A downtown condo deserves finishes that look sharp and last. On Carlton Street, we delivered a bathroom renovation with durable tile, modern fixtures, and clean waterproofing; then we refreshed the entire unit with resilient plank flooring, new baseboards, and tidy transitions. The result feels brighter, easier to clean, and more functional day to day.
Bathroom Renovation Overview
Demolition, prep, and layout check
We began with a careful demo to protect the condo’s common elements and neighbors. We capped water lines, protected the corridor, and bagged debris for rapid elevator trips. With the space open, we confirmed rough-in heights for the vanity, shower valve, and niche so tile lines land cleanly at eye level and along grout courses.
Waterproofing the wet zone
Before a single tile goes up, we waterproof. Seams are taped, corners are reinforced, and the niche is pitched slightly so water drains back into the shower. This is what prevents mold and premature grout failure. It is the step you never see again but benefit from every day.
Setting the tile: layout, leveling, and clean lines
We dry-lay and snap layout lines to avoid slivers at edges. A level ledger board holds the first course perfectly straight which makes every row after it land crisp. We back-butter large-format tiles for coverage, then check flushness with a leveling system so your walls look like one plane in natural light.
The shower niche and edge trims
Mitred edges or sleek metal profiles finish corners without bulky plastic. Inside the niche, we keep grout lines continuous with the wall pattern so it looks like it was planned from day one.
Shower base, drain, and silicone
We slope to the drain at 1/4 inch per foot. After grouting, we use 100 percent silicone in all change-of-plane joints like wall-to-base and inside corners. This protects against micro-cracking from condo building movement.
Vanity, faucet, and mirror install
Once the tile cures, we set the vanity and connect the supply and drain with new shut-offs. A single-hole faucet keeps the deck easy to wipe, and the mirror is centered off the tile pattern. Lighting and mirror placement are aligned to reduce face shadows, which makes the space feel larger.
Toilet set and final fixtures
We set the toilet on a new waxless seal and secure it square to the wall tile. Hardware lands on blocking or proper anchors to prevent loosening. Every fastener is leveled, and we leave a small, neat silicone bead at the base for easy mopping.
Condo Flooring Upgrade
Underlayment and acclimation
Flooring acclimates in the unit to match the humidity. We prep the slab, spot-plane any high spots, and lay a sound-dampening underlayment approved by condo rules to keep neighbors happy below.
Living room and hallway run
We start along the longest, straightest wall and run boards with a balanced cut so both sides finish with similar widths. Staggered end joints strengthen the floor and break up patterns. This is where the condo suddenly feels twice as open.
Kitchen and nook detailing
We scribe around panels and cover panels with neat quarter-round or shoe molding. Clear expansion gaps let the floating floor move without buckling in seasonal humidity swings.
Doorway transitions
Every threshold gets a purpose-made transition, so there is no trip hazard. Reducers step down cleanly to tile or existing surfaces, which keeps vacuuming and mopping simple.
Baseboards and caulking
New baseboards with tight inside/outside corners finish the perimeter. We fill nail holes, caulk the top edge to the wall, and then paint for a continuous look. This is the detail that makes the floor look custom.
Paint Touch-ups and Finish
Interior painting services that tie it all together
With floors and tile done, we cut sharp lines at the ceilings and trims. If you prefer premium finishes, we recommend Benjamin Moore for its coverage and color accuracy, especially in bathrooms where humidity can challenge lesser paints.
Materials We Recommend (and Why)
- Tile: Porcelain for durability and stain resistance in a busy condo bathroom.
- Flooring: Waterproof luxury vinyl plank or engineered hardwood flooring for stability over concrete and seasonal humidity.
- Adhesives & Grout: Polymer-modified thinset and stain-resistant grout for longevity and easier cleaning.
- Paint: Low-VOC, bathroom-rated products that resist moisture and mildew.
What This Renovation Solved
- Better moisture protection in the shower, thanks to full-coverage waterproofing.
- Easier daily cleaning due to larger format tiles, a single-hole faucet, and silicone at movement joints.
- Quieter, more comfortable floors with condo-approved underlayment.
- A brighter, modern look across the entire suite.
Project FAQ
How long does a bathroom renovation like this take in a condo?
Typically, 2 to 3 weeks for a standard bath, plus flooring time for the rest of the unit, depending on square footage and condo elevator bookings.
Do you handle condo permissions and elevator bookings?
Yes. We coordinate with building management for insurance, elevator pads, and daily work windows.
Can I choose hardwood instead of vinyl plank?
Yes. Engineered hardwood flooring can work well over concrete with the correct underlay. If you need maximum water-resistance, vinyl flooring installation is the better pick.
Related reading on our site
- St. Patrick – Condo Flooring & Paint
- Flooring That Survives Toronto Guide
- Bathroom Remodels Page
- Floor & Tile Page
Thinking of Renovating Your Condo in Toronto?
Whether you’re looking to refresh your bathroom, modernize your flooring, or do a full makeover, our team is here to help. Contact us today to book a consultation, and let’s bring your vision to life!
📞 Call us at: 437-259-9632
✉️ Email us at: jgcontractingyyz@gmail.com
🌐 Website: https://jgcontractingyyz.com
