Posted by Maryann Jones on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025 2:04pm.
A bathroom renovation is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make in your home. Whether you're tired of that leaky faucet, cramped layout, or outdated tiles, a bathroom remodel offers the chance to create a space that feels fresh, functional, and completely your own. But turning that vision into reality takes more than just picking pretty tiles and hoping for the best—it requires a smart plan.
From setting a budget and choosing the right design, to hiring the right professionals and avoiding common pitfalls, there’s a lot to consider before you swing the first hammer. Whether you're tackling a small powder room or doing a full remodel of your main bath, this guide will walk you through every step in plain, simple language.
And if you're thinking beyond the bathroom—like preparing to sell your home or buying a new one—The Johnson Team is ready to help you make the right moves in Toronto’s real estate market. To start working with an agent right away, get in touch with us today.
Before diving into the renovation, take a close look at your existing bathroom. Identify aspects that work well and those that need improvement. Consider factors such as:
Layout: Is the current arrangement functional?
Fixtures: Are the sink, toilet, and shower outdated or in need of repair?
Storage: Is there adequate space for toiletries and linens?
Aesthetics: Does the style reflect your personal taste?
Understanding these elements will help you determine the scope of your renovation and set clear objectives.
Establishing a budget is a critical step in the renovation process. It guides your decisions and helps prevent overspending. Consider the following:
Research Costs: Investigate the average expenses for materials, labour, and unexpected contingencies.
Prioritize Needs vs. Wants: Distinguish between essential upgrades and luxury additions.
Include a Contingency Fund: Allocate an additional 10-20% of your budget for unforeseen expenses.
A well-planned budget ensures you can achieve your renovation goals without financial strain.
With a clear understanding of your current bathroom and budget, you can begin designing your ideal space. This involves selecting a style, choosing materials, and planning the layout.
Your bathroom's design should reflect your personal taste and complement the rest of your home. Popular styles include:
Modern: Characterized by clean lines, minimalistic fixtures, and neutral colours.
Traditional: Features classic elements, ornate details, and warm tones.
Vintage: Incorporates antique fixtures, retro tiles, and nostalgic accents.
For instance, incorporating vintage elements like ornate mirrors or pedestal sinks can add timeless charm to your bathroom.
Choose materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Consider:
Tiles: Porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular for their water resistance and variety of designs.
Countertops: Materials like quartz and granite offer durability and elegance.
Flooring: Ensure flooring is slip-resistant and can withstand moisture.
Remember, dark tiles might seem chic but can show limescale, making maintenance challenging.
An efficient layout enhances the functionality of your bathroom. Consider the placement of fixtures to optimize space and ensure comfort. If you're contemplating significant changes, such as moving plumbing, consult a professional to assess feasibility and cost.
Decide whether to undertake the renovation yourself or hire professionals. While DIY can be cost-effective, certain tasks require expertise.
Painting: A manageable task that can significantly alter the room's appearance.
Installing Fixtures: Replacing faucets or showerheads can be straightforward with proper guidance.
Plumbing and Electrical Work: Complex tasks that require adherence to safety codes.
Structural Changes: Removing walls or altering layouts necessitates professional assessment.
Engaging experienced professionals ensures quality workmanship and compliance with regulations. For instance, The Johnson Team, renowned in the Toronto real estate market, collaborates with skilled contractors to deliver exceptional results.
Before commencing work, check local building codes to determine if permits are required. Permits ensure that renovations meet safety standards and can prevent complications when selling your home.
Choose fixtures that align with your design and meet your functional needs.
Bathtub vs. Shower: Consider your lifestyle and space constraints when deciding between a tub, a shower, or both.
Toilets: Modern toilets offer features like water efficiency and enhanced comfort.
Sinks and Vanities: Ensure adequate storage and counter space to keep the bathroom organized.
Investing in quality fixtures enhances the longevity and appeal of your bathroom.
Proper lighting and ventilation are crucial for a comfortable and functional bathroom.
Lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit space. Ensure fixtures are rated for bathroom use to withstand moisture.
Ventilation: Install an exhaust fan to prevent mold growth and maintain air quality. Proper ventilation protects your investment by preserving materials and finishes.
Once planning is complete, prepare the space for renovation. This involves removing old fixtures, flooring, and, if necessary, walls. Ensure utilities like water and electricity are safely disconnected during this phase.
With the space prepared, proceed with installing new plumbing and electrical systems, followed by walls, flooring, and fixtures. Adhere to your design plan and consult professionals as needed to ensure quality and compliance with building codes.
Once all the construction and installation work is complete, it’s time to add the final details that bring your bathroom together. These touches might seem small, but they play a huge role in the overall look and feel of your space.
Paint and Wall Treatments: Choose a paint that’s designed for high-humidity areas. Light colours can make a small bathroom feel bigger, while bold hues add personality. Wallpaper designed for bathrooms is also a stylish option.
Mirrors: A large mirror can reflect light and make the space feel larger. Look for a design that matches your chosen style—modern, vintage, or traditional.
Storage Solutions: Add shelves, hooks, baskets, or cabinets to keep things tidy. Think about your daily routine and make sure everything you use has a home.
Accessories: Towels, mats, soap dispensers, and art help make your bathroom feel warm and lived-in. Choose accessories that complement your colour scheme and style.
Before calling your renovation complete, give everything a thorough cleaning. Dust, debris, and leftover materials can hide in corners, so take your time. Once it’s clean:
Check that all fixtures work correctly
Make sure there are no leaks or electrical issues
Ensure everything is properly sealed
Walk through the space and test functionality
Having a contractor or building inspector double-check your work—especially for plumbing and wiring—can save you from future headaches.
Your bathroom renovation is a big investment, so taking care of it will help it last longer and stay beautiful.
Clean regularly: Wipe surfaces down often to prevent buildup of soap, grime, or mould.
Use a bathroom fan: This reduces moisture and prevents mildew.
Fix issues early: Don’t ignore small drips or stains. Addressing them early can prevent expensive repairs later.
Seal grout: Every year or two, re-seal the grout between your tiles to prevent water damage.
Even the best-laid plans can run into problems. Here are a few common mistakes homeowners make—and how to avoid them:
Not budgeting properly: Always include a cushion in your budget for unexpected costs.
Skipping the plan: Rushing into a renovation without a clear plan can lead to mistakes or changes mid-way, which are often costly.
Overlooking ventilation: Without proper airflow, your beautiful new bathroom could develop mould or moisture damage.
Choosing style over function: It’s important to love how your bathroom looks, but it must also work for your day-to-day life.
The timeline for a bathroom remodel depends on the size of the room and the complexity of the work. On average, a full renovation can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks. Planning, designing, and waiting for materials can take additional time, so always build in some buffer time, especially if you have a strict deadline.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Planning and design: 1–3 weeks
Ordering materials: 1–4 weeks
Demolition: 2–3 days
Plumbing and electrical: 3–5 days
Flooring and walls: 3–5 days
Fixtures and finishes: 4–7 days
Final clean-up and inspection: 1–2 days
Planning a bathroom renovation can seem overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, it becomes an exciting and rewarding project. From setting your budget and choosing a design, to picking the right materials and ensuring quality work, every stage matters. The goal is to create a space that works for your daily life, feels relaxing, and adds real value to your home.
And if you're planning a bigger move—like buying or selling a home in the Greater Toronto Area—The Johnson Team is here to help. With years of experience, unmatched market knowledge, and a client-first mindset, they make navigating the real estate process smooth and successful. Whether you’re upgrading before a sale or searching for a new place to call home, The Johnson Team will connect you with trusted professionals and provide honest, expert advice every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Contact The Johnson Team today to work with an agent who puts your needs first—and makes buying or selling a home feel effortless.