If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Toronto, you’re making a wise investment. Bathrooms are one of the highest-ROI renovations, boosting both your home’s value and your day-to-day comfort. But between design choices, plumbing considerations, and waterproofing issues, there’s a lot to get right.
As a professional and insured renovation company serving Toronto, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and the GTA, we’ve helped dozens of homeowners transform their bathrooms into modern, functional spaces. This guide covers everything you need to know—from costs to layout tips—to plan your bathroom renovation with confidence.
Bathroom Design Ideas: Small vs. Large Spaces
Whether your bathroom is compact or spacious, the right design makes all the difference.
Start by understanding your space and gathering inspiration. Your layout will determine what’s possible—and what’s worth investing in.
Use Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz to explore ideas and save photos of your dream bathroom—search for terms like ‘modern bathroom design GTA’ or ‘walk-in shower with niche’.
Work with a pro—your general contractor (GC) often provides design guidance or has an interior designer on the team.
Once your layout is finalized, it’s time to select finishes:
Wall and floor tiles (size, colour, texture)bathroom suppliers in Toronto
Vanity and sink style
Toilet type (standard, wall-hung)
Bathtub or walk-in shower (or both)
Faucet finish (black, brushed nickel, chrome)
Shower glass, shampoo niche, and bench
We recommend visiting a few bathroom suppliers in Toronto or Richmond Hill to compare finishes and prices before making a purchase.
Realistic Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Toronto
The cost of a bathroom renovation depends on the size of the space, the complexity of the work, and the quality of materials you choose.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Item Estimated Cost (CAD)
Construction (labour + rough materials) $14,000 – $18,000
Finish materials (tile, vanity, glass, fixtures) $5,000 – $12,000+
Waterproofing (e.g., Schluter system) $1,200 – $2,000
Plumbing or electrical relocation $1,500 – $3,000+
Demolition & disposal $800 – $1,500
Total estimated cost $20,000 – $30,000+
A quality bathroom renovation in Toronto typically starts at $19,000–$22,000, even with mid-range finishes. High-end materials or significant plumbing changes will increase the price.
Tub vs. Walk-In Shower: What’s Best for Resale?
Thinking of replacing your bathtub with a walk-in shower? You’re not alone. Many homeowners prefer a sleek, modern shower—but there are a few things to consider first.
Always keep at least one tub in your home for resale. Families with young kids will look for it.
Walk-in showers are ideal for ensuite bathrooms or where accessibility is a priority.
If you’re converting a 32″ deep tub to a shower, make sure you have enough room for the glass, drain, and a comfortable layout. It can feel tight otherwise.
Talk to your GC before making the switch—they’ll help you weigh your resale goals against your lifestyle needs.
Plumbing and Waterproofing What You Can’t See Matters Most
Behind every beautiful bathroom is solid plumbing and waterproofing. Cutting corners here leads to leaks, rot, and expensive repairs down the road.
Key considerations:
Plumbing relocation depends on the direction of the floor joists. Toilet drains require a slope, and if the joists don’t line up, a bulkhead may be needed under the bathroom.
Waterproofing is critical. Use a complete system, such as Schluter or Wedi—not just a liner. If the membrane fails, you’ll need to tear out the tile, curb, and possibly the entire shower base.
Only licensed trades should handle plumbing and tiling. Insurance matters here. Hiring a handy person may save money upfront, but can cost much more later.
We’ve seen cases where improper waterproofing forced homeowners to redo the entire shower—glass, tile, plumbing, everything. Don’t let that happen to you.
Bathroom Renovation Timeline and Permit Rules
A complete bathroom renovation usually takes 3 to 4 weeks, depending on:
Demolition conditions
Scope of work
Trade scheduling
Lead times for finish materials
You do not need a permit in most cases unless you’re moving plumbing, changing structure, or working in a condo with special rules. Still, your GC should ensure everything follows the Ontario Building Code and is adequately insured.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Toronto?
A full home renovation starts at around $19,000–$22,000, including labour and base materials. Add $5,000–$12,000+ for finishes, depending on your taste.
Q: Is it cheaper to just upgrade the tile and vanity?
Yes—but that’s not a complete renovation. Cosmetic updates can cost $8,000–$12,000 but won’t address issues with plumbing, insulation, or waterproofing.
Q: Do I need to keep a bathtub for resale?
Yes—if you only have one bathroom, keep a tub. Otherwise, walk-in showers are a significant modern upgrade.
Q: How long does a complete bathroom renovation take time?
Most projects take 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the scope and complexity.
Q: What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make?
Hiring unlicensed or uninsured trades. A failed waterproofing job can ruin your investment—and may not be covered by insurance.
Are you Ready to Start Your Bathroom Renovation in Toronto?
At Renotec, we offer full-service, insured bathroom renovations across Toronto, Richmond Hill, Woodbridge, Vaughan, and the GTA.
Licensed & insured trades
Expert waterproofing systems
Transparent pricing
Custom tile, fixtures & layout solutions
High-quality results, built to last
Call now for a free consultation
Visit renotec.ca
Let’s build the bathroom you’ve been dreaming of.