Bathrooms are one of the most cost-intensive rooms per square foot in the house. They’re also one of the rooms that most affects daily life and property value. The challenge isn’t deciding whether to renovate — it’s figuring out how to get a result you’re proud of without overspending on the parts that don’t actually move the needle.
Where the Money Goes in a Bathroom Reno
Labour is typically the largest cost — especially if there’s plumbing work involved. Moving a toilet or shower to a different wall is expensive. Keeping the existing layout and replacing fixtures in place is significantly less so.
Tile is another major variable. The tile you choose, the pattern it goes in, and how much prep the substrate needs all affect cost. A large-format tile in a simple layout costs less to install than a complex mosaic pattern in the same space.
What Makes the Biggest Difference Visually
- Vanity and fixtures — A new vanity, faucet, and light fixture transform how a bathroom feels. These are visible every day and don’t require structural work.
- Floor tile — Even if you keep the walls, new floor tile changes the whole character of the room.
- Shower tile or a tub surround replacement — If the existing tile is dated or damaged, this is worth addressing. It’s the focal point of the room.
- Paint — Never underestimate what the right colour does for a small space with good natural light.
A Recent Example in Simcoe County
We renovated a main bathroom for a homeowner in the area who wanted a significant visual upgrade but had a clear limit on spending. We kept the existing plumbing locations, replaced the vanity and toilet, re-tiled the floor and shower surround, added new fixtures and lighting, and repainted. The result looked like a completely different bathroom — because it was, in every way that’s visible.
You don’t need to move walls to transform a bathroom. You need to change the right things — and know which things those are.
— AAA Renovations
Serving Alliston, Barrie, Oakville, and Simcoe County.
Tell us what you want your bathroom to look like. We’ll work backwards from there.
