Is My Shower or Bathtub Renovation a Small or Large Project?

If you’re considering a shower or bathtub renovation, it may seem like a straightforward swap — take one out, put another in. But in reality, it’s often far more involved. So how do you know if your project qualifies as a small or large renovation? Let’s walk through what goes into a typical shower or tub upgrade.

What’s Really Involved in a Shower or Bathtub Renovation?

More Than Just a Swap

Replacing a shower or tub isn’t always a plug-and-play job. Even what appears to be a simple replacement can quickly become a multi-step process requiring coordination across multiple trades. For example:

• Demolition & Mold Remediation: Tearing out the old unit may reveal hidden issues like water damage or mold.

• Framing & Carpentry: You may need custom framing for a shower niche, structural reinforcement, or floor levelling.

• Plumbing: Relocating or updating fixtures can require rerouting pipes, which often means cutting into walls or floors.

• Drywall & Painting: Once plumbing is modified, the walls often need repair, refinishing, and painting.

• Tiling: Waterproofing and tile work require expert precision to avoid leaks and ensure a polished finish.

• Glass Installation: Custom glass doors or panels typically follow once tiling is complete.

That’s up to six different trades working in sequence, each with their own timelines, materials, and challenges.

Who’s Managing the Project?

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to coordinate all these trades myself?

• Will I be responsible for debris removal and waste disposal?

• Am I prepared to clean and prep the space after each phase?

What starts as a “small” project can snowball if you’re handling all the logistics alone. That’s why many homeowners choose to work with an experienced contractor who can streamline the process, manage timelines, and keep things on track.

Additional Factors That Make a Project Bigger

Some questions to consider:

• Are you relocating the tub or shower? That means redoing plumbing and possibly the entire floor.

• Are you replacing flooring or tile? Removing and reinstalling tile around fixtures, walls, or floors adds layers of complexity.

• Are walls being removed or rebuilt? If yes, you’ll likely need painters and carpenters in addition to your original plan.

Even moving a toilet or vanity slightly can have ripple effects across multiple areas of your bathroom.

Planning Ahead

At LBProjects, we help Calgary homeowners navigate the details and hidden challenges of every renovation, big or small. Whether you're updating a shower insert or doing a full bathroom redesign, we’re here to simplify the process and deliver results that last.

👉 For more information on what to expect from your renovation, visit our Additional Resources page.