Complete Guide to Bathroom Renovations in Ottawa

Transform Your Bathroom Into a Personal Oasis

A bathroom renovation is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Whether you're updating an outdated space or creating a spa-like retreat, a well-planned renovation adds value, comfort, and functionality to your daily life.

Planning Your Renovation

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Define Your Goals

Before diving into tile samples and fixture catalogs, ask yourself:

• What's not working? Lack of storage, poor lighting, outdated style?
  - Who uses this bathroom? Master bath, family bath, guest bath?
  - What's your style? Modern, traditional, transitional, spa-like?
  - What's your timeline? Quick refresh or complete remodel?

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  Set a Realistic Budget

  Bathroom renovations in Ottawa typically cost:

  - Basic refresh (paint, fixtures, accessories): $3,000-$8,000
  - Mid-range remodel (new tile, vanity, toilet): $15,000-$30,000
  - High-end renovation (complete gut, custom features): $40,000+

  Budget tip: Allocate 10-15% for unexpected issues, especially in older homes.

  Key Elements of a Bathroom Renovation

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  Tile Selection

  Tile is often the star of a bathroom renovation:

  Floor Tile
  - Porcelain: Durable, water-resistant, many styles
  - Ceramic: Budget-friendly, good for walls
  - Natural stone: Luxurious but requires sealing
  - Luxury vinyl: Warm underfoot, waterproof

  Wall Tile
  - Subway tile: Classic, timeless, affordable
  - Large format: Modern, fewer grout lines
  - Mosaic: Great for accents and niches
  - Natural stone: Elegant, each piece unique

  Grout Matters
  - Epoxy grout: Stain-resistant, ideal for showers
  - Sanded grout: For joints wider than 1/8"
  - Unsanded grout: For narrow joints
  - Color choice: Dark hides dirt, light brightens space

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  Vanity and Storage

  The vanity is both functional and a design statement:

  - Floating vanities: Modern look, easier cleaning
  - Furniture-style: Traditional, adds character
  - Double sinks: Essential for shared bathrooms
  - Storage: Drawers beat cabinet doors for organization

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  Fixtures and Faucets

  Quality fixtures make daily use a pleasure:

  - Faucets: Chrome is timeless, matte black is trending
  - Showerheads: Rain heads, handheld options, multiple spray settings
  - Toilets: Comfort height, water-efficient models
  - Lighting: Layered lighting—task, ambient, accent

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  Waterproofing—The Critical Step

  Proper waterproofing prevents costly damage:

  - Shower pan liner or waterproof membrane
  - Cement board (not drywall) in wet areas
  - Waterproof membrane on walls before tiling
  - Proper slope toward drains

  Popular Bathroom Trends

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  Spa-Like Features

  - Heated floors (a must for Ottawa winters!)
  - Rain showerheads
  - Freestanding tubs
  - Natural materials and plants
  - Soft, neutral color palettes

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  Modern Minimalism

  - Frameless glass shower enclosures
  - Wall-mounted toilets and vanities
  - Hidden storage solutions
  - Clean lines and simple hardware

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  Bold Accents

  - Statement tile patterns
  - Colorful vanities
  - Brass and gold fixtures
  - Dramatic wallpaper (in dry areas)

  The Renovation Process

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  Step 1: Design and Planning (2-4 weeks)

  - Finalize layout and design
  - Select all materials and fixtures
  - Order items with long lead times
  - Obtain permits if required

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  Step 2: Demolition (1-3 days)

  - Remove old fixtures, tile, vanity
  - Inspect for water damage or mold
  - Address any structural issues

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  Step 3: Rough-In Work (3-5 days)

  - Plumbing modifications
  - Electrical updates
  - Ventilation improvements

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  Step 4: Waterproofing and Substrate (2-3 days)

  - Install cement board
  - Apply waterproofing membrane
  - Prepare surfaces for tile

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  Step 5: Tile Installation (3-7 days)

  - Floor tile first
  - Wall tile
  - Grouting and sealing

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  Step 6: Fixtures and Finishing (3-5 days)

  - Install vanity and countertop
  - Mount toilet
  - Install shower fixtures
  - Connect plumbing
  - Final electrical (lights, outlets, fan)

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  Step 7: Final Details (1-2 days)

  - Paint touch-ups
  - Install mirrors and accessories
  - Final cleaning
  - Walkthrough and punch list

  Common Mistakes to Avoid

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  Poor Ventilation

  Ottawa's cold winters mean moisture issues. Ensure:
  - Properly sized exhaust fan
  - Vented to exterior (not attic)
  - Timer or humidity-sensing switch

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  Inadequate Lighting

  Layer your lighting:
  - Task lighting at vanity (sconces at eye level)
  - Ambient lighting (ceiling fixture)
  - Accent lighting (niche lights, under-vanity)

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  Wrong Tile for the Application

  - Don't use wall tile on floors (not rated for foot traffic)
  - Ensure floor tile has adequate slip resistance
  - Consider maintenance requirements

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  Skipping the Waterproofing

  Water damage is expensive. Proper waterproofing:
  - Behind all shower walls
  - Under tile in shower floor
  - Around tub and shower edges

  Why Choose a Professional

  While some tasks can be DIY, bathroom renovations often require:

  - Licensed plumber: For moving or adding fixtures
  - Electrician: For outlets, lighting, fan installation
  - Tile expertise: For waterproof, long-lasting installation
  - Project management: Coordinating trades and timeline

  The Stoneway Difference

  Our bathroom renovation services include:

  - Consultation: Understanding your vision and needs
  - Design assistance: Material selection guidance
  - Quality craftsmanship: Expert tile work and installation
  - Waterproofing: Proper techniques for lasting results
  - Project management: Smooth, coordinated renovation
  - 3-year warranty: We stand behind our work

  Conclusion

  A bathroom renovation is a significant project, but the results—a beautiful, functional space you'll use every day—make it worthwhile. With proper planning, quality materials, and skilled installation, your new bathroom will serve you well for decades.

  Ready to renovate your bathroom? Contact Stoneway Landscaping & Renovation for a free consultation.