Why a “2-Week Bathroom Renovation” Is Rare in Older Toronto Homes

What Homeowners Should Know Before Renovating Their Bathroom

This is a common question we hear: “Can the bathroom be done in two weeks?”

In some newer homes with very limited scope, shorter timelines can be possible. However, in many older Toronto homes, once work begins, conditions are often uncovered that require proper correction before finishes can move forward. A recent project on Virginia Avenue in the Danforth Village, East York area, is a good example of why careful execution matters.

What Happens After Demolition

One of the realities of renovating older homes is that not everything is visible at the start. At Virginia Avenue, once the space was opened, we identified several items that needed attention before proceeding:

• Insulation that required upgrading
• An exterior wall that needed proper framing and sealing
• A bathroom vent that was not correctly connected
• Plumbing that required additional relocation within the floor and wall

None of these conditions were apparent during the initial walkthrough — but addressing them was essential for long-term performance.

Step One: Correcting the Fundamentals

Before any finish work begins, our priority is always to ensure the structure and building envelope are properly handled.

This included:

• Rebuilding and sealing the exterior walls with proper insulation and vapour barrier, and in some cases spray foam
• Correcting and/or relocating existing vents
• Completing necessary framing adjustments
• Correcting deficiencies identified in the existing plumbing and electrical systems

While this work is largely hidden once the project is complete, it plays a critical role in how the bathroom performs over time.

Step Two: Improving the Layout

With the foundational work complete, we then move into any functional improvements.

Key layout upgrades may include:

• Building new walls to support the revised layout
• Installing custom cabinetry beside a bathtub for improved storage
• Relocating plumbing within the floor to suit a new design

These examples can help create a more functional and better-organized space for the homeowner.

Step Three: Client-Requested Scope Additions & Timeline Impact

As is often the case in renovation projects — particularly in older Toronto homes — the scopes evolve as the work progresses and existing conditions are reviewed more closely.

Additional Client Requests

On the Virginia Avenue project, the client requested several upgrades beyond the initial scope, including:

• A recessed shower niche
• Additional painting work
• Heated floor installation
• Enhanced waterproofing measures
• Upgraded faucet selection
• Correction to the bathroom exhaust fan, which was not operating properly

Some of these items were elective improvements, while others were recommended once site conditions were fully understood.

Understanding Scope Evolution

Clients should be aware that while not every upgrade is strictly required at the outset, it is very common during demolition and rough-in stages for homeowners to:

• See opportunities to improve the space
• Choose higher-performing materials or fixtures
• Address previously hidden deficiencies
• Add comfort features such as heated flooring

These decisions typically enhance the long-term performance and enjoyment of the space.

Why This Adds Time

Each added element — whether requested by the client or identified during construction — requires:

• Additional trade coordination
• Possible material ordering and lead times
• Inspection requirements (especially for heated floors and electrical work)
• Adjustments to the construction sequence
• Integration with work already completed

As a result, these types of upgrades will typically add time to the overall project schedule. This is a normal and expected part of many bathroom renovations.

Case Study: When “Quick and Cheap” Costs More Later

Some time ago, we prepared a detailed Planning & Design package for a homeowner who ultimately chose to proceed with another contractor after being advised the project could be completed more quickly and at a lower cost. A number of months later, the homeowner reached back out and asked us to review structural concerns that had developed in the bathroom. Unfortunately, addressing the deficiencies at that stage would have required removing recently completed finishes and undertaking significant corrective work. What may have been a properly executed renovation in the mid-$30,000 range had already escalated to approximately $55,000, largely due to the additional costs associated with correcting structural and sequencing issues. It was a difficult situation and a reminder that proper execution during construction is critical to achieving a successful, long-lasting result.

Final Thoughts

Every project is different, but many bathroom renovations in older Toronto homes involve important hidden work that must be completed before finishes begin, and we really to allocate potential resources and time for scope evolution.

At Ashton Renovations, our Planning & Design process is designed to identify potential issues early and guide the project through a clear, well-sequenced evolving path — helping homeowners avoid surprises, protect their investment, and consider desired upgrades.