How much does it cost to retile a shower?

Retiling a shower in Ottawa typically costs $2,000 to $8,000+, depending on the size of the shower, tile selection, and whether waterproofing needs to be redone underneath.

Why the range is so wide comes down to a few key factors. A small 3x3 shower retiled with basic ceramic will land on the lower end, while a large walk-in shower with large-format porcelain or natural stone can push well past $8,000. Labour alone for tile removal, prep, and installation typically runs $1,500 to $4,000 in the Ottawa market, with materials adding another $500 to $4,000+ depending on your tile choice.

The most important cost factor most homeowners overlook is waterproofing. When you're retiling a shower, the old waterproof membrane underneath is almost always disturbed or damaged during demolition. Skipping the membrane replacement to save money is one of the most common causes of water damage behind walls — and those repairs cost far more than doing it right the first time. Budget $500 to $1,500 for a proper waterproof membrane like Schluter Kerdi or a liquid-applied system.

Tile selection has a huge impact on price. Ceramic tile is the most affordable option at roughly $2–$8 per square foot in materials. Porcelain runs $5–$15, and natural stone like marble or travertine can reach $20–$50+ per square foot. Large-format tiles (24x24 or bigger) also cost more to install because they require more precise substrate prep and take longer to set.

In Ottawa, you'll also want to factor in whether a building permit is required. If the retiling is purely cosmetic (same footprint, no plumbing changes), a permit typically isn't needed — but confirm this with your contractor, as Ottawa Building Services has the final say.

For a free estimate on your shower retiling project, request a quote from Ottawa Bathrooms — we'll assess your existing waterproofing and give you an honest picture of what's involved before any work begins.