What to Expect During a Bathroom Remodel in Olympia

Thinking about updating your bathroom? Whether it’s a full overhaul or a simple upgrade, knowing what to expect during your Olympia bathroom remodel can take the stress out of the process. At Mountain Peak Construction, we walk homeowners through every phase—from demo to design to installation—so you’re never left wondering what’s next.

In this guide, we’ll break down the step-by-step process of a typical remodel, explain timelines, and offer expert tips specific to Olympia and the surrounding areas like Lacey, Tumwater, and Thurston County.

Step 1: The Consultation

Everything starts with a conversation. We’ll meet to talk about your goals, must-haves, and design style. Whether you’re dreaming of a walk-in shower, soaking tub, or a complete layout change, we’ll gather the details we need to build a custom plan.

Pro Tip: Bring inspiration photos or check out our project gallery to get ideas. The more visuals, the better we understand your taste!

Step 2: Design and Material Selections

Once the vision is clear, we help you select all the finishes—tile, flooring, vanity, paint colors, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. We can guide you toward moisture-resistant options that hold up to Olympia’s damp climate.

Need extra storage? This is when we plan built-in niches, drawer stacks, or even coordinate new cabinet installations to maximize space.

Step 3: Pre-Construction Walkthrough

Before demo day, we’ll do a detailed walkthrough of your bathroom. We check:

• Plumbing and electrical layout

• Existing damage or rot

• Ventilation setup

• Structural limitations

• Any necessary permits

This step helps avoid surprises and ensures everything is code-compliant from the start.

Step 4: Demo and Prep

Here’s where the transformation begins. We carefully remove old materials and fixtures. If we’re relocating plumbing or expanding the space, we’ll open up walls or subflooring as needed.

Local Tip:Homes in Olympia often have older plumbing or non-GFCI outlets that need upgrades. We factor these into the scope so your new bathroom is safe and up to date.

Step 5: Rough Plumbing, Electrical, and Framing

Once demo is complete, our licensed subcontractors handle the behind-the-walls work. This includes:

• Running new water lines or drain pipes

• Installing outlets and switches

• Moving or adding light fixtures

• Framing for new walls or niches

Inspections may be required by the city or county, depending on the extent of the remodel. We’ll handle all permitting and scheduling so you don’t have to.

Step 6: Drywall, Waterproofing, and Prep Work

This stage gets your bathroom ready for finishes. We install moisture-resistant drywall (especially important in Olympia’s wet climate) and waterproof shower walls using industry-approved systems.

We also level the floor, patch any framing, and prepare the room for tile and cabinetry.

Step 7: Tile, Flooring, and Finish Work

Here’s where the fun starts. You’ll begin to see your new bathroom take shape as we install:

• Custom shower tile or bathtub surrounds

• New bathroom flooring (we often recommend slip-resistant options)

• Vanities and countertops

• Trim, doors, mirrors, and accessories

We also coordinate any necessary touch-ups, paint, and cleanup to ensure everything looks flawless.

Step 8: Final Plumbing and Electrical

We reconnect your plumbing and install your fixtures:

• Sink, faucet, and vanity lighting

• Toilet installation

• Shower valve and trim

• Exhaust fans and any specialty lighting

Everything is tested for leaks, proper function, and safety. We take the time to ensure it’s done right.

Step 9: Walkthrough and Punch List

The final step is a detailed walkthrough with you to review the project. If anything needs adjusting—like caulking, touch-ups, or hardware—we document it and get it taken care of quickly.

When everything’s complete, your Olympia bathroom remodel is officially done—and ready for its first relaxing soak or steamy shower!

How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?

Most remodels take 2–4 weeks depending on scope, materials, and permit timing. Projects that involve structural changes, floor plan adjustments, or major plumbing reroutes may take longer.

We’ll provide you with a clear schedule up front and stay in close communication the entire time.

Olympia Remodel Story: Before & After

One of our recent clients in West Olympia had an outdated bathroom with a fiberglass tub, linoleum floors, and poor lighting. We installed:

• A custom tile walk-in shower with built-in bench and niche

• New waterproof LVP flooring

• Soft-close vanity with full-height storage

• Recessed lighting and brushed nickel fixtures

The result? A spa-like retreat that feels light, open, and timeless.

Want to See More?

If you're planning a full remodel or just replacing a shower or flooring, we can help. We offer kitchen remodels, cabinet installs, siding replacements, and more—all tailored to Olympia homes.

You can also explore our flooring options to see what pairs well with your bathroom vision.

Let’s Plan Your Bathroom Remodel

Whether you’re upgrading for comfort, resale, or accessibility, Mountain Peak Construction will guide you through every step of your Olympia bathroom remodel. Our experienced team delivers clean finishes, clear communication, and craftsmanship that lasts.

Have questions or want to book a consultation? Reach out here and let’s get started.

Or if you're new to us, you can learn more about our company and what makes us a top choice for remodels in the South Sound.

Also, don’t forget to check out what other Olympia homeowners are saying on our Google Business profile!