Thinking about a bathroom remodel can feel like standing in the middle of Home Depot not knowing which aisle to start in. If you’re in Elk River, Otsego, Maple Grove, or anywhere between here and Minneapolis, you’re probably wondering: What comes first in a bathroom renovation?
At Landson Construction, we’ve helped folks across the northwest metro area tackle bathroom updates for over 20 years. And let us tell you—it’s a bit like baking a cake. There’s a recipe. Skip a step, and it all crumbles.
Here’s the sequence bathroom remodeling contractors like us follow with every job. It helps you stay on budget, on schedule, and (mostly) stress-free.
1. Planning and Budgeting: Start Here Every Time
Before we swing a hammer, we help you figure out what you actually want. Do you need more space? Is your old tub leaking? Are you just sick of the 1990s tile?
Once you’ve got a clear idea, we talk money. A full bathroom remodel around Elk River usually runs between $15,000 and $40,000, depending on finishes, layout changes, and plumbing/electrical updates.
Pro Tip: Always build in a 10–20% buffer for surprises—especially in older homes around places like Anoka or Robbinsdale.
2. Design Comes Next (This Is Where It Gets Fun)
After the budget’s in place, our team starts sketching. We’ll show you 3D models, material options, and layout ideas. Want a walk-in shower? Heated floors? Storage tower between double sinks? This is the time to dream a little.
We’ve seen folks in Rogers choose bright, Scandinavian-style bathrooms. Folks in Brooklyn Park might want something more modern with matte black fixtures. There’s no right or wrong—just what works for your style and space.
3. Permits and Scheduling: Behind-the-Scenes Stuff You Shouldn’t Skip
Here’s where experience really matters. If you’re in Minneapolis or suburbs like Fridley or Champlin, every city has its own permit process. We handle all that for you—filing paperwork, working with inspectors, and setting the right schedule. Did You Know? Not pulling a permit can lead to fines and trouble when you go to sell. Always double-check your remodeler handles this.4. Demolition: Out With the Old (Carefully)
Once everything’s approved, we start tearing stuff out. But it’s not just smashing walls—we take care to protect the rest of your home. We cover floors, set up dust barriers, and haul out the mess. This is also when we often uncover hidden issues—like water damage behind the walls or outdated plumbing. It’s frustrating, sure, but it’s also why we plan ahead. We keep you in the loop the whole time.5. Plumbing, Electrical, and Framing
Next up: the bones of your bathroom. New plumbing lines, electrical updates, and sometimes new framing (especially if you’re moving walls or changing layouts). If you live in an older place in Coon Rapids or northeast Minneapolis, chances are your plumbing’s not up to code. We’ll fix that now so you don’t have issues later. Quick Example: One Elk River job had 1960s cast iron drain lines that were almost fully clogged. We replaced them with modern PVC and gave the homeowners peace of mind.6. Insulation, Drywall, and Prep Work
Now we put everything back together. Insulation goes in (a must in Minnesota winters), then we hang and mud drywall. This part’s not flashy, but it’s what makes your walls look clean and finished. We also prep surfaces for tile and paint. A good remodel isn’t just what you see—it’s how it all holds up over time.
7. Tile, Flooring, and Paint
Now the room starts to look like a bathroom again. We lay tile, put in your chosen flooring, and paint the walls. Want a bold accent wall or classic white subway tile? This is when your style shows up. In Corcoran or Dayton, where we’ve done some beautiful farmhouse-style remodels, we often see light wood-look flooring paired with warm wall colours.8. Cabinetry and Fixtures Go In
Time for the fun stuff—vanities, sinks, mirrors, toilets, light fixtures. If you picked custom cabinetry, we install it now. Everything starts to come together. This is also when we test everything—water pressure, lighting, vent fans—to make sure it all works perfectly.9. Final Touches and Clean Up
Almost done! We do a detailed clean, make sure you’re happy with the details, and walk you through your new bathroom. You’ll get care tips and product info, too. Example: One couple in Maple Grove didn’t realise their new quartz vanity top needed specific cleaning products. We gave them a simple care guide, and they’ve had zero issues since.10. Post-Project Support: Because Things Happen
We don’t disappear once the job’s done. Landson Construction offers a satisfaction guarantee and ongoing support. If something’s not right, just call. We’ve had people reach out a year later with a question about grout—and we helped, no charge.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
How long does a full bathroom remodel take?
Usually 3–5 weeks, depending on the size and scope. If you’re just swapping fixtures, it’s quicker. Full gut jobs (common in older homes in Crystal or New Hope) take longer.
What order should I remodel a bathroom in?
Planning → Design → Permits → Demo → Plumbing/Electrical → Drywall → Tile/Flooring → Fixtures → Final touches.
Can I stay in my home during the remodel?
Yes, most times! We keep things tidy and set up temporary setups if needed.
Contact Us Today
Got a bathroom in Elk River, Blaine, or Minneapolis that needs some love? Let’s talk. We offer free design consultations, honest pricing, and a local team who cares. Contact Us Here