“How long will it take?” is the second question every homeowner asks (right after “how much will it cost?”). The answer depends on the scope of work, the size of the bathroom and how well the project is planned.
This guide breaks down the typical bathroom renovation timeline in Melbourne, stage by stage, so you know what to expect.
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These timelines cover the build phase only. Planning, quoting and material selection add 4 to 8 weeks before construction begins.
The existing bathroom is stripped back to the walls and floor. This includes removing tiles, fixtures, vanity, toilet, shower screen and any damaged plasterboard. Waste is removed from site. A standard bathroom demolition takes 1 to 2 days.
The plumber repositions or upgrades water supply lines, drainage and waste connections for the new layout. The electrician installs wiring for new lighting, exhaust fans, heated towel rails and power points. This stage takes 2 to 3 days depending on the extent of changes.
The waterproof membrane is applied to the shower base, bathroom floor and walls to the required heights. The membrane needs 24 to 48 hours to cure before tiling begins. Including application and curing time, this stage takes 1 to 3 days.
Tiling is the longest single stage. Floor tiles are laid first, followed by wall tiles. Tiling time depends on bathroom size, tile size and pattern complexity. A standard bathroom takes 3 to 5 days for tiling. Large-format tiles take longer due to precise cutting and levelling. After tiling, grouting takes an additional day, and grout needs 24 hours to set.
The plumber installs the vanity, basin, tapware, toilet, shower mixer and any additional plumbing fixtures. The electrician connects lighting, exhaust fans and heated towel rails. The shower screen is measured and installed (some screens are made to order and installed 1 to 2 weeks after measurement). Mirrors, accessories and towel rails are fitted.
Ceiling and any exposed wall areas are painted. Silicone sealing is applied to all joints (shower, vanity, bath). Final cleaning of all surfaces, fixtures and glass.
Walk through the completed bathroom with your renovator. Check all fixtures for correct operation. Review tile work, grouting, silicone and paint quality. Receive waterproofing compliance certificate and any building permit sign-off.
Tiles, vanities and shower screens ordered too late or back-ordered from suppliers. Order all materials 2 to 4 weeks before the build start date.
Rotted framing, asbestos sheeting, termite damage or old plumbing that needs replacing. These issues are only found after demolition. A 10% to 20% contingency budget covers most surprises.
Waterproofing membranes require 24 to 48 hours to cure. Tiling cannot begin until the membrane is fully cured and passed inspection.
Changing tile selections, moving fixtures or adding features after work has started adds days or weeks. Finalise all design decisions before demolition.
Bathroom renovations require 5 to 7 different trades in a specific sequence. Delays in one trade push back all following trades. Using a single renovation company (like VICO) that manages all trades avoids this problem.
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Order all materials at least 2 to 4 weeks early.
Set a contingency budget (10% to 20%) for unexpected issues.
Avoid making changes after demolition begins.
Choose a renovation company that manages all trades under one roof.
A cosmetic refresh (new tiles, vanity and fixtures on the same layout) takes 2 to 3 weeks. A full strip-out and rebuild takes 4 to 6 weeks minimum.
Demolition is the fastest stage, typically 1 to 2 days. Tiling is the longest, taking 3 to 7 days.
Most renovation timelines are based on business days (Monday to Friday). Some companies offer Saturday work to accelerate the schedule. VICO Renovations schedules around your preferences.
VICO Renovations provides accurate timelines and free quotes for bathroom renovations across Melbourne. Call +61 490 151 012 or fill in our online form.
