How to Redo a Basement Bathroom

Measure the length of each wall in the basement bathroom to determine how much space you have to install fixtures. Use the measurement that you take of the space around the shower or bathtub in the bathroom to determine how much bigger of a shower or bathtub fixture can fit into the space, if you would like a larger shower or tub. Measure the space around the current sink or the incoming plumbing for the sink to determine how large of a sink fixture fits into the space.

Uninstall the old bathtub or shower fixtures, if you would like to replace them, by breaking through the caulking that secures the edges of the fixture. Use a utility knife. Then, unclasp the clips or unscrew the screws that hold the shower or bathtub coverings or fixtures in place. Remove sink pedestals, cabinets and toilets in the same manner.

Cut through the paint at the top and bottom of the baseboards with a utility knife. Slide a putty knife down behind each baseboard as far as possible, tapping the putty knife with a hammer if necessary to force it behind the trim and pry the trim from the wall.

Replace floor coverings in a basement bathroom once major fixtures have been removed from the floor. Peel up vinyl or linoleum coverings or break through tile floors with a chisel and hammer, and remove any adhesive left on the floor with a paint scraper and then sandpaper. Put down new flooring according to the directions provided by the manufacturer.

Install the largest pieces in a basement bathroom once the flooring has been replaced, especially if the basement bathroom has limited space. Start by installing the new bathtub or shower fixture with the clasps or screws recommended and then line the edges of the fixtures with caulk. Install sink pedestals, cabinets and toilets to the floor with bolts or screws.

Replace wall cabinetry with cabinets that match the new shower and sink fixtures in style or color. Choose cabinetry that has hangers on the back in the same locations as the current cabinetry, which prevents the need to put new holes into the bathroom walls.

Save money and work by redoing your bathroom with accessories alone. Cover walls with new wallpaper, put down new bathroom rugs, switch out towel racks with racks of new colors or materials, and change out accessories, such as shower curtains, soap dishes, toothbrush holes and faucets.