Long winters change the plan
Spokane's winters are long and cold, with about 72 freeze-thaw cycles in an average year according to NOAA's engineering weather data. A bathroom remodel here should plan around the cold: keep water lines out of exterior walls where possible, insulate and air seal any exterior wall that has plumbing, and keep pipes on the warm side of the insulation.
Heated floors and comfort
Radiant floor heating under tile makes a Spokane bathroom far more comfortable in winter. It needs a dedicated GFCI-protected circuit and a thermostat. Some homeowners also add a heated towel rail. Ask about installation and operating costs.
Ventilation and condensation
Showers add moisture, and in a cold climate that moisture condenses on windows, exterior walls and attic sheathing. A properly sized fan vented outdoors, with insulated ductwork through the attic, prevents frost and mold. Fans that vent into the attic can lead to frost buildup on the roof sheathing in winter, which melts and drips. Combined with ice dams under Spokane's heavy snow loads, which NOAA data puts at 42 pounds per square foot for a 50-year snow, that can mean ceiling stains and wet insulation above the bathroom.
Basement bathrooms
Many Spokane homes have basements, and basement bathrooms are a popular addition. Fixtures below the main sewer line may need a sewage ejector pump. Check for water entry before finishing, insulate exterior walls, and provide good ventilation.
Water and the aquifer
Spokane's drinking water comes from the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, a sole source aquifer. Water-efficient fixtures, such as WaterSense-labeled showerheads, faucets and toilets, reduce water use. During demolition, dispose of old materials, adhesives and chemicals properly rather than rinsing them into drains or onto the ground.
Permits
Bathroom remodels involving plumbing, electrical or structural work need permits from the City of Spokane or Spokane County.
Before you hire
Ask Spokane bathroom remodelers for an itemized proposal, how they'll keep plumbing out of cold walls, which waterproofing system they use, how they'll vent the fan, and what their workmanship warranty covers. Use L&I's contractor lookup to check their Washington registration, bond and insurance.
Water heaters
Spokane's cold incoming water in winter means water heaters work harder. If the remodel adds a larger shower or a soaking tub, ask your plumber whether your water heater can keep up, and whether a larger tank, a tankless unit or a heat pump water heater fits your house.
Accessibility
If you plan to stay in the house long term, consider a low-curb shower, grab bars anchored into blocking, a handheld shower, a bench and slip-resistant tile while the walls are open.
Schedule
If it's your only bathroom, plan where you'll shower during the work, and ask for a written schedule with inspections and lead times.
Window choices
Bathroom windows on exterior walls collect condensation in winter. Well-insulated windows and good ventilation reduce the moisture that would otherwise run onto sills and into walls.