Your Complete Guide to What Happens During Your Minneapolis Bathroom Remodel

8/30/2026

Your Complete Guide to What Happens During Your Minneapolis Bathroom Remodel

Wondering what your home will look like during a bathroom renovation? Here's everything you need to know about the demolition and installation process at Midwest Bath and Shower.

Bathroom remodeling can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unsure what to expect. Whether you're converting your bathtub to a walk-in shower or upgrading your bathroom for accessibility, understanding the timeline and process helps you prepare mentally and practically. Let's walk through what happens when our Midwest Bath and Shower team arrives at your Minneapolis or St. Paul home.

The Pre-Demolition Phase

Before any walls come down, we'll:

  • Assess your current setup – We inspect plumbing, electrical, and existing fixtures
  • Protect your home – Drop cloths, plastic sheeting, and temporary barriers contain dust and debris
  • Plan the water shut-off – We locate and prepare your home's water main for the demo phase
  • Schedule utility inspections – Especially important for tub-to-shower conversions and accessibility modifications

What Happens During Demolition

This is often the noisiest and messiest phase—but it's necessary! Here's what you'll experience:

  • Removal of old fixtures – Your existing tub, shower, vanity, and flooring come out
  • Wall preparation – We carefully remove tile, drywall, and any damaged materials
  • Plumbing exposure – Pipes are uncovered and assessed for any needed upgrades
  • Debris management – We haul away old materials responsibly and recycle when possible

Pro tip: Plan to be away from home during this phase if possible. We typically recommend staying elsewhere or keeping distance from the work area.

The Installation Phase

Once demolition is complete, the real transformation begins:

Waterproofing & Structure

  • Installing new framing and blocking for fixtures
  • Applying waterproofing membranes—critical for preventing future water damage
  • Ensuring proper slope for drainage in shower areas

Plumbing & Electrical

  • Running new supply lines and drain pipes
  • Installing new electrical outlets and lighting fixtures
  • Positioning drains for your new tub-to-shower conversion or accessibility features

Wall & Floor Installation

  • Installing cement board or tile backer board
  • Applying tile or your chosen wall finish
  • Installing new flooring with proper waterproofing underneath

Fixture Installation

  • Setting your new tub or walk-in shower
  • Installing the vanity, toilet, and faucets
  • Mounting mirrors, shelving, and hardware

Timeline Expectations

Most bathroom remodels in the Minneapolis area take 2-4 weeks depending on:

  • Project scope (simple refresh vs. major conversion)
  • Any unexpected issues discovered during demolition
  • Your chosen materials and finishes

Preparing Your Home

To minimize disruption:

  • Move personal items and toiletries beforehand
  • Keep your workspace clear for our crew
  • Plan for temporary bathroom arrangements
  • Ask about our dust containment procedures

Trust the Experts

At Midwest Bath and Shower, we've completed hundreds of successful remodels throughout the Twin Cities. From accessible shower installations to luxurious tub-to-shower conversions with premium waterproofing, we handle every detail professionally.

Ready to start your bathroom transformation? Contact Midwest Bath and Shower today for a free, no-obligation estimate. Let's discuss your vision and walk through the entire process together. Call us or visit our showroom in Minneapolis to see samples and inspiration for your dream bathroom.

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