Intelligent Bathroom Remodeling Tips and Costs in Canada for 2023
Upgrading your bathroom in Canada can significantly improve your home but requires thoughtful planning to keep projects affordable.
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Evaluate Small Bathroom Layout Changes
For a small bathroom needing an update, clever layout changes and minor renovations can make the space more functional and visually appealing without requiring major construction or demolition.
Consider swapping out a sizeable standalone tub with a more compact neo-angle shower stall. Removing the tub frees up valuable floor space for more effortless mobility. Add functional recessed shelving in the shower area for shampoo, soap, and other items.
Install space-saving floating wall shelves or corner shelving units to gain storage nooks without expanding the footprint. Use wall-hung vanities and toilets rather than freestanding to open the floor area visually.
Add a mirrored medicine cabinet above the vanity to double the storage space. Update the vanity and fixtures to sleek modern styles for contemporary flair.
Minor upgrades like new vessel sinks, accent tile, lighting, hardware, and a fresh coat of paint can dramatically impact costs while keeping costs manageable. Focus any spending on functional improvements over strictly cosmetic features.
With some creative problem-solving, small non-structural changes remake cramped bathrooms into more inviting, valuable spaces without significant investments.
Calculate Potential Savings with DIY Installs
One of the best ways to reduce bathroom renovation costs in Canada is by taking on do-it-yourself installation and finishing work wherever possible—handling tasks like demolition, tile setting, fixture replacement, trim, painting, and more on your cuts significant labor fees.
Watch online video tutorials to guide your DIY work. Shop discount home improvement warehouses like Home Depot and Lowe’s for quality materials at lowered costs. Rent equipment for demolition, like jackhammers.
Be realistic about your skill level. Bring in contractors for any necessary plumbing, electrical, framing, or structural work. But costs add up quickly; by paying pros to hang drywall, paint, or install flooring, you can handle yourself with proper preparation.
Factor in expenses for tools, equipment rentals, disposal fees, and learning curve errors into the investment. The hands-on work takes more time yet cuts project costs by roughly 30%.
Even if you hire out most of the renovation but purchase materials yourself, you can save substantially. Just focus DIY efforts where it makes sense for your abilities. The combination approach balances cost savings with quality.
Research Average Costs for Shower Remodels
One of the most popular bathroom upgrade projects is converting an existing tub into a walk-in shower. Walk-in showers appeal for more accessible, safer access, and flexible design options. But this change does add significant cost.
According to the leading contractor network RenoMark, converting a standard bathtub to a basic shower typically runs $9,000-$15,000. This includes the removal of the tub and necessary plumbing work to supply the new battery.
More elaborate walk-in showers with tile, glass doors, built-in seating, niches, and other upgrades can cost $15,000-$30,000 or more. The range gives flexibility.
When budgeting, get multiple quotes to compare pricing between local contractors. Search for sales on fixtures and materials at home improvement stores during year-end clearance events. Focus spending on structural elements like plumbing over luxury finishes to control expenses.
If tiling only the shower area, stick to basic and affordable floor tile rather than intricate designs. Remaining open to material substitutions also helps lower quotes.
Consider Waiting for Off-Season Savings
One insider tip to save on bathroom remodels is timing projects during the slower fall and winter months when contractor rates are lower and potential discounts are higher.
Many remodeling contractors offer 10% or more off labor on bath renovations scheduled in the off-season when their demand quiets after the busy spring/summer rush. Smaller crews charging less per hour also have more availability.
Builder surplus outlets like Habitat for Humanity ReStores sell quality used and overstocked building materials, fixtures, sinks, tile, and more at 50-80% discounts year-round for thrifty finds.
Waiting until late fall to start renovations skips the highest demand periods when contractors are overly booked, and materials are at full retail pricing. Sales of home improvement items also increase during off-peak seasons.
Just make allowances for potential weather or holiday slowdowns. With strategic timing and flexibility, scheduling bathroom remodels in autumn or winter can reduce costs.
Conclusion
In 2023, intelligent bathroom remodeling in Canada balances usefulness, aesthetics, and affordability. Start small by reconfiguring existing layouts and replacing elements like sinks or lighting. Take on DIY work to reduce labor fees significantly. Save on materials by buying discounted or reusable items. Compare contractor quotes and time projects for off-season discounts. Careful planning allows you to transform your bathroom beautifully within a reasonable budget. Focus on spending on necessities over luxury extras. A thoughtful, cost-conscious remodel improves function and comfort.
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