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[ScrapHappy]

I've had 4 bathroom remodels in 9 years at the same house.  The first three were down to the studs (3 new tubs, one free standing)..  The last one (my favorite) new tile, new vanity, put in glass shower doors, new tile in sower and floor and new faucets, etc.  The most important thing to do is do your research...on everything.  Mostly importantly on the contractor, what materials you want (tile, vanities, faucets, etc) and where you buy them from.  For a contractor, I believe the best way to find someone is by word of mouth from someone you know.  You can see their work, ask that person you know questions and if they were happy with the process and finished outcome.  Something I do because someone somewhere in my neighborhood is having some work done, I look at their truck and if there is a name and number, I write it down.  In my neighborhood there's always something....new driveways, roofs, painting, HVAC, gutters....you name it.  Whatever material you go with (tile whether it's ceramic or marble)...buy EXTRA.  Sooner or later it gets discontinued.  Have all materials on site BEFORE work begins.  It's there and ready to go, no excuses.  I went out and picked out my own stuff and many of those places offer free delivery.  If you ask the contractor to pick it up for you, he/she will charge you (usually).  Get a lot of estimates, ask a lot of questions, trust your gut.  The lowest quote isn't always the best one.  It's a process and you learn as you go. 

[maisiebrook]

Thank you, everyone. You have given me a lot of information to at least start a discussion with a close friend who is a very experienced contractor.   I also have a friend who is a very experienced decorator with a good eye. We have a jacuzzi tub, the shower is a separate stand alone walk in.  I will likely start the research after the holidays.  

[maisiebrook]

Chances are we would need to replace the counter top with 2 sinks, the mirror and the over the sink lighting.  So, yes, the shower is only one piece of the puzzle.  The room os not small.

[Biftu]

I am ready for a bathroom remodel and while this discussion was helpful, I don't know where to begin.  I've asked around but no one knew anyone.  It's a small bathroom with a jet tub that you have to step up 25" on two steps before you step in the tub.  Dangerous for sure.

i would like to replace it with a walk in shower, have the tiled (what a pain to clean) counter tops, replace the too large mirrors along the walls, and replace the tiled flooring.  

Where do I begin finding a reputable contractor to get estimates?  It is a lot.

[gaga]

Our home was only 6yrs old when the tiled shower began leaking because of shabby workmanship.  The contractor refused to correct the problem so we called BathFitters & they arrived at 9am & were done by 3pm.  It is now 7 yrs later & it looks the same as the day they installed it.  We had a small problem a few yrs ago but they came & fixed it & its been fine.   

[sandy53]

We recently got a shower remodel and went with the company that has the Jacuzzi Bath franchise in our area.  We are very pleased with the end product.  It was a down-to-the-stubs process.  We chose panels that are not shiny and went with a curtain instead of a glass door.  It took two days to complete.  The price was more than we anticipated it would be, but it was needed and we like the result.