My bathroom is really outdated. Should I do a full renovation or just update the fixtures?

The decision between a full renovation and fixture updates depends on your budget, timeline, and how outdated your current bathroom really is. If your plumbing, electrical, and structural elements are sound, updating fixtures can give you a fresh look for much less money and disruption.

A fixture-only refresh works well when your layout is functional, tile is in good condition, and you mainly want updated style. This typically includes replacing the vanity, toilet, faucets, lighting, mirror, and perhaps adding a fresh coat of paint. In Ottawa's current market, this approach runs $3,000 - $8,000 and can usually be completed in a few days rather than weeks.

A full renovation makes sense when you're dealing with outdated plumbing, poor layout, worn tile, ventilation issues, or water damage. This is also the time to address accessibility needs, add heated floors, or reconfigure the space entirely. Full renovations in Ottawa typically range from $15,000 - $25,000 for mid-range projects, with high-end master baths reaching $25,000 - $50,000+.

Consider Ottawa-specific factors like the age of your home's plumbing (many Ottawa homes built before 1980 benefit from updated rough plumbing), winter humidity issues that proper ventilation can solve, and resale value in Ottawa's competitive market. A well-executed full renovation typically adds more value than the sum of its parts.

Start by assessing your current bathroom's bones - check for any signs of water damage, test water pressure, evaluate the electrical capacity, and consider whether the layout works for your family's needs. If these fundamentals are solid, fixture updates might be perfect. If not, a full renovation will serve you better long-term.

For a professional assessment of your specific situation and a free estimate, consider consulting with Ottawa Bathrooms to help determine the best approach for your space and budget.

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Find a Licensed Contractor

Ottawa Bathrooms connects you with vetted, licensed renovation contractors from the Ottawa Construction Network:

• CMA Restoration Group inc ✓
• Capital Labour Solution ✓
• Davinci Tiling ✓