Houston Home Remodeling Guide

Remodeling a bathroom can feel like herding cats… with a tape measure. Between Pinterest boards, budgets, permits, and the question “tile or solid surface?”, it’s easy to stall. The good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone. With a clear plan and the right partner, the process gets calm, predictable—even fun. If you want design help rooted in local know-how (post-tension slabs, waterproofing, drainage), start with a trusted local bathroom remodeling company in Houston.

Find Inspiration

No two people have the same taste. Some love bold, patterned tile; others want a serene, spa-white envelope. Spend an evening collecting 8–12 images that feel right. Notice patterns: are you responding to warm brass, matte black, or polished nickel? Ribbed cabinetry or flat panels? Stone-look walls (like Onyx) or hand-made tile? Don’t build a whole bath from one “wow” photo—build from the shared elements across your favorites.

Budget Properly

Nothing kills momentum faster than falling in love with a plan you can’t fund. Start with a realistic top-line number, then split it into buckets:

• Allowances (60–65%): finishes & fixtures (shower walls, glass, vanity, tops, flooring, lighting, plumbing trims)
• Labor & systems (25–30%): demo, framing, electrical, plumbing, KERDI waterproofing, 2″ drain, ventilation
• Contingency (10%): surprises behind walls, minor layout tweaks

Make two lists: Must-Haves (larger shower, low threshold, better storage) and Nice-to-Haves (heated floor, rain head, backlit mirror). If needed, trim Nice-to-Haves first. Tip: ask about 0% financing (on approved credit)—we offer plans up to six years so you can phase optional upgrades without draining savings.

Develop a Solid Plan

Once your inspiration and budget align, map the work. Small refresh? You can keep one bath operational while the other is under construction. Full master reconfiguration? Plan for ~2–3 weeks onsite after materials arrive, and set up a temporary routine (toiletries basket, shared schedule, pet gates).

Meet with Some Companies

Get two or three detailed proposals (not napkin numbers). Share your moodboard, budget buckets, and must-haves. Look for line items that prove they know the craft:

• Waterproofing system specified (e.g., KERDI) + flood test
• 2″ shower drain and correct slope noted
• Post-tension slab scanning if moving drains
• Glass specs (thickness, hardware finish), ventilation sizing, lighting plan

Price matters—but so do method and schedule. A low bid without these details often costs more later.

Put a Focus on Hiring the Right People

The right team saves you money, stress, and do-overs. Vet like a pro:

• License, insurance (ask for a Certificate of Insurance listing you), and permits
• In-house crews vs. mystery subs; who’s onsite daily?
• 3D design or renderings (so there are no “surprises”)
• Payment schedule (modest deposit → milestones → balance at substantial completion)
• Change-order policy in writing (scope, cost, timeline)

Prefer a local, design-build approach? Explore shower remodels, tub-to-shower conversions, or a full bathroom redesign with EZ Bath.

Design Decisions That Pay Off

• Low/zero-threshold shower: safer, modern, and future-friendly
• Grout-free walls: Onyx panels = stone look, fast cleaning, no grout
• Drawer-heavy vanity: real storage beats door-only voids
• Layered lighting: face-level sconces/backlit mirror + dimmable ceiling + toe-kick night light
• Ventilation: humidity-sensing fan sized for the room

Common Mistakes (and Easy Fixes)

• Skipping waterproofing details: Insist on a system, not “goop.”
• Under-lighting: Add task lighting at eye level; dimmers for the rest.
• Too many open shelves: Great for styled photos; not for real life. Hide the daily stuff.
• Feature overload: Pick a star (shower or vanity), then support it with calm choices.

Ready to Make It Easy?

If you want a remodel that looks beautiful and works beautifully—without the chaos—let’s talk. We’ll bring the 3D design, the schedule, and the craftsmanship. You bring your wishlist and coffee. Start with a shower remodel, trade the tub for function with a tub-to-shower conversion, or go all-in with a full redesign.

FAQ

Q: How long will I be without my master bath?
A: After materials arrive, most master bath remodels take about 2–3 weeks onsite. Shower-only projects are often quicker.

Q: Tile or solid-surface walls?
A: Tile = infinite looks but grout upkeep. Onyx = stone look with no grout lines and quick cleaning. Many clients blend both (tile accents + Onyx main walls).

Q: Do I need permits?
A: Plumbing/electrical/mechanical work typically requires permits; HOAs may need ARC approval. We handle permitting and inspections so nothing gets missed.

Q: Can I finance my project?
A: Yes—ask about 0% financing (on approved credit) with payments starting after the work is complete.