10 Mistakes to Avoid During a Bathroom Renovation in Toronto

1. 10 Mistakes to Avoid During a Bathroom Renovation in Toronto Introduction Are you in the planning stages of a bathroom renovation in Toronto? It is a thrilling opportunity, but if you are not careful, to make a minor mistake, one that turns into a costly and expensive problem. Many homeowners jump in without having much knowledge of what they are doing, only to find themselves frustrated by delays, costs, or poor quality results that do not match up to the vision. In this blog we will outline the top 10 bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid in Toronto in order for you to plan wisely, be budget conscious, and create a space that is both attractive and functional for many years to come. Whether you are doing a complete renovation of your bathroom or simply changing a few things up - these tips will help you avoid the common mistakes and ensure a successful renovation project. 1. Failing to Budget & Plan for Hidden Costs

2. Not setting a proper budget, or planning for hidden costs, is one of the biggest bathroom renovation mistakes Toronto homeowners make! You can expect a bathroom remodel in Toronto to cost anywhere from $15,000 - $30,000, depending on the size of the bathroom, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the job. The rub is that many homeowners overlook that additional costs may arise during the renovation process - totally unexpected issues like old, damaged plumbing that needs to be upgraded or fixes for potential water damage. If you do not include the money required to fix plumbing and electrical issues, it can end up costing you thousands of dollars more than your original budget.'' To limit the potential for surprises, be sure to always have a contingency budget of 10 – 20% of your total renovation budget in reserve so that you can manage any surprises or additional expenses that arise during your renovation without going over your budget. Additionally, be sure to keep in mind that any permit fees or additional delivery costs also need to be factored into your budget - as well as costs for hiring qualified tradespeople! You can't plan for every cost, but by budgeting realistically and with some flexibility for errors and changes you can keep your renovation on target, and keep from making cuts that you will ultimately regret! 2. Skipping Permit Applications & Code Compliance Ignoring local building codes or skipping the permit process is one of the most serious bathroom renovation mistakes Toronto homeowners can make. Here’s why this step is critical: ● Permits Are Legally Required in Toronto If you are renovating with plumbing or electrical work, or any structural changes (such as moving walls), you need a building permit from the City of Toronto. Failure to obtain a building permit could result in fines, delays, and even removing completed work. ● Inspections Protect Your Investment Permits include city inspections, which help catch unsafe wiring, poor plumbing, or ventilation issues before they become expensive problems later on. ● Unpermitted Work Can Affect Resale Value If you're looking to sell your home, unlicensed renovations may not only decrease the value of your property or / hold-up your sale, potential future buyers may have to confirm all improvements are in accordance with the GTA building by-laws. ● Your Insurance Might Not Cover Damage Home insurance policies may not cover damage caused by unpermitted work. That means if something goes wrong, you could be left paying the full cost of repairs. ● Working with a Licensed Contractor Simplifies the Process Reputable bathroom renovation companies in Toronto, such as BathGuys, take care of

3. the permit process for you. They will also make sure that all work is done in accordance with the Ontario Building Code so that you can take comfort in knowing everything is done professionally. 3. Neglecting Moisture Management & Ventilation Moisture management is one of the most overlooked bathroom renovation blunders in Toronto—especially considering the city's high humidity in the summer and extended winters that limit airflow. Here is what every homeowner should know: ● Toronto’s Humidity Requires Proper Ventilation Bathrooms in the GTA are exposed to daily steam and moisture. Without proper ventilation, this creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and peeling paint. ● Install an Exhaust Fan with the Right CFM Rating The Ontario Building Code encourages the use of exhaust fan rated for a minimum of 100 CFM (cubic feet per minute) for bathrooms that have a shower. Because of modern technology, you may want to consider a model that has a humidity sensor designed to be fully automatic. ● Position the Fan Correctly The fan should be placed near the shower or bathtub—not above the toilet—to effectively remove moist air. Ducting should vent outside the home, not into the attic or crawlspace. ● Use Moisture-Resistant Materials Use cement board instead of drywall in wet areas, and select a mold resistant paint for walls and ceilings. It will mitigate long-term risks of mold and moisture damage while offering long-term viability in damp conditions. ● Allow for Natural Airflow Where Possible If your bathroom has a window, opening it after showers can help reduce moisture buildup. Even a few minutes of fresh air makes a difference. ● Skipping Ventilation Can Void Warranties Some material and fixture warranties become void if a manufacturer finds mold or water damage that is attributed to inadequate ventilation. Don't take the risk; the importance of ventilation equals that of design. 4. Underestimating Waterproofing Essentials Many homeowners are misled into believing that tiling alone will help to maintain adequate waterproofing in their bathroom. In reality, not doing the proper waterproofing is one of the most expensive bathroom renovation mistakes in Toronto. Here is what you need to know: ● Tiles Are Not Waterproof—They’re Water-Resistant Ceramic and porcelain tiles are resistant to some moisture, but they do not prevent any

4. from getting through. If you do not have a waterproof membrane beneath, left unattended, moisture can damage your subfloor or walls over time. ● Toronto’s Moisture Conditions Demand Extra Protection Due to seasonal humidity and temperature changes, bathrooms in the GTA are more prone toleaks, mold, and structural damage if not sealed correctly. ● Use Waterproof Membranes Behind Showers and Tubs Install awaterproofing membrane or backer board behind all wet zones—including the shower walls, floors, and niches. Products like Schluter® or RedGard® are excellent choices. ● Seal All Gaps, Joints, and Corners Areas around fixtures, shower benches, or transitions between floor and wall must be sealed properly using waterproof tape and caulk to prevent water from leaking through tiny cracks. ● A Leaking Shower Can Lead to Costly Repairs It can take months for water damage to manifest itself, but when damage does emerge, the expense of rotting wood, mold and cracked grout can be thousands more than the cost of doing it right immediately. ● Professional Waterproofing Is a Must Don’t rely on DIY methods for waterproofing. Working with a licensed bathroom renovator in Toronto ensures the job is done according to local standards and protects your investment. Proper waterproofing is the foundation of a long-lasting renovation. Skipping this step may save money upfront but can cost much more in the long run. 5. Cramming Too Much into a Small Space While it may seem appealing to cram everything into a compact bathroom, you usually end up with a cramped, awkward, and uncomfortable space. This is a common bathroom renovation mistake Toronto homeowners make – especially in older homes, where bathrooms were usually designed to be small. ● A Cluttered Layout Reduces Functionality Using large vanities, double sinks, or big tubs in a small bathroom can create annoying delays when daily use. Look for way use the space more efficiently to improve movement and usability. ● Respect Minimum Clearance Requirements Building codes set forth by industry standards usually require at least 21 inches of clear space in front of toilets and vanities. Failure to comply with building codes can negatively influence comfort, as well as potentially violate building codes.

5. ● Smaller Fixtures Can Make a Big Difference Choose space-saving solutions like wall-mounted toilets, floating vanities, and corner sinks. These designs open up floor space and make the bathroom feel larger. ● Built-In Storage Is Better Than Bulky Cabinets Use recessed shelves, niches in the shower wall, or built-in medicine cabinets to keep storage functional without sacrificing square footage. ● Toronto Buyers Value Smart Design If resale is a consideration, buyers will care about how the layout feels; open and usable versus cramped with stuff. A well-designed small bathroom will enhance space and desirability. Smart design is essential when remodeling small bathrooms in Toronto. Rather than overwhelming the space with features, think about the conscious layouts to create spaces that feel large and functional for everyday living. 6. Overemphasis on Style over Function While creating a stylish bathroom is absolutely critical, one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during a bathroom renovation in Toronto is getting too lost in this way of thinking and eliminating practicality and logistics. A trendy and stylish design element — such as a vessel sink, a stand alone tub or a contemporary tile layout — may look great on Pinterest, but if it doesn't fit your space or your everyday lifestyle, it may lead to everyday annoyances in your new space. For example, a wall mounted faucet may be a sleek choice, but if selected at the wrong height, or not selected to match the size of the sink, it could create excessive splashing with every use and may cause frost damage over time when water drips down the wall. During your renovation planning process, consider how the bathroom needs to function on a day-to-day basis. Beyond aesthetic choices, consider storage, lighting and practicality of cleaning, before making your final decisions. In Toronto's competitive real estate market, buyers will appreciate collections of functional layouts balanced with stylish choices when they are range touring properties. The best bathroom renovations are a combination of form and function; they create a space that will look good and work well for the next generation of home occupants. 7. Choosing the Wrong Materials Choosing the wrong materials is another costly bathroom renovation error Toronto homeowners commonly make—particularly in an attempt to save money. Bathrooms are some of the "wettest" rooms in the house. When homeowners use materials not designed to perform in heavy moisture, it can lead to damage, mold, and premature wear. Natural wood cabinets can create a very upscale look in a bathroom, but if they're not sealed properly they can warp or rot. Use moisture-resistant materials, instead, such as quartz countertops, porcelain or ceramic tiles, and PVC or laminate vanities. These will not only look great, but they can stand up against

6. humidity and heavy usage. Do not use cheap grout, or low quality caulking, either; they are prone to cracking over time and allowing water to penetrate. Toronto has four seasons; from damp winters to humid summers, we need durable, cleanup friendly materials, that will hold up in all seasons. If you are going to spend your money on a bathroom renovation... equip it with good materials in the first place to limit devastating repairs and your bathroom will be functional and aesthetic for years to come. 8. Poor Lighting & Inadequate Outlets Bad lighting and not enough outlets are two easily missed bathroom renovation blunders that will be a source of constant embarrassment in Toronto homes. A beautiful space can lose its allure quickly if it is too dark or lack of usable light that families expect today. Good bathroom lighting should feature a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting to develop a bright, safe and comfortable space. With the reliance of a single ceiling fixture, annoyingly, the lighting can produce shadows around all of the mirror tasks including, shaving, make up etc. Not only poor lighting, but electrical outlets, likely the least thought after feature, can be used poorly or placed in very unsightly areas. You will likely short-change your future use of electric grooming tools or battery of a device, when you delicately deal with the lack of placement. When it comes to outlets, always add GFCI protected outlets (this is a requirement for the room as a wet area), and it is wise to have even an outlet in a vanity drawer if not installed to the actual vanity - for no-visible cord place use. Verticality is everything in small spaces such as Toronto bathrooms, so considering a luxurious lighting and outlet strategy could be transformative to the functionality, usability, and comfort of your bathroom space. 9. DIY in Critical Areas (Plumbing, Tiling, Electrical) One of the biggest bathroom renovation mistakes Toronto homeowners can make is trying to do it yourself when it comes to the complicated trades such as plumbing, tiling, or electrical work. While it may save money upfront to DIY the project, these important parts of the renovation process includes a wide-range of technical knowledge, tools, and compliance with local building codes. A single small mistake like an unsealed pipe or poorly installed tile can result in costly and extensive water damage, mold, or even electrical fire. Furthermore, in Toronto, due to the local bylaws, anything requiring inspections and permits could lead to a fine or other issues if you are selling your home if done unlicensed. Hiring licensed contractors will ensure your bathroom is not only functional and safe, but that it is legal and compliant with the Ontario Building Code. When it comes to the worst-case scenarios, it's always a good idea to leave risky areas of your renovation to licensed tradespeople for peace of mind. 10. Ignoring Future Needs & Universal Design One of the most common bathroom renovation mistakes made by homeowners in Toronto is not thinking about the future. Too often, homeowners think only about today's style and needs, as opposed to how their bathroom will fit their needs years down the road. This is where universal design comes in. Universal design is a design philosophy that strives to keep spaces as safe,

7. accessible and comfortable as possible for people of all ages and abilities. Features like curbless showers, grab bars, non-slip flooring, and doors that are wider than average don't only provide safety, they support aging in place, allowing a person to remain in their home throughout all stages of life. These features could also have a huge impact on a family's quality of life over time and are especially valuable in multi-generational households or for homeowners planning to stay in their home for the long-term. In addition, it is already known that universally designed homes are increasingly attracting buyers in Toronto. As the homeowner real estate market becomes more competitive, and as more and more people purposely seek out homes that are designed with thoughtful layouts, universal design will become an easier way to boost a home's resale value. By planning for the future, you are ensuring your bathroom will always function as intended, safely and beautifully, no matter the life stage. Conclusion Bathroom renovations can truly change the whole house but only if done right. A lot can go wrong when you accomplish bathroom renovations, and this will only waste time, money, and bring you stress. If you avoid the below bathroom renovation mistakes in Toronto, you will succeed! From by far the most important point of budgeting correctly, to the materials, to hiring licensed professionals, all details matter. Knowing how to renovate correctly is especially important in Toronto as there are slightly different building codes, weather, moisture levels, and access to space. When you plan your renovations correctly and hire the right team, like BathGuys, you can truly renovate your bathroom to an aesthetically pleasing look and be functional and strong. Assume you are going to pay the same amount and not more money, so you may as well design smart, hire local, and future ready design, while creating a bathroom that serves you now and in the future.