What Affects the Cost of a Bathroom Renovation?
A Nova Scotia Homeowner's Guide to Renovation Costs, Upgrades & Ways to Save
Important note: All photos in this article are from real projects that Beautiful Baths Renovations have completed, for real clients.
Planning a bathroom renovation? One of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How much is this going to cost?”
The answer isn’t always straightforward.
Two bathrooms that look nearly identical can have surprisingly different renovation costs. The size of the room, materials selected, plumbing configuration, age of the home, and even the building’s location can all influence the final price.
At Beautiful Baths Renovations, we’ve been helping Nova Scotia homeowners renovate their bathrooms since 1994. Over the years, we’ve learned that some of the biggest cost differences come from details homeowners might not initially consider.
The good news? There are often ways to keep renovation costs under control without sacrificing the appearance, comfort, or functionality of your new bathroom.
In this guide, we’ll explain what affects bathroom renovation costs, which upgrades tend to increase your budget, and where you may be able to save.
1. Your Choice of Materials Makes a Big Difference
One of the biggest factors affecting bathroom renovation costs is the materials you choose.
From shower walls and flooring to faucets and vanities, there are options available for almost every budget.
Tile vs. Acrylic Shower Walls
Tile showers offer tremendous flexibility in colour, pattern, and design. However, they are also considerably more labour-intensive to install.
A tiled shower typically requires additional preparation, waterproofing, tile cutting, installation, grouting, and finishing.
Acrylic shower wall systems, on the other hand, are designed to provide an attractive, durable, and easy-to-maintain finish with a generally more straightforward installation process. Acrylic shower wall systems can typically be installed in as little as one day.
Based on our experience, a fully installed tiled shower wall and base system typically costs approximately twice as much as a comparable acrylic shower wall and base system.
This comparison is for the installed walls and shower base, not the complete bathroom renovation.
For homeowners looking for an attractive shower without the additional expense of tile, acrylic wall systems can offer excellent value.
We also offer our Chello Wall System, another alternative to traditional tile that provides a modern, low-maintenance shower surround.
If cost is a factor, we typically recommended using acrylic for a bath/shower surround.
Flooring: Tile vs. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
Ceramic and porcelain tile are popular bathroom flooring choices, but they often require more installation labour and floor preparation.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) can be a cost-effective alternative, offering a wide variety of attractive styles and a generally faster installation process.
The best choice depends on the condition of the existing floor, the product selected, and the homeowner’s preferences.
If cost is a factor, we typically recommended using a vinyl floor material.
Vanity Materials and Construction
Bathroom vanities are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and construction materials.
A basic manufactured vanity can be significantly more affordable than a premium solid-wood or custom-built unit.
Materials such as MDF, plywood, and solid wood each have different characteristics and price points. Cabinet construction, countertop material, hardware, and storage features also influence the final cost.
Our advice: Decide which features matter most to you. A well-chosen, moderately priced vanity can look beautiful without consuming a large portion of your renovation budget.
2. Chrome Is Your Friend!
This is one of our favourite pieces of advice for homeowners trying to keep renovation costs reasonable.
Chrome faucets and shower fixtures are widely available, come in an enormous variety of styles, and are often among the most affordable options.
If you’re considering matte black, brushed nickel, brushed gold, or another specialty finish, be prepared for potentially higher prices and fewer available product choices.
Specialty finishes can look fantastic, but they sometimes come at a premium.
The additional cost may also extend beyond your shower faucet. If you want matching towel bars, shower door hardware, drains, and other accessories, those choices can add up.
Money-saving tip: Choosing chrome fixtures throughout your bathroom is often one of the simplest ways to reduce costs while maintaining a coordinated, attractive appearance.
3. Size and Shape: Standard vs. Custom
Not all bathtubs, showers, vanities, etc. are created equal.
Standard-sized bathtubs and shower bases generally have more readily available options for replacement products, wall systems, and shower doors.
Unusual dimensions or configurations can make renovations more complicated.
For example, certain larger bathtub sizes, such as 72″ × 36″, may have a much more limited selection of compatible replacement products.
In some cases, a custom-sized shower base, specialty wall materials, or a custom glass enclosure may be required.
These products can be more expensive and may involve longer lead times.
Money-saving tip: Whenever possible, consider using standard-sized products. They often provide more choices, better availability, and more competitive pricing.
4. Shower Doors vs. Shower Curtains
A glass shower door can make a bathroom feel modern, spacious, and polished.
However, glass doors are also a significant upgrade compared with a simple shower curtain.
For many of our projects, adding a glass shower door or enclosure can increase the cost by approximately $1,200–$2,000 compared with using a shower curtain.
The exact difference depends on several factors, including:
Sliding vs. hinged doors
Framed vs. frameless designs
Glass thickness
Clear, frosted, fluted, or other decorative glass
Hardware finishes
Standard vs. custom dimensions
Glass shower doors can be a worthwhile investment, particularly when appearance and ease of access are priorities.
But if keeping costs down is important, a shower curtain is a practical and affordable option.
5. How Many Shower Faucets Do You Really Need?
A standard shower typically has one showerhead and a straightforward faucet configuration.
But today’s showers can include a wide range of additional features:
Rainfall showerheads
Handheld showerheads on slide bars
Body sprays
Multiple showerheads
Separate temperature and volume controls
These features can create a luxurious showering experience, but they also increase the cost of materials and plumbing labour.
A shower with a rainfall head, handheld shower, and body sprays may require additional valves, plumbing connections, and careful planning to ensure the system functions properly.
It’s not simply a matter of purchasing a few extra showerheads.
Money-saving tip: A quality standard showerhead, or a simpler combination shower system, can provide an excellent showering experience without the complexity of multiple independent fixtures.
6. Moving Plumbing Can Get Expensive
Keeping plumbing fixtures in their existing locations is often one of the best ways to control renovation costs.
Moving a showerhead or faucet may be relatively straightforward in some situations, while relocating a toilet or bathtub drain can be considerably more complicated.
Moving a Toilet
Toilets connect to relatively large drain pipes beneath the floor.
Moving a toilet may require changes to the drainage system, floor structure, and surrounding plumbing.
If the bathroom has a concrete floor, the work can become even more involved.
That’s why we generally recommend keeping toilets in their existing locations whenever practical.
Adding New Plumbing
Installing a shower where there wasn’t one before, adding additional faucets, or moving fixtures to different walls can all increase costs.
The type of construction matters too… Working with accessible plumbing beneath a wood-framed floor can be very different from installing new plumbing beneath concrete.
Money-saving tip: If your existing bathroom layout works well, keeping the major plumbing fixtures in place can save a considerable amount of labour.
7. Freestanding Bathtubs Aren’t Always Simple
Freestanding bathtubs are a popular choice for homeowners looking to create a luxurious bathroom.
However, the installation details can affect the cost significantly.
Some freestanding tubs require specialty drains or faucet configurations.
Deck-mounted faucets can be particularly challenging when access beneath or behind the bathtub is limited.
Certain Roman tub faucets also require expensive rough-in valves and additional plumbing work.
Installing a floor-mounted bathtub faucet in a concrete floor can be another costly undertaking.
Before selecting a freestanding bathtub, it’s important to consider not only the price of the tub itself but also how it will be installed and serviced.
8. Windows Inside the Shower
A window located within a bathtub or shower area introduces additional considerations.
Windows in wet areas require careful waterproofing and finishing to protect the surrounding structure from moisture.
Depending on the window’s location, size, and existing condition, additional materials and labour may be required.
In some cases, the window trim, sill, or surrounding wall may need to be modified.
While a shower window can provide wonderful natural light, it’s important that the area is properly protected against water intrusion.
9. Removing Large One-Piece Tub and Shower Units
Many homes have large, one-piece or interlocking fiberglass tub and shower units.
These units can present additional challenges during renovations.
Unlike a conventional bathtub surrounded by finished walls, some of these units were installed before the surrounding walls and ceilings were fully finished.
When the old unit is removed, there may be exposed framing, missing drywall, or unfinished areas that need to be rebuilt before the new shower can be installed.
This can require additional framing, drywall, wall preparation, and finishing materials.
As a result, replacing a large one-piece unit can involve more work than homeowners initially expect.
10. Complicated Tile Patterns Require More Labour
Not all tile installations require the same amount of time.
Large rectangular tiles installed in a straightforward pattern are often less labour-intensive than intricate mosaic designs.
Smaller tiles, unusual shapes, and complicated layouts can require more cutting, measuring, alignment, and finishing.
Examples include:
Hexagon tiles
Penny-round mosaics
Herringbone patterns
Geometric and polygon-shaped tiles
Decorative borders and intricate layouts
These designs can look fantastic, but the additional labour and precision can increase installation costs.
The same applies to tiled shower floors, particularly when slopes, drains, and waterproofing details require careful attention.
Money-saving tip: If you love decorative tile, consider using it as an accent rather than throughout the entire bathroom.
11. Painting, Drywall, and Finish Carpentry
Bathroom renovations sometimes involve more than replacing fixtures.
Depending on the scope of the project, additional finishing work may be required.
Painting
If your renovation involves new drywall or repairs to existing walls, painting may be necessary.
Some homeowners choose to complete the painting themselves to help reduce costs.
Drywall Repairs
Drywall installation and finishing can be surprisingly labour-intensive.
Properly repairing walls often requires multiple stages of preparation, taping, compound application, sanding, and drying time.
Trim and Crown Moulding
Detailed finish carpentry, including crown moulding and decorative trim, requires skilled workmanship.
Working with delicate existing trim or matching complicated profiles can add considerable time to a renovation.
Money-saving tip: Discuss which finishing tasks are included in your renovation estimate and whether there are any suitable tasks you’d prefer to handle yourself.
12. Older Homes Can Have Hidden Surprises
Nova Scotia has plenty of beautiful older homes, and renovating them can sometimes reveal unexpected conditions.
Behind the walls or beneath the floors, contractors may discover:
Older plumbing materials
Water damage
Deteriorated framing or subfloors
Uneven walls and floors
Previous renovations that weren’t completed properly
Materials that may contain asbestos
These conditions aren’t always visible during the initial estimate.
If suspected asbestos-containing materials are discovered, appropriate assessment and safe handling procedures may be required before work continues.
Additional repairs or remediation can affect both the renovation budget and the project timeline.
This doesn’t mean renovating an older home is necessarily expensive. It simply means homeowners should understand that some hidden conditions may only become apparent once demolition begins.
Our advice: When renovating an older bathroom, it’s wise to allow some flexibility in your budget for unexpected discoveries.
13. Condominiums Can Be More Complicated Than Houses
Renovating a bathroom in a condominium can involve additional challenges that have little to do with the bathroom itself.
Condominium buildings may have specific requirements concerning:
Renovation approvals and documentation
Contractor insurance and building access
Parking and material deliveries
Elevator bookings
Noise restrictions and permitted working hours
Debris removal
Coordination with building management
Use of building-approved or designated plumbers
Some buildings require certain plumbing work to be performed by their own designated tradespeople.
This can create additional scheduling challenges and coordination time.
Even a relatively straightforward bathroom renovation may require more planning and labour when access is restricted.
Our advice: If you live in a condominium, review your building’s renovation requirements before beginning the planning process. Sharing this information with your contractor early can help avoid unexpected delays.
14. Your Home’s Location Can Affect Renovation Costs
Where your home is located can also influence the final price.
Travel distance, transportation of materials, accessibility, and the availability of local services can all affect the amount of time required to complete a project.
Homes in remote areas or locations with difficult access may involve additional transportation and logistical considerations.
Beautiful Baths serves Halifax Regional Municipality and many surrounding Nova Scotia communities like Truro, Kentville, Bridgewater, and most of Mainland Nova Scotia. The specifics of each location and project are considered when preparing an estimate.
Where Can You Save Money on a Bathroom Renovation?
Not every beautiful bathroom needs premium materials and expensive upgrades.
Some of the most attractive renovations are built around practical choices that provide excellent value.
Here are a few of our favourite ways to keep costs under control:
| Instead of… | Consider… |
|---|---|
| Matte black, gold, brushed nickel, etc. | Classic chrome fixtures |
| Fully tiled shower walls and base | Acrylic or Chello SMC |
| Custom-sized shower products | Standard-sized fixtures where practical |
| Expensive glass shower enclosure | Shower curtain |
| Multiple showerheads and body sprays | Standard or simpler combination shower fixtures |
| Relocating toilets and drains | Keeping existing plumbing locations |
| Intricate mosaic tile throughout | Simpler tile layouts or selective accent tile |
| Contractor-completed painting | Homeowner painting, where appropriate |
| Custom-built vanity | Quality manufactured vanity |
Of course, saving money doesn’t always mean choosing the cheapest product.
Some upgrades may be worth the additional investment, particularly when they improve accessibility, durability, comfort, or long-term usability.
The goal is to find the right balance for your home and budget.
Where Is It Worth Spending More?
While controlling costs is important, there are certain areas where cutting corners can create problems later.
Proper waterproofing, suitable plumbing materials, sound structural repairs, and quality installation are essential to a successful bathroom renovation.
Accessibility upgrades may also be worthwhile for homeowners planning to remain in their homes as they age.
And sometimes, spending more on a particular product or feature makes sense simply because it’s something you’ll appreciate every day.
Our philosophy is simple: Save money where it makes sense, and invest in the things that matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do two similar bathroom renovations have different prices?
Even bathrooms with similar layouts can require different amounts of preparation, plumbing, waterproofing, finishing, and installation labour. Existing conditions and product choices can significantly affect the final cost.
Is a tiled shower more expensive than an acrylic shower?
Generally, yes. Based on our experience, a fully installed tiled shower wall and base system typically costs approximately twice as much as a comparable acrylic system. The exact difference depends on size, design, materials, and site conditions.
How much more does a glass shower door cost than a curtain?
For many of our projects, a glass shower door or enclosure adds approximately $1,200–$2,000 compared with using a shower curtain. Specialty glass, custom dimensions, and premium hardware can affect the cost.
Is it cheaper to keep my bathtub or shower in the same location?
Often, yes. Keeping major plumbing fixtures in their existing locations can reduce the need for additional plumbing work and structural modifications.
Are bathroom renovations more expensive in older homes?
Not necessarily, but older homes can have hidden conditions that require additional work. Outdated plumbing, water damage, uneven surfaces, and potentially hazardous materials can all affect renovation costs.
Can I do some of the work myself to save money?
Depending on the project, homeowners may be able to complete certain finishing tasks, such as painting. It’s important to coordinate any homeowner-completed work with your contractor so it doesn’t interfere with the installation schedule or warranty responsibilities.
Planning a Bathroom Renovation in Nova Scotia?
Every bathroom is different, and the best way to understand your renovation costs is to have an experienced professional assess your space and discuss your goals.
At Beautiful Baths Renovations, we help homeowners explore their options, compare materials, and find practical solutions that suit their needs and budgets.
Whether you’re considering a straightforward bathtub replacement, a new walk-in shower, or a complete bathroom renovation, we’re happy to help you get started.
Ready to start your renovation?
Call Beautiful Baths to book your FREE in-home estimate.
CALL: (902) 434-8088
Related Reading
Pricing examples in this article are general estimates based on our renovation experience and are intended for educational purposes. Actual project costs depend on product selection, existing site conditions, project scope, and other factors. Prices are not guaranteed quotations and should be confirmed through a project-specific estimate.