How to plan a bathroom renovation

Thinking about upgrading your bathroom? Whether you are doing a full makeover or just updating the basics, planning a bathroom renovation needs careful thought. It also requires a budget and smart design choices.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step—from setting goals to managing your timeline—so your renovation runs smoothly and delivers long-lasting results.

What is a bathroom renovation?

A bathroom renovation means changing parts of your bathroom to make it better. This could mean adding new tiles, painting the walls, or even replacing the toilet, sink, and bath.

Some people renovate to make the bathroom look nicer. Others do it because things are broken or because they want to save water. It’s also common for people to renovate before selling their home, as a new bathroom can add value.

Start with a clear reason for renovating

Before you begin, it’s important to know why you want to change your bathroom. Some people want more space, others need a safer layout, and some just want a fresh, modern style. Knowing your reason will help guide every choice you make, from how much money you spend to the colours and fittings you choose.

Create a sensible budget for bathroom renovation

One of the first steps is to work out how much you can afford to spend. It's important to plan for every part of the job, including labour, materials, and small extras like towel rails, mirrors, or shower screens.

Try to keep some extra money aside just in case something unexpected comes up. For example, once the tiles are removed, you might find damp walls that need fixing, or outdated plumbing that needs replacing. A good rule is to save an extra 10 to 15 per cent of your total budget for these unexpected situations.

You can use a budget planner for your bathroom renovation project. Having a clear, sensible budget from the start means less stress later and helps you stay in control of your project. For more useful tips, read our guide: How can I plan a successful renovation on a budget?

Using finance to fund your renovation

Sometimes saving up isn’t enough, and you might want to borrow money for your renovation. There are several options in the UK. You could use a personal loan, which is paid back in monthly amounts over a set period. Some people use a credit card for smaller jobs, as long as they can pay it off quickly.

Some lenders offer secured home improvement loans that can help homeowners fund home improvements, including bathroom renovations. A secured loan could help spread the cost of a renovation, making it more manageable over time. To learn more, read our guide: What are secured home improvement loans? Or Is getting a home improvement loan worth it?

However, as these loans are secured against your home, missing repayments may result in your home being repossessed. It’s important to borrow only what you can afford and to make sure the monthly repayments fit your budget.

Before taking out a loan, always read the terms carefully and ask questions if anything isn’t clear. Check the interest rate and whether there are any extra fees. Responsible borrowing can help you finish your bathroom the way you want without waiting years to save up.

How to manage your time and stay organised

Renovating a bathroom doesn’t just cost money—it also takes time and effort. To keep everything on track, it helps to have a clear plan.

Start by writing down a list of tasks, like choosing tiles, booking a plumber, and buying materials. Next, put those tasks into a calendar. This helps you see what needs to be done each week.

If you’re working with builders or fitters, ask them for a timeline. They should tell you when they will start, how long each job will take, and when they’ll finish.

Keep in touch with them regularly to check on progress. If delays happen—and they often do—try to stay calm and flexible. Good planning means you can handle small problems without too much stress.

Tips for making your renovation smoother

There are many little things you can do to make your bathroom renovation go more smoothly. For example, before work starts, remove everything from the bathroom so the space is clear. Store your toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies somewhere safe and dry.

If you only have one bathroom in your home, think about how your family will cope while it’s out of use. You might want to ask a neighbour if you can use their shower or consider staying with relatives for a few days. Some people even hire a portable toilet during the messiest parts of the renovation.

Also, keep a notebook or folder with all your receipts, instructions, and contact details. If something goes wrong or you need to return an item, you’ll have everything in one place.

Planning a bathroom: what to do before you begin

Planning a bathroom means more than just picking out tiles or a new tap. It’s about thinking carefully about how the space will be used every day.

Start by asking yourself who uses the bathroom and what they need. For example, a busy family may want a big sink and lots of storage. In contrast, a person living alone might like a sleek, stylish design.

Take time to think about your daily routine. Do you prefer showers or baths? Is the lighting strong enough for shaving or putting on make-up? Do you need extra space for laundry? When you focus on how the room will be used, your renovation choices become much clearer.

Make sure to write down your needs and preferences. This makes it easier when you talk to fitters, designers, or even when shopping for items online. Proper planning gives your bathroom the best chance of staying useful, beautiful, and comfortable for years to come.

Making your bathroom future-proof

A well-planned bathroom should last many years. That’s why it’s smart to think about the future when choosing designs and products. For example, if you want to stay in your home as you age, think about adding a walk-in shower. You could also use lever-style taps that are easier to turn.

Storage is another thing to think about. As time goes on, you might collect more products or have more people using the space. Choosing cupboards and shelves that are roomy and easy to clean will make life easier later on.

Also, think about how your needs might change. If you’re planning to start a family, you might want a bath for children. If you’re thinking of selling in a few years, choose a style that will appeal to lots of people, not just your own tastes. To learn more, read our guide on which home improvements can add value to your home.

How to redo a bathroom without stress

If your bathroom is old or falling apart, you might be thinking about how to redo a bathroom from top to bottom. This can feel like a complicated job, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Start by removing everything you no longer want—outdated fixtures, broken tiles, and even worn-out flooring.

Next, think about the main upgrades. Do you need a new bath or would a walk-in shower be better? Is your toilet efficient, or does it use too much water? Replacing old fittings with modern versions can improve comfort, save water, and even lower your bills.

Don’t forget the small details, like taps, drawer handles, or light switches. These little changes can make the whole room feel new. If you are doing a complete redo, it might take a few weeks. This is especially true if you update plumbing or electrical systems.

Redoing a bathroom is a chance to fix old problems, add new features, and make the space your own. With good planning and the right help, it can be a smooth and satisfying project.

Conclusion

Renovating a bathroom in the UK can be a complicated task, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a bit of planning, a smart budget, and the right support, you can create a space that’s safe, comfortable, and stylish. Whether you’re updating an outdated bathroom or starting from scratch, the key is to take it one step at a time.

From measuring your space and choosing a layout, to hiring tradespeople and picking finishes, each part of the journey brings you closer to your ideal bathroom. If you’re careful with your money and stay organised, the results will last for years and make daily life just a bit better.

At Central Trust, we offer flexible home improvement loans from £3,000 to £250,000. Whether you need a small update or a major project, we can help you transform your home. Call us free on 0800 980 6273, or complete our enquiry form, and we will call you back at a convenient time.

THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON YOUR HOME, THE LENDER MAY REPOSSESS IT.