Are you thinking about remodeling your bathroom but unsure where to start? A full bathroom renovation can dramatically improve your home’s value, functionality, and aesthetic—but only when done right. Whether you’re upgrading an outdated layout or turning your ensuite into a personal spa, this guide will walk you through each step of a bathroom gut renovation project from start to finish.
At QualyPlus, we specialize in bathroom makeovers across the GTA and Simcoe County. Our trusted renovation team has completed dozens of full bathroom remodels, and today, we’re sharing the full process so you know what to expect.
Step 1: Planning & Budgeting
Before any tiles come off the wall, the renovation starts with a plan. Ask yourself:
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What is the purpose of the renovation? (Update look, fix problems, increase resale value, etc.)
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Do I need to reconfigure the layout?
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What’s my realistic budget?
Typical bathroom remodels in the GTA can range from $10,000 to $25,000+, depending on size, materials, and scope. Create a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves to stay on track.
Tip:
Hire a contractor early. An experienced team like QualyPlus can help you set realistic expectations and avoid costly mistakes.
Step 2: Design and Material Selection
Once your goals and budget are clear, it’s time to design your dream bathroom.
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Choose a style: Modern, minimalist, farmhouse, spa-inspired?
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Pick materials: Tiles, flooring, vanities, fixtures, mirrors, lighting, paint colors.
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Plan storage: Built-in shelving, vanity drawers, or niche cutouts in the shower.
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Decide on features: Heated floors, rain shower, freestanding tub, double sink?
Pro Tip:
Always consider moisture resistance and durability when choosing finishes. Porcelain tiles, waterproof vinyl flooring, and quartz countertops are popular for a reason.
Step 3: Demolition (The “Gut” Phase)
This is where the real transformation begins.
The bathroom is stripped down to the studs: old flooring, drywall, insulation, tub, vanity, toilet—all removed. If you’re dealing with an older home, this is also the time when hidden issues might appear, such as:
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Mold or mildew behind walls
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Water damage
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Outdated or unsafe electrical wiring
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Plumbing not up to code
Safety Note:
Gut renovations should always be handled by licensed professionals to ensure safety, especially when electrical or plumbing is involved.
Step 4: Rough-In Work (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC)
After demolition, your contractor will perform the “rough-in”:
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Plumbing: New pipes installed for the shower, sink, and toilet.
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Electrical: Placement of new lighting, outlets, switches, fans, and heated flooring.
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HVAC: Ventilation upgrades, especially important in bathrooms without windows.
This stage is essential to ensure everything is positioned and installed before closing up the walls.
Step 5: Framing, Insulation & Drywall
Next, any framing changes are made, especially if you’re adding features like niches or expanding the shower. Once framing is complete:
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Moisture-resistant insulation is installed (often Roxul or foam board).
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Followed by green board or cement board drywall, ideal for humid environments.
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The drywall is taped, mudded, sanded, and prepped for paint or tile.
Step 6: Flooring & Tiling
Now the room starts to take shape.
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Flooring is laid down—usually ceramic, porcelain, or luxury vinyl tile.
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Shower walls, backsplashes, and tub surrounds are tiled with precision.
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Waterproofing membranes are applied before tiling to prevent leaks.
This step is labor-intensive but crucial for a polished, professional finish.
Step 7: Painting, Fixtures & Vanity Installation
Once tiling is complete:
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Walls are painted with mold- and mildew-resistant bathroom paint.
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The vanity, sink, and countertop are installed.
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Light fixtures, faucets, mirrors, and towel bars are added.
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If needed, the toilet is set in place.
Design Tip:
Use a neutral palette with one bold accent color for a timeless yet modern look.
Step 8: Final Touches & Cleanup
The final phase involves:
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Caulking and sealing edges
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Installing accessories (soap holders, hooks, shelves)
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Testing all plumbing and electrical
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Final clean-up and debris removal
Before the contractor leaves, a walkthrough is done to ensure everything is perfect. You should receive care instructions and, if applicable, warranty information.
Bonus Step: Enjoy Your New Bathroom!
Congratulations! You’ve just completed a full gut renovation. A high-quality bathroom remodel not only improves your day-to-day comfort but also adds significant value to your property.
Whether you plan to stay in your home for years or are prepping to sell, this investment pays off.
Why Choose QualyPlus for Your Bathroom Renovation?
Experienced Professionals – We’ve remodeled bathrooms all across the Greater Toronto Area
Licensed & Insured – Your home is in safe hands
On Time, On Budget – No surprises, no delays
All-in-One Services – From demo to design, we do it all
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re considering a bathroom renovation and want it done right, the team at QualyPlus is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate. Contact us Today.