Not sure whether you should hire a general contractor or a bathroom remodeling company? Choosing the right pro determines how smooth your project runs, how your shower drains, and how your walls hold up years later. Below is a plain-English breakdown to help you pick the best partner for your bathroom remodel—and avoid the headache of redoing work twice.
Pro tip: for bathrooms, specialists usually beat generalists. Here’s why—and when a general contractor still makes sense.
What Is a General Contractor?
A general contractor manages the construction portion of a project that already has a design. They bid the plans, schedule subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, tile setters), and coordinate inspections. If you already have stamped drawings and don’t need design help, a GC can be the right fit.
- Typical GC responsibilities: price the plans, schedule subs, manage jobsite safety, coordinate inspections, and deliver the build per the drawings.
- Potential gaps: limited product guidance, less control over specialized bathroom details like waterproofing systems, 2″ shower drains, custom glass tolerances, or post-tension slab considerations.
When a general contractor does make sense
- Powder room refresh with no plumbing/electrical changes.
- You already hired a designer/architect and want multiple bids to build their plans.
- Part of a whole-home renovation where a GC is coordinating many trades at once.
What Is a Remodeling Company (Design-Build)?
A remodeling company (often called “design-build”) handles everything: measurements, layout, selections, and construction. One expert team designs your space, specifies products, and installs them—with accountability from start to finish.
- Specialized products & selections: grout-free wall systems like Onyx, fixture packages from Delta, vanity, tops, lighting, and water-resistant flooring.
- Built-right details: 2″ shower drains and traps, blocking for grab bars, proper exhaust fan CFM, and premium waterproofing such as KERDI.
- Local know-how: safe post-tension slab scanning before any concrete work—no “cutting blind.”
Whether you’re planning a shower remodel, a tub-to-shower conversion, or a complete full bathroom remodel, design-build keeps the moving parts in sync.
Remodeling Companies Are Experts
Bathrooms aren’t “just another room.” They’re miniature construction projects with water, electricity, ventilation, and structure meeting in tight quarters. Full-service remodelers staff master craftspeople for each part of the job—so your new shower pan actually drains, your niche is centered, and your valve height matches your glass.
Remodelers Have the Right Insurance
Comprehensive coverage for in-house trades protects you and your home. Reputable remodelers maintain active, appropriate policies—not just a generic certificate that may exclude the specialty work bathrooms require.
Remodeling Companies Focus on One Project at a Time
Nothing’s worse than vanishing crews. Design-build remodelers schedule dedicated teams that stay on your bathroom until it’s done. That continuity reduces mistakes and keeps communication clear.
Remodelers Excel at Project Management
From ordering long-lead materials to booking inspections at the right time, a remodeling company’s PM keeps your project moving. If surprises pop up, they can pull in standby specialists without halting progress.
Remodelers Take Care of Customer Relations
The design-build model depends on happy clients and referrals, so service matters. Expect guided selections, clear schedules, tidy job sites, and responsive communication—start to finish.
Pre-Hire Checklist (Tap to open)
- Written scope with waterproofing method (e.g., KERDI), 2″ drain, and ventilation specs.
- Product list with finishes (e.g., Delta trim kits) and model numbers.
- Proof of active insurance that covers bathroom remodeling work.
- Clear schedule: start date, daily work hours, expected duration, and how changes are handled.
- Plan for post-tension slab scanning before any concrete cuts.
Final Thoughts
If you want a team that designs it, builds it, and stands behind it, a remodeling company is the surest path to a stress-less bath. Ready to chat through ideas? Explore shower remodels, tub-to-shower conversions, bathroom vanities, or go all-in with a full bathroom remodel—then contact us for a free design consultation.
FAQ
Is a general contractor or a bathroom remodeler better for my project?
For simple cosmetic updates with completed plans, a general contractor can be fine. For wet-area work (new shower, tub-to-shower, waterproofing), layout changes, or when you want design guidance and one accountable team, choose a design-build bathroom remodeler.
Do remodelers handle permits and inspections?
Yes. Full-service remodelers typically include permit applications, provide drawings as needed, and schedule inspections—covering code items like a 2″ shower drain/trap, GFCI/AFCI protection where required, and properly sized exhaust ventilation.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Once materials are in, most conversions install in about 1–3 working days. Allow additional time for permitting, custom glass lead-times, and scheduling. Quality installs include a 2″ drain, correct pan slope, and a proven waterproofing system such as KERDI.
Will you cut into my post-tension slab?
Only after scanning. Responsible remodelers perform post-tension slab scanning to avoid cutting tendons or rebar. If relocation risks the slab, your team will discuss safe alternatives or use the existing drain location.
Can you do grout-free walls and low- or zero-threshold showers?
Absolutely. We install grout-free systems like Onyx, pair them with Delta fixtures, and build low- or zero-threshold entries when structure and code allow—all tied together with a waterproofing system such as KERDI.