The sound of a rainfall shower, the serene smell of eucalyptus, the warmth of a heated towel — wellness-focused bathrooms that inspire an escape are on the rise. For those looking to turn their own loo into a spa-like sanctuary, it’s a lot easier than you think. By implementing just a few key design elements, you can create a mini luxury spa within the comforts of your own home. 

Water Essentials

Nothing is more luxurious than a bubble bath that’s perfectly warm or basking in an extended hot shower when you need a little ‘me’ time. But if your household is constantly running out of hot water, it might be time to call in the experts at Enercare and switch to a tankless hot water heater. Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to water heaters and a tankless one will ensure your family enjoys continuous hot water supply which is key when creating a spa-like bathroom. Plus, tankless hot water heaters can be 95 percent more efficient at heating water and help reduce energy consumption as they don’t require constant, 24/7 heating. And by choosing an Enercare rental option, you can focus on relaxing at home while their experts take care of any repairs over the life of the equipment.

Small Bathroom Luxury

If you’re considering a bathroom renovation in 2024, don’t sleep on wet rooms. Popular in Europe for some time, wet rooms are becoming more common in North America and a selling feature for homebuyers. So, what exactly are they? Designed to be completely waterproof, the drainage design of wet rooms remove the need for an enclosed shower, creating a zero-entry oasis for your shower-bathtub combination. Not only do wet rooms provide a level of accessibility greatly appreciated for resale, they also allow for the beautiful element of steam to be a part of your bathing experience. Plus, the less segmented design of wet rooms can help maximize space for those seeking small bathroom solutions.

Related: The Best Cheap Storage Ideas for Your Small Bathroom

Room To Relax

The bathroom should be a place to decompress from the outside world and simply be ourselves. Given the wrong lighting, we risk losing the spa-like energy we’ve worked so hard to cultivate. When redesigning your bathroom, do not let lighting become an afterthought. Back-lit mirrors, under-vanity lighting, sconces and pendant lights can do wonders to help you create an atmosphere suitable for everything from getting ready in the morning to calm nights in the bath. Your future eyes will thank you.

A Promising Palette

Though subjective, a basic white-on-white colour palette doesn’t exactly translate to ‘relaxing at-home spa.’ Instead, we’re opting for soothing bathroom colours — ‘colours’ being the keyword. We’re parting ways (at least for now) with classic white subway tile and instead opting for soft blues, greens and natural tones. We’re also choosing warm wood features that resemble a Nordic spa. Smaller bathrooms provide the opportunity to be bold, so be open to a plethora of colours and textures.

Related: Property Brothers Bathrooms That Were Transformed From Outdated to Outstanding

That Spa Feeling

Replicating that post-spa glow at home might seem next to impossible, but it’s a lot easier to accomplish when you have a water softener installed. Water softeners ensure your water cleans better by reducing scaley build-up, which means you won’t have to worry about clogged pores or hair and skin being stripped of its natural moisture. Plus, water softeners prolong the life of your bathroom by keeping plumbing free of debris and other junk so you’ll save money, too (and avoid harsh chemical cleaners). So, if cleaner water is what you’re after, be sure to check out Enercare’s water softener systems, which cover installation and repairs by the experts.

Invigorate Your Senses

Creating a spa-like feeling in your bathroom requires activating all five senses. Several studies have proven that smell can have a powerful impact on our mood and more specifically, that the smell of lavender can have a relaxing effect and reduce symptoms of stress. Introduce aromatherapy into your bathroom design by adding a diffuser with your favourite essential oils or place fresh eucalyptus in the shower. Opting for aloe, lavender or bamboo plants can help purify the air and create more of an ambience, too.

Less Is More

The last thing your bathroom spa needs is clutter. Keep any bathroom decor completely functional and to the point. Instead of knick-knacks with no purpose, keep plush towels on display (follow this step-by-step guide to roll your towels like a spa) and have spa-like amenities at your fingertips. A glimpse of Epsom salts or bubble bath may inspire you to indulge more frequently in some well-deserved escapism.

Need more spa bathroom decor ideas? Take inspiration from these Luxe Canadian spas. 

Spacious Quarters

Add a little more luxe to your daily routine by giving yourself the gift of your own space. If room dimensions allow for it, double vanities are a no-brainer when it comes to bathroom design and provide ample room for the things you love. Create a functional yet inviting area by utilizing cabinets that can be home to everything from your hair dryer to your skin-care regime.

Spa Bath Decor

The solitude found in a bathroom is something that can only be appreciated with years of wisdom. Instead of creating a task-oriented room, try to add areas that encourage stillness. A stool at the vanity or wood bench in the wet room can offer a place to rest and unwind, while a bathtub tray can promote self-care by keeping essentials nearby.

Big (Spa Bathroom) Ideas

With more individuals working and exercising at home, many are investing in their private spaces. There is no limitation to how elaborate your at-home spa can be — steam showers, infrared saunas and even cold plunge pools are being incorporated into bathrooms to help revitalize one’s self without leaving home. When designing your luxurious spa-like bathroom, you’ll want to consider how the latest technology can enhance your design. Heated floors, towel warmers, defogging mirrors, smart toilets and skincare refrigerators can all help you escape the business of life and transform your bathroom into a luxury spa retreat.

Related: Who Needs the Spa? 15 Bathroom Ideas That’ll Leave You in a State of Total Bliss

The flowers are blooming, the leaves are popping out and the days are getting longer. Spring is here, and that means it’s time for Canadians across the country to prepare for their annual spring cleaning chores. Whether it’s decluttering the basement, deep cleaning the kitchen or scouring the bathrooms, we’re here to help you cross off all the items on your spring cleaning checklist while avoiding common mistakes. Don’t let spring cleaning overwhelm you. Follow our advice and you’ll have a clean and tidy home in no time.

Decluttering Done Right

The first step to any successful spring cleaning plan is to take on the clutter. Simplify the process by going room by room. Sort your stuff into three piles: keep, give away and chuck out. Be absolutely ruthless in your decision-making. If you haven’t used something in the past year, get rid of it.

Related: How to Declutter Every Room in Your House (Now’s the Time!)

When it comes to the “keep” pile, invest in some storage bins and shelves. Label everything to ensure each item has a designated spot in your home. This will not only make your rooms look neat and tidy, but it will also make it easier to maintain that tidiness year-round.

Remember to properly dispose of items that can’t be donated or recycled. Most municipalities offer special collection days or a central drop-off for hazardous materials, electronics and other hard-to-recycle items, so check your local guidelines.

Spring Cleaning in the Kitchen

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time for some of the deep cleaning. Start with the rooms that have the most use, like the kitchen and bathrooms. These areas tend to collect the most grime and need a more thorough scrubbing.

Related: The Ultimate Checklist for Your Monthly Kitchen Deep Clean

In the kitchen, focus on the areas like the oven, microwave and refrigerator. Use a combination of baking soda, vinegar and elbow grease to attack tough stains and greasy, built-up residue. Don’t forget to wipe down the inside of your cabinets and drawers as well. While you’re a it, why not take the opportunity to reorganize and simplify your kitchen and pantry?

Related: How to Deep Clean a Dishwasher

Spring Cleaning in the Bathroom

When you move on to cleaning your bathroom, pay special attention to the tile, grout and caulking. These areas are breeding grounds for mould and mildew, so be sure to use a dedicated bathroom cleaner and a scrub brush to get them sparkling clean. Wipe down the vanity, mirrors and other surfaces to complete the job.

Related: Your 10-Step Bathroom Cleaning Routine

Mistakes to Avoid

While spring cleaning can be a rewarding experience (we can hear you snickering), it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can derail your efforts. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Trying to do everything at once: Attempting to complete your entire spring cleaning list in one weekend is a recipe for stress and burnout. Instead, break it down into manageable tasks and address them one at a time over a couple of weekends and maybe a few weeknights. And get everyone in the family to pitch in. This isn’t a solo gig!

Skipping the prep work: Before you start cleaning, take the time to gather all the necessary supplies and tools. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid annoying interruptions.

Failing to protect your surfaces: When using harsh cleaning products, take care to protect your floors, countertops and other surfaces from damage. Always use coasters, mats and other protective covers and pads to keep your home looking clean and tidy.

Neglecting the details: It’s easy to get caught up in the big picture and forget about the smaller, often-overlooked areas. Be sure to clean behind appliances, wipe down light switches and vacuum up those dust bunnies hiding under your furniture.

Neglecting to maintain your cleaning efforts: Once you’ve finished your spring cleaning, it’s important to maintain cleanliness throughout the year. Add regular cleaning routines into your weekly or monthly schedule to keep your home in tip-top shape.

Related: 10-Minute Cleaning Routines: How to Clean a House Fast

Own Spring Cleaning in 2024

You may already be rolling your eyes at the thought of spring cleaning this year, but with the right mindset and a little bit of planning, it can be a not-horrible experience. By having a strategy, decluttering and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to a clean and organized home that you can enjoy all year round and be proud to show off to your family and friends.

We’ve seen trendy punch needle bath mats all over the internet and in stores, so we’ve decided to recreate this popular item at home for a fraction of the cost. These handmade tufted bath mats are perfect for transforming a cold bathroom into a cozy warm space.

Punch needle bath mat tufting is a relatively newer craft that allows DIYers to add personality to everyday items. It’s a technique anyone can master, with no experience required. In this three-step DIY tutorial, we’ll demonstrate how to create your own adorable ‘peachy clean’ bath mat, just like the ones you’ve seen in stores. Let’s dive into it, shall we?

Materials Required:

• Punch needle machine
• Monks’ cloth
• Carpet trimmer
• Yarn, in different colours (for this design we used peach, cream, pink and green)
• Non-slip rug backing
• Scissors
• Marker

Step 1: Design Your Pattern and Prep Your Machine

Start by designing your pattern directly onto the cloth using a marker. For more complicated or detailed patterns, like our ‘peachy clean’ design, we used a projector to help us achieve all the details. Always remember to mirror the design when using a projector.

As soon as you finish drawing the design, load your punch needle machine with your first colour, threading it carefully.

Related: 5 Easy Stitches All Hand Embroidery Beginners Should Know

Step 2: Start Punching

Now the fun begins! It’s time to start punching. Here are a few beginner tips if you’re trying a punch needle machine for the first time:

• When tufting, always punch upwards – this is very important. The machine works by pushing the yarn through the fabric from the front, creating loops on the back.
• Start slowly – begin punching slowly to ensure you understand how the machine works. You’ll soon become more comfortable with the motion.
• Work in sections – if your design has letters or complicated details, start with those. Divide your design into sections and complete each area one by one.

Once we finished punching all of the ‘peachy clean’ letters for our design, we changed the yarn colour and started on the pink background.

Step 3: Finish Off the Details

Now it’s time to finish the details of the mat by adding the green yarn, which will be the leaves around the peach shape. We used two tones for this part to add a vibrant and natural look to the design.

Once you’ve completed punching all of your colours, trim any excess yarn using scissors and remove the pattern from the cloth.

To complete the project, glue a non-stick rug backing to your mat using your preferred glue. Then trim the rug with a carpet trimmer.

Isn’t this DIY project so satisfying? You now have your very own handmade ‘peachy clean’ tufted bath mat, adding a touch of charm to your bathroom’s decor.

You Might Also Like: How to Organize Your Bathroom Like a Designer – No Matter How Small it Is

 

There’s something about having your own oasis as a bathroom or powder room that can make a big difference in filling up your “me time” cup. But finding the right balance between ambiance and functionality can be a challenge, especially under constraints like time, money and most of all, space. Small bathroom renovations can be challenging since bathroom fixtures can be large and tough to accommodate if space is a constraint, but it can be done. We’ll show you how with these small bathroom renovation ideas for every budget. 

Related: 30 Before and After Bathroom Renovations

1. Peel and Stick to Your Heart’s Desire

If a new backsplash is what you’re after, an easy, cost-efficient and fast solution is to use peel-and-stick tiles. As long as you have the right measurements for your space, you’ll have your new backsplash up and running in no time.

2. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

One way to add that “wow” factor in your bathroom as well as improve the look or at least the illusion of more space, is installing a large mirror. Not only will a large mirror open up the space, it will help reflect light around the room.

3. Green With Desire

This small bathroom is the perfect example of how to pack a beautiful punch into a small space. The small plumbing fixtures are ideal for the scale of the space while still maintaining functionality. We’re loving the gold fixtures as they add a hint of luxe and work beautifully with the emerald green statement wall. The classic white and black checkered tile actually make the space seem larger than it is. If you can’t do it all, you can pick and choose what you like from this bathroom since there’s so much to choose from.

4. Out With the Tub

If your bathing rituals need an upgrade, consider removing the bathtub and adding a shower with a glass partition to open up the space. The floor-to-ceiling tile adds depth and interest as well as expands the space.

Related: Scott McGillivray Reveals How to Get the Best ROI From a Bathroom Reno

5. A Sideways Glance

If vanity space is an issue, consider placing the faucet off to the side. If you can’t find a small enough freestanding faucet, wall-mounted fixtures are an excellent space-saving hack for small spaces.

6. Insert Here

Recessed shelving is a great space-saving practice and can work with any budget. The above niche is tiled, but they don’t necessarily have to be tiled if there are budget constraints. When space is an issue, having objects that stick out can get in the way but a recessed shelf keeps your items organized. 

7. Not to Be Vain But…

A floating vanity is a great choice in a small space as it has an airy quality that gives the appearance of taking up less space while still providing a functional purpose. It’s also useful to store some cute baskets underneath for extra storage.

8. Knowing Your Angles

If a new tub is on your wishlist but space is not on your side, there are plenty of options to suit your space. With so many people living in smaller spaces, brands are playing around with scale and angles to fit anywhere. A slipper tub is a great option if you fancy a soak but not the space traditional tubs take up. Angling the tub and utilizing a freestanding faucet can be a creative way around space constraints.

Related: Bathroom Renovation Trends That Are Making a Splash

9. Sink About It

If you had lofty dreams of a double sink but your space won’t allow for it, consider a longer sink with two faucets. What you lose in counter space, you’ll make up for in efficiency since two people can be at the sink at the same time.

10. Wash Away Your Worries

Everyone deserves an at-home spa but not everyone has the space for it. Enter the bathtub shower combo. We love this version of it with a freestanding tub within the glass partition. It’s a new spin on a traditional space-saving method and we can’t get enough of it.

11. That’s a Wrap

This narrow wrap-around vanity, spanning from the mini-sink to above the toilet, is a genius way to maximize counter space. As it’s narrow, it requires less stone work than regular vanities. We’re a fan of anything that’s easy on the eyes and wallet.

12. Rounded Corners

Another efficient use of space is installing an angled shower so as not to take up an entire wall. There are so many stylish options offered at many different price points. So if a full bathroom is on your wishlist, have no fear, an angled shower is near.

With any of these small bathroom ideas, you can renovate within your space constraints and create the dream bathroom you deserve.

Related: Here’s Where to Save and Spend When Renovating Your Bathroom

There are few household chores more hated than the dreaded grout cleaning. Whether it’s mold, mildew, soap scum or hard water stains, grout seems to capture the worst of it all. If you have any combination of these, you might be wondering how to best clean grout in the shower. If the space between your bathroom tiles is looking lackluster, you’ve come to the right place. Luckily, there are several simple and cost-effective methods to make that grout cleaner. So here’s our top tips and tricks on how to clean grout in the shower.

Quick and Simple

Sometimes there just isn’t time for a deep clean — life gets in the way and guests can pop by without enough warning. That’s where Melamine Sponges come in. You likely already know them by their brand name, the one tied to the buff bald guy in the white t-shirt. What’s great about these mystic little rectangles is how quick and easy they are to use. To get started, just add warm water to the sponge, wring out any excess water and start scrubbing your target area.

The Good Stuff

When it comes to bathroom cleaning supplies, you’ll be spoiled for choice. There seems to be no shortage of sprays that claim to do it all. Choosing a commercial cleaning product is often the best choice when the affected areas have a build up of grime and residue. Products specifically designed for tile and grout will make quick work of filth. This effectiveness comes at a cost. Many heavy duty commercial products are harmful or caustic and will require adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). So, glove up and get ready to scrub.

Au Natural 

If the chemical route isn’t for you, then there’s always Nana’s tried and true vinegar recipe. Equal parts warm water and white vinegar makes for an excellent grout cleaner. You’ll want to place old towels anywhere there may be runoff of your mixture to prevent staining. Once applied, let the mixture sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush. Should you find that this isn’t strong enough, you can increase the mixture to one part warm water, two parts white vinegar and a teaspoon of vegetable-based dish soap. When satisfied with your scrubbing, rinse down any areas with warm water and dish soap. 

Fancy Future Tech

Our last, and coolest, method is steam cleaning. Many steam cleaners have a grout attachment which consists of a nozzle with stiff bristles on its end. The hot steam, coupled with a mild detergent, loosens any debris with little to no effort. Unfortunately, most of us don’t already own a steam cleaner, so this option requires you to either purchase or rent one, which is its own headache. Despite that, it does look like fun blasting soap scum off the wall like Iron Man.

Prevention

In order to not have to do a deep clean on your tiles and grout, there’s a few tricks to keep them looking new. 

• Remove any excess water from the walls after use with a squeegee window scrubber.
• Open a window or turn on a fan to circulate air and reduce humidity after showering.
• After cleaning, let dry before applying a grout sealer.

Here are some extra tips to help keep your tile shining:

• Clean regularly to prevent buildup of soap scum or hard water.
• Use a soft or scratch-resistant sponge. Heavy duty brushes, sponges and steel wool can damage these surfaces.
• Always wear gloves.
• Work in a ventilated area with a door or window open to reduce any fumes and odors that may build up.

Looking to spruce up your bathroom without breaking the bank? Look no further than the magical power of spray paint. Here, we walk you through quick and easy DIY ideas for your bathroom that require nothing more than a simple can of spray paint and a little prep work to create.

In other words, we’ll give everyday bathroom accessories a modern makeover that will instantly elevate the style and ambiance of your space. The best part: these DIYs are super simple and inexpensive to achieve. Let’s get started!

Materials Required:

• BEHR PREMIUM™ Spray Paint in White, Sweetheart, Champagne Gold, Amazon Moss & Adored Blue
• Drop cloth
• Goggles, mask and gloves
• Cloth
• Painter’s tape
• 150-220 grit sandpaper
• Bathroom accessories to spray paint (we chose a mirror, shelving unit, towel rod kit and thrifted decor items)

Step 1: Prep Your Paint Area and Bathroom Accents Before Spray Painting

First, let’s organize our work area. Place a drop cloth in a well-ventilated space (not the bathroom). Use painter’s tape to mask off any nearby areas of your home you want to protect from accidental overspray.

Now it’s time to clean and prep the bathroom accessories. If you haven’t worked with spray paint before, prepping the items is crucial to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Start by using a cloth to clean your mirror, shelving unit, thrifted decor items and towel rod kit (or whichever accents you chose to make over for this project) to remove any dust and debris. Give all the items a light sand using a 150-220 grit sandpaper, which will allow the spray paint to better adhere to each item. Tip: be sure to wipe away all the sand dust with a clean cloth before spray painting.

Step 2: Spray Paint Your Bathroom Accessories

 For this step, it’s important to wear protective gear before any spray painting takes place. We recommend wearing a mask, goggles and gloves.

Once you’re all geared up, shake your can of spray paint vigorously for one minute and apply a light coat in a sweeping motion to whichever accessory you’re painting first. Always spray about 20-30 centimeters away from the object you’re painting. Apply thin coats to avoid drips and runs, and recoat within one hour or after 24 hours. Depending on the colour and the coverage you want to achieve, you may need to apply up to three coats of spray paint for best results. Repeat this process for each item you’re DIYing.

The beauty of BEHR PREMIUM™ Spray Paint: Its paint and primer formula has excellent adhesion on wood, metal, plastic and more, so the DIY possibilities are endless.

Not sure which colours to choose? We opted for a metallic finish (Champagne Gold) for the mirror frame, classic white (White) for the towel rod kit, light pink (Sweetheart) for the shelving unit and pastel blue & muted green (Adored Blue & Amazon Moss) for the thrifted accessories. These colours perfectly complement the already existing pink aesthetic of this bathroom.

With that said, choose whichever colours and finishes speak to you and correspond with your existing decor scheme – there are over fifty BEHR PREMIUM™ Spray Paint options to choose from!

 

Step 3: Install Your Spray-Painted Bathroom Fixtures

Finally, it’s time to install and display our colour-happy accessories to give your bathroom that modern, stylish aesthetic it’s been craving. We can’t wait to see your bathroom transformations soon!

 

 

 

 

Bathroom and kitchen renovations, if done right, will add the most value to your home. And like a kitchen renovation, the layout of your bathroom is something you’ll want to consider if you’re looking to update it. If you’re tight on space or want to future-proof your bathroom, you might consider getting rid of the bathtub altogether. Here’s why:

The Pros of Installing a Walk-in Shower
I’m a fan of installing a shower over a tub (I think the pros far outweigh the cons). If you do decide to get rid of the bathtub, it will allow for a state-of-the-art walk-in shower that is sure to add value to your home. And with so many design options available, you’ll find something that meets your needs without compromising on luxury and design.

Your Future Needs
Consider your future needs when renovating, especially if you’re planning on staying in your home for years to come. You don’t want to spend money on updating for the short-term only to realize it doesn’t meet your needs down the road. Renovating for accessibility is key, and for that, a shower is a much better choice than a bathtub.

Tubs can be difficult to get in and out if you have mobility issues. A walk-in shower is easy to access and, if it’s wide enough, can be easily accessible to those using wheelchairs or walkers. A curbless shower will increase accessibility without compromising on style. And adding a bench to the space is a great way to enjoy a relaxing shower and help if you have limited mobility. Grab bars and non-slip tiles are other great additions to make your shower safe and accessible.

Energy Efficiency
When you’re planning a renovation, you’ll want to consider energy efficiency and how your new renovation will affect your monthly bills. Taking a shower uses less water than running a bath. By installing an energy-efficient shower head, you can reduce water usage by 70 percent. That’s a lot of savings, both to the environment and to your water bill.

Curbless Showers
I love curbless showers. You can install the exact same tile throughout the entire bathroom floor. This will maximize your space and increase accessibility without sacrificing style.

Point Drains
When you are installing a shower, think about the floor drain. The type of drain you pick depends on your tile selection and the design of your shower. You might have heard the term “grate drains”. They are often installed in the middle of the shower stall. There are so many grate styles to choose from nowadays, you can really pick one to match your style. I’ve seen patterned, floral and curved designs. Grates look great (pun intended) but they also provide a smooth finish that blends in with the tiles.

Design
Take a look at the latest in shower fixtures. From a rain shower head to massaging jets, you can still get that relaxing spa ambience without feeling like you’re missing out on soaking in the tub. And to help wash off the soap, I want a shower wand as well as a showerhead. Coloured lights will add to that relaxing atmosphere and give your bathroom that “spa-like” feel.

Creating Space
If you’re limited for space, installing a shower instead of a bathtub is an obvious choice. By scrapping the tub, you’ll be able to add an extra storage cabinet or drawers, creating room to store towels or other bathroom necessities. You can also use the extra space to store toiletries and keep countertops clutter-free. Or add a laundry hamper to the space for convenience.

A shower with a clear glass door will give the appearance of more space and will make the shower a focal point of the entire room.

Do Your Research
Planning a bathroom renovation is a big deal. Getting input from a professional designer and hiring a reputable contractor will ensure the job is done right the first time. Weigh in on the pros and cons of choosing a shower over a tub. Making it right means that your bathroom renovation will meet your needs for years to come.

If your bathroom renovation involves the only bathtub in the home, you’ll need to weigh out the pros and cons of scrubbing the tub to allow for a smarter design. Will the lack of a bathtub decrease the value of your home? A home without a tub may appeal to fewer buyers. Do you have young children, or are you considering starting a family? A bathtub is essential for families with young children.

Do you enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub? A bathroom should be a place that you can go to relax. But quite often, homeowners will keep the tub with the unrealistic expectation of making use of it. Meanwhile, the tub sits idle, taking up valuable space. Consider all of these things before making that final decision. Bathroom renovations are costly, so you’ll want to make sure you get it right the first time and don’t have any regrets.

Images courtesy of The Holmes Group and Home Network

When it comes to home improvement projects, kitchen and bathroom renovations are some of the most popular choices for Canadian homeowners. These spaces are not only essential for daily living but can also significantly impact the value and appeal of a home. If you’re considering renovating your bathroom or kitchen this year, you should have an idea of how much to budget. That’s easier than it sounds, because costs can vary depending on factors like materials, type of customization and where you live in Canada. We looked to Montreal-based RenoQuotes.com and HomeStars to get a general idea of how much these types of renovations will cost.

Kitchen Renovation Costs

Kitchen renovations tend to be more expensive than bathroom upgrades due to their larger size and the complexity of these projects. According to HomeStars, smaller renos can cost between $16,000 and $35,000 with the average price sitting at roughly $31,000. Not surprisingly, smaller, simpler renovations are more affordable than changing the entire layout. If price is a factor, determine what you absolutely need to update before adding other components, if budget allows. Expect a small kitchen reno to cost between $13,000 and $19,000, a medium sized reno to cost between $20,000 and $40,000 and a major reno to cost upwards of $40,000.

Here’s a sampling of average kitchen element prices, according to RenoQuotes.com:

• Kitchen counter: Prices vary based on the material you’re using. Expect to pay $5 to $30 per square foot for laminate, $60 to $230 for slate and $0.60 to $36 for tile.
• Cupboards and drawers: It’s hard to nail these costs down, but assume around $200 per unit for top cabinets, $275 for lower cabinets and close to $1,000 for a kitchen island. Want drawers? Add about $40 each.
• Kitchen sink: Stainless steel and resin sinks are the cheapest, starting around $90. Expect to pay at least $120 for stone or ceramic. Those prices are just for the sinks, not the parts you’ll need to connect them.

Bathroom Renovation Costs

The cost of a bathroom renovation in Canada depends on the scope of the project and the materials used. In general, according to HomeStars, you can expect to spend about $7,500 to $20,000 on a bathroom renovation. The average cost is just over $13,000.

A sampling of average bathroom element prices, from RenoQuotes.com:

• Bathtub: The price of a new tub depends on the type you want. For a plain tub, expect to pay between $250 and $750. If you want some bells and whistles, you’re looking at $1,800 and the top-end models can reach nearly $6,000. A free-standing tub ranges from around $850 to over $2,000.
• Showers: If you can live without a tub, then you can save by opting for a stand-alone shower. RenoQuotes says a low-end shower costs about $250. If you want something high-end, be prepared to pay as much as $2,000.
• Toilets: A standard toilet will cost you $300 to $400. Fancy toilets range from about $500 to $650.
• Bathroom sink: A bottom-end sink can be found for under $100. A round or square model will cost as much as $250. Eyeing a pedestal sink? Add $120 to $400 to your budget.
• Bathroom vanity tops: Budget $6 to $30 per square foot for laminate and $50 to $180 per square foot for granite.

Related: Bathroom Vanity Designs That Will Inspire You to Renovate

Flooring Renovation Costs

You might be thinking about updating flooring as part of your bathroom or kitchen renovation project. Here again, size and materials will determine the overall cost, so it’s really up to what you decide. That said, here’s everything you need to know about the cost of renovating floors.

Other Cost Factors

As we mentioned off the top, when estimating the cost of your bathroom or kitchen renovation, it’s crucial to consider these three main factors that will heavily impact the final quote:

• The size of the renovation, as larger spaces typically require more material and labour, leading to higher costs.
•  The materials (such as fixtures, tiles, countertops and cabinets) can significantly impact the total expenditure. If you opt for unique or personalized features, the degree of customization may lead to increased expenses.
•  The reno location will also influence the price of materials and labour.

These factors, together with the range of costs noted above, means the actual cost of your renovation is really dependent on your overall budget. Start there and then work backward. Or, if you don’t feel the need to DIY, give your friendly neighbourhood contractor a call. They can provide an accurate estimate of the costs involved and offer alternatives based on your budget. And the best part? When done right, a kitchen or bathroom renovation will add so much value to your home.