A bathroom remodel is one of the most rewarding projects you can do, and one of the easiest to get wrong. The biggest decision most Syracuse homeowners face is whether to invest in a custom tile bathroom or go with a faster acrylic liner system.
Syracuse Construction builds custom bathroom remodels from the studs out. Here's an honest look at both options and how to plan a bathroom that lasts.
- Custom tile vs. acrylic liner at a glance
- Why waterproofing matters most
- Popular bathroom remodel ideas
- What affects bathroom remodel cost
- Choosing a bathroom remodeling contractor
- Frequently asked questions
Custom Tile vs. Acrylic Liner at a Glance
| Custom Tile Remodel | Acrylic Liner / Surround | |
|---|---|---|
| Design options | Virtually unlimited tile, layouts, niches and benches | Limited styles and colors |
| What's behind the walls | Old materials removed, problems found and fixed | Often installed over existing surfaces |
| Layout changes | Move fixtures, enlarge showers, convert tubs | Usually keeps the existing layout |
| Timeline | Longer | Faster |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Home value | Adds lasting value | Functional update |
Acrylic systems can be a reasonable quick update. But if you plan to stay in your home, want a specific look or suspect damage behind the walls, a custom remodel is usually the better long-term investment.
Why Waterproofing Matters Most
Tile and grout are not waterproof on their own. What keeps water out of your walls and floors is the waterproofing system installed behind and under the tile, along with proper slope to the drain. When we remodel a bathroom, we remove old materials, inspect for hidden water damage and build a properly waterproofed shower from the ground up.
Ask every contractor: "What waterproofing system do you use behind the tile?" A confident, specific answer is a good sign. A vague one is a red flag.
Popular Bathroom Remodel Ideas
- Walk-in showers with frameless or framed glass
- Tub-to-shower conversions for easier access
- Built-in niches and benches for storage and comfort
- Freestanding soaking tubs as a focal point
- Double vanities for shared primary bathrooms
- Patterned tile floors such as hexagon or encaustic-look tile
- Better lighting and ventilation to keep the room bright and dry
What Affects Bathroom Remodel Cost
- Size and layout changes: moving the toilet, shower or vanity means moving plumbing.
- Hidden conditions: rot, mold or outdated plumbing found during demolition.
- Tile choice and complexity: large-format, mosaic and patterned tile take more labor.
- Glass, fixtures and vanity: custom glass and premium fixtures add up.
- Electrical and ventilation: new lighting, heated floors and proper exhaust fans.
Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor in Syracuse
- Do they remove old materials and inspect for damage, or cover over them?
- What waterproofing system do they use?
- Do they handle plumbing, electrical and permits?
- Can you see photos of their completed bathrooms?
- Are they fully insured?
See more on our bathroom remodeling page and in our interior portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a custom bathroom remodel take?
Timelines depend on the size of the bathroom, layout changes and the materials you choose. A custom tile remodel takes longer than a liner installation because each layer, from waterproofing to tile and grout, is built properly. We give you a clear schedule up front.
Is a custom tile shower worth it?
For most homeowners who plan to stay in their home, yes. Custom tile offers unlimited design options, adds value and lasts for decades when it's installed over proper waterproofing.
Can you convert my tub into a walk-in shower?
Yes. Tub-to-shower conversions are one of the most popular bathroom projects, especially for accessibility. Plumbing, drain location and waterproofing are planned carefully during the conversion.
What is the most important part of a tile shower?
Waterproofing. The tile you see is not what keeps water out of your walls. A properly installed waterproofing system behind and under the tile is what makes a shower last.
Do you handle plumbing and electrical in bathroom remodels?
Yes. We coordinate all trades, including plumbing, electrical, ventilation, tile and finish carpentry, as part of the remodel.
Related Services
Plan Your Bathroom Remodel
From walk-in showers to complete primary baths, we build custom bathrooms across Syracuse and Central New York.
Request a Free ConsultationOr call 315-751-0540
