Master Bathroom Remodel in San Diego – The Complete 4-Step Process by Cal Renovation

A master bathroom remodel in San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Point Loma, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Escondido requires clear planning, permit compliance, and a strict construction protocol. At Cal Renovation, we follow a detailed four-step process to ensure your bathroom is built correctly, safely, and beautifully—with zero shortcuts and long-term protection for your home.

If your home has high value or is located in a luxury or coastal neighborhood, following the correct permit and inspection procedure is essential to prevent future issues, moisture damage, or code violations.

Below is the exact system we use for every master bathroom remodel.

Step 1 — Pre-Construction Inspection, Design Plan & Permit Approval

Before any demolition or construction begins, Cal Renovation completes a full planning and approval phase.

1.1 Design Plan & Framing Conditions

We evaluate:

• Existing wall and framing conditions

• Floor integrity

• Moisture or termite damage

• Previous plumbing or electrical issues

This provides a clean foundation and a clear design plan that guides the entire remodel.

1.2 Plumbing, Electrical & Mechanical Layouts

We confirm:

• Waterline locations (hot/cold)

• Drain and venting systems

• Electrical circuits, lighting layout, GFCI requirements

• Bathroom fan placement and mechanical needs

• Shower valve and fixture elevations

1.3 Permit Submittal

Before demolition, Cal Renovation:

• Prepares the full design plan

• Creates the plumbing/electrical/mechanical layout documents

• Submits the permit package to the appropriate city (San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, etc.)

• Coordinates responses and revisions with the plan checker

1.4 Permit Approval & Inspection Card Issuance

Once the city approves the plans:

• We receive the permit

• We receive the official inspection card that outlines the required city inspections

Only after we have the approved permit and inspection card do we begin demolition.

This ensures that all work is legal, documented, and protected under California regulations.

Step 2 — Demolition, Rough-In, and Required City Inspections

After receiving the permit and inspection card, demolition can safely begin.

2.1 Selective Demolition

We remove:

• Existing tile and flooring

• Shower/tub

• Vanities

• Old cement board or drywall

• Outdated plumbing or electrical lines

2.2 Rough Plumbing Installation

We install:

• New copper or PEX waterlines

• New ABS drain lines

• New venting

• Shower valve and pressure balance system

• Proper toilet flange height

2.3 Rough Electrical Installation

We install:

• New recessed LED lighting

• Vanity lights

• GFCI outlets

• Wiring for bathroom fan

• Optional heated floor circuit

2.4 Rough Mechanical

We ensure:

• Correct exhaust fan CFM rating

• Proper ducting according to city code

• Any required HVAC adjustments

2.5 Rough Inspection

The city inspects:

• Plumbing pressure test

• Electrical wiring

• Ventilation layout

• Framing corrections

• Fire blocking

• Nailing patterns

Approval is required before waterproofing begins.

Step 3 — Framing Adjustments, Cement Board & Waterproofing

3.1 Framing Adjustments

We correct or enhance:

• Shower walls

• Niche framing

• Pocket doors

• Subfloor leveling

3.2 Cement Board Installation

Our team installs:

• 1/2” cement board

• Proper screw pattern

• Waterproof fiber tape

• Perfectly aligned surfaces for tile

• Premium waterproofing systems like Schluter or RedGard

Ensure all cement board work meets or exceeds manufacturer and city requirements.

3.3 Waterproofing Application

We install:

• Hot mop (California standard)

  

  
  

3.4 Waterproofing Inspection

The city performs:

• Pan test (24-hour water test)

• Wall waterproofing review

• Drain integration check

Tile work begins only after full approval.

Step 4 — Tile Installation, Grout & Final Finishes

4.1 Tile Installation

We install:

• Shower tile

• Floor tile

• Niche tile

• Benches

• Feature walls

4.2 Grout & Caulking

We use:

• High-performance grout

• Mold-resistant silicone

• Color-matched sealants

4.3 Final Fixtures & Finishes

We install:

• Vanity and countertop

• Faucets and drains

• Shower system

• Toilet

• Glass enclosure

• Mirrors and lighting

4.4 Final Inspection & Quality Control

Before closing the project, we complete:

• Water pressure and drain tests

• Tile alignment and surface review

• Electrical/lighting verification

• Final city inspection (if required)

Your new master bathroom is completed with precision, luxury finishes, and long-lasting structural protection.

Why San Diego Homeowners Trust Cal Renovation

Serving La Jolla, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Point Loma, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Escondido, and the greater San Diego area, Cal Renovation offers:

• Full design-build services

• Accurate planning and permit management

• Strict waterproofing and tile protocols

• High-quality craftsmanship

• 60+ years of family construction experience

If you’re interested in renovating your master bathroom and want a free estimate, click below.

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