Bathrooms and kitchens are the most used rooms in a home and the ones that need the most planning to renovate. A process that follows the right order protects your budget and shortens the disruption at home.

1. Site visit and wish list

The first step is to see the space and clarify expectations. Note your needs for storage, lighting, counter space and daily habits. Separating must-haves from nice-to-haves makes budget decisions easier.

2. Design and layout

Keeping sinks, showers and stoves where the water and gas lines already are lowers the cost noticeably. If the layout changes, plumbing and electrical work are added to the project.

3. Choosing materials

• Countertops: marble, quartz or laminate
• Floors and walls: ceramic, porcelain, natural stone
• Cabinets, fixtures and lighting

Choosing and ordering materials before work starts keeps supply delays from disrupting the schedule.

4. Permits

Projects with structural changes, new plumbing or electrical work may need a municipal building permit, and electrical work also needs a notification to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). See our article on renovation permits in Ontario.

5. Order of work

• Demolition and preparation
• Plumbing and electrical rough-in
• Walls, floors and waterproofing
• Tile and finishes
• Cabinets, countertops and fixtures
• Paint, caulking and final checks

What drives the budget?

• The size and current condition of the space
• Whether the layout changes
• The quality of the materials you choose
• Hidden issues found during demolition (moisture, old plumbing)

We recommend setting aside part of the budget for surprises. Contact us for a free estimate for your project.