Bathroom Remodel Waverly MI Checklist: Design, Budgeting & Pitfalls to Avoid
Starting a bathroom remodel is exciting, but it can quickly get overwhelming if you don’t plan well. Whether you’re updating a few fixtures or doing a full makeover, this guide walks you through crucial steps, design choices, and budget tips so your new bath balances function and style. We’ve gathered expert guidance to help you sidestep costly mistakes and build a bathroom that improves daily life and adds value to your home.
What if your day felt easier thanks to a space tailored to your lifestyle and needs?
With 53% of homeowners in Waverly planning renovations every year, reimagining functional spaces has become one of the most strategic investments for modern living. At American Home, we’ve spent six decades helping families create environments that blend beauty with practicality. From bathroom remodel Waverly MI to kitchen renovations, we make your dreams come true.
The Greater Lansing team takes a collaborative path on every project. We begin with your vision, then apply our know-how in spatial planning and picking materials. This ensures your space reflects your style while boosting function.
What sets us apart is our commitment to end-to-end service. From initial sketches to final installation, we manage every detail with precision. Our partnerships with leading manufacturers provide access to premium materials, backed by warranties for lasting peace of mind.
Vital Knowledge
- Six decades of specialized design expertise in Waverly MI
- Client-focused approach from concept through completion
- Seamless integration of aesthetics and daily functionality
- End-to-end one-stop renovation services
- Premium materials with manufacturer-backed warranty coverage
Whether updating fixtures or reconfiguring layouts, we bring technical mastery to every aspect of your Bathroom Remodel Waverly project. Let’s explore how thoughtful design can elevate your home’s value and your quality of life.
10 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas
Popular Looks With Pros & Cons
Walk-In Showers
A curbless walk-in shower smooths circulation and helps a modern bathroom feel more spacious and accessible. It puts statement tile front and center and uses clear glass or partial walls to maximize light. Great for small footprints or aging-in-place remodels. Pro tip: slope the pan 1/4 inch per foot and add linear drains to keep lines clean.
Benefits
- Makes the room feel spacious and open
- Easier accessibility for all ages
- Quicker to clean than traditional showers
- Highly customizable with multiple tile options
Limitations
- May need additional waterproofing
- May feel colder without a full enclosure
- Installation costs are higher than standard showers
- Overspray onto floor
Floating Vanities
A wall-mounted vanity opens floor space, giving lighter sightlines and a clean, modern look. It helps small baths feel bigger, makes floor cleaning easier, and pairs well with under-cabinet LED for a floating glow. Best for contemporary bathroom remodels with straight plumbing runs. Pro tip: install a reinforced mounting rail and verify stud layout before selecting width and sink material.
Pros
- Creates the illusion of more floor space
- Makes floor cleaning easier
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Personalized height for better comfort
Cons
- Less storage than floor models
- Needs sturdy wall support
- Pricier than standard vanities
- Weight restrictions for heavy countertops
Heated Flooring
Underfloor radiant heat gives invisible, even warmth, stopping that cold-tile shock and making a modern bathroom more comfortable. It’s ideal for bathroom remodels wanting spa vibes without visible units. Works beneath tile, stone, or luxury vinyl. Pro tip: run a programmable thermostat on a dedicated GFCI; electric mats are best for small baths, while hydronic setups shine in bigger zones.
Pros
- Luxury-level comfort, especially in cold climates
- Even heat distribution
- Energy-efficient supplemental heating
- Invisible system that doesn't affect design
Limitations
- Significant upfront installation cost
- Makes the overall project timeline longer
- May require professional maintenance
- Costly to repair once tiled
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs put sculptural form at the center, delivering a spa-like focal point. They open sightlines and allow flexible placement, ideal for larger baths or layouts with a feature window or accent wall. Confirm floor structure and plan a floor-mounted filler or wall stub-outs. Pro tip: keep 4–6 inches of clearance for easy cleaning.
Benefits
- Creates a stunning focal point
- Available in various styles and materials
- Simpler to clean around than built-in tubs
- Can fit in spaces where built-ins won't work
Restrictions
- Higher price point than standard tubs
- Might need special plumbing considerations
- Limited storage for bath products
- Heavy—floor reinforcement needed
Smart Bathroom Technology
Connected fixtures—think touchless faucets, smart mirrors with defoggers, bidet seats, thermostatic showers, and leak sensors—add convenience, hygiene, and efficiency to a modern bathroom remodel. You’ll get presets, automation, and usage insights that curb water and energy waste. Best in spaces with reliable Wi-Fi and ventilation. Pro tip: plan outlets and low-voltage runs early; choose IP-rated, Matter-compatible gear with manual overrides.
Advantages
- Enhanced convenience and functionality
- Water and energy savings
- Customizable user experiences
- Modern, high-tech appeal
Drawbacks
- Greater initial investment
- May require professional installation
- Technology can go out of date
- Potential for technical issues
Large Format Tiles
Go big with porcelain slabs or 24×48 (600×1200 mm) tiles to make a modern bathroom feel larger while reducing grout lines and maintenance. They give seamless continuity across floors and walls—great for walk-in showers. Ensure a dead-flat substrate and proper lippage control. Pro tip: use a 1/3 offset, leveling clips, and back-butter; seal grout and opt for slip-rated finishes.
Strengths
- Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
- Delivers a seamless, spacious appearance
- Contemporary, high-end look
- Pairs well with underfloor heating
Restrictions
- More difficult installation
- Higher waste factor during installation
- Might require subfloor reinforcement
- Fewer patterns than small tiles
Double Vanities
A two-sink vanity streamlines busy schedules, giving everyone a basin and storage while increasing counter space and visual balance. It carries an upscale look and anchors longer walls in modern baths. Ideal for layouts 60 in (1524 mm) or wider with straightforward plumbing. Pro tip: go with drawer-forward bases and offset traps so you keep full-depth, usable storage.
Pros
- Cuts morning congestion
- Delivers personalized storage space
- Adds value to master bathrooms
- Establishes a balanced, symmetrical design
Cons
- Requires more space than single vanities
- Higher cost for fixtures and installation
- Added plumbing requirements
- More cleaning (two sinks)
Accent Walls
A feature wall delivers fast visual focus and depth, letting you show off texture, color, or pattern without overwhelming a modern bath. Use tile, stone veneer, microcement, or moisture-rated wood slats behind the vanity, near a freestanding tub, or in a shower (properly rated). Pro tip: run the finish to full height and layer wall-wash or sconce lighting to add dimension.
Benefits
- Instant focal point, no big remodel
- Add bold elements
- Easier than full-room updates
- Adds personality and character
Restrictions
- May feel dated as trends change
- Can overwhelm smaller spaces if too busy
- Specialty materials may increase costs
- Could hurt resale if overly personalized
Curbless Showers
Choose a zero-threshold shower for a seamless flow that helps a modern bathroom read larger and safer at any age. Continue the floor tile into the shower to get a clean, spa finish and effortless access—smart for compact footprints or aging-in-place designs. Pro tip: recess the subfloor, install a wall-line linear drain, and hold a 1/4-in-per-foot slope with continuous waterproofing.
Strengths
- Accessible for all ages
- Creates a smooth, contemporary look
- Makes the bathroom appear larger
- Easier cleaning because no threshold traps dirt
Restrictions
- More complex waterproofing requirements
- May need to lower the subfloor
- Greater installation costs
- Requires precise slope for proper drainage
Natural Elements
Introducing wood tones, stone, and organic textures softens hard surfaces and brings warmth to a modern bathroom remodel. Consider rift-sawn oak vanities, pebble or tumbled-stone floors, limewash, and greenery for visual calm. Pair warmth with moisture resistance and clean lines to prevent a heavy rustic feel. Pro tip: seal natural materials well and boost ventilation; use composite or porcelain lookalikes in wet areas.
Pros
- Creates a calm, spa-style atmosphere
- Timeless appeal that transcends trends
- Adds cozy warmth and texture to the space
- Connects indoor space with nature
Cons
- Special maintenance needed
- Wood/stone moisture-prone
- Costlier than synthetics
- Can darken or patina over time
Need help picking the right design elements?
With American Home, our experts help you pick the perfect set of features for your bathroom remodel Waverly—all matched to your taste, room size, and budget.
The 7-Step Bathroom Remodeling Process
Understanding how a bathroom remodel unfolds helps you plan smart and set realistic expectations. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process, with estimated timelines for each phase.
Planning and Design
This crucial first step involves determining your needs, establishing a budget, and creating a design plan. Consider functionality, storage requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Collect inspiration from magazines, websites, and showrooms to refine your vision.
Demolition
In this phase, you remove existing fixtures, flooring, and at times, walls. Careful planning is key during demolition to prevent harm to plumbing, electrical, or structural components. For minor updates, selective demolition can be enough.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
After the demo phase, rough-in plumbing and electrical work begins. This includes placing or rerouting water lines, drains, and outlets to suit the new layout. Hire experienced professionals to ensure everything meets code.
Structural Changes and Drywall
If your remodel calls for wall moves or expanding the space, complete structural work at this point. After that, put up moisture-resistant drywall (greenboard) and cement board in tile-ready sections. Wet areas demand thorough waterproofing.
Tile Installation
Laying tile on floors, shower walls, and backsplashes is a lengthy yet impactful phase. The timeline depends on how complex the pattern is and how large the bathroom is. Plan for added curing time.
Fixture and Cabinet Installation
When surfaces are prepped, the vanity, toilet, shower, bathtub, and storage cabinets go in. This step makes the bathroom feel real as the main features move into your updated design.
Finishing Touches
The final phase includes installing hardware, lighting fixtures, mirrors, shower doors, and accessories. Paint touch-ups and final cleaning prepare your new bathroom for use. This is when your vision truly comes together.
A full bathroom remodel Waverly MI usually takes 3–6 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope and any unexpected issues. Working with experienced professionals can help keep your project on schedule.
Ready to start transforming your bathroom?
At American Home, our Waverly designers will guide the remodel and create a bathroom that perfectly fits your needs and style preferences.
About American Home: Exceptional Kitchen & Bath Design
At American Home, we pair personalized service with deep technical know-how to craft spaces that inspire. Through careful planning and creative vision, our team turns ordinary rooms into functional art.
For years, American Home was our dream. It became the perfect complement to American Flooring, giving our customers everything needed to bring their dream home to life in Waverly MI.
Client-Focused Experience & Free Consultations
We always begin a bathroom remodel Waverly project by listening. Our free consult helps us grasp your needs before we suggest a plan. That approach keeps your vision in charge—from layout ideas to material selections.
“American Home really completes the puzzle for homeowners,” say industry partners Ed and Yvonne Weaver. With collaborative teams, we bring full-service design that simplifies even complex renovations.
More Than 60 Years of Expert Design Experience
In Waverly, our designers draw on six decades of combined experience to tackle spatial challenges creatively. This expertise enables us to:
- -Maximize functionality in compact areas
- – Blend today’s trends with timeless appeal
- -Source premium materials within budget parameters
Complimentary estimates help remove financial hurdles to great design. From a bath refresh to reimagined living areas, our process centers your lifestyle needs and lifts property value.
Bathroom Remodel Budget Breakdown
Knowing the potential costs involved in a bathroom remodel Waverly MI helps you plan well and sidestep budget surprises. The table below breaks down typical expenses at different budget levels.
Smart budgeting turns renovation goals into real results. Our team guides homeowners through investment choices with clear advice, weighing upfront costs against long-term value. From a powder room refresh to a master suite rework, knowing the financial factors keeps your project aligned with lifestyle needs and the market.
| Expense Category | Budget Remodel (~$15,000–$25,000) |
Mid-Range Remodel (~$25,000–$55,000) |
Luxury Remodel (~$55,000+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition & Disposal | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$5,000 |
| Plumbing | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$7,000 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Electrical | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$4,000 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Flooring | $1,500–$3,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| Shower/Tub | $2,000–$4,000 | $4,000–$8,000 | $8,000–$20,000 |
| Vanity & Countertop | $1,200–$2,500 | $2,500–$5,000 | $5,000–$15,000 |
| Toilet | $200–$500 | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Lighting & Ventilation | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,500 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Tile Work | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$7,000 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Fixtures & Hardware | $500–$1,500 | $1,500–$3,000 | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Permits | $300–$800 | $800–$1,500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Design Fees | $0–$1,500 | $1,500–$4,000 | $4,000–$10,000 |
Demolition & Disposal
Plumbing
Electrical
Flooring
Shower/Tub
Vanity & Countertop
Toilet
Lighting & Ventilation
Tile Work
Fixtures & Hardware
Permits
Design Fees
Understanding Costs and Major Investment Factors
Labor tends to be nearly half of total renovation costs. Materials and fixture upgrades make up the rest. We offer detailed, line-by-line estimates showing dollar allocation—from plumbing adjustments to tile installations.
Mid-range bathroom projects average $25,000 nationally, but scope can shift the final total. Older homes often need a 10-20% contingency for unexpected structural work. Our designers prioritize the must-haves and propose cost-effective options for secondary items.
Smart Financing Choices and Money-Saving Tips
Home equity loans remain popular for their competitive rates and tax benefits. We also guide clients through HELOC options and personal loan structures. For cash purchases, phased installations help manage cash flow without compromising design integrity.
Strategic material reuse and fixture refinishing can reduce expenses by 15-25%. We focus investments on high-impact areas like waterproofing and energy-efficient systems. These choices enhance daily comfort while protecting your property’s resale potential.
Cost-Saving Tips:
- – Keep the existing layout to cut down on plumbing changes
- – When possible, refinish rather than replace (tubs, cabinets)
- – Combine high-end and budget materials strategically
- – Choose open shelving instead of custom cabinetry
- – Shop floor models and remnant materials to save
- – Break the project into phases if the budget is tight
Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Smart Bathroom Solutions
You can have an environmentally responsible bathroom without sacrificing style or functionality. Choose sustainable solutions to reduce your footprint and create a beautiful, efficient space.
Water-Conserving Fixtures
- Low-Flow Showerheads: Modern options provide excellent pressure while using just 1.5-2.0 GPM (compared to 5+ GPM for older models)
- Dual-Flush Toilets: Feature dual-flush settings for liquid versus solid waste, saving thousands of gallons per year
- Touchless Faucets: Cut water waste by operating only when needed, with built-in aerators for extra savings
Recycled Materials & Sustainable Options
- Recycled Glass Tiles: Beautiful, long-lasting options made from post-consumer glass
- FSC-Certified Wood: Cabinetry and shelving built with wood from responsibly managed forests
- Recycled Countertops: Surfaces built using recycled paper, glass, or plastic-composite materials
- Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable flooring crafted from renewable materials
Energy-Efficient Solutions
- LED Lighting: Consumes up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs while lasting far longer
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, eliminating standby energy losses
- Proper Insulation: Reduces heat loss and prevents condensation issues
- Smart Controls: Programmable systems that optimize energy use for lighting, ventilation, and heating
Sustainable Practices
- Material Repurposing: Refurbishing existing fixtures or donating salvageable items
- Local Sourcing: Minimizing transportation emissions by sourcing materials locally
- Low-VOC Products: Paints, sealants, and adhesives with low harmful emissions
- Proper Disposal: Responsible recycling and disposal of construction debris
Eco-Friendly Product Certification Guide
Look for these certifications when selecting bathroom products:
- -WaterSense: EPA program certifying water-efficient products
- -ENERGY STAR: Identifies energy-efficient appliances and fixtures
- -FSC (Forest Stewardship Council): Certifies responsibly sourced wood products
- -Greenguard: Ensures products have low chemical emissions
- -Cradle to Cradle: Recognizes products made with safe materials that can be recycled
Five Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes to Avoid
Even with careful planning, a bathroom remodel Waverly can go awry. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you avoid costly errors and ensure a successful renovation.
1. Poor Ventilation Planning
In bathroom design, inadequate ventilation is a widespread and significant misstep. If airflow isn’t adequate, moisture accumulates, resulting in mold, mildew, peeling paint, and damaged fixtures.
2. Faulty Measurements
Measurement errors can leave fixtures misaligned, doors obstructed, and spaces hard to use. Correcting these problems typically requires costly adjustments.
3. Poor Lighting Design
Inadequate lighting design in many remodels leads to spaces that feel too dim, too bright, or impractical for daily grooming routines.
How to Prevent This:
- Install a properly sized exhaust fan (at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space)
- Confirm the fan vents to the exterior, not into an attic or wall cavity
- Consider humidity-sensing fans that run automatically when needed
- If possible, include a window for natural ventilation
Prevention Tips:
- Measure multiple times before ordering materials or fixtures
- Use standard clearances: 30" around toilets, 30" for shower entry, and 21" in front of sinks
- Consider door swing paths and ensure they don't interfere with fixtures
- Use painter’s tape to outline layouts on the floor before installation
How to Prevent This:
- Implement layered lighting: ambient, task, and accent
- Install proper task lighting at the vanity (side-mounted fixtures reduce shadows)
- Incorporate natural light sources when privacy conditions allow
- Use dimmers to adjust lighting levels for different needs
- Select suitable bulb color temperatures (2700K–3000K warm, 3500K–4000K neutral)
4. Neglecting Storage Needs
A bathroom may be visually appealing but will soon feel cluttered and unusable if storage requirements aren’t factored into the design.
5. Poor Waterproofing
Water damage is the top cause of costly bathroom problems. Inadequate waterproofing risks structural damage, mold infestations, and complete renovation breakdown.
Avoidance Tips:
- Inventory your bathroom items before designing storage solutions
- Include a mix of open and closed storage
- Utilize vertical space with tall cabinets or shelving
- Choose medicine cabinets that recess into walls
- Install built-in niches in shower and tub areas
Prevention Guidelines:
- Install the right waterproofing membranes in shower and tub areas
- Confirm correct shower pan installation with proper slope to drain water
- Select appropriate materials for wet areas (cement board instead of standard drywall)
- Apply quality grout sealer to all tile installations
- Consider hiring waterproofing specialists for critical areas
Prevent Costly Mistakes With Professional Guidance
With our expert bathroom remodel team in Waverly MI, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and ensure the project is completed correctly the first time.
Design Is in The Details
Our Process
The Consultation
We begin the process by meeting in our showroom to discuss your vision. Once we understand exactly what you are looking for we will meet at your home to measure and get to know how you and your family utilize your home to help us design a space that will meet you and your families needs and wants. This information is vital to the design process as our designers begin visualizing your space.
The Vision
Using the most advanced technology available in the industry, we begin the design process. Once the initial design has been completed, our team will create 3D color renderings to help you visualize your new space before you make your final decision.
The Finishes
We provide a wide variety of cabinets, countertops, decorative hardware, and other products to complete the look and feel you’re dreaming of . Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, rustic, or somewhere in between, we have the finishes to create any style.
Exceeding Expectations
Homeowners
The American Home Experience
We take pride in creating beautifully functional spaces that are tailored to fit our homeowner’s desired aesthetic and lifestyle. Our team designs in 3D and assist in coordinating all of the colors and textures to bring your space to life.
Creating Partnerships
Builders & Contractors
We’re Part of Your Team
It is our goal to provide our builders and contractors, or their clients, with the same level of service given to our homeowners. We specialize in design and products only, so we’ll never be your competition.
Your Bathroom Remodel Waverly Journey Begins Here
Completing a bathroom remodel Waverly MI takes planning, design insight, and quality work. By understanding the steps, weighing design options, setting a realistic budget, and avoiding common errors, you’ll build a bathroom that enhances daily routines and adds long-term value to your home.
Don’t forget that expert guidance makes a remodel smoother and more rewarding. Whether it’s a quick update or a full redesign, the right team helps you overcome obstacles and achieve your vision. Call American Home to begin your Waverly bathroom remodel today!
Ready to Transform Your Bathroom Today?
Begin today on your dream bathroom journey. Our experienced design team in Waverly is prepared to help create a space where beauty, function, and value all come together.
FAQs About Bathroom Remodeling
How can updating a tub-shower combo increase home value?
Upgrading a tub-shower combo raises functionality and attracts today’s buyers who want spa-like bathrooms. At American Home, we rely on durable finishes such as porcelain tile and frameless glass doors that heighten style and ensure long-term ROI through greater marketability.
How long does it usually take to replace outdated fixtures?
In Waverly, replacing old fixtures generally takes 2–4 weeks, depending on layout updates and material readiness. We use 3D design tools to finalize selections early, helping to prevent cabinetry or tile delays.
Is it possible to work within strict budgets without losing quality?
Yes. At American Home, we center on impactful yet affordable upgrades such as tub refinishing or ceramic tile accents. We provide straightforward cost breakdowns and financing options, including home equity, so your project fits your budget.
Do you manage permits for wet room conversions?
What flooring materials best resist moisture in humid spaces?
How do lighting choices impact small-space designs?
A layered LED approach creates both depth and function. We blend recessed ceiling lighting with vertical sconces to eliminate mirror shadows, making grooming safer and visually expanding smaller bathrooms.
