Renovating a small bathroom can really give your home a lift when it comes to comfort, storage and just general day to day functionality. But before you start thinking about that new tile, vanity, or shower you want – we often get asked one big question: what’s the cost of a small bathroom renovation in Aurora going to be?
BathBuilt Renovations has been around for nine years now and we’ve helped loads of homeowners in Aurora and the GTA with full bathroom renovations, walk-in shower installations, bathtub installs, custom bathroom vanities, tile work, and making their bathrooms watertight.
Every bathroom is a world unto itself. Your final renovation cost really is influenced by all sorts of factors like the existing layout, the plumbing setup – or what is there to work with, the materials you choose, any new fixtures, how much waterproofing you need to do, the cost of the labour, and just the general condition of the room.
In this guide, you’ll get an idea of what a small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora might look like, what could potentially blow out your budget, and some tips on how to plan your project with fewer surprises along the way.
Quick Answer: Small Bathroom Renovation Cost in Aurora
The cost of a small bathroom renovation in Aurora can range from around $8,000 right up to $30,000+, depending on how much work you need done, what materials you’re using, the layout, the plumbing situation, and what state the bathroom is in when we get started.
If you’re just looking to give the bathroom a bit of a cosmetic update – a fresh coat of paint, maybe some new lighting, some new tile etc. then it might be at the lower end of the range. If, on the other hand, you’re looking to do a full gut job, and get rid of the old bathroom and put in a brand new one with all the bells and whistles then you could be looking at the upper end of that range – or even more.
| Renovation Type | Typical Planning Range |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic bathroom refresh | $8,000–$15,000+ |
| Partial bathroom renovation | $15,000–$20,000+ |
| Full small bathroom renovation | $18,000–$30,000+ |
| Premium or custom renovation | $30,000+ |
Please keep in mind these are rough estimates – not fixed prices – and your actual bathroom renovation cost will depend on all sorts of things like the condition of the bathroom, the layout, the materials you choose, the plumbing situation and whether or not you need any extra waterproofing work done, and what fixtures you decide to go with, the cost of labour, and what’s required of the project.
Why Can a Small Bathroom Renovation Cost More Than Expected?
It’s worth noting that bathroom renovation costs aren’t just about square footage.
A compact bathroom may still need many of the same trades and construction steps as a larger bathroom, including:
- Demolition and disposal
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Waterproofing
- Tile installation
- Flooring
- Vanity installation
- Shower or bathtub installation
- Lighting
- Ventilation
- Finishing work
The thing is many of these costs are based on specific projects that need to be done – like the work needed to move plumbing around. So it’s possible for a small bathroom to sometimes end up costing more per square foot than a bigger bathroom.
The existing layout of the bathroom is also a big player here. If you can keep all the major components – think toilet, sink, tub, shower etc – in roughly the same position, it can sometimes make plumbing and construction work a lot easier.
Small Bathroom Renovation Cost by Project Type
The scope of the renovation is probably one of the biggest factors that will affect your budget. Working out what sort of project you need to do can make a big difference when it comes to estimating your small bathroom renovation costs.
Cosmetic Bathroom Refresh
If all you need to do is give the bathroom a cosmetic update then that can be a very practical option – you can just update the look of the bathroom without having to tear everything out and put it all back in again.
It may include:
- New vanity
- Updated faucet and fixtures
- New mirror
- Updated lighting
- Painting
- Accessories
- Minor flooring improvements
That can be a sensible choice if the existing plumbing, shower or tub, walls and the rest of the major components are still in good condition.
Partial Bathroom Renovation
A partial renovation is a bit more serious – it involves making some bigger changes but still keeping some of the existing components.
For example you might replace the vanity, flooring, tile, lighting, and fixtures but keep the existing bathtub, toilet, or plumbing layout.
That approach can give you a big improvement without having to tear the whole bathroom down and start again.
Full Small Bathroom Renovation
A full renovation is a big job – it involves removing and rebuilding most or all of the existing bathroom.
Depending on the project, this may include:
- Demolition and disposal
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Waterproofing
- Tile installation
- Flooring
- Vanity installation
- Shower or bathtub installation
- Lighting
- Fixtures
- Painting and finishing
BathBuilt provides full bathroom renovation services – from demolition and preparation all the way through to installation and finishing.
Premium or Custom Renovation
A higher-end renovation may include custom or premium materials and features such as:
- Custom vanity
- Premium tile
- Large-format tile
- Frameless glass
- Custom shower features
- Heated flooring
- Premium plumbing fixtures
- Specialty lighting
Of course, making all these choices can increase both the cost of materials and the cost of installation.
Small Bathroom Renovation Cost Breakdown
A number of factors contribute to the final renovation price and the following can help explain why small bathroom renovation costs can vary so much from one project to another.
| Component | Factors That Affect Cost |
|---|---|
| Demolition | Existing finishes and disposal |
| Plumbing | Fixture replacement or relocation |
| Electrical | Lighting, outlets, and ventilation |
| Waterproofing | Wet-area size and system used |
| Tile | Material, size, coverage, and installation |
| Vanity | Stock or custom design |
| Tub or shower | Product type and installation |
| Fixtures | Standard or premium products |
| Flooring | Material and surface preparation |
| Finishing | Paint, trim, mirrors, and accessories |
Plumbing and Layout
Plumbing can be a big cost if you need to re-do fixture locations.
Replacing a vanity where it already sits is a lot simpler than moving the sink to a new wall. That goes for toilets, bathtubs, and showers too.
If you’re happy with the existing layout, it’s probably best to stick with it. It’ll help keep your renovation costs from getting out of hand.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is a major priority when it comes to showers and other wet areas, or else you could end up with a real mess on your hands.
Doing the prep work and waterproofing properly is crucial. It protects the structure behind the tile from moisture, and it saves you from a load of expensive damage down the road. Let’s be real here: it’s not a good idea to cut corners on this just to save a few dollars.
BathBuilt offers bathroom waterproofing services as part of our usual renovation package.
Tile and Flooring
Tile prices can vary quite a bit, depending on the type of tile, the size, the design, and even the kind of installation you need.
Your budget may increase with:
- Larger areas of tile
- Complex patterns
- Decorative layouts
- Detailed shower designs
- Extensive surface preparation
- Premium tile materials
It’s not just the tile itself, either. The installation method and the condition of the surface can all affect how long the job takes and how much labour is involved.
Vanity and Fixtures
Vanities, countertops, sinks, faucets, toilets, shower fixtures, bathtubs, lighting, and all sorts of accessories come in a huge range of price points.
If you’re working with a small bathroom, it’s especially important to pick the right vanity. A compact single-sink vanity or a floating one can make a big difference in keeping the space looking open and uncrowded, while still giving you storage.
BathBuilt can put together custom vanity solutions to fit your space and storage needs. We’ll work around what you need, not against it.
How Much Does a 5×7 or 5×8 Bathroom Renovation Cost?
A 5×7 bathroom is around 35 square feet, and a 5×8 bathroom comes in at roughly 40 square feet.
But don’t make the mistake of thinking square footage alone decides the price. The small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora depends far more on the work being done than on the size of the room.
| Bathroom Size | Approximate Area | Main Cost Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 5×7 bathroom | 35 sq. ft. | Renovation scope, layout, materials, and labour |
| 5×8 bathroom | 40 sq. ft. | Renovation scope, layout, materials, and labour |
For example, a 5×7 or 5×8 bathroom where you keep the existing plumbing layout, do limited demolition, and just update the finishes may need a smaller budget than a complete renovation.
But a full renovation that involves new waterproofing, new tile, plumbing and electrical work, a new vanity, a new shower or tub, plus all the fixtures can cost a lot more.
Rather than working out a price per square foot, it’s better to figure out exactly what work needs to be done and get an itemized estimate to match.
What Can Increase the Cost?
Several factors can push your small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora toward the higher end of the budget.
Moving Plumbing
Moving the toilet, sink, shower, or tub means more plumbing and a bit more construction work.
Changing the Layout
Changing the floor plan can be a whole other ball game too. It can mean more demolition, plumbing, electrical work, and finishing, so it’s simply a bigger job.
Premium Materials
And of course there’s the cost of natural stone, premium tile, custom cabinetry, specialty fixtures, and custom glass, which can all increase material and installation costs.
Custom Features
Custom vanities, shower niches, specialty lighting, heated floors, and detailed tile layouts can all add to the scope of the job.
Hidden Damage
Sometimes, when you start to break down an old bathroom, you can find all sorts of hidden problems behind the walls, floors, tile, and fixtures.
Possible issues include:
- Water damage
- Damaged subfloor
- Older plumbing
- Uneven surfaces
- Deteriorated materials
These problems might not show up until you start ripping things out, and that’s one reason to keep a contingency budget handy.
How to Keep Your Bathroom Renovation Within Budget
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get what you want. Good planning and some sensible choices can make a real difference in keeping costs down.
Keep the Existing Layout When Possible
If the toilet, sink, shower, or tub locations are working for you, just stick with them. It’ll save on plumbing and construction work.
Choose Durable Mid-Range Materials
When it comes to materials, the most important things are durability, moisture resistance, ease of maintenance, appearance, and overall value. Don’t just go for the most expensive option because it’s the most expensive.
Finalize Fixtures Before Construction
Choose your major fixtures and finishes before work starts, not after it gets underway. This can save you a whole lot of trouble, like sizing problems, delays, and last-minute changes along the way.
Compare Detailed Quotes
When comparing contractors, look at the scope of the work and not just the final price.
Ask whether the quote includes:
- Demolition
- Disposal
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Waterproofing
- Tile
- Flooring
- Vanity
- Fixtures
- Labour
- Finishing
Also ask what’s not included and what else you might end up paying for in the end.
Keep a Contingency Budget
Unexpected issues can pop up once demolition starts, and having around 10–15% of your renovation budget set aside for those costs can give you some breathing room.
Small Bathroom Design Ideas That Improve Function
You can still make a small bathroom feel comfortable and practical if you plan the space carefully.
Choose a Space-Saving Vanity
A compact or floating vanity is a good idea. It gives you storage without eating up unnecessary floor space.
Improve Storage
Consider vanity drawers, recessed niches for your toiletries, or a medicine cabinet to keep things tidy. You could also add floating shelves or other built-in storage.
Consider a Walk-In Shower
If the layout allows, a walk-in shower can make the whole space feel a lot more open and give you easier access.
Use Large-Format Tile
Large-format tiles can give your bathroom a clean look with fewer grout lines. Just don’t assume they’ll install themselves. They still need proper surface preparation and professional installation.
Improve Lighting and Ventilation
Good lighting and decent ventilation are a must. Lighting makes a compact bathroom a lot easier to use, and proper ventilation helps manage moisture and humidity.
Choose Fixtures Based on the Room
Before you go out and buy any fixtures, take some time to measure the room. Make sure you’ve got enough space for a vanity, toilet, shower door, tub, or whatever else you’re planning. Door swings, clearances, storage, and walking space all need to be thought through.
Aurora Bathroom Renovation Considerations
The existing conditions in your home and the state of the bathroom can really affect the renovation process and what you end up paying in Aurora.
Older Aurora Homes
Older homes might have aging plumbing, uneven surfaces, previous renovation work, or hidden moisture damage.
Getting an assessment done before construction starts can help spot any potential problems and give you a more realistic idea of what’s involved.
Newer Aurora Homes
Newer homes might not be off the hook either, especially if you want to swap out builder-grade finishes, add more storage, upgrade the shower, or create a more personalized look.
If you stick with the existing layout, you can sometimes save money, especially when the current fixture locations work well.
Condos and Townhomes
If your bathroom is in a condo or managed townhouse complex, first check what renovation requirements the property has before you start.
Depending on the property, you might need to consider approval requirements, work hours, elevator bookings, contractor documentation, insurance, deliveries, and waste disposal.
Do You Need a Permit for a Bathroom Renovation in Aurora?
Permit requirements depend on the work being done.
The Town of Aurora’s Building Division reviews permit applications and does inspections for applicable construction work. Some alteration projects might need separate plumbing approvals or permits, while some minor work might not need a building permit at all.
Requirements can vary from project to project, so be sure to confirm what applies with the Town of Aurora and your renovation contractor before construction begins.
Don’t assume that every bathroom renovation has the same permit requirements. The type and extent of the construction work should be reviewed before the project starts.
Small Bathroom Renovation Process
A typical renovation goes through a few key stages.
1. Consultation and Assessment
First, the existing bathroom is reviewed and you have a chat about your goals, budget, layout, and renovation requirements.
2. Design and Material Selection
Next, the layout, tile, vanity, fixtures, lighting, storage, and other finishes are planned out before construction starts.
3. Demolition and Preparation
Once the old fixtures, flooring, tile, and other materials are removed, you get to see what you’re really dealing with and assess the condition of the exposed surfaces.
4. Plumbing, Electrical, and Waterproofing
Required plumbing and electrical work is finally done, and the wet areas are properly prepared and waterproofed.
5. Tile, Flooring, and Fixture Installation
Tile and flooring go in next, followed by the vanity, shower or tub, toilet, fixtures, lighting, and all the finishing touches.
6. Final Inspection and Cleanup
The finished bathroom gets a final once-over to make sure everything works, looks good, and is squeaky clean.
Common Small Bathroom Renovation Mistakes
Making a few smart choices upfront can save you from unnecessary costs and delays down the road.
- Choosing a contractor only because the quote is cheapest: Compare the complete scope, materials, exclusions, and installation work, not just the price.
- Moving plumbing without considering the cost: Layout changes can add a surprising amount of extra work.
- Cutting costs on waterproofing: Proper waterproofing is a big deal for areas that get wet, so it has to be done right.
- Choosing oversized fixtures: Before you buy anything, always measure the space you’ve got to work with.
- Forgetting storage: Plan your storage early so everyday products don’t take over the bathroom.
- Changing the design during construction: Changing your plans at the last minute can affect your materials, labour, and overall schedule.
Why Choose BathBuilt for Your Aurora Bathroom Renovation?
BathBuilt Renovations has been helping homeowners in Aurora and other GTA communities with their bathroom renovations for almost a decade now, so we know a thing or two about getting it right.
Our services include:
- Full bathroom renovations
- Walk-in shower installation
- Bathtub installation
- Custom bathroom vanities
- Bathroom tile installation
- Bathroom waterproofing
With 9 years of experience, BathBuilt knows that a successful small bathroom renovation comes down to careful planning. You’ve got to think about how every part of the space works together, from the layout and storage to the shower, vanity, lighting, and finishes.
BathBuilt can work with you to evaluate your bathroom, plan out the renovation scope, pick out the materials and fixtures, coordinate all the required work, and see the finishing details through.
The right approach depends on the condition of your bathroom, your goals, and your budget. A consultation can help you work out what needs to get done before you make any renovation decisions.
Final Thoughts
A small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora can run anywhere from around $8,000 to $30,000+, depending on what you’re looking at doing.
The size of the bathroom is only one factor. The layout, plumbing, waterproofing, materials, fixtures, labour, and overall scope of the project can all affect the final cost.
If you want to stay on top of your budget, start by deciding what really needs to change and what can stay the same. Keeping the existing layout where possible, choosing durable materials, planning your fixtures early, comparing itemized quotes, and setting aside a 10–15% contingency can make the renovation a lot easier to manage.
If you’re planning a small bathroom renovation in Aurora, BathBuilt Renovations can help you take a closer look at your space and plan a renovation around your needs, style, and budget.
Ready to plan your small bathroom renovation in Aurora? Contact BathBuilt Renovations for a free consultation and let’s talk about your space, your renovation goals, and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Bathroom Renovation Cost in Aurora
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How much does a small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora?
A small bathroom renovation cost in Aurora can be anywhere from around $8,000 to $30,000+, depending on the scope. A cosmetic update may need a smaller budget, but a full renovation involving demolition, plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, tile, flooring, fixtures, and new finishes can cost a lot more. These figures are planning ranges, not fixed quotes.
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How much does it cost to renovate a 5×7 bathroom?
A 5×7 bathroom is roughly 35 square feet, but the cost of renovating one can vary a lot depending on the work you need done. If you stick with the existing layout and just update the finishes, you’ll probably keep costs down. On the other hand, a full renovation that includes new plumbing, waterproofing, tile, a new vanity, a shower or tub, electrical work, and all the fixtures will generally need a bigger budget.
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How much does it cost to renovate a 5×8 bathroom?
A 5×8 bathroom is approximately 40 square feet. But don’t use that to guess the final cost of the renovation, because two bathrooms of the same size can have very different needs. What matters is the condition of the bathroom, plus the plumbing, the layout, the tile work, the fixtures, the vanity, the waterproofing, and how much labour is needed.
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Is it cheaper to keep the existing bathroom layout?
Often, keeping the existing layout is a smart move, because moving fixtures can mean a lot more plumbing and construction work. If you’re happy with the current toilet, sink, shower, or bathtub locations, then updating the finishes without moving major plumbing can be a more budget-friendly option.
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What is the cheapest way to renovate a small bathroom?
Sticking with the existing layout, choosing durable mid-range materials, planning your fixtures before construction, and comparing detailed quotes can all help you keep costs in check. But don’t cut costs by skipping important work like waterproofing. A low initial price may end up costing you a lot more in the long run if key work is left incomplete.
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Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation in Aurora?
It depends on the work involved. Some projects need a building permit and inspections, while some minor work may not need a building permit at all. Plumbing can have its own set of requirements too, so confirm what applies to your project with the Town of Aurora and your renovation contractor before construction begins.
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How long does a small bathroom renovation take?
The timeline depends on the scope of the project, the materials you’ve chosen, the layout, any custom features, and product availability. A simple update will be a lot quicker than a full renovation that involves demolition, plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, tile, and custom installations. BathBuilt states that complete bathroom renovations generally take approximately 2 to 4 weeks, depending on project complexity and material availability.