Spokane Bathroom Remodeling: What You Need to Know Before You Start

A bathroom remodel is one of the smartest investments you can make in your Spokane home — but only when it’s planned correctly. Whether you’re updating a dated 1970s guest bath or creating a spa retreat in the master suite, here’s what you need to know before the first tile is set.

Define Your Goals First

Before you call a contractor, be clear on what you want to accomplish:

• Functionality — Is the layout working? Do you need a second sink, a walk-in shower, or an accessible design?
• Aesthetics — Are you going for a timeless look or a contemporary style?
• Budget — Bathroom remodels in Spokane range widely. A simple cosmetic update (new vanity, tile, fixtures) can be done for a few thousand dollars; a complete gut renovation with custom tile and plumbing relocation will run more.
• Timeline — How long can you be without the bathroom? A quality contractor will give you a realistic schedule upfront.

Plan Around Your Water Systems

One of the most important — and least glamorous — factors in any bathroom remodel is the location of your existing water supply and drain lines. Moving them significantly increases costs and complexity. A good contractor will design your new layout to work with existing rough-in locations wherever possible, and clearly communicate when moving lines is necessary and what it will cost.

Consider Water Efficiency

Modern low-flow toilets and showerheads have come a long way. Today’s efficient fixtures deliver the same performance as older models while using significantly less water. In Spokane, where water rates continue to rise, this is worth considering for any remodel.

• Toilets: Look for WaterSense-certified models (1.28 gallons per flush or less)
• Showerheads: 2.0 GPM or less — modern designs still deliver strong pressure
• Faucets: Aerators on sink faucets add air to the stream, reducing water use without sacrificing feel

Choosing Tile: Beauty vs. Practicality

Tile is often the centerpiece of a bathroom remodel, and there’s no shortage of options. A few practical guidelines:

• Floor tile: Choose something with a slip-resistance rating (coefficient of friction above 0.6 for wet areas)
• Shower walls: Porcelain or ceramic tile are the most durable and lowest maintenance. Natural stone looks beautiful but requires periodic sealing.
• Grout: Epoxy grout is more stain-resistant but harder to work with. Sanded grout with a good sealer is the standard choice for most projects.
• Mud-set vs. thin-set: For shower floors especially, a mud-set pan (mortar bed) creates a rigid, sloped surface that will last for decades. It’s the method we use on all our shower floor installations.

What to Expect During the Remodel

A typical bathroom remodel in Spokane involves:

1. Demolition — removing old tile, fixtures, and sometimes drywall
2. Rough-in — plumbing adjustments, backing installation, waterproofing
3. Tile installation — floor, walls, shower pan
4. Vanity, toilet, and fixture installation
5. Painting and finish work
6. Cleanup and walkthrough

Expect some dust and disruption, but a professional crew will contain the mess and clean up at the end of each day.

Ready to Get Started?

B. Yount Construction has been remodeling bathrooms in Spokane since 1979. Owner Bill Yount is personally involved with every project and offers free estimates. Contact us today or call 509-326-4119.