With the right know-how, many of these updates are achievable DIYs, but it’s important to consider whether your skills are up to the task. We asked an expert to weigh the pros and cons of common DIY bathroom updates. Then, use these tips to help you determine whether to tackle these projects yourself or hire a professional.
1. Replacing a Toilet
Most people don’t know how to replace a toilet. But upgrading from an old, ugly commode to a high-efficiency, comfort-height design is an easy enough DIY bathroom project. The process involves turning off the water supply to the toilet, removing the nuts and bolts, attaching the toilet to the supply line and the floor, hauling away the old toilet, then replacing the wax gasket and flange. Finally, the DIYer (or pro!) fastens the new bowl in place on the floor with nuts and caulk, secures the tank and lid to the bowl, and reconnects the water line. Potential problems include dripping water through the house when hauling out the old toilet or failing to make the new toilet level, causing it to move under weight. Even worse, incorrect installation of the wax ring, flange, or bolts can cause water damage. “If you don’t do it right, you’re definitely going to have a leak,” says Andy Blum, owner of Blum Remodeling Services in Jacksonville, North Carolina. “Then you’ll have to have someone come in and fix it, and it won’t have been worth the trouble of doing it yourself.” Bottom line: If you can’t invest the time into doing it right, it’s better to leave toilet installs to a professional to avoid risks of leakage or irreversible damage. Replacing the toilet seat can be a simple and easy update if you’re not ready to replace the whole unit.
2. Installing a Shower Surround
In many cases, giving a shower stall a facelift with a prefabricated shower surround is a practical solution for DIYers. Typically made from fiberglass or acrylic, these units cover the three walls above the tub and may include tile-look walls and shelves. To install, you must remove everything from the existing shower and repair any damaged spots on the walls. Using the surround’s carton as a template, mark off the plumbing locations and other items that will protrude through the wall. Transfer these markings onto the surround and cut out the holes with a jigsaw. Cut the panels to fit the wall and attach them using adhesive. Replace the plumbing fixtures and other hardware. Seal the joints with caulk. Bottom line: When it comes to basic three-piece surrounds, “there’s no reason a homeowner couldn’t do the work, but you’ll need a whole lot of patience,” Blum says. However, he recommends hiring a professional to install a tub-shower combo unit. This higher-end solution covers the tub with a deck topped by a more intricate surround. Glass shower doors are also best left to the pros.
3. Changing Out a Vanity
One of the best ways to transform a bathroom is by replacing the vanity, which is the centerpiece of most bathroom floor plans. Replacing a pedestal bathroom sink with another of the same size is likely doable for handy homeowners. However, upgrading from a bulky vanity cabinet to a sleek pedestal or upgrading from a single sink to a double vanity is far more complicated. For a simple, same-size vanity swap, you’ll need to shut off and disconnect the water lines and remove the old countertop and cabinet. To install the new unit, find the studs, position the cabinet, install the faucet, attach the cabinet to the wall, secure the top, and reconnect the plumbing. Another simple switch is installing an above-counter or self-rimming bathroom sink for a fresh look. Bottom line: If you’re swapping one vanity for another of the same size, go for it. For other upgrades, however, call a contractor. “Anything that involves opening the wall and moving plumbing should only be done by someone very experienced,” Blum says. “If the plumbing is not right, you’ll have big problems.”
4. Updating Bathroom Wall Coverings
The quickest way to update the look of a bathroom is to change the walls. Whatever wall treatment you choose, remember that a bathroom wallcovering must stand up to heat, moisture, and frequent cleaning. Consider mixing and matching materials with various strengths in different areas, such as tile on shower walls and wallpaper or paint near the sink area. Painting bathrooms is the cheapest and simplest wallcovering option. You can easily pair paint with a partially-tiled wall or wood paneling. If using wallpaper, look for a paper that will not get damaged or peel away with moisture and can be wiped down easily. Bottom line: Most bathroom wall options are simple enough to tackle on your own and still achieve professional-looking results. The only option that poses challenges to detail and patience is wall tiling, especially when it comes to non-geometric-shaped tiles.
5. Replacing Bathroom Flooring
Replacing bathroom flooring with new tile or a different material can give a bathroom a whole new look. When choosing bathroom flooring, remember that the bath is the site of heavy traffic and the occasional tub overflow. Look for a durable material that is both beautiful and slip-resistant. Tile and vinyl are popular and durable materials for bathroom flooring. Both options can be self-installed with patience and care. Vinyl tiling is simpler than sheet vinyl, which you should leave to the pros. If choosing tile, be mindful of texture and how slippery the material is when wet. Bottom line: If you have the attention to detail and patience to tile an entire bathroom floor, this is a DIY bathroom update you can do on your own. If you’re working with marble tile, check with a professional first to make sure your floors can bear the weight. You can install vinyl tile flooring in a weekend, but leave sheeted vinyl flooring to a pro.
