Bathroom Renovation FAQs

For a standard 2x2m bathroom, you're looking at about 10 to 15 working days for a full renovation. Of course, the exact timeline can vary depending on the **grand vision** you have for your bathroom (the more "spa retreat" vibes, the longer it may take!), as well as the state your bathroom is currently in. If it's a time capsule from the '90s, we might need a little more elbow grease! But rest assured, we’ll get you there—just a little patience required for perfection! 😄

Absolutely! At Bathroom Builders, we offer a **one-stop-shop** for all your bathroom fitting needs—no need to juggle multiple contractors. From start to finish, we've got you covered. Our team takes care of everything: waste removal, plumbing, plastering, tiling, electrical work, gas work (handled by our certified **Gas Safe engineers**), and even carpentry, painting, and decorating. It's like a bathroom fairy godmother, but with tools! 🛠✨ And it’s not just bathrooms—we also handle kitchen renovations and a wide range of internal work like **carpentry**, **joinery**, **plumbing**, **tiling**, **flooring**, **damp proofing**, and more. Think of us as your renovation superheroes, with all the right trades at our disposal. We ensure everything is compliant with UK building regs, so you can sit back, relax, and trust us to handle the details! 🏠💪

Oh, absolutely! We do offer underfloor heating installation. Imagine stepping out of the shower onto a warm, toasty floor – pure bliss! 🛁🔥 Whether you're treating your bathroom to a bit of luxury or adding that extra comfort to your home, we've got the perfect solution for you.

Definitely! We can supply both bathroom units and all the essential building materials you’ll need for your project. But hey, if you’ve already got your eye on something special or prefer to source your own, feel free to bring it along! We’re all about making your vision come to life, however that looks.

Great question — and one we get asked all the time! The truth is, the cost of a bathroom remodel can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors. Ultimately, it boils down to your goals, the materials and finishes you prefer, and how much you’re comfortable investing in your space. At Bathroom Builders, we always tailor each project to suit your needs and budget. We’re not shy about asking our clients for their total budget upfront because it helps us recommend the best solutions for your bathroom vision. That’s why we offer three main tiers of bathroom renovations: budget, mid-range, and premium. During our initial consultation, we take the time to listen to what you’re after — whether it’s a simple refresh or a full-scale transformation — so we can provide options that work for you. Now, let’s dive into a few things that can influence the cost: **Materials Matter** – For instance, opting for copper plumbing instead of composite pipes will raise the cost, as copper installation is more time-consuming. Similarly, if you're choosing between bathroom wall panels or traditional tiles, tiles are more luxurious and durable, but they take a lot longer to install — about 3–4 times longer! (So, yes, it may feel like we’re making tiles from scratch… but they’re worth it.) **Tile Details** – Tile size, pattern complexity, and features like built-in shelves or trimless 45-degree edges can all impact the final price. The more intricate the design, the more time and attention it requires. So, if you’re dreaming of a tile design that looks like it came straight out of a Pinterest board, we’re here for it — just know it’ll take a little longer to bring that dream to life! **Bathroom Fittings** – Certain fixtures, like concealed cisterns, wall-hung toilets, and thermostatic shower mixers, demand more technical installation, which increases both material and labour costs. Additional elements like underfloor heating, heated towel rails, dual-fuel radiators, integrated LED mirrors, and even toothbrush charging stations also contribute to the overall cost. Because, hey, your toothbrush deserves to live the high life too, right? **Property Specifics** – If you live in an older property, structural repairs or updates to outdated plumbing and electrics may be needed, which can add to both time and cost. For those in apartments or flats, parking permits, waste disposal fees, and access challenges can also influence the pricing. But don't worry, we’ll manage the logistics while you sit back and relax. Maybe even in your new bathroom! We’ve noticed a trend where some companies promise bathroom remodels in just 3–5 days. While that sounds tempting, **the reality is that quality bathroom renovations take time**. Just preparing the space — removing old materials, plastering, waterproofing, plumbing, and electrical work — can take 5–6 days alone. And if the room has multiple layers of old tiles or hidden structural issues, the timeline can extend even longer. Patience is a virtue… and so is a perfect bathroom. So, what can you expect to pay? A basic makeover for a small bathroom might start at around £4,200 + VAT (excluding bathroom items). A full, high-quality renovation typically starts from £5,300 + VAT, with the final price depending on materials, layout changes, and installation complexity. Every bathroom is unique, and we’re always happy to provide an honest, no-pressure quote once we’ve seen the space and discussed your vision. If you’re considering a project, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to help you create the bathroom of your dreams — without any hidden surprises (except, maybe, a surprise luxury showerhead). Let’s make that dream bathroom happen!

Currently, our wait times range from 6 to 20 weeks, but the exact duration really depends on the type of project. Whether it’s plastering, bathroom fitting, kitchen fitting, or damp proofing, each project has its own timeline and requirements. Think of it like a puzzle — sometimes the pieces fit perfectly and quickly, and other times we need to wait for a few extra pieces to arrive (don’t worry, we’re always on top of it). While we can't always give you an exact starting date due to the nature of the work (hello, logistics and materials!), we can assure you that we’re working hard to stay as organised as a Swiss watch. Our aim is to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently, so your project gets the attention it deserves, and we’re always striving to stick to our timelines as much as possible. So, while we may not be able to give you an exact date down to the hour (we’re not quite time travellers yet), rest assured we’re doing everything in our power to get your project started and finished as seamlessly as possible. Patience is key, but we promise the wait will be worth it!

Absolutely! We’re so confident in the quality of our work that we stand by it every step of the way. All our projects come with warranties, because we believe in delivering long-lasting results you can trust. You’ll get all the details in writing, clearly outlined in your fitting agreement or contract. No surprises, just peace of mind knowing your new space is built to last!

We’re all about quality time with our families, especially on Sundays! But fear not — we’re still hard at work on most Saturdays, usually running on a six-day week to get your projects done. Of course, just like everyone, our team occasionally has their own family commitments, so we always appreciate your understanding. Work-life balance, right? 😄

We totally get that a working toilet is essential, so we make sure it’s reconnected daily for your convenience. However, when we’re tiling the floors, we recommend holding off on using the toilet for at least 12 hours. This gives the tiles the time they need to set properly. It’s a small sacrifice for a beautiful, long-lasting finish! 😅

Typically, we don’t require an advance—because who likes paying upfront, right? 😅 However, for projects that involve significant initial costs, like ordering quartz worktops, kitchen units, or those luxurious freestanding baths, we may ask for a little something in advance. But don’t worry, most of our clients settle the bill once the project is completed and everything’s signed off. We believe in getting things right first, then getting paid!

When we say "core materials," we’re talking about the essential building supplies that form the foundation of your project. This includes everything from timber and plasterboards to flexi pipes, copper pipes, tile adhesive, grout, silicone, screws, elbows, drainage pipes, dust sheets, primers, tanking kits, cement boards, plywood—and a whole lot more! Basically, if it’s crucial to getting your project up and running, it’s in the "core materials" list.

We handle all bathroom renovation works. Please refer to our services list for a comprehensive overview.

When selecting spotlights or downlights for the bathroom, it’s not just about creating a spa-like ambiance (though that’s a nice bonus); it’s also about safety. Bathrooms are wet zones, and water and electricity are famously bad roommates. That’s where **IP ratings** (Ingress Protection) come into play. For general bathroom areas—including around the basin or ceiling lights not directly exposed to water—**IP44** is typically sufficient. It protects against solid objects larger than 1mm and splashes from any direction. Think of it as a polite umbrella. However, for zones that are more like a tropical monsoon—such as directly above the shower or bath—**IP65** is the way to go. These fixtures are dust-tight and can handle jets of water, which means they won’t blink at a little splash or steam party. For the sake of both safety and fixture longevity, **IP65-rated lighting is strongly recommended in moisture-heavy zones**. Now, on to bathroom mirrors—because seeing yourself clearly after a shower shouldn’t require a towel-wielding fog-clearing routine worthy of a kung-fu movie. Look for **mirrors with built-in demister pads or heating elements**, which prevent fogging and keep your reflection visible (and hopefully, friendly) even after the hottest showers. Size matters here too: **a larger mirror can visually expand the space** and help bounce light around, making even small bathrooms feel more open. Speaking of light, mirrors with **integrated LED lighting** not only enhance visibility for grooming tasks but are also energy-efficient and stylish—like giving your mirror its own personal spotlight. Just make sure the mirror is made from **moisture-resistant materials** to avoid warping or corrosion over time. Lastly, match the **style of the mirror to your bathroom’s overall design**. Whether your vibe is sleek minimalism or elegant traditional, the right mirror is the unsung hero that ties the whole look together—without ever asking for credit.

When it comes to bathroom renovations, not all budgets are created equal—but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve something functional (or even beautiful) at any tier. Let’s take a look at what you can expect across **budget, medium, and premium levels**—from the hidden pipes to the finishing touches. **Budget Tier:** Ideal for getting the job done without breaking the bank, the budget tier typically features **composite pipework**—cost-effective but less durable than its metal cousins. Basic **core tanking** provides some moisture protection in wet zones, which is fine as long as your shower doesn’t double as a car wash. **Sealants and tile edge trims** at this level are usually budget silicone and plastic, which serve the purpose, though their aesthetic charm might not win design awards. Plumbing components like **screws and elbows** lean toward the economical end, and **labour** is generally limited, meaning finishes are more functional than fancy. Think of it as the IKEA of bathroom builds—practical, but you might not want to host a Vogue shoot in there. **Medium Tier:** Step up to the medium tier and you enter the realm of thoughtful design and balanced durability. **Copper pipework** replaces composite, requiring more skill and time to install, but rewarding you with better performance and longevity. Moisture protection gets a boost with **full tanking systems**—often using reliable brands like **Mapei**—so your bathroom stays dry and drama-free. **Medium-grade silicone sealants** and a choice between **plastic or metal trims** offer a bit of visual customization, while **green plasterboards** are used in wet areas to resist moisture more effectively. You'll also find **Hardy Baker cement boards** and upgraded plumbing components, raising both quality and confidence. More **labour hours** mean skilled tradespeople can actually take the time to align your tiles properly (a radical concept, we know). The result? A bathroom that feels significantly more polished, durable, and tailored—without needing to remortgage the house. **Premium Tier:** At the premium level, we enter the world of bathroom envy. You’ll find **top-tier copper pipework**, **full branded tanking systems**, and **luxury-level sealants and trims**—think colour-matched silicones, and stainless steel or chrome finishes that practically sparkle on their own. It’s the kind of detail that makes your bathroom feel more boutique hotel than “just functional.” The **grout and components** follow suit—colour-coded for aesthetic harmony and made from the best materials available. You might even get **tile edge polishing** or other artisan-level touches included in the labour, because when you're at this level, the devil really is in the delightful details. Speaking of labour, **extensive time is invested**, ensuring not just quality—but craftsmanship. The finish is impeccable, the function seamless, and the experience? Luxurious. **Customisation Across Tiers:** No matter your starting point, there’s room to mix and match. Many clients **choose to upgrade specific elements**—maybe opting for premium trims with a medium build, or enhancing labour hours in a budget-tier design. This tailored approach ensures your renovation suits both your style and budget—because satisfaction shouldn’t be reserved only for the highest tier.

We’re easy to reach—and we genuinely love hearing from you. Whether you prefer the old-fashioned ring of a phone call or the modern magic of a WhatsApp message, we’re here for it. You can get in touch with us via phone, SMS, WhatsApp, or email—whatever suits your style. Just a heads-up: since we’re often out and about on-site or deep in conversation with clients, we may not always catch calls in real time. However, messages sent via WhatsApp or email are visible to the entire team, meaning someone will see it promptly and get back to you as soon as possible. So don’t be shy—drop us a message anytime. We’re big fans of good communication (and emojis, when appropriate).

Every bathroom remodel we take on includes all the essential building materials and labour, tailored to the scope of your specific project. From plumbing and electrical components to tiles, fixtures, and fittings, we make sure nothing’s left out—except maybe the rubber duck (you’re on your own there). Labour costs are fully accounted for and discussed transparently during our initial consultation, so there are no surprises—just clean lines and smooth finishes. If you prefer, we can also supply bathroom items such as sinks, showers, bathtubs, and tiles. That said, we always encourage our clients to explore their options—we’re big believers in you choosing what works best for your style, space, and budget. And here’s a bonus: we’ve built up some great trade discounts with many stores across Manchester, and we’re more than happy to share those savings with you, even if you’re buying items yourself. Just give us a shout—we’ll pass along the info with no gatekeeping and no fuss.

Great question—and one we love answering! We’ve been noticing some exciting shifts in bathroom design trends across Manchester this year, based on our recent projects and conversations with clients. One major standout? Large-format tiles are stealing the spotlight. Sizes like 1200x600mm and 600x600mm are in high demand, offering a sleek, modern look with fewer grout lines to clean (a win-win for aesthetics and Saturday chores). We’re also seeing more adventurous combinations—clients are mixing tile colours and textures to create beautiful contrasts, like pairing soft matte tones with polished finishes for added depth and personality. Design choices are also being shaped by lifestyle needs. For example, young families—especially those with just one bathroom—are increasingly opting for bathtubs over showers. They’re practical for children and perfect for winding down after a long day. In contrast, many of our older clients are choosing to replace bathtubs with low-profile, anti-slip shower trays and easy-access enclosures. These solutions offer both safety and style—proving that functional can still look fantastic. Interestingly, wet rooms, once the trendiest choice on the block, are starting to step aside. More clients are opting for durable, low-maintenance options like stone resin or acrylic trays. They’re easy to clean, long-lasting, and save you from the endless cycle of regrouting and resealing. In the colour department, we’re noticing a gentle shift as well: bold greens and dramatic marble patterns are making way for softer, neutral greys. These timeless tones work beautifully in both contemporary and classic spaces, and they help create that calming, spa-like vibe that many homeowners crave. Finally, there's been a clear move toward investing in quality. Many of our clients now see the bathroom as a long-term investment and are choosing premium, well-known brands that offer not just superior durability, but also added value to their home. If you’re planning a remodel and want to tap into these trends—or tailor them to your unique space—we’d be delighted to walk you through the latest options and help you find the perfect combination of style, function, and long-term value.

We proudly serve a wide range of locations—not just Manchester city centre, but many of the surrounding neighbourhoods too, including Didsbury, Chorlton, Withington, Fallowfield, and Wythenshawe. Our reach extends across the entire Greater Manchester area and much of Northern Cheshire, so whether you're in the heart of the city or tucked away in a quieter town, there's a good chance we're already working nearby. Our regular service areas include Salford, MediaCity, Trafford, Sale, Altrincham, Hale, Hale Barns, Bowdon, Urmston, and Stretford. We also frequently carry out projects in Stockport, Cheadle, Cheadle Hulme, Bramhall, Heaton Moor, Hazel Grove, and Gatley—places where beautiful bathrooms and great coffee often go hand in hand. Heading north and east, we cover the full Tameside area, including Ashton-under-Lyne, Hyde, Denton, and Stalybridge, as well as Oldham, with neighbourhoods like Chadderton, Failsworth, Royton, and Saddleworth well within our service range. Further afield, we’re often in Rochdale, Heywood, Middleton, Bury, Prestwich, Whitefield, and Radcliffe—and yes, we know the best bakery stops along the way. We also work across Bolton, Horwich, Farnworth, Westhoughton, and Little Lever, and regularly take on projects in Wigan, Leigh, Tyldesley, and Atherton. Crossing over into Northern Cheshire, we’re active in towns such as Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Mobberley, Lymm, and Poynton, along with Disley, Bollington, Prestbury, and Macclesfield. If you’re wondering whether we cover your area, just drop us a message—we’re always happy to check, and if we can make it work, we absolutely will. Our team loves bringing dream bathrooms to life all across the North West, one tile and tap at a time.

Yes, absolutely - we regularly work on rental properties and commercial projects, and we’re very familiar with the specific needs each type of space requires. Whether you're a landlord refreshing a tired bathroom or kitchen between tenancies, a letting agent managing multiple units, or a business owner upgrading facilities in a commercial space, we’re here to help. For rental homes, we understand the importance of balancing durability, style, and budget, and we’ll always suggest low-maintenance, cost-effective materials that still look clean and modern—nothing overly complex, just smart and practical design. For commercial clients, we provide tailored solutions that meet higher-traffic demands without compromising on finish or reliability. We’re also used to working within tight timelines to minimise disruption—whether that means reducing void periods between tenancies or coordinating work around your business hours. If needed, we’re happy to liaise with tenants, letting agents, or site managers, and we’ll keep you fully updated from start to finish. Our coverage spans the whole of Greater Manchester and Northern Cheshire, including Manchester city centre, Didsbury, Chorlton, Withington, Wythenshawe, Fallowfield, Salford, MediaCity, Trafford, Sale, Altrincham, Hale, Urmston, and Stretford, as well as Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, Heaton Moor, Hazel Grove, and beyond. We also frequently work in Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Hyde, Rochdale, Middleton, Bury, Prestwich, Whitefield, Bolton, Wigan, Leigh, and Tyldesley. Over in Northern Cheshire, you’ll find us in Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Lymm, Poynton, Disley, Macclesfield, Bollington, and nearby villages. So whether it’s a rental, commercial space, or anything in between, get in touch—we’d be happy to offer advice, provide a clear quote, and help make your investment as valuable and stress-free as possible.

Bathroom tanking is one of the most important (yet sometimes overlooked) elements of a successful bathroom renovation. It involves creating a waterproof barrier in wet areas—think shower enclosures, floors, and the walls surrounding baths—to stop moisture from seeping into the building structure. This protective layer is usually applied using liquid membranes, waterproof boards, or sheet systems beneath the visible finish, like tiles. The goal? To prevent water ingress, which can cause damp patches, mould growth, or even long-term structural damage—none of which are welcome in a freshly renovated space. While UK building regulations strongly recommend tanking in wet zones, you’d be surprised how many bathroom installers still skip this step entirely. It’s a bit like forgetting the icing on a cake—only with much damper consequences. At our company, we see tanking as non-negotiable when it comes to delivering bathrooms that are not only beautiful but built to last. It forms a continuous, watertight seal that protects the integrity of your home and offers real peace of mind. Whether you're planning a full renovation or just upgrading a shower area, we’ll make sure the right tanking system is in place from the start—because waterproofing shouldn't be an afterthought. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes details that makes all the difference. Let’s build something that not only looks good but stays solid for years to come.

First of all—don’t stress! 🙂 Delays and occasional damage can happen, but that’s why we’re here: to smooth out the bumps and keep your project on track. We have direct access to most popular UK suppliers, so if you’ve picked standard bathroom items, we can usually reorder quickly and arrange next-day delivery—because waiting around is no one’s favourite pastime. However, if your order includes bespoke or made-to-order items, especially those coming from overseas, delivery times can be a bit like a mystery novel—sometimes longer than expected and occasionally with a surprise plot twist. These special items might also need extra time for replacement if damaged in transit (because even packaging isn’t perfect all the time). For this reason, we strongly recommend ordering bespoke pieces well ahead of your project’s start date. That way, everything is ready to go when you are—avoiding awkward “where’s my bathtub?” conversations and keeping your renovation flowing smoothly. We’re here to handle the tricky bits so you can look forward to enjoying your new bathroom without the drama!

Good question! 🙂 If you’re using standard bathroom items, we generally recommend ordering the bulky stuff last—mainly to avoid turning your home into a mini warehouse during the renovation. Nobody wants to trip over a bathtub before the work even begins! However, for more specific components like shower trays, traps, baths, concealed toilet cisterns, integrated shower mixer regulators, or any in-wall built-in bathroom elements, it’s essential to check in with us before placing an order. These items require careful measurement and must be matched perfectly to your bathroom’s actual dimensions and layout—because nothing ruins the day like finding out your shiny new shower tray doesn’t quite fit. Keep in mind, though, that we can only perform a full, accurate inspection once the bathroom has been completely stripped out. That’s when we can confirm everything fits properly and will function smoothly within the existing structure. So, when in doubt, give us a shout—we’re here to make sure your bathroom renovation goes off without a hitch (or a surprise plumbing puzzle).

Yes, Bathroom Builders offers a range of trade discounts designed to help you save money on your renovation project. Thanks to our established trade accounts with major suppliers, we can secure better pricing on materials and pass those savings directly on to you—because everyone loves a good deal without compromising quality. Our discounts are available at well-known stores including Easy Bathrooms, Real Stone Tiles (Cheadle), Wickes, B&Q, Howdens, Selco Builders Warehouse, Prestwich Plumbing Supplies, Topps Tiles, Screwfix, ToolStation, and many more trusted local and national suppliers. By working with us, you not only benefit from professional workmanship but also enjoy reduced costs on top-quality materials—it’s like getting the best of both worlds. So, whether you’re after a sleek tile or a shiny new faucet, we’ve got you covered without blowing your budget.