Hindsight from 20+ Years in Bathrooms

I’ve remodeled my own bathrooms twice. The first time as a young contractor who thought he knew everything. The second time a bit smarter.

If I were doing it again today in our 1920s South Philly row house, here’s what I’d do differently.

A bathroom built right once is a bathroom you forget about. That’s the point. This time I’d get much closer to that ideal.

1. Bigger Investment in Prep Work

I used to cut corners on subfloor and structural fixes to save money. Never again.

Today I’d:

• Fully sister any questionable joists

• Install 3/4" plywood over the entire floor

• Spend whatever it takes to eliminate flex

The peace of mind is worth every dollar.

2. Schluter Kerdi Everywhere

No more debating systems. Full Kerdi shower system with pre-sloped tray. It’s faster, more reliable, and gives me confidence behind the walls.

3. Better Lighting Planning

I’d install multiple layers of lighting:

• Bright overhead

• Task lighting at the vanity

• Soft ambient lighting

• Night light feature on the fan

Good lighting makes everything look better and the space more functional.

4. Smarter Fixture Choices

• American Standard or Toto toilet (leaning Toto for master)

• Quality mid-range Delta or Moen faucet ($380 range)

• Excellent vent fan (Panasonic Whisper)

• Thermostatic shower valve

5. Tile Strategy

I’d go with larger format porcelain tile (12x24 or bigger) to minimize grout lines. Quality epoxy grout in the shower. Save money on the field tile and spend on nice trim pieces and schluter profiles.

Budget Reality Check (2026 Prices)

For a full master bath gut in an old Philly row house I’d budget $19,000 – $24,000 all-in for quality work that lasts.

That includes:

• Proper prep and structural fixes

• Quality waterproofing

• Good fixtures

• Professional installation where needed

• 15% contingency

What I Wouldn’t Waste Money On

• Crazy expensive tile just for the name

• Heated floors (nice but not essential in Philly)

• Over-the-top smart mirrors

• Gold fixtures that show every fingerprint

Final Thoughts

The biggest change in my approach isn’t about specific products. It’s about patience with the prep work and willingness to spend money on the hidden systems that protect the investment.

If you’re planning your own reno, take the time to do it right the first time. You’ll thank yourself every morning for the next 20 years.

What would you do differently in your next bathroom project? Or what are you struggling with in your current planning? Let me know below.