About This Project A complete bathroom transformation on a DIY budget, covering demolition of the old vanity, toilet, tile floor, and walls, followed by new plumbing with PEX, a tub and shower combo installation, drywall mudding and sanding, luxury vinyl tile flooring, and finishing with paint, hardware, and a new vanity — all completed for $2,443, well under the $2,500 goal.
Project Video Video Description ▶ 0:00 Starting the bathroom remodel with a goal of staying under $2,500 instead of paying $10,000+ for a contractor. ▶ 0:20 Removing the vanity and toilet, then ripping up the cracked tile floor to assess the subfloor. ▶ 1:55 Discovering wire mesh and mortar bed under the old tile, removing tile sheets and dealing with sharp, rusty debris. ▶ 4:20 Deciding to tear out the entire wall due to damaged, notched tile and an ugly almond-colored backsplash. ▶ 9:21 Removing the old tub after shutting off water, draining the water heater, and disconnecting all plumbing. ▶ 12:10 Installing new PEX plumbing, shower valve at 36 inches, tub spout, and testing all connections for leaks. ▶ 22:29 Installing the new tub on a mortar bed — a nerve-wracking experience requiring last-minute joist cuts. ▶ 28:37 Installing the three-piece shower surround, cutting holes for fixtures, and starting drywall work. ▶ 35:12 Laying luxury vinyl tile flooring with a brick pattern, working around obstacles like the toilet flange and door jam. ▶ 52:27 Final cost breakdown: $2,443 total including plumbing ($97), tub/surround ($800), flooring ($220), drywall/mud/paint ($266), vanity and hardware ($960), and miscellaneous supplies — under the $2,500 budget.
