Bathroom Remodel Wilmington NC | Swanson Construction

This is usually the very first question homeowners ask, and for good reason. The honest answer is: it varies—a lot. The final cost of a bathroom remodel in Wilmington, NC, depends entirely on the size of your bathroom, the quality of materials you choose, and the complexity of the work. For instance, simply replacing a vanity and toilet will be far less expensive than reconfiguring the entire layout, moving plumbing lines, and installing a custom-tiled, walk-in shower. Think of it this way: there are three main factors that drive the price. First is the scope. Are we just replacing fixtures, or is this a full gut renovation down to the studs? Moving walls, plumbing, or electrical systems requires more labor and specialized trades, which increases the cost. The second factor is materials. A pre-fabricated shower insert from a big-box store has a different price point than a custom shower with floor-to-ceiling porcelain tile and a frameless glass door. The same goes for vanities, countertops, flooring, and fixtures. You can choose high-end luxury brands or more budget-conscious (but still durable) options. The third factor is labor. A project with intricate tile work or complex custom cabinetry requires more time and a higher level of skill from our craftsmen. At Swanson Construction, we prioritize transparency. During our free consultation, we will discuss your budget and goals in detail. We can then provide a detailed, itemized quote so you know exactly where your money is going. We'll help you understand where you can save and where it's worth investing for the best long-term value. While we can't give a flat price online, we can tell you that we provide competitive, fair pricing for top-quality work. The best way to get an accurate number for your specific project is to schedule a free estimate with us.

Project timeline is another major concern for homeowners, as you'll likely be without a key part of your home for a period. A standard, complete bathroom remodel typically takes anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks from the start of demolition to project completion. This timeframe can shift based on several important factors. A smaller powder room refresh might be done faster, while a large master bathroom overhaul with custom elements and layout changes could take longer. The biggest variable is often the availability of materials. Custom-ordered tile, vanities, or fixtures can have lead times of several weeks, and we can't start certain phases of the project until those materials are on-site. The complexity of the work also plays a huge role. If we are moving plumbing stacks, rerouting electrical wiring, or building custom cabinetry, these steps add time. Another critical factor is inspections. Depending on the scope of your remodel, we may need permits from the city or county, and work sometimes has to pause while we wait for an inspector to sign off on plumbing or electrical rough-ins before we can close up the walls. At Swanson Construction, we manage the schedule meticulously to minimize downtime. Before we even swing a hammer, we create a detailed project timeline so you know what to expect and when. We don't start demolition until we have your primary materials in hand, which helps prevent unnecessary delays. We believe in being upfront about the timeline and will keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and efficient process to get you back to enjoying your beautiful new bathroom as quickly as possible.

We've designed our process to be clear, logical, and stress-free for you. It's broken down into distinct phases to ensure nothing gets missed and the project flows smoothly from concept to completion. The first step is the Design and Planning Phase. This is where we meet with you in your home to discuss your vision, needs, and budget. We take precise measurements and explore different layout possibilities. From there, we help you with material and fixture selection—everything from tile and flooring to the vanity, toilet, tub, and shower fixtures. Once all decisions are made and materials are ordered, we create a detailed project plan and timeline. The second step is Demolition and Preparation. Our crew carefully preps your home to protect it from dust and debris before systematically removing all the old elements of your bathroom. This is also when we perform any necessary framing adjustments and, most importantly, address any hidden issues we might find, like old water damage or pest problems. Next comes the Rough-in and Infrastructure Phase. This is the behind-the-scenes work that is critical to a long-lasting, functional bathroom. Our licensed plumbers and electricians will run new pipes and wires for your new layout. This is when the new shower valve, drain lines, lighting, and exhaust fan wiring are installed. This work is then inspected by the city, if required by your permit, before we can move on. The fourth step is Installation and Finishes. Once the walls are closed up with moisture-resistant drywall, the real transformation begins. We install the new bathtub or build the custom shower pan and tile the surround and floor. After that, we paint, install the vanity and countertops, lay the flooring, and set the toilet. The final step is the Finishing Touches and Final Walkthrough. This is where we install all the fixtures—faucets, showerheads, lighting, mirrors, and accessories like towel bars. We perform a final, deep clean of the entire space. Then, we conduct a detailed walkthrough with you to ensure every single detail meets your expectations and our high standards. Only when you are completely happy do we consider the project finished.

This is an excellent question, and an important one for ensuring your project is done correctly and legally. The short answer is: it depends on the scope of the work. In Wilmington and New Hanover County, a permit is generally not required if you are doing a simple cosmetic update. This includes things like painting, replacing a toilet or vanity in the same location, installing new flooring, or replacing a faucet. However, a permit is absolutely required if your bathroom remodel involves altering the structural, plumbing, or electrical systems of your home. This means you will need a permit if your project includes any of the following: moving or adding walls; changing the footprint of the bathroom; moving the location of a toilet, sink, or shower; converting a tub to a shower; or running new electrical wiring for outlets or lighting. The permitting process is in place for your protection. It ensures that all work is performed to the current building codes, which are designed to keep your home and family safe. For example, electrical work in a wet environment like a bathroom must be done to strict standards to prevent shocks or fires. Plumbing work must be done correctly to ensure proper drainage and prevent leaks that could cause catastrophic water damage down the road. As a professional, licensed general contractor, Swanson Construction handles the entire permitting process for you. We know exactly what kind of work requires a permit, and we will prepare and submit all the necessary applications and plans to the local building department. We also schedule and manage all the required inspections at the appropriate stages of the project (like the plumbing rough-in or electrical rough-in). Working with a contractor who handles permits properly gives you peace of mind that your investment is protected and your home remains compliant with local regulations.

When homeowners remodel a bathroom, they're looking for two types of value: personal value (how much they'll enjoy the new space) and financial value (the return on investment, or ROI). Fortunately, many upgrades deliver on both. One of the single biggest value-adds is a shower upgrade. This could mean converting an old, unused bathtub into a large, walk-in shower. These are incredibly popular with buyers and add a feeling of luxury and accessibility. Features like a curbless entry, a built-in bench, a rainfall showerhead, and beautiful floor-to-ceiling tile can provide a significant ROI. Another high-value improvement is the double vanity. If you have a master bathroom that only has one sink, finding a way to incorporate a double vanity is a game-changer for daily function and is something buyers actively look for. It immediately makes the space feel more spacious and upscale. Timeless, quality materials also add immense value. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, choose classic and durable finishes like porcelain or ceramic tile, quartz countertops, and quality cabinetry. These materials have broad appeal and will look great for years to come, ensuring your investment doesn't look dated in five years. Don't underestimate the impact of good lighting and ventilation. A well-lit bathroom feels larger and cleaner. We recommend a layered lighting plan with overhead lighting, task lighting at the vanity, and even a light in the shower. A powerful but quiet exhaust fan is also crucial, especially in Wilmington's humid climate, as it protects your investment by preventing mold and mildew growth. Finally, storage is a huge value-add. A cluttered bathroom feels stressful. We focus on incorporating smart storage solutions like recessed medicine cabinets, vanities with deep drawers instead of just cabinets, and built-in niches in the shower. By focusing on these key areas, you create a bathroom that not only enhances your daily life but also makes your home more attractive to future buyers, providing an excellent return on your investment.

Everyone wants to get the most value for their money, and a bathroom remodel is a significant investment. There are definitely smart ways to save without cutting corners on quality. The most important rule is to keep the existing layout. The single biggest driver of cost is moving plumbing and electrical lines. By keeping your toilet, sink, and shower in their current locations, you can save thousands of dollars in labor costs for plumbers and electricians. This is the number one way to control your budget. Another effective strategy is to be smart with your material choices. You don't always need the most expensive materials to get a high-end look. For example, there are some stunning porcelain tiles that mimic the look of natural marble or stone for a fraction of the cost and with less maintenance. For your vanity countertop, you could opt for a high-quality pre-fabricated piece instead of a custom-cut slab. You can also mix high and low. Splurge on a beautiful, eye-catching tile for a small accent wall or a shower niche, and then use a more affordable, classic tile for the rest of the space. Refinishing can also be a cost-saver. If your bathtub is still in good condition but is just the wrong color, refinishing it can be much cheaper than replacing it entirely. Finally, think carefully about what you really need versus what you want. While a heated floor or a high-tech smart toilet might be nice, they add significant cost. Prioritize your spending on the elements that have the biggest impact, like a quality shower system, good lighting, and durable flooring. At Swanson Construction, we work with you to value-engineer your project. During the design phase, we can suggest cost-effective alternatives and help you allocate your budget to the areas that matter most to you, ensuring you get a beautiful and functional bathroom that fits your financial comfort zone.

A successful bathroom remodel is all in the planning. Over the years, we've seen a few common mistakes that can lead to regret, budget overruns, and frustration. One of the biggest is unrealistic budgeting. Many homeowners underestimate the true cost of a full remodel, especially when it comes to labor and unforeseen issues. It's crucial to not only get a detailed quote but also to have a contingency fund of at least 10-15% set aside. This covers any unexpected problems, like finding rotted subfloor under the old toilet or discovering outdated plumbing that needs to be replaced. Another common error is prioritizing aesthetics over function. People fall in love with a trendy tile or a beautiful but impractical vessel sink without thinking about daily use. A bathroom must be functional. Is there enough counter space? Is the flooring safe when wet? Is the vanity lighting actually good for seeing your face? We help you balance beautiful design with practical, everyday usability. A third mistake is poor ventilation. Skimping on the exhaust fan is a recipe for disaster in a humid climate like Wilmington's. Inadequate ventilation leads to moisture buildup, which can cause peeling paint, mildew growth, and even structural damage over time. We always install properly sized, high-quality fans to protect your new bathroom. Many people also ignore lighting. A single overhead light is simply not enough. It creates shadows and makes the space feel dim. A good bathroom needs a layered lighting plan: an ambient overhead light, bright task lighting around the mirror, and ideally a dedicated light in the shower. This makes the room feel larger, cleaner, and more functional. Finally, the most significant mistake is hiring the wrong contractor. Choosing an unlicensed or uninsured contractor based on the lowest bid can lead to shoddy work, project delays, and no recourse if something goes wrong. It's essential to hire a licensed, insured, and reputable professional like Swanson Construction who has a proven track record of quality work and happy clients.

This is one of the most important questions you can ask a contractor, because in remodeling, the unexpected can and does happen. The true measure of a professional is not in pretending problems won't arise, but in how they are handled when they do. Our approach is built on two core principles: transparency and expertise. When we uncover an unexpected issue—such as discovering water damage in the subfloor after removing a vanity, finding old and unsafe wiring in a wall, or realizing a vent stack isn't where the original plans said it was—our first step is to stop and assess. We don't cover it up or take a shortcut. Our experienced team evaluates the problem to understand its full extent and determine the correct, code-compliant solution. The second, and most critical, step is immediate communication. We will promptly inform you of exactly what we found, using photos or showing you in person so you can see for yourself. We will then clearly explain the issue in plain English—no confusing contractor jargon. We'll tell you what it means for the project, what our recommended solution is, and what the potential impact will be on the timeline and budget. We will provide you with a clear change order that outlines the additional work and any associated costs for your approval before any extra work begins. There are no surprises. You are always in control. Because we have years of experience, we've encountered almost every imaginable issue. This expertise allows us to find the most efficient and effective solutions to keep the project moving forward with minimal disruption. Our goal is to solve the problem correctly so that it never becomes an issue again, ensuring the long-term integrity and safety of your home. It's this commitment to honest communication and expert problem-solving that gives our clients peace of mind.

The DIY approach can be tempting for homeowners looking to save money, and for small cosmetic updates like painting or changing a faucet, it can be a great option. However, a full bathroom remodel is one of the most complex and risk-prone projects in a home, and hiring a professional contractor like Swanson Construction offers crucial advantages. The biggest factor is expertise in managing integrated systems. A bathroom is a small space where complex plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems have to work together perfectly in a wet environment. A small mistake in plumbing can lead to a slow leak inside a wall, causing thousands of dollars in water damage before it's ever discovered. An error in electrical work can be a serious fire or safety hazard. We have licensed and experienced plumbers and electricians who ensure everything is done to code, safely and correctly the first time. Another key benefit is project management and efficiency. A professional contractor orchestrates the entire project. We schedule the various tradespeople—demolition crew, plumber, electrician, drywaller, tiler, painter—in the correct sequence to keep the job moving without downtime. For a DIYer, trying to line up and manage all these different specialists can be a logistical nightmare, often stretching a project that should take weeks into months. We also have access to trade-quality materials and professional tools. We know which materials will stand the test of time and which ones to avoid. We also have the specialized equipment needed for tasks like precise tile cutting, properly waterproofing a shower, and ensuring everything is perfectly level and square. Finally, hiring a professional protects your investment and gives you peace of mind. As a licensed and insured general contractor, we are accountable for the quality of the work. We carry liability and workers' compensation insurance, protecting you from any accidents on your property. We also provide a warranty on our craftsmanship. If you DIY and something goes wrong, the cost and stress of fixing it are entirely on you. With a professional, you get a beautiful, functional, and safely built bathroom, often completed faster and with less stress than you ever could on your own.

Living in a beautiful coastal area like Wilmington definitely influences local design trends. We see a lot of homeowners moving away from cold, sterile designs and embracing a more relaxed, nature-inspired aesthetic that feels connected to our surroundings. One of the biggest trends is creating a spa-like, organic feel. This involves using materials with natural textures, such as wood-look porcelain tile, vanities made of light-colored woods like white oak, and countertops like quartz that mimic the soft veining of natural stone. Earthy color palettes with soft whites, sandy beiges, and muted greens or blues are very popular. Large, walk-in showers with minimal framing continue to be in high demand. Homeowners are getting rid of bulky tub surrounds in favor of spacious, open showers with features like built-in benches, multiple showerheads (like a rainfall and a handheld), and large-format tiles, which have fewer grout lines and create a clean, seamless look. Statement tile is another popular choice. While the overall palette might be neutral, many people are choosing a bold, patterned tile for the floor or as an accent wall in the shower to add personality and a custom touch. Floating vanities are also trending because they create a sense of spaciousness by showing more of the floor, which makes a small bathroom feel larger. They offer a clean, modern look that pairs well with the organic aesthetic. In terms of fixtures, brushed gold and matte black are still very popular finishes. They add a touch of modern sophistication and contrast beautifully with the lighter, natural tones in the rest ofthe room. Ultimately, the goal for most Wilmington homeowners is to create a space that is bright, airy, and easy to clean—a personal retreat that feels both luxurious and comfortable, echoing the relaxed coastal lifestyle we all love.

Preparing for a bathroom remodel ahead of time can make the entire process much smoother for you and your family. Once we've finalized the start date, there are a few simple things you can do. The first and most important step is to completely clear out the bathroom. This means removing all of your personal items from the vanity drawers and cabinets, the medicine cabinet, the shower, and any closets. This includes toiletries, towels, decorations, and everything else. It's a good opportunity to declutter and decide what you want to bring back into your newly renovated space. Pack these items in boxes and store them in another room. Next, you'll want to establish a temporary bathroom. If you have another full bathroom in the house, make sure it's stocked and ready to handle the extra traffic. If the bathroom being remodeled is your only one, we will need to coordinate closely to ensure the toilet is re-installed at the end of each workday whenever possible, but you should prepare for some disruption. It's also wise to clear a path for our workers. We will need a clear walkway from an entrance of your home to the bathroom to carry tools, materials, and debris in and out. Please remove any furniture, rugs, or decorations from hallways that we will be using. While we take great care to protect your home by laying down floor coverings and plastic sheeting to contain dust, construction is inherently messy. You may want to cover nearby furniture with old sheets or plastic to protect it from fine dust that can travel. Finally, consider your family's routine. Think about pets and children and how the construction noise and activity might affect them. It may be helpful to plan activities outside of the home during the loudest parts of the day, like demolition. By taking these few preparatory steps, you help us work more efficiently and help minimize the disruption to your daily life, making the remodeling experience as pleasant as possible.

We believe that standing behind our work is a non-negotiable part of being a professional contractor. It's a promise of quality and a commitment to our clients' long-term satisfaction. That's why at Swanson Construction and Development, Inc., we provide a comprehensive one-year warranty on all of our craftsmanship. This warranty covers any defects related to the labor and installation of your bathroom remodel. So, what does that mean in practical terms? It means that if a tile we installed becomes loose, a piece of trim we fitted comes undone, or a cabinet door we hung goes out of alignment within the first year after project completion, you can simply call us. We will come back and fix the issue promptly, at no additional cost to you. Our craftsmanship warranty is our personal guarantee that the work was done to the highest professional standards. It's important to note that this warranty applies to our labor. The new materials and fixtures installed in your bathroom—such as the faucet, toilet, vanity, or light fixtures—are all covered by their own manufacturer's warranties. These can range from one year to a lifetime warranty, depending on the product and the company that makes it. As part of our service, we provide you with all the documentation for these products so you can register them and have the warranty information on hand should you ever need it. We only use reputable, quality materials from trusted brands because we know they will stand the test of time and be backed by solid manufacturer support. Our goal is to build you a beautiful bathroom that you can enjoy for many years without any issues. Our warranty is our way of giving you complete confidence and peace of mind in your decision to trust us with your home. It's a reflection of the pride we take in our work.