Frequently Asked Questions

A full bathroom renovation in Ottawa typically costs $15,000-$35,000 depending on size and finishes. Budget renovations start around $8,000-$12,000, mid-range projects run $15,000-$25,000, and high-end custom bathrooms can exceed $40,000. We provide detailed itemized quotes after an in-home consultation.

Bathroom renovations in Ottawa average $200-$400 per square foot. A standard 5x8 bathroom (40 sq ft) typically runs $12,000-$20,000. Larger master bathrooms cost more due to additional fixtures and complexity. Material choices significantly impact the final price.

Budget-friendly bathroom updates include: refinishing instead of replacing the tub ($400-$600), updating fixtures and hardware ($200-$500), painting and new lighting ($300-$600), and installing a new vanity top rather than full vanity ($500-$1,200). These changes refresh the space without full demolition.

Yes, bathroom renovations typically return 60-70% of their cost in home value. In Ottawa's competitive market, updated bathrooms help homes sell faster. Mid-range renovations often provide better ROI than luxury upgrades when reselling.

Common hidden costs include: rot or water damage behind walls ($500-$2,000), plumbing updates to meet code ($800-$2,500), electrical upgrades for GFCI outlets ($200-$500), and asbestos or mold remediation in older homes ($1,000+). A thorough inspection before starting helps identify potential surprises.

The classic 5x8 layout places the tub/shower along the 5-foot wall, toilet beside it, and vanity opposite the door. For more openness, consider a walk-in shower instead of a tub. Corner sinks or pedestal sinks create more floor space in tight layouts.

Moving a toilet adds $1,500-$3,000 in plumbing costs due to drain relocation. It's worth it if the current location is awkward or you're significantly reconfiguring the space. Minor shifts (within 6 inches) are much less expensive than moving to a completely different wall.

Current Ottawa bathroom trends include: walk-in curbless showers with linear drains, floating vanities with vessel or undermount sinks, large-format porcelain tiles that minimize grout lines, warm neutral tones with black hardware accents, and smart features like heated floors and fog-free mirrors.

Adding a bathroom costs $20,000-$50,000 depending on location and complexity. The easiest locations are near existing plumbing (above or below current bathrooms). Basement bathrooms may require an ejector pump ($2,000-$4,000). Permits are required for all new bathrooms in Ottawa.

Walk-in showers are ideal for accessibility and modern aesthetics, costing $4,000-$12,000 installed. However, keep at least one bathtub in your home for resale value, especially if you have or may have children. Converting a tub-shower combo to a dedicated shower typically increases usable space.

Custom tile showers in Ottawa cost $5,000-$15,000 depending on size, tile selection, and complexity. This includes waterproof membrane installation, tile, grout, fixtures, and glass door or panel. Niche shelving, bench seats, and multiple showerheads add to the cost.

Porcelain or ceramic tile remains the gold standard for durability and design flexibility, lasting 25+ years. Solid surface panels (Corian, cultured marble) are lower maintenance and faster to install. Acrylic surrounds are budget-friendly but look less premium. Avoid drywall, even with paint—moisture will cause problems.

Prevent shower mold by: running the exhaust fan for 20+ minutes after showering, using a squeegee on glass and tile, sealing grout annually, ensuring proper slope to the drain, and maintaining consistent bathroom ventilation. Mold-resistant grout and proper waterproofing during installation are essential.

Freestanding tubs cost $2,000-$8,000 installed versus $1,500-$3,500 for alcove tubs. They're stunning design focal points but require larger bathrooms (at least 80 sq ft) and may be harder to clean around. Soaker-style freestanding tubs also use 30-50% more water per bath.

Porcelain tile is the top choice for Ottawa bathrooms—it's waterproof, durable, handles temperature swings, and comes in countless styles including wood-look options. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a budget-friendly waterproof alternative. Avoid laminate and hardwood, which warp with moisture.

Large-format tiles (12x24 or larger) make bathrooms feel more spacious with fewer grout lines to clean. Small tiles (2x2 or mosaics) work better on shower floors where slope and drainage require flexibility. A common approach: large wall/floor tiles with mosaic accents or shower pan.

Bathroom floor tiling in Ottawa costs $12-$25 per square foot installed, including materials and labor. For a standard 40 sq ft bathroom, expect $600-$1,200 for basic tile or $1,000-$2,000 for premium options. Heating mat installation adds $500-$1,500.

Heated floors add $800-$2,000 to bathroom renovations and cost $20-$40/month to operate in winter. In Ottawa's cold climate, most homeowners find them worthwhile for comfort. Electric radiant systems are affordable to install during renovations but difficult to add later.

Quartz is the top choice—it's non-porous, stain-resistant, and requires no sealing. Granite looks premium but needs annual sealing. Solid surface (Corian) integrates seamlessly with sinks. Laminate is budget-friendly but less durable. Marble is beautiful but high-maintenance and prone to etching.

Double vanities suit master bathrooms shared by couples, requiring at least 60 inches of width (72 inches is better). Single vanities work well for guest and secondary bathrooms. Consider your actual usage—a larger single vanity with more storage may be more practical than a cramped double.

Bathroom vanity installation in Ottawa ranges from $800-$1,500 for basic stock vanities to $2,500-$6,000+ for custom units. This includes the vanity, countertop, sink, faucet, and installation. Plumbing modifications add $200-$600 if supply lines need relocation.

Maximize small bathroom storage with: recessed medicine cabinets and niche shelving (no floor space needed), floating vanities that expose floor area, over-toilet cabinets or ladder shelving, mirror cabinets, corner shelving, and built-in shower niches. Vertical storage makes small bathrooms more functional.

Create the illusion of space with: large-format light-colored tiles, glass shower doors instead of curtains, wall-mounted toilets and vanities, large mirrors, consistent flooring (no transitions), recessed lighting, and minimal countertop clutter. Light paint colors and good lighting are essential.

Ontario Building Code requires a minimum 30x30 inch shower stall (32x32 is more comfortable). The smallest functional bathroom with shower is about 30-36 square feet, typically 5x6 feet. This accommodates a shower, toilet, and small vanity with minimal clearances.

Basement bathrooms with low ceilings (under 7 feet) benefit from: wall-hung toilets that save visual space, curbless showers, compact vanities, recessed lighting, and light colors. Note that Ottawa building codes require 6'5" minimum ceiling height over 50% of floor area for habitable spaces.

Yes, closets of at least 15 square feet (3x5 minimum) can become powder rooms. Proximity to existing plumbing is crucial—adjacent to kitchens or other bathrooms reduces costs significantly. Expect $8,000-$15,000 for a closet-to-bathroom conversion including permits and finishes.

Key accessibility features include: curbless walk-in showers with grab bars, comfort-height toilets (17-19 inches), lever-style faucets, non-slip flooring, adequate lighting, wider doorways (32-36 inches), and blocking in walls for future grab bar installation. These upgrades benefit all ages.

Fully accessible bathroom renovations in Ottawa cost $25,000-$50,000, including a roll-in shower, accessible vanity, grab bars, wider door, and appropriate clearances. Ontario offers some grants for accessibility modifications—check with your municipality for current programs.

Curbless showers have no step or lip at entry, using a sloped floor to direct water to the drain. They're essential for wheelchair access, helpful for mobility issues, easier to clean, and look sleek and modern. They require careful waterproofing and proper drain placement during installation.

Install grab bars: beside the toilet (one vertical for standing, one horizontal for sitting), inside the shower at waist height, near the shower entry, and by the tub if applicable. Bars must anchor into blocking or studs—not just drywall. Consider adding blocking during renovations for future installation.

Permits are required for: moving or adding plumbing, electrical work, structural changes, and adding new bathrooms. Cosmetic updates like new tile, paint, fixtures, and vanity swaps typically don't need permits. We handle all permit applications for work requiring them.

A typical full bathroom renovation takes 2-4 weeks from demo to completion. Simple updates (vanity, toilet, flooring) take 3-5 days. Complex projects with custom tile work, structural changes, or waterproofing issues may extend to 5-6 weeks. We provide detailed timelines before starting.

Generally no—your bathroom will be unusable during active renovation (typically 1-3 weeks). If you have only one bathroom, we can prioritize making the toilet functional each evening and completing work in phases. Discuss your needs during planning so we can accommodate your situation.

Spring and fall offer the best balance of contractor availability and comfortable working conditions. Summer is peak season with longer wait times. Winter works fine since bathroom work is indoors, and you may find better scheduling availability. Plan 4-8 weeks ahead for permits and material ordering.

For maximum impact: lighting makes the biggest visual difference, followed by faucets and hardware, then the vanity mirror. These affordable upgrades ($500-$2,000 total) can transform a bathroom without full renovation. Coordinate finishes—brushed nickel, matte black, or brushed gold throughout.

Smart toilets ($1,500-$5,000) offer heated seats, bidet functions, automatic flushing, and night lights. They're popular for master bathrooms and accessibility needs. Bidet attachments ($200-$500) provide many benefits at lower cost. Consider them if bidets appeal but full smart toilets seem excessive.

Choose a fan rated for your bathroom size (1 CFM per square foot minimum, 50 CFM minimum). Quiet models (less than 1.0 sone) cost more but run more often. Humidity-sensing fans that run automatically prevent mold. Combination fan/light/heater units are space-efficient. Venting must exit outdoors, not into the attic.

Bidet seats ($300-$800 installed) add to existing toilets and offer warm water, heated seats, and air drying. Full bidets require additional plumbing and space. Electric bidet seats need a nearby GFCI outlet. They're increasingly popular and reduce toilet paper usage significantly.

We serve all Ottawa neighbourhoods including Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, Nepean, Gloucester, Stittsville, Riverside South, Manotick, Centretown, the Glebe, Westboro, and surrounding communities within 40km of downtown Ottawa.

Yes, we carry full liability insurance and WSIB coverage. Our team includes licensed plumbers, certified electricians, and experienced renovation specialists. All work meets Ontario Building Code requirements and passes required inspections.

Request a quote through our estimate form or call us directly. We schedule a free in-home consultation to measure your space, discuss your vision and budget, and provide a detailed written quote with itemized costs. No obligation to proceed.

Yes, we warranty our workmanship and stand behind our installations. Manufacturer warranties apply to all products we install (fixtures, tile, vanities). We address any issues that arise from our work at no additional cost within the warranty period.