When you’re planning a bathroom renovation, choosing the right materials and knowing where to start can make the process smoother, faster, and more cost-effective. NYC bathrooms are small, highly used, and governed by strict building rules, so having a clear bathroom remodel checklist helps you avoid delays and expensive mistakes.
Below is a simple, NYC-specific guide to help you understand what to do first, which bathroom remodel materials you should consider, and the bathroom essentials you’ll need to select along the way.
1. Renovating a Bathroom—What To Do First in NYC
Many homeowners ask, “Renovating a bathroom—what to do first?”
The answer is always the same: understand the structure and rules of your building.
Your first steps should include:
- Reviewing building or board requirements
- Confirming plumbing, waterproofing, and noise guidelines
- Checking if permits are required
- Identifying any limitations (weight restrictions, work hours, etc.)
If your bathroom is inside a co-op or condo, Klein’s guide to NYC apartment renovation requirements can help you understand what’s allowed.
This step is the foundation of every successful remodel.
2. Create a Clear Material Plan Before Buying Anything
Once you know the rules, it’s time to select your bathroom remodel materials.
This part heavily affects durability, maintenance, and budget.
Your key material categories include:
- Tile (porcelain, ceramic, natural stone)
- Waterproofing materials (membrane, cement board)
- Vanity materials (plywood base, solid wood, MDF)
- Countertops (quartz, marble, solid surface)
- Bathroom essentials such as faucets, fixtures, and hardware
If you need help choosing shower enclosures to match your materials, Klein has a guide on shower door types.
3. Tile Selection: The Heart of Your Bathroom Remodel
Tile is one of the most important bathroom remodel materials, especially in NYC, where moisture and heavy use are everyday realities.
Best tile options:
- Porcelain tile: ideal for floors and walls, durable and low-maintenance
- Ceramic tile: budget-friendly and lightweight
- Natural stone: elegant but requires sealing and more care
- Large-format tiles: fewer grout lines, perfect for small NYC bathrooms
Choosing the right tile early helps your contractor plan layout, grout lines, and waterproofing needs.
4. Choose Waterproofing Materials Before Aesthetic Finishes
Before thinking about colors or hardware, your bathroom remodel checklist must include the right waterproofing system.
This is the hidden layer that protects your home—and your downstairs neighbors.
Essential waterproofing materials:
- Cement board
- Waterproof membrane (Schluter, Laticrete, RedGard)
- Shower pan system
- High-quality grout and thinset
Skipping these steps is never an option in NYC renovations.
5. Pick Your Vanity, Countertop, and Storage Essentials
When planning a bathroom renovation, consider how your materials perform over time.
Vanity materials:
- Plywood construction: strongest and most moisture-resistant
- Solid wood: premium look, requires sealing
- MDF: cost-effective but not ideal for long-term humidity
Countertops:
- Quartz – best for durability and easy maintenance
- Marble – beautiful and classic
- Solid surface – seamless and modern
For additional finishing touches, consider Klein’s guide to bathroom ceiling options as part of your essentials list.
6. Bathroom Remodel Checklist for Fixtures and Finishing Touches
Your finishes tie the entire space together.
Common choices include:
- Brushed nickel
- Chrome
- Matte black
- Brushed brass
Sticking to one finish creates cohesion and symmetry, especially in a small NYC bathroom.
7. Don’t Forget Ventilation and Lighting
Two bathroom essentials often overlooked during planning:
- LED lighting that won’t overheat small spaces
- Proper exhaust fans to meet NYC moisture and air circulation standards
Good lighting and ventilation protect the materials you just invested in.
8. Final Bathroom Remodel Checklist Before Construction Starts
When starting demolition, confirm you have:
✔ Building approvals
✔ Permit requirements (if needed)
✔ Tile selections
✔ Waterproofing system
✔ Vanity + countertop materials
✔ Fixtures and hardware
✔ Exhaust fan + lighting plan
✔ Shower door choice
✔ Storage solutions
✔ Ceiling and wall material choices
This checklist ensures that every part of your project has been planned realistically from the start.
Ready to Start Planning Your Bathroom Renovation?
A thoughtful bathroom remodel checklist makes the process smoother and helps you choose the right materials from day one. If you’re beginning planning a bathroom renovation and want expert guidance with design, materials, or construction, the Klein team is here to help make the entire process seamless.
Start your renovation here: Contact Klein
Explore Klein’s renovation services: Klein Kitchen & Bath
