Remodeling Job Stories | Alabaster, AL Bathroom Remodel
I. Project Overview
Mr. William Kappen contacted Reliable for a bathroom remodel, and chose some of the most stunning materials that we’ve seen for a bath remodel!
For this project, Reliable built completed structural repairs and rough-ins, as well as the installation of tile and lighting fixtures, carpentry adjustments, and plumbing fixture installation!
II. Project Timeline
The Kappen project ran from March to April of 2024. Constant communication and oversight through our project software, Buildertrend, allows all of our clients to be completely aware of all aspects of design and construction from start to finish!
This chart tracks the progress of the entire project in our online project management portal Buildertrend, detailing how
the project moved from initial design and site preparation through demolition, structural and plumbing work, finish installations including tile, lighting, and fixtures, and concluded with final cleanup and post-construction quality assurance.
Take a closer look at the pictures of Mr. Kappen’s expert bathroom remodeling project for his Alabaster, AL home, with this before and after gallery!
III. Design-Build-Remodel
The process began with a site visit and preparation stage in early December, when measurements were taken and drawings for the new hall bathroom were developed. This initial step allowed the design team to align expectations with Mr. Kappen, confirm layout decisions, and prepare materials and scheduling before any physical work started on-site.
Following the planning phase, the project transitioned into pre-construction readiness, including small but important setup tasks such as installing access equipment and coordinating logistics. These early preparations ensured tradespeople could work efficiently and safely once construction officially began. Taking time to organize access, materials, and sequencing helped prevent delays later in the remodel.
The project truly began in early March with the delivery of the dumpster, so that we could begin the first piece of any of our projects: demolition! We had prepared the space for rebuilding, so shortly thereafter major fixtures, such as the brand new bathtub, were delivered! We could then being installation work without waiting on the primary materials! Coordinating delivery and installation like this ensures that a remodeling project moves smoothly!
One the space had opened up after demolition, it was time to go about adjusting and beginning the rough-ins! Drywall repairs and wet-wall reframing were completed to support updated plumbing layouts and ensure the structure was sound, and the plumbing rough-ins were completed for both the sink wall and tub area, placing supply lines and drainage systems behind the walls before finishes were applied. Final touch ups to the walls were completed shortly afterwards.
Mr. Kappen also chose an Archer® 60″ x 30″ alcove tub for the new shower! The neat thing about this kind of tub is that the drain is not located in the middle, but either the left or right!
With infrastructure completed, the remodel advanced into the finish construction phase, where the bathroom began to visually take shape. The tub platform was prepared and tiled, followed by installation of floor tile over several days to ensure proper curing and alignment. Interior carpentry adjustments, including cutting and rehanging the door, refined the layout, while electrical work such as wall sconce installation added both functionality and ambiance to the space.
The Kappen family chose an exquisite Soho Black + White Breach polished porcelain tile for their shower, which contrasts beautifully with the floor tile selection you will see down below!
The project then entered final installation and trim-out, which is often one of the most rewarding stages for homeowners. Plumbing fixtures were connected and tested during trim-out, transforming the previously hidden systems into usable features. Accessories, cabinetry, and grab bars were installed, completing both the design aesthetic and accessibility improvements. These finishing touches represent the transition from construction site to fully functional living space!
The floor tiles are Regallo Marquina Noir porcelain tiles from MSI; both the floor and shower tiles were purchased from Issis and Sons, a local vendor we’ve trusted for decades!
As the project closed out, we checked our punch lists and made sure quality assurance steps were completed. The dumpster was removed, signaling the real end of the project. A final service visit to rectify a minor tub issue was the absolute last thing we had to do, just as a follow-up to ensure everything was installed correctly!
An Elliston White Vitreous sink from Kohler, a Rancho 1-Handle Tub & Shower Trim with Valve, and a Maxstow Soft Close Medicine Cabinet rounded out the selections for this project!
The project went off without a hitch, thanks to the well-sequenced Design-Build process that moves logically from planning, preparation, demolition, structural work, mechanical installation, finishes, and final inspection. By organizing tasks in this order, the remodel maintained efficiency while allowing each trade to complete its work at the right time, ultimately delivering a coordinated, high-quality hall bathroom renovation experience.
IV. Conclusion of the Kappen Project
Mr. and Mrs. Kappen’s project was a testament to the Design-Build process, and how efficiency and transparency beat out anything a low-bid contractor could ever hope to put out!
The Kappen family left us a five-star review!
“Enjoyed working with James and the team at Reliable on our recent bathroom renovation. They were easy to work with and we would recommend!”
We’re always so excited to work with clients that embrace the Design-Build process, because it tells us that what we’re doing not only makes every remodeling project a completely successful one, but that what we’re doing actually makes a difference in the industry, and more importantly that we’re making a difference in people’s lives.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a licensed general contractor that provides a wide variety of exterior remodeling services to customers throughout Birmingham, AL and the surrounding areas. Our staff members are proud to be members of this great community and provide services to the following locations:
Our Services
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel isn’t good at just one type of home remodel. We’re adept at many different home improvement services. This means that you won’t have to hire multiple contractors to work on your place if you choose to do more than one update at a time. Our team of experienced professionals can handle more than just a Hoover, AL bathroom renovation! Our services include the following:
