What should a homeowner actually look for behind the tile in an Austin bathroom remodel?

Beautiful tile doesn’t tell you much about how a shower was built.
If you’re remodeling a bathroom in Austin, what should you actually be asking your contractor about before the tile goes in?
For example:
🚿 Shower pan
💧 Waterproofing membrane
🧱 Wall substrate
📐 Proper slope to the drain
🔩 Niches and penetrations
🚰 Plumbing connections
🧪 Water testing
I’ve seen homeowners spend a lot of money on expensive tile, marble and glass while paying very little attention to what’s underneath.
Would you ask to see photos of the waterproofing before the tile is installed?
And has anyone here had a shower leak after a remodel?

reddit.com
u/THAconstruction512 — 12 days ago

Why can two Austin remodeling contractors give you completely different quotes?

Something I see homeowners struggle with constantly:
Contractor A: $80k
Contractor B: $115k
Contractor C: $165k
Same bathroom.
So what are you actually comparing?
A remodeling estimate can differ because of:
• Scope of demolition
• Waterproofing system
• Plumbing changes
• Electrical work
• Tile installation method
• Cabinet quality
• Countertop material
• Glass enclosure
• Paint and drywall
• Permits
• Project management
• Subcontractor pricing
• Warranty
• Allowances vs actual material selections
The cheapest estimate isn’t necessarily the cheapest project if important work isn’t included.
For anyone who has remodeled in Austin: what was the biggest difference you found between your quotes?

reddit.com
u/THAconstruction512 — 14 days ago

Warm, simple, and timeless — South Austin shower remodel

We recently finished this shower remodel in South Austin, and one of our favorite details was using the same tile on the shower walls and bathroom floor.
It gives the space a warm, continuous look without making the bathroom feel too busy.
A few details we used:
• Warm-toned tile throughout the shower and floor
• Bronze shower fixtures for contrast
• Natural oak frameless cabinetry
• Frameless glass shower door
• Clean, minimal lines with a warm modern feel
Waterproofing - Schluter system.
For Austin homeowners planning a bathroom or shower remodel, sometimes keeping the material palette simple makes the biggest difference.
Would you use the same tile on the walls and floor, or would you mix two different tiles?
📍 South Austin, Texas
#SouthAustin #SouthAustinTX #AustinBathroomRemodel #BathroomRemodelAustin #AustinRemodel #ShowerRemodel #AustinTX #BathroomDesign #ShowerDesign #BathroomRenovation
Bathroom remodel done by
THA Construction & Remodeling

u/THAconstruction512 — 18 days ago

Pistachio microcement shower remodel in Austin, TX — would you choose this look?

We recently completed this custom bathroom remodel in Austin, Texas, centered around a warm, spa-inspired pistachio microcement walk-in shower.
The goal was to create a high-end bathroom that feels luxurious and custom without becoming overly busy.
Some of the details from this Austin bathroom remodel:
• Pistachio microcement finish throughout the shower walls and vanity wall
• Frameless glass shower enclosure with double shower hooks for towels! What do you think about this set up?
• Quartzite shower bench and curb
• Large-format tile flooring throughout the bathroom in travertine
• Matching tile baseboards for a clean, built-in look
• Custom shower niche with quartzite shelves
• Bronze shower + handheld shower system
• Custom vanity cabinetry
• Two spacious vanity pantries for additional storage
• Floating vanity section in the center
• LED lighting underneath the floating vanity for cozy evenings
• Quartzite vanity countertop
• light wall sconces
• Custom connection between the bathroom and walk-in closet. Also added a custom closet system
One of our favorite details is the combination of the pistachio microcement walls with the natural movement of the quartzite. The microcement keeps the shower visually clean while the quartzite adds texture and character.
The custom cabinetry was designed around both appearance and storage, with two large pantry-style cabinets flanking the floating vanity. The LED lighting underneath the vanity gives the room a subtle glow at night.
For homeowners researching a bathroom remodel in Austin, we think details like waterproofing, substrate preparation, shower drainage, microcement installation and tile installation deserve just as much attention as the finished design.

📍 Austin, Texas

Would you choose pistachio microcement for your shower, or would you stick with traditional tile?
And if you were designing this bathroom, would you choose quartzite + brass or go with a completely different material combination?

This project was completed by THA Construction & Remodeling, an Austin remodeling contractor specializing in Austin bathroom remodeling, custom walk-in showers, microcement bathrooms, custom tile installation, kitchen remodeling and whole-home renovations.

I see a lot of people getting downvoted because of our competitors..

#AustinBathroomRemodel #BathroomRemodelAustin
#AustinTX #AustinRemodeling #AustinHomeRemodel #MicrocementShower #PistachioMicrocement #WalkInShower #ShowerRemodel #LuxuryBathroom #CustomBathroom #Quartzite #CustomCabinetry #THAConstruction

u/THAconstruction512 — 21 days ago

Moody microcement powder room in South Austin

We wanted this space to feel intimate, warm, and a little dramatic instead of treating the powder room like an afterthought.
The walls and ceiling are finished in a deep blue microcement, paired with dark walnut cabinetry, a quartzite countertop, bronze fixtures, and warm travertine-look flooring. The natural texture of the microcement keeps the dark color from feeling flat, while the wood and warm lighting soften everything up.
Small room, but definitely not a boring one. 😎
Would you go with microcement or wall paneling for a powder room like this? 👇
Should we decorate with vintage and paintings or keep it simple?
#Austin #AustinRemodel #AustinBathroom #BathroomRemodel #PowderRoom #Microcement #MicrocementBathroom #SouthAustin #THAConstruction&Remodeling

u/THAconstruction512 — 24 days ago

Is $50k enough for a kitchen remodel in Austin in 2026?

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Austin right now, is $50,000 actually enough?
There seems to be a huge range in what people are being quoted. Some homeowners say they remodeled for around $30–40k, while others are seeing $75k, $100k+ or significantly more.
But the scope seems to make all the difference.
For example, a $50k budget might look very different depending on whether you’re doing:
Cabinet refacing vs. completely new cabinets
Stock/semi-custom vs. custom cabinetry
Quartz vs. quartzite or natural stone
Keeping the existing kitchen layout vs. moving plumbing
Keeping existing appliances vs. buying new
Standard backsplash vs. full-height stone backsplash
Standard lighting vs. completely new electrical/lighting
Flooring included vs. kitchen-only
Painting included vs. separate
Permit/structural work vs. cosmetic renovation
And then there are the things homeowners don’t always think about when setting the initial budget—demolition, electrical upgrades, plumbing, drywall repair, cabinet installation, countertop fabrication, backsplash installation, trim, painting and all the little finish details that add up.
For those who have remodeled a kitchen in Austin recently:
What was your total budget?
What did you actually end up spending?
And what would you do differently if you had to do it again?
Bonus points if you share the approximate kitchen size and whether you changed the layout.
Let’s see what $50k actually buys in Austin in 2026.

reddit.com
u/THAconstruction512 — 26 days ago

Why are Austin bathroom remodel quotes so different?

If you’ve gotten multiple quotes for a bathroom remodel in Austin, you’ve probably noticed something strange:
One contractor says $25k, another says $40k, and another comes in at $70k+ for what sounds like the same bathroom.
So what actually causes such a big difference?
A few things that can dramatically change the price:
🚿 Shower scope
A basic tub/shower replacement is very different from a full custom walk-in shower with a new pan, niches, bench, linear drain, large-format tile and frameless glass.
💧 Waterproofing
What is actually behind the tile? A surface-applied waterproofing system, cement board with a membrane, foam board, or something else? This work isn’t very visible once the bathroom is finished, but it can make a huge difference in both cost and long-term performance.
🔧 Plumbing
Keeping everything in the same location is one thing. Moving a toilet, shower drain, tub or vanity can add significant labor and potentially require more extensive work.
🧱 Tile
Tile material is only part of the cost. The size and shape of the tile, number of cuts, patterns, niches, mitered edges, layout and wall conditions can all affect installation labor.
🪵 Cabinets & countertops
A stock vanity and prefabricated top aren’t comparable to custom cabinetry with a natural stone or quartzite countertop.
🪟 Glass
A framed shower door, semi-frameless enclosure and custom frameless glass enclosure can have very different prices.
💡 Electrical & ventilation
New lighting, heated floors, LED mirrors, exhaust fans, outlets and other electrical changes can add to the scope.
📋 Permits & inspections
Depending on the project and location, permitting and inspection requirements can affect both cost and schedule.
And probably the biggest issue:
Are all the quotes actually for the same scope?
A $30k quote and a $55k quote may not really be competing to do the same bathroom.
For Austin homeowners who have recently remodeled:
How many quotes did you get, what was the price range, and what was included?
It would be interesting to see some real-world Austin numbers rather than national remodeling averages.

reddit.com
u/THAconstruction512 — 26 days ago
▲ 230 r/kitchenremodelaustin+2 crossposts

Blue Cristallo Kitchen in Austin💙

Blue Cristallo Quartzite Island — Austin Kitchen Remodel
Sharing some photos from a recent kitchen remodel we completed here in Austin, TX.
This project involved a major layout change and a complete transformation of the kitchen. The homeowners wanted something that felt warm and timeless but still had a little personality, so we went with a combination of warm wood cabinetry and navy blue cabinetry.

A fun detail behind the design: the homeowner served on a submarine when he was young, so blue has always had a special meaning for him. That made the Blue Crystallo quartzite island an especially fitting choice for this kitchen.

The centerpiece is the Blue Crystallo quartzite island, complemented by Taj Mahal quartzite, polished nickel hardware, and a custom plastered range hood.
A few details from the finished project:
• Blue Crystallo quartzite island
• Taj Mahal quartzite countertops
• Warm wood + navy blue cabinetry
• Custom plastered range hood
• Polished nickel hardware
• Redesigned kitchen layout
• Custom kitchen renovation in Austin
I really like how the blue quartzite adds color without making the kitchen feel overly trendy.
For those in r/kitchenremodelaustin — would you choose a statement stone like Blue Crystallo for your island, or stick with something more subtle?
#AustinKitchenRemodel #KitchenRemodelAustin #AustinTX #AustinRemodeling #KitchenRenovation #AustinKitchen #QuartziteIsland #BlueCrystallo #TajMahalQuartzite #KitchenDesign #CustomKitchen

u/THAconstruction512 — 2 months ago
▲ 45 r/bathrooms+1 crossposts

Austin Bathroom Remodel: Leaking Tub → Walk-In Shower with Schluter Waterproofing + Taj Mahal Quartzite

We recently completed this bathroom remodel in Austin, TX, replacing an outdated and leaking tub/shower surround and old vanity with a completely new bathroom.
The biggest priority was making sure the new shower was properly waterproofed—not just making it look good.
What we changed:
Removed the old leaking bathtub and tub surround
Installed a new Schluter waterproofing system
Built a new walk-in shower with frameless glass
Installed large-format travertine-look porcelain tile on the shower walls and beautiful satin finish green tile
Used smaller tile on the shower floor for proper drainage and slip resistance
Taj Mahal quartzite for the shower curb and vanity countertop
New dark wood vanity and storage
New smart toilet
Brushed/brass-toned shower fixtures and hardware
Frameless glass shower enclosure
Updated lighting and bathroom finishes
One thing we always emphasize with bathroom remodeling is that the waterproofing behind the tile is just as important as the finished appearance. A beautiful shower doesn’t mean much if water is getting behind it.
For Austin homeowners: What would you change about this bathroom, and what would you prioritize first in your own remodel—waterproofing, layout, materials, or fixtures?
Location: Austin, Texas
Project: Bathroom Remodel / Walk-In Shower Conversion
Contractor: THA Construction & Remodeling

u/THAconstruction512 — 2 months ago
▲ 130 r/bathrooms+1 crossposts

Before & After Bathroom Remodel in West Lake Hills (Austin) – Microcement Shower, Saltillo Tile & Taj Mahal Quartzite

We recently finished this bathroom remodel in West Lake Hills, Austin, and thought this community might appreciate some of the unique materials and construction details.
Instead of a traditional tiled shower, we used a seamless microcement finish paired with handmade hexagon Saltillo tile flooring, a freestanding soaking tub, and a Taj Mahal quartzite vanity countertop to create a warm Mediterranean-inspired space.
A lot of the work that never gets seen happens behind the walls. Before any finish materials were installed, the shower was fully waterproofed and water-tested to help ensure long-term durability.
Project features:
• Seamless microcement shower
• Handmade hexagon Saltillo tile
• Taj Mahal quartzite vanity countertop
• Freestanding soaking tub
• Custom vanity
• Mediterranean-inspired design
• Full shower waterproofing system
I’m curious what everyone thinks.
If you were remodeling your bathroom in Austin, would you choose:
• A seamless microcement shower
• Traditional porcelain or ceramic tile
• Natural stone
I’d also be happy to answer questions about the installation process, waterproofing, material selection, maintenance, or budgeting for a bathroom remodel in Austin.
Project completed by THA Construction & Remodeling in Austin, Texas.
www.thaconstruction.com

u/THAconstruction512 — 2 months ago

Austin Homeowners: What Was Your Worst Experience With a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor?

If you’ve remodeled a bathroom in Austin, we’d love to hear your story.
What was the worst experience you had with a bathroom remodeling contractor in the Austin area?
Was it:
• Poor communication?
• Delays that lasted for weeks or months?
• Hidden costs or surprise change orders?
• Poor workmanship or failed inspections?
• Waterproofing issues or leaks?
• A contractor who disappeared before finishing the job?
• Problems with permits or scheduling?
Share your experience and what you learned. Your advice could help other Austin homeowners avoid costly mistakes and choose the right contractor for their bathroom remodel.
Let’s keep the discussion respectful and focus on sharing real experiences and helpful lessons.

u/THAconstruction512 — 3 months ago
▲ 98 r/bathrooms+1 crossposts

Austin, TX Bathroom Remodel | Before & After: Walk-In Shower to Bathtub Transformation

Before ➡️ After of a bathroom remodel completed in Austin, Texas.
This project transformed an outdated walk-in shower into a beautiful, functional bathtub while creating a warm, modern aesthetic.
Project features:
🟢 Porcelain green subway wall tile
🌰 European style vanity
🪨 Large-format travertine-look floor tile
✨ Brushed brass fixtures
🚿 Frameless glass shower door
💡 Half-moon LED mirror
The mix of natural textures, warm wood tones, andbrass finishes gives the bathroom a timeless look that's both practical and inviting.
We're proud to help homeowners throughout Austin, TX create bathrooms that fit their lifestyle and add lasting value.
What would you choose for your home—a spaciouswalk-in shower or a bathtub?
Completed - THA Construction & Remodeling
Austin Bathroom Remodeling • Bathroom Renovations • Home Remodeling

u/THAconstruction512 — 3 months ago

10 Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes Austin Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Austin, learning from other homeowners can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.
As a remodeling contractor, we’ve seen the same mistakes happen over and over. Here are the most common ones:

  1. Hiring a contractor based only on the lowest price.
    The cheapest estimate often leaves out important details like proper waterproofing, permits, or quality materials.
  2. Skipping proper waterproofing
    Tile and grout are not waterproof. A properly installed waterproofing system behind the tile is one of the most important parts of any shower.
  3. Keeping a poor layout
    Sometimes moving a vanity or enlarging the shower makes a bathroom feel much bigger without adding square footage.
  4. Choosing materials based only on trends
    Select finishes you’ll still enjoy years from now, especially for expensive items like tile, countertops, and cabinetry.
  5. Not planning enough storage
    Think about recessed medicine cabinets, vanity drawers, linen storage, and shower niches before construction starts.
  6. Using the wrong tile
    Large-format porcelain tile, natural stone, mosaics, and textured tile all have different maintenance and installation requirements.
  7. Forgetting about lighting
    Layered lighting around the vanity, shower, and ceiling makes a huge difference in both appearance and functionality.
  8. Ignoring ventilation
    A quality exhaust fan helps prevent mold, moisture damage, and peeling paint.
  9. Not budgeting for unexpected repairs
    Older Austin homes sometimes have hidden water damage, plumbing issues, or outdated electrical that isn’t visible until demolition.
  10. Not thinking about resale value
    Features like walk-in showers, quality fixtures, durable materials, and timeless designs are usually appreciated by future buyers.
    Now I’m curious…
    ● What’s the biggest bathroom remodeling mistake you’ve experienced?
    ● If you’ve remodeled your bathroom in Austin, what would you do differently?
    ● What’s one upgrade that was absolutely worth the money?
    Share your experience below. Your advice could help another Austin homeowner avoid an expensive mistake.

www.thaconstruction.com

u/THAconstruction512 — 3 months ago

Are Microcement Showers the Future? Just Finished This East Austin Shower Remodel

So happy with how this shower turned out! The client had a builders grade white subway tile and were tired with the dirty,moldy grout that needed constant cleaning.
I’m curious what everyone thinks about the growing popularity of microcement bathrooms.
The old shower had seen better days, so we completely rebuilt it and finished the walls with a seamless microcement system. No grout lines means a clean, modern look that’s easy to maintain, and it makes the shower feel much larger than it actually is.
For this project we focused on:
• Seamless waterproof microcement shower
• Modern walk-in shower design
• Premium waterproofing before the finish coat
• Minimalist contemporary style
• Durable surface made for everyday use
Microcement seems to be gaining a lot of attention in Austin, especially for homeowners looking for a modern alternative to tile. It definitely creates a different look compared to traditional porcelain or natural stone.
Would you choose a seamless microcement shower, or do you still prefer large-format tile? I’d love to hear why.
If you’re researching bathroom remodeling in Austin, TX, microcement showers, walk-in shower renovations, or modern bathroom design, hopefully this project gives you some inspiration.
More completed projects: www.thaconstruction.com

u/THAconstruction512 — 3 months ago

Just finished this master bathroom remodel in Austin and I’d love to hear what you’d change

One thing I’m curious about: how do you feel about checkered tile in a primary bathroom?

Some people think it’s making a big comeback, while others prefer large-format tile everywhere. Personally, I think the walnut cabinets help keep it from feeling too “retro.”

The homeowners wanted something that felt modern but still had a little character, so we went with black and white checkered porcelain tile throughout the bathroom, walk-in closet, and water closet. For the walls, we used 24x48 large-format porcelain tile to keep the space looking clean and seamless.

The shower ended up being one of the biggest features of the project.

The homeowners wanted a bathroom that feels like a luxury hotel but is practical for everyday use. The combination of warm walnut cabinetry, large-format tile, and classic checkered flooring gives the space a look that should stay in style for years.
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Austin, what flooring would you choose: classic checkered tile, large-format tile, or natural stone?
More completed projects and remodeling inspiration at www.thaconstruction.com.

u/THAconstruction512 — 3 months ago
▲ 941 r/kitchenremodelaustin+1 crossposts

Just finished this kitchen in Austin, Texas 🧡🔥

Just Finished: Mediterranean Style Kitchen Remodel in West Lake Hills, Austin 🌿
We recently wrapped up this custom kitchen remodel in West Lake Hills, TX, and it turned out exactly how the homeowners envisioned—a warm, timeless Mediterranean-inspired space with modern functionality.
Some of the standout features include:
• European-style custom cabinetry with warm natural wood finishes
• Genuine quartzite countertops with dramatic natural movement
• Authentic Saltillo tile flooring that brings warmth and character
• A hand-crafted custom plaster range hood as the centerpiece
• Soft earth tones and natural materials that create a calm, inviting atmosphere
One of our goals was to make this kitchen feel like it had always belonged in the home rather than looking overly trendy. The combination of natural stone, textured plaster, warm wood cabinetry, and traditional Saltillo tile creates a space that should age beautifully for decades.
For anyone planning a kitchen remodel in Austin or West Lake Hills, don’t overlook how important material selection is. Choosing real quartzite, handcrafted finishes, and quality cabinetry can completely change the feel and longevity of the kitchen.
What do you think of Mediterranean kitchens? Would you choose this timeless style over the all-white modern kitchens that have been popular for years?
📍Project Location: West Lake Hills, Austin, Texas

Kitchen Remodel Austin • West Lake Hills Kitchen Remodel • Mediterranean Kitchen • European Style Cabinets • Quartzite Countertops • Saltillo Tile • Custom Plaster Range Hood •

u/THAconstruction512 — 4 months ago