Memphis Bathroom Remodeling Checklist

Transforming a Memphis bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat requires careful planning and local know-how. Use this checklist to ensure your project—whether you’re updating a Midtown bungalow powder room, refreshing a Germantown master bath, or renovating a Downtown condo ensuite—runs smoothly from start to finish.

1. Define Your Scope & Budget

• Determine Your Goals

  • Full gut‐out vs. cosmetic facelift (tile/fixtures swap).

  • Prioritize “need” vs. “want”: plumbing updates, accessibility features, or luxury touches (heated floors, smart mirrors).

• Set a Realistic Budget

  • Aim for 5–8% of your home’s current market value in Memphis.

  • Reserve 10–15% of that budget for unforeseen issues (especially in older Midtown or Cooper-Young homes with dated plumbing).

2. Gather Inspiration & Local Trends

• Tour Model Homes & Showrooms

  • Visit East Memphis and Germantown bath showrooms to see finish combinations in person.

  • Browse completed projects in Neighborhood Facebook groups (e.g., “Memphis Remodel & Design”).

• Curate a Pinterest/Photo Board

  • Look for local accents: herringbone tile patterns reminiscent of Cooper-Young murals, or natural stone textures that echo the Bluff City waterfront.

• Identify Neighborhood Styles

  • Midtown/Cooper-Young: Preserve historic charm—opt for subway tile or vintage-inspired clawfoot tubs.

  • Downtown Lofts: Sleek, industrial-chic finishes—matte black fixtures, concrete-look porcelain.

  • East Memphis/Germantown: Transitional designs—floating vanities in warm wood tones and waterfall quartz countertops.

3. Verify Permits & Codes

• Contact Memphis & Shelby County Permits Office

  • Confirm required permits for structural changes (moving walls, altering framing, relocating plumbing).

  • If you’re in Germantown or Bartlett (city‐specific jurisdiction), check local building codes for inspections and permit fees.

• Check Historic District Restrictions

  • If your home is in a designated historic zone (e.g., Victorian Village or Chickasaw Gardens), verify any limitations on altering window sizes, trim details, or exterior venting.

4. Hire Qualified, Local Professionals

• Research Licensed Contractors

  • Look for recent bathroom projects in Memphis neighborhoods—ask for references from past Collierville or Cordova clients if you live in those areas.

  • Verify Tennessee state licensing and insurance; confirm proof of liability coverage and workers’ comp.

• Get Multiple Bids

  • Compare three estimates: itemized labor, materials, timeline, and cleanup responsibilities.

• Check Reviews & Portfolios

  • Seek out contractors with Instagram galleries or Houzz portfolios showcasing completed jobs in Germantown, East Memphis, or Midtown.

5. Plan Layout & Plumbing

• Evaluate Existing Plumbing Lines

  • In older Midtown/Cooper-Young homes, piping may be galvanized or cast iron—budget for potential rerouting to meet modern codes.

  • In newer Germantown or Cordova builds, verify if plumbing stub‐outs meet current fixture configurations (double vanities, smart toilets).

• Optimize Footprint

  • Consider a curbless, barrier-free shower (popular Downtown) to make the space feel larger.

  • If a soaking tub isn’t feasible, factor in weight capacity and floor reinforcement—especially in multi-story East Memphis homes.

• Locate Drain & Vent Stacks

  • Confirm placement to avoid costly relocations.

  • Plan for a built‐in niche or recessed shelving in the shower wall while framing is open.

6. Select Materials & Fixtures

• Tile & Flooring

  • Flooring: Waterproof porcelain planks (wood-look) or heated floor-ready tile—ideal for chilly Germantown mornings.

  • Shower Walls: Large-format tile (12×24”) reduces grout lines—choose neutral tones that won’t date quickly.

  • Accent Tiles: Herringbone or hexagon patterns for a Cooper-Young gallery feel; contrasting grout in black or charcoal for drama.

• Vanity & Countertops

  • Floating Vanities: Embrace open sightlines—simple in Downtown condos; choose reclaimed oak in Midtown for character.

  • Countertops: Quartz or granite in light hues (e.g., Calacatta-look) that coordinate with Memphis’s warm undertones.

• Plumbing Fixtures

  • Faucets & Showerheads: Brushed nickel or matte black finishes remain timeless—consider a rain showerhead with a handheld wand.

  • Toilets: Dual-flush, wall-hung models save space and conserve water—appealing to eco-conscious Cordova homeowners.

• Lighting & Ventilation

  • Lighting: Layered approach—vanity sconces flanking a backlit mirror, overhead recessed lights, and dimmers for ambiance.

  • Ventilation: Install a high-capacity exhaust fan; in humid months (May-October), Memphis’s moisture levels spike—proper venting prevents mold.

7. Incorporate Luxury & Tech Upgrades

• Heated Floors & Towel Warmers

  • Radiant heat under tile ensures warm steps in winter—popular in Germantown’s upscale neighborhoods.

  • Wall-mounted towel racks with programmable timers keep linens cozy year-round.

• Smart Features

  • Backlit, Defogging Mirror: Ideal for busy Memphis mornings; adds a modern touch to powder rooms.

  • Touchless Faucets & Motion Sensors: Improves hygiene and reduces water waste—especially useful in homes with young families in Bartlett or Arlington.

  • Digital Shower Controls: Pre-set water temperature and flow; perfect for quick weekday routines before heading to work in East Memphis.

8. Finalize Design & Order Materials

• Confirm Color Palette & Finishes

  • Select paint and tile samples—view swatches under both natural daylight (important in Memphis’s bright summers) and artificial light.

  • Ensure grout and caulk samples match tile colors to avoid mismatches.

• Order Long-Lead Items Early

  • Custom vanities, quartz slabs, and specialty fixtures can take 4–6 weeks to arrive—factor these timelines into your project schedule.

• Create a Detailed Schedule

  • Include demo, rough plumbing, electrical, inspection, drywall, tile installation, fixtures, painting, and final punch list.

  • Build in extra time for permit inspections (Memphis permitting offices may take up to 10 business days for approvals).

9. Oversee Installation & Quality Checks

• Demo & Prep

  • Confirm walls, floors, and plumbing rough-ins meet plan dimensions before tile work begins.

  • Test drain slopes and waterproofing membranes in curb-less showers.

• Tile & Flooring Installation

  • Ensure tile spacers are consistent; verify grout lines are even and level.

  • Check tile cuts around niches and corners for a clean, professional look.

• Fixture & Vanity Mounting

  • Confirm vanities are perfectly level and securely anchored—test drawer and door alignment.

  • Verify plumbing connections (no leaks) and proper operation of faucets and showerheads.

• Lighting & Electrical

  • Test all lights, outlets, GFCI protection, and vent fan operation.

  • Ensure dimmers and motion sensors function as planned.

10. Final Inspections & Walkthrough

• Schedule Building Inspections

  • Coordinate with the Memphis & Shelby County inspection office for final sign-offs on plumbing, electrical, and framing.

• Conduct a Detailed Punch List

  • Check caulk lines around tubs, showers, and vanities—ensure no gaps or uneven beads.

  • Test all hardware (door handles, drawer pulls, towel bars) for tightness.

  • Confirm grout is fully cured and sealed (if applicable) before exposing to water.

• Clean & Prep for Use

  • Wipe down all surfaces with manufacturer-approved cleaners to remove haze from grout and tile work.

  • Remove protective film from fixtures and polish metals to a high shine.

11. Post-Remodel Maintenance Tips

• Seal Grout Annually

  • Memphis’s humidity can accelerate grout wear—apply a penetrating sealer every 12 months.

• Service Exhaust Fan

  • Clean fan blades and grille quarterly to prevent dust buildup and maintain airflow.

• Inspect Caulk Lines

  • Check for cracks or mildew around tub/shower perimeters every 6 months; re-caulk as needed.

• Monitor Humidity Levels

  • Use a small hygrometer to keep bathroom RH below 60%—run exhaust fan during and after showers to control moisture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re updating a cozy Cooper-Young cottage, transforming a Germantown family hub, or outfitting a sleek Downtown condo, this Memphis bathroom remodeling checklist will keep your project on track. By blending local design trends, climate considerations, and neighborhood-specific insights, you’ll create a functional, stylish space that appeals to Memphis’s discerning buyers—while enjoying the daily luxuries of a thoughtfully designed home.

Ready to turn your vision into reality? Contact A Final Touch for a free consultation and let our Shelby County experts guide every step of your remodel.