “actually, we’d still like a different tap” midway through week 2. Adds 2–3 days of delay.

What can shorten the schedule?

• ✅ Choose sanitary fixtures that are in stock (not custom-made). You save 2-4 weeks delivery time.
• ✅ Order materials 6 weeks before the start, not 2 weeks.
• ✅ Have the electrician and plumber work at the same time in week 1 (instead of sequentially). Saves 2–3 days.
• ✅ Choose fast-drying screed (dries in 24h instead of 5 days). Costs 2-3x more material, saves 4 days.
• ✅ Work with a contractor with a fixed team (no subcontractors who skip days).

Frequently asked questions about lead time

How long does a bathroom renovation take on average?

Average 2-4 weeks for a standard renovation. Cosmetic: 1-2 weeks. Full strip + custom work: 5-7 weeks. Plus 1-2 weeks in advance for planning and ordering.

Can I stay in my home during the renovation?

Yes, usually. Provided you still have a second bathroom or shower, and you accept that the workers walk through your home. Otherwise you can opt for staying elsewhere for 1-2 weeks.

What is the drying time for screed and waterproofing?

Screed: 3-5 days (1 cm/week drying time). Waterproofing: 24-48h between two coats. Fast-drying screed is available but costs 2-3x more.

What is the longest phase of a bathroom renovation?

Tiling + curing: 1-2 weeks, including grouting, curing and sealing. This cannot be shortened without loss of quality.