This cost breakdown covers a primary ensuite renovation in a 2005-built Barrhaven home. The existing bathroom had a builder-grade vanity, tub/shower combo with acrylic surround, basic tile floor, and dated lighting. The homeowners wanted a spa-like retreat with a walk-in shower, floating vanity, heated floors, and modern finishes. Project scope: Remove tub/shower combo and replace with curbless walk-in shower, install new floating vanity with quartz top, porcelain tile throughout, in-floor radi...
Demolition and disposal: $1,600 — Removal of tub, vanity, tile, drywall in shower area, and hauling. Plumbing: $3,800 — Rerouting drain for curbless shower with linear drain ($1,800), new shower valve and trim ($600), relocating vanity plumbing for floating mount ($800), and new toilet installation ($600). Waterproofing: $1,200 — Schluter Kerdi waterproofing membrane for shower walls and floor, including corners and curb-free transition. Tile — shower: $3,400 — Large-format porcelain tile (12...
Strategic choices saved approximately $6,000 on this project: Chose a fixed glass panel ($2,400) instead of a frameless hinged door ($4,000–$5,000), saving $1,600–$2,600. The fixed panel provides the same open look with simpler installation. Selected porcelain tile that mimics natural stone ($8–$12/sq ft) instead of actual marble ($20–$40/sq ft), saving $1,500–$3,000 while getting a more durable, maintenance-free surface. Kept the toilet in its existing location, avoiding drain relocation ($1...
The curbless shower with linear drain was the signature feature. The Schluter Kerdi-Line linear drain ($350) paired with a gentle floor slope creates a barrier-free shower that's both beautiful and accessible. The large-format tile with minimal grout lines gives the shower a clean, spa-like appearance. The floating vanity creates visual space by exposing the floor underneath, making the bathroom feel larger. The white oak finish adds warmth against the cool grey tile. Matte black fixtures thro...
Waterproofing is worth every penny. The $1,200 for Schluter Kerdi waterproofing provides peace of mind that the curbless shower won't leak. Cheaper waterproofing methods save a few hundred dollars but create significant risk. Order tile with 15% overage. The homeowners ordered exactly what was estimated and ran short during cutting. An emergency tile order added a week to the project. Always order extra. The heated floor was the best $1,800 spent. In Ottawa's cold winters, stepping onto a warm...
Yes, $28,000 is a solid mid-range primary ensuite renovation. Budget renovations start at $12,000–$15,000, while luxury ensuites can reach $40,000–$50,000. The heated floors and curbless shower add to this project's cost.
4.5 weeks from demolition to final cleanup. The tile work (shower and floor) was the longest phase at about 2 weeks. Plumbing rough-in took 3 days, and fixture installation was completed in 2 days.
The homeowners say it was the single best investment in the entire renovation. At $1,800 installed, the heated floor transforms the bathroom experience during Ottawa's 5+ months of cold weather.
A curbless shower looks more modern, makes the bathroom feel larger, is accessible for aging-in-place, and is easier to clean. The linear drain handles water effectively with proper floor slope, and the waterproofing system prevents leaks.
A plumbing permit ($300–$400) is required if you're relocating plumbing fixtures. If fixtures stay in the same location, a permit typically isn't needed. Electrical permits may be needed for new circuits.