Primary Bathroom Remodel and Walk‑In Shower — East York
Full primary ensuite renovation with a barrier‑free walk‑in shower, refined finishes and code-compliant upgrades.
- 1
Controlled demolition and structural verification
We removed the tub, surrounding tile and impacted wallboard, exposing the studs and second‑storey subfloor. A structural sweep checked joist conditions and floor deflection; where necessary we sistered joists and installed a plywood underlayment to meet tile manufacturer deflection limits (L/360 for ceramic/porcelain).
- 2
Waterproofing and substrate build-up
The shower floor and walls received a robust waterproofing system: cement backerboard on walls, a bonded waterproof membrane (liquid‑applied) over the substrate, and a pre‑sloped mortar bed with a PVC linear drain for the floor. All transitions—niche, curb detail and substrate seams—were sealed per membrane manufacturer instructions to ensure a continuous wet‑area barrier.
- 3
Plumbing, ventilation and code compliance
We replaced the shower valve with a pressure‑balanced thermostatic mixer and relocated drains and waste lines within the floor cavity to accommodate the linear drain. Ventilation was upgraded to a continuous‑run exhaust fan sized for the room's cubic footage and ducted to the exterior per Ontario Building Code recommendations to manage humidity year‑round.
- 4
Precision tiling and glass installation
Walls were clad with 600 x 300 mm porcelain tiles set with polymer‑modified thinset and grout with integrated mildew inhibitors. The shower received a custom 1/4" frameless glass panel and a floating bench detailed on a solid, waterproofed platform. Careful layout minimised cuts and created consistent grout lines for a calm, spa‑like appearance.
- 5
Final finishes and handover documentation
Fixtures included a matte‑black rainhead and a hand shower, a wall‑mounted vanity with quartz top, and heated towel bar. We provided the homeowners with a documentation package: product warranties, maintenance recommendations, and a labelled map of shutoffs and access points to simplify future service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a remodel like this typically take?
A full primary bathroom renovation with structural checks, waterproofing and new finishes generally takes 4–8 weeks depending on the extent of hidden repairs and lead times for specialty items like custom glass. We timetable each phase to avoid unnecessary overlap and communicate schedule adjustments promptly.
How disruptive will this be to the household?
Work is concentrated and sequenced to limit disruption—dust containment, dedicated waste runs and evening site protection help protect the rest of the home. For a second‑floor ensuite in East York, we also plan deliveries and noisy trades to reduce impact on daily routines.
When is a walk‑in shower the right choice?
A walk‑in shower is ideal when you want accessibility, a spacious feel and easy maintenance; it’s often chosen when a tub is seldom used. We’ll review structural constraints, slopes and drain placement to ensure the design is feasible and code‑compliant for your home.