A bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel are two different types of home improvement projects. Before you choose one, it’s important to understand what differentiates them as the price and processes vary for each. Below you’ll find an in-depth comparison between bathroom renos and remodels, including cost as well as pros and cons.
Key Takeaways
- A bathroom renovation involves basic cosmetic updates to modernize and/or improve the visual appeal of the space.
- A bathroom remodel is a major construction project involving structural, design, and/or plumbing and electrical changes.
- The average cost of a bathroom reno ranges from $5,000 to $25,000+.
- The average cost to remodel a bathroom ranges from $25,000 to $100,000+.
- Remodel and renovation costs vary based on project size, materials and finishes used, customization, and complexity.
- Deciding between a remodel and a renovation will depend on your budget and project goals.
Bathroom Renovation vs. Bathroom Remodelling
The terms bathroom renovation and bathroom remodel are often used interchangeably. However, there are key differences between the two, including what’s involved and how much they cost. A bathroom reno involves mainly cosmetic updates, such as repainting, replacing the flooring, and installing new vanities. In contrast, a bathroom remodel involves structural and layout changes in addition to updating the appearance.
What Is a Bathroom Renovation?
During a renovation, the overall structure of the room remains the same while the design receives an update. The goal is to modernize the space or change it to fit a newly desired style. A renovation project may be performed DIY or by a licensed contractor, depending on what’s involved. If you work with a contractor, you’ll likely collaborate with professional designers to redesign the look of the space. This can involve repainting the walls, installing new countertops or vanities, replacing light fixtures, and re-tiling the floor.
What Is a Bathroom Remodel?
A bathroom remodel makes changes to the structure and design of the space. This can include altering the layout, adding or removing walls, and upgrading or relocating plumbing systems. Remodels require the help of a contractor to perform the demolition and construction. The team involved in your remodel can include architects, plumbers, electricians, project managers, and a building crew. Remodeling bathrooms can increase the value of your home as well as the functionality and visual appeal of the space.
What’s Involved in a Bathroom Renovation?
The process of renovating your bathroom will vary depending on the type of bathroom and the goal of the renovations. For example, renovating a powder room versus an ensuite or renovating to improve spaciousness versus updating the aesthetic to boost its appeal to prospective homebuyers. Here’s a list of what may be involved in your bathroom reno:
- Fixture Replacements: New fixtures can include lighting, faucets, showerheads, and vanity handles. Additionally, you may choose new plumbing fixtures, including toilets, sinks, showers, and/or bathtubs.
- Flooring Installations: Replace old flooring with new tile, vinyl, or other materials. Potential customization options to create unique flooring designs or patterns.
- Finishing Changes: Refinish or replace surfaces such as countertops and cabinet faces. Finishes can also include wall coverings such as backsplashes, shower walls, and wall paint.
- Repairs: Repairs are performed to improve the functionality as well as the appearance of your bathroom. This can include repairing leaking faucets, damaged grout, or cracked tiles.
What’s Involved in Remodeling Bathrooms?
Every bathroom remodelling project is unique based on the size, style, complexity, goals, and customization level of the project. Because of this, what’s involved in the remodel can vary from one project to the next. For example, one project may involve designing and installing custom cabinetry, whereas another remodel might involve removing walls and include minimal customization. Bathroom remodelling may include some or all of the following:
Cost of Remodelling Bathrooms vs. Renovating Bathrooms
Typically, a bathroom remodelling project costs more than a renovated bathroom because of the structural, plumbing, and electrical work involved. However, the cost of each can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, materials and finishes used, level of customization, and labour rates. The following chart outlines the average low-end and high-end costs for remodels and renovations of bathrooms in 2026:
| Project Scope | Bathroom Renovation Cost | Bathroom Remodelling Cost |
| Low-End | $5,000 to $14,000 | $25,000 to $50,000 |
| High End | $15,000 to $25,000+ | $50,000 to $100,000+ |
Pros and Cons of a Renovated Bathroom & Bathroom Remodel
There are a variety of pros and cons unique to each bathroom renos and remodels. The following chart includes a comparison between the pros and cons of each type of project:
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Project |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
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Bathroom Renovation |
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Bathroom Remodel |
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When to Remodel Your Bathroom or Renovate Your Bathroom
Choosing between a remodeled bathroom versus a renovated bathroom will depend on your budget and project goals. If you’re looking to modernize the look and feel of your bathroom or wish to perform the work DIY, then a renovation may be best. If your goal is to improve a cramped layout or increase your property value, a remodel might be right for you.
Learn more about bathroom renovations and remodels by contacting Capital Bathroom Renovations! We’ll provide our expert opinion and advice to help guide you in your decision.