What Does a Bathroom Renovation Really Cost? A Transparent Guide for Every Budget and Dream
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Let’s be honest. Most of us have a love-hate relationship with our bathroom.
It’s the one place in the house where you’re (mostly) guaranteed five minutes of peace—unless you have kids, pets, or a partner who needs to “just grab one thing” from the vanity every time you lock the door. It’s where we start our mornings half-asleep and end our days desperately trying to unwind. It’s the place we go to feel better, look better, cry in private, or practise our imaginary Oscar acceptance speeches in the mirror.
And yet—it’s often the last room we renovate.
Why? Because bathroom renovations are one of the most misunderstood and overwhelming home projects. People worry they’re too expensive, too complicated, or simply “not worth it” because “it’s just a bathroom.”
But let’s stop right there.
If you’ve ever stepped into a spa-like ensuite and felt instantly calmer...
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a bathroom that actually works for your morning routine...
If you’ve ever stood in a dated, tile-cracked, caulking-peeling mess and thought, “Ugh, someday…”—this blog is for you.
At Multi-Trade Building Services, we’ve spent over 35 years helping homeowners in Durham Region turn their “someday” into “I can’t believe this is mine.” And we’re not just going to show you what’s possible—we’re going to show you exactly what it costs.
No fluff. No sugar-coating. No vague “it depends” answers. Just clear, honest breakdowns based on the real renovations we’ve done, for real people like you.
Whether you're just changing a countertop or gutting a dated ensuite down to the studs, we’re going to walk you through every level of bathroom renovation—from modest updates to full luxury transformations. And most importantly, we’ll help you figure out where your dream bathroom fits.
So, grab a cup of tea (or wine—this is a safe space), and let’s talk numbers, decisions, and design dreams.
Why Bathroom Renovations Vary So Much in Cost
If you’ve ever tried Googling “How much does a bathroom renovation cost?” you’ve probably ended up more confused than when you started. That’s because the range is wide—like, really wide. You might see numbers from $3,000 to $70,000, and you’re left thinking, “Well... thanks for nothing.”
Let’s clear that up right now.
There are a few key reasons why bathroom renovations come with such a huge range of pricing—and why getting a solid quote without knowing your goals is nearly impossible.
🔧 1. Labour Is Your Biggest Investment—and It Should Be
Labour usually makes up 60% or more of the total cost of a bathroom renovation. And that makes sense, when you think about it. You’re not just hiring someone to paint a wall—you’re hiring a team of experts who:
Tear down and dispose of old materials safely
Install plumbing and electrical to code
Waterproof and tile with precision
Create finishes that not only look amazing but last
We’re not slapping up a backsplash and calling it a day. We’re dealing with water, moisture, and daily use, which means everything has to be done properly—or you’re going to pay for it again down the road.
Yes, you can always find a cheaper quote. But cheaper usually means cut corners—and when you’re talking about something as crucial as waterproofing behind your shower wall? That’s a corner you don’t want to cut.
🛁 2. Material Choices Can Make or Break Your Budget
Want a beautiful but budget-conscious bathroom? It’s absolutely possible. Want a showstopping ensuite with radiant flooring, a freestanding tub, and custom everything? Also possible—but at a very different price point.
Here’s what affects your material costs the most:
Tile type and coverage: Basic ceramic vs. hand-cut marble mosaics
Vanity quality: Prefab vs. custom cabinetry
Countertops: Laminate, quartz, granite, or Corian
Fixtures and finishes: Chrome vs. brushed brass; off-the-shelf vs. designer collections
Extras: Heated floors, towel warmers, wall niches, glass doors, and specialty lighting
It’s not about what’s right or wrong—it’s about what fits your vision, your lifestyle, and your budget.
🔧 3. The Scope of Work Is the Real Game-Changer
Here’s the big one: how much are we changing?
Keeping your layout? Great—less plumbing, less electrical, lower cost.
Moving the toilet across the room? You’ve just increased your budget, your timeline, and your need for a skilled team.
Switching from a tub to a tiled walk-in shower? That’s not just “a swap.” It involves framing, waterproofing, tiling, and often custom glass.
Every adjustment adds layers of complexity—and those layers affect price.
⚠️ 4. Surprises Hide Behind the Walls
Especially in homes 20+ years old (and let’s face it, most of them are), you never know what you’re going to find until the demo begins:
Mould behind the drywall
Improperly vented plumbing
Soggy subfloor under the tub
Outdated electrical wiring
We always recommend setting aside a 15–20% contingency budget just in case. It’s not about expecting the worst—it’s about being prepared and staying in control.
In short: Bathroom renovation pricing isn’t random.
It’s based on what you want, how old your house is, how far you want to go, and how much support you’ll need to bring it to life.
In the next section, we’re going to break it all down clearly—so you can see where your dream bathroom fits, what it might cost, and how to plan for it.
Tier 1: The Cosmetic Refresh
“It’s not your forever bathroom—but it’s finally not embarrassing.”
Let’s start with the most budget-friendly option. This is the “make it livable” reno. Maybe the bathroom was outdated when you bought the house. Maybe it’s seen one too many teenage skincare experiments, and now the counter’s permanently stained. Or maybe you’re prepping to sell and just want it to look clean, bright, and functional.
The Cosmetic Refresh is about making a big visual difference without tearing everything apart.
🔧 What’s Included?
This type of project usually involves:
Replacing the vanity countertop (and possibly the sink)
Swapping in a new faucet and light fixture
Fresh caulking around the tub or shower
Updating cabinet hardware
Painting walls or trim
Installing new vinyl or laminate flooring if needed
Possibly a new toilet or mirror if budget allows
It’s all surface-level changes—no layout modifications, no plumbing relocation, and no demo down to the studs. But when done well? It can completely change the feel of the room.
💲 Typical Price Range: $3,000–$8,000
The price depends on the materials you choose (a basic faucet vs. a statement one can vary by hundreds), how much you want to tackle, and whether things like lighting or flooring need to be updated.
Quick tip: Want to keep the price low? Stick with your existing vanity cabinet and just change the top to a new laminate one, and change out the hardware. You’d be amazed what a difference that makes.
🛠️ How Long It Takes: 1–5 Days
This is a fast facelift. Most of our clients are in and out of this type of project in just a couple of days. And if you’re painting yourself? Even less time on our end.
❤️ Who This Is For
Homeowners prepping to sell
Families saving for a bigger reno down the road but needing something now
Landlords updating a rental property
Anyone on a tight budget who wants a fresh, clean, updated space
🧼 Why It Matters
This level of renovation often gets dismissed as “not worth it.” But here’s the truth: there’s nothing wrong with doing what you can afford now—especially if it makes you feel better about your space every single day.
We’ve seen people walk into their newly refreshed bathroom and say, “I wish I’d done this years ago.” Because sometimes, even small changes make a big difference in how you feel in your home.
Tier 2: The Remove & Replace Renovation
“Out with the old, in with the better—but let’s keep the plumbing right where it is.”
If Tier 1 is a facelift, Tier 2 is a full outfit change.
This is the most common bathroom renovation we do. It’s for the family whose bathroom is showing its age—chipping tile, a bulky vanity, yellowing tub, or a toilet that sounds like it’s going to take off every time it flushes. It all needs to go.
But here’s the thing: you’re keeping the layout the same. That means:
The toilet stays where the toilet is.
The tub stays where the tub is.
We’re not moving walls or plumbing lines—we’re simply updating everything that’s attached to them.
🧰 What’s Included?
This project typically includes:
Demolition of old tile, vanity, toilet, tub, flooring, and sometimes drywall
Installing new flooring (usually vinyl plank flooring—LVP)
New tub or shower enclosure
New vanity with countertop and sink
New faucet, mirror, light fixture, and toilet
Fresh drywall, paint, baseboards, and trim
Updated exhaust fan (a big plus for moisture control)
Reinstallation of towel bars or accessories—or upgrading to new ones
💲 Typical Price Range: $18,000–$27,000+
The range comes down to:
The size of the bathroom
Your choice of materials (standard vs. premium finishes)
Whether you choose a one-piece acrylic tub/shower or go with tiled walls
The condition of the existing plumbing and subfloor underneath
Any surprises we uncover during demo (we’ll always talk you through it first)
This tier includes more labour than Tier 1, especially if we’re removing tile, repairing drywall, and reinstalling baseboards or trim. It’s a lot more involved than people often realize—and worth every penny when it’s done right.
⏱️ How Long It Takes: 2-4 Weeks
This depends on tile choice, the size of the space, and whether we hit any hidden issues. But on average, a standard remove-and-replace reno takes 10–16 working days from demo to done.
We always provide a clear schedule upfront—and we keep you updated every step of the way. No disappearing contractors. No ghosting. No wondering when someone will show up.
🏡 Who This Is For
Homeowners upgrading a dated main bath
Families with kids who need a durable, functional space
Seniors wanting comfort and safety without a full redesign
Anyone tired of patching up old problems and ready to do it right
✨ Why It Matters
This is the tier where dreams start to feel real. You’ve lived with the outdated, stained, mismatched bathroom long enough. This renovation gives you a space that feels clean, modern, functional, and tailored to your lifestyle—without needing to knock down walls.
We’ve seen families literally do a happy dance when the new vanity goes in. And we’ve had clients tell us they actually enjoy getting ready in the morning again. When was the last time your bathroom made you feel good about your day?
Not sure if Tier 1 or Tier 2 is right for you? Read on blog on Full Bathroom Renovation vs Cosmetic Upgrade: How to Decide Which is Right for Your Home
Tier 3: The Walk-In Shower Conversion & Functional Upgrade
“Because the tub hasn’t been used in 12 years... except by the dog.”
You know the one. That big, deep alcove tub that no one uses anymore—unless you’re storing laundry baskets in it or bathing the golden retriever. You don’t take baths. No one in the house does. So why is that tub still taking up half the room?
This tier is for homeowners who are ready to ditch the tub and build a shower that actually works for their life.
🚿 What’s Included?
Full removal of the existing tub and surround
Framing and waterproofing for a custom tiled walk-in shower
New plumbing fixtures (shower valve, rain head, handheld wand, etc.)
Shower niches, benches, grab bars, or linear drains—depending on design
Frameless glass doors or partial glass panel
New tile or vinyl plank flooring throughout the room
New toilet and vanity if budget allows
Upgraded lighting and exhaust fan
Paint, trim, accessories, and finishing touches
This is a function-first renovation, but it doesn’t skimp on style. It’s perfect for aging in place, multigenerational households, or anyone who just wants to step into a spa-like space every morning instead of a cracked old tub with bad caulking and a squeaky curtain rod.
💲 Typical Price Range: $23,000–$35,000+
Price depends heavily on:
The size of the shower and bathroom
Type of tile (ceramic vs. stone or mosaic accents)
Custom glass vs. framed doors or panels
Plumbing upgrades (shifting drain or adding fixtures)
Whether you’re updating other elements of the room at the same time
This isn’t a small cosmetic tweak. It’s a major transformation that delivers both visual and functional impact.
⏱️ How Long It Takes: 3-4 Weeks
You’re looking at 15-20 working days for this kind of renovation, depending on the complexity of the shower and the state of what’s behind your walls (because yes, we will be opening them).
If you want a tiled shower with all the bells and whistles, there’s no shortcut—and that’s a good thing. We’re building something that lasts, not something that leaks.
👥 Who This Is For
Empty nesters finally treating themselves
Seniors who want a safer, step-free entry
Couples who share a bathroom and need space that works for both
Anyone tired of having a tub just for the sake of resale (hint: future buyers love walk-in showers too!)
💙 Why It Matters
This tier is where comfort meets peace of mind.
You’re not just upgrading the look of the space—you’re upgrading how it works. No more slipping in and out of a tub you hate. No more wrestling with grimy grout lines. No more feeling like your bathroom is stuck in 1993.
Instead, you’ll step into a beautiful, easy-to-clean, custom-built shower that feels like it was made just for you. (Because it was.)
Learn more about converting a tub to a walk in shower here.
Want to explore what’s possible before diving in?
Our bathroom renovation page is full of ideas, inspiration, and helpful info.
Tier 4: The Full Redesign & Luxury Ensuite
“Because you’re finally ready for the bathroom you’ve always wanted—and deserve.”
This is the renovation that turns heads. The one you walk into and immediately say “WOW.” It’s for homeowners who are ready to go all in and transform their bathroom into a custom-designed oasis, built for comfort, beauty, and long-term enjoyment.
And yes, it comes with a higher price tag—but when it’s done right, there’s nothing else like it.
🧱 What’s Included? (Basically... Everything)
This renovation involves reconfiguring the entire layout of your bathroom. We might:
Move the toilet so it’s not the first thing you see when the door opens
Knock down a closet to expand the footprint
Add a freestanding tub beneath a big window
Build a huge walk-in shower with body jets, a bench, and a niche for every bottle
Relocate plumbing and electrical to accommodate the new design
Install in-floor heating for toasty toes on cold mornings
Add heated towel bars because yes—you can be that fancy
Create custom cabinetry with double sinks, built-in hampers, and tons of storage
Add layered lighting: pot lights, task lights, mood lighting
Update or relocate the exhaust fan for better airflow
Finish it off with beautiful tile, luxury finishes, and thoughtful details everywhere you look
This is not just about function. This is about lifestyle.
💲 Typical Price Range: $35,000–$70,000+
This is the widest and most complex pricing category because it’s 100% customized. A few factors that influence cost:
How much plumbing and electrical needs to be moved
Size of the space (ensuite bathrooms often allow for more luxury features)
Choice of tile, cabinetry, and countertops
Whether you’re adding custom touches like a makeup station, LED mirrors, or a feature wall
Structural work (e.g. moving walls, reframing areas)
Permits and inspections depending on what’s being altered
You’re not just changing finishes—you’re changing the footprint. That’s major work, and it needs skilled professionals to do it right.
⏱️ How Long It Takes: 4-6 Weeks
A full luxury redesign takes time. Typically, this tier runs between 20-30 working days, depending on complexity, inspections, and delivery timelines for specialty items.
But trust us—when the space is finished and you step into that warm, spa-like ensuite for the first time? It’s worth every single day.
🛀 Who This Is For
Homeowners with a large ensuite that’s outdated, awkward, or poorly laid out
People who plan to stay in their home long-term and want to invest in comfort
Clients who want to create a wow moment—whether for themselves or future buyers
Anyone who wants a bathroom that genuinely feels like a retreat
🥂 Why It Matters
This isn’t just a renovation—it’s a declaration.
It says, “I deserve to start and end my day in a space that brings me peace.” It says, “No more wrestling with tiny sinks, dim lighting, and cold tile.” It says, “This home is ours, and we’re making it beautiful.”
We’ve had clients cry when they walk into their new bathroom for the first time. Not because it’s fancy (though it is), but because it reflects who they are now—not who they were when the house was built 30 years ago.
This renovation is about claiming space. Creating comfort. And letting yourself enjoy the best your home has to offer.
And you’re worth that.
The Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of
“Because if we find a problem behind your wall, we’re going to tell you—not hide it with caulking and hope for the best.”
Nobody likes financial surprises. (Unless it’s a long-lost inheritance or a twenty in your winter coat.) And when it comes to bathroom renovations, the only thing worse than sticker shock is feeling blindsided.
That’s why we’re going to walk you through the not-so-obvious costs that can come up during a renovation—not to scare you, but to prepare you. We want you informed, not overwhelmed.
🕳️ 1. What’s Hiding Behind the Walls
This is the big one. Once we start demo, there’s always the potential to find:
Water damage or rot behind the tub or shower
Mould from long-term leaks or poor ventilation
Plumbing that doesn’t meet code (hello, 1967)
Subfloor issues that require reinforcement or replacement
Electrical that’s outdated, overloaded, or just plain scary
These aren’t fun discoveries—but they’re not rare, either. We always hope for the best, but we plan for the possibility of the worst. Which is why we strongly recommend a 15–20% contingency budget on top of your renovation estimate.
And if we do uncover something? We’ll talk you through the options before we ever move forward. No surprises. No pressure. Just a plan.
🛠️ 2. Extra Labour for Custom Features
That gorgeous tile niche you saw on Pinterest? The built-in bench with mosaic detailing? The floor-to-ceiling feature wall? They’re absolutely doable—but they do take more time (and more time = more labour = more cost).
The good news? We’ll let you know right up front what’s simple and what’s considered an upgrade. You’ll never hear, “Oh, we meant to tell you that would cost extra…” from us.
🧾 3. Permit and Inspection Fees
If your renovation involves moving plumbing, electrical, or structural walls, permits are required—and inspections come with them. In Durham Region, permit fees are generally reasonable, but they still need to be factored in.
We handle all of that for you—because frankly, you shouldn’t have to navigate city hall just to build a bathroom. But we’ll always include those costs in your quote so you’re not caught off guard.
And just in case you’re wondering—we actually know what we’re doing. I (Jackie) hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Public Policy, which means dealing with municipal governments is kind of my jam (my professors would be so proud). Permits, applications, inspections—we speak fluent bureaucracy so you don’t have to.
📦 4. Product Availability and Shipping
We’ve all seen it: that perfect vanity you fell in love with online… backordered for 12 weeks. Or the tile you chose in the showroom… discontinued two days later. (I actually had that happen to my client for the basement bathroom we’re working on right now!)
While we work hard to keep your project moving, some things are outside our control. If something is delayed, we’ll give you your options (wait it out, reselect, or go custom), and you’ll always be part of the decision.
We also build our timelines with realistic expectations—not fantasy ones—so you’re not left without a bathroom for months.
🔌 5. Electrical Upgrades You Didn’t Know You Needed
If your home is older and has original wiring, we may need to upgrade:
GFCI protection (code requirement near water)
Exhaust fan wiring
Light switch circuits
Dedicated circuits for heated floors or towel bars
Sometimes this is minor. Sometimes it requires running new cable from your panel. Either way, we’ll walk you through the safest, most efficient approach.
🧠 Bottom Line: We Plan Ahead, So You Don’t Panic Later
You don’t have to know what’s behind the wall. You don’t have to predict every issue. That’s our job.
But if something does come up, we’ll talk about it like grown-ups, give you your options, and move forward with your full consent.
That’s how we build trust—and bathrooms that last.
It’s More Than Just a Bathroom
“Because this isn’t just where you brush your teeth—it’s where you begin and end your life’s biggest days.”
Let’s zoom out for a second.
When most people think of a bathroom renovation, they picture tile samples, fixture finishes, and costs per square foot. But what they’re really dreaming about is something much deeper.
They’re dreaming about:
Feeling calm when they start their day instead of frustrated.
Having a space that reflects who they are now—not who they were when they bought the house.
Giving themselves permission to create something beautiful, functional, and long overdue.
We’ve had clients tell us their new bathroom makes them feel like a completely different person—like someone who finally prioritizes themselves. Someone who doesn’t have to apologize for outdated tile when guests come over. Someone who starts their day in peace.
And here’s the thing we know for sure after 35 years in this business:
A bathroom renovation is never just about plumbing and drywall.
It’s about creating a space that supports your life.
A space that feels like it’s finally yours.
Whether you're doing a $5,000 update or a $50,000 transformation, that feeling—that deep exhale when it’s done right—is the real return on investment.
You’re not just improving your home.
You’re reclaiming comfort.
And that matters.
Looking for more bathroom renovation tips and inspiration? Here are a few helpful reads to guide your next steps.
10 Timeless Bathroom Design Choices You'll Never Regret
10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating Your Bathroom
Curb or Curbless: What Type of Walk in Shower is Right for You
7 Ways to Save Money on Your Bathroom Renovation
Is Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan Working Efficiently?
Why Hiring the Right Contractor Matters
“Because your bathroom renovation shouldn’t come with ghosting, shortcuts, or mystery invoices.”
You can find someone to do a bathroom renovation almost anywhere. There’s always someone cheaper. There’s always someone who promises to “start next week” and swears the whole job will take three days.
And sometimes, you get lucky.
But more often? You get someone who doesn’t answer texts, skips the details, cuts corners behind the walls, and leaves you with a mess that costs more to fix than it would have to do it right the first time.
We hear those stories all the time.
Which is why we’ve built our business to be the exact opposite of that experience.
💬 We Prioritize Communication
From your very first quote to the final walk-through, you’ll always know:
Who’s on-site
What’s being done that day
What decisions you need to make (and when)
Where things are at—without having to chase us down
You won’t be left wondering if someone’s going to show up, if the tile is actually getting installed this week, or if you’re being forgotten. We’re in your corner. Always.
👂 We Actually Listen
Your bathroom might not be Pinterest-perfect. You might want extra grab bars, or an ultra-deep tub, or a vanity that isn’t floating and modern and trendy. Guess what?
We don’t push a one-size-fits-all design agenda.
We listen. We learn what matters to you.
And then we build exactly that.
That’s why so many of our clients feel like family by the end of the project. We treat your home—and your priorities—with respect.
👷♂️ We Use Licensed Trades and Do It Right the First Time
No cut corners. No “good enough” waterproofing. No skipping inspections.
Every electrician and plumber is licensed and experienced. Every tile is set to last. Every finish is installed like it’s going into our home—not just yours.
You’re not just paying for a renovation.
You’re paying for peace of mind that it was done right.
🧡 We’re Relationship-Driven, Not Transactional
We’ve been in business for 35 years—not because we churn out jobs fast, but because we build relationships that last.
Most of our clients come back for second, third, and even fourth projects. Some call us years later when it’s finally time to do the ensuite. Others send their friends, neighbours, and grown kids our way. And some just email to say, “We still love it.”
That’s the kind of contractor we are.
So when you’re choosing who to trust with your bathroom renovation, remember this:
You’re not just hiring a contractor. You’re choosing a partner for your home.
Choose the one who respects your time, your money, your home, and your vision.
Choose the one who makes the process easier—not more stressful.
Choose the one who’s still here 35 years later—because clients keep coming back.
