Bathroom renovations shouldn’t feel like a gamble – but after working inside hundreds of Ottawa homes, I know that for many homeowners, they do. You hire a contractor, invest a lot of money, and hope the work is done properly behind the walls, not just where you can see it. Too often, I meet homeowners who only realize corners were cut after the renovation is finished.
That frustration is exactly why Bytown Better Bathtubs & Showers operates the way it does.
I’m Curtis McGrath, a tub and shower specialist and project coordinator at Bytown Bath, with 18 years of hands-on plumbing and renovation experience. In this article, I want to walk you through who we are, how we work, and what setting a better standard for tub and shower renovations in Ottawa actually means, from the perspective of someone overseeing projects day in and day out.
Established to Raise the Standard
Bytown Better Bathtubs & Showers was established on January 17, 2022, with a clear goal: raise the standard of tub and shower renovations in Ottawa by focusing on quality craftsmanship and the homeowner experience from start to finish.
From what I’ve seen working on projects here, that goal has stayed consistent. The focus isn’t on rushing jobs or pushing volume – it’s on delivering better bathrooms, done right, with minimal disruption to everyday life. That means no shortcuts, no skipped steps, and no compromising standards just to move faster.
The Story Behind Bytown Bath
Bytown Better Bathtubs & Showers grew out of a plumbing company, and that background shows in how projects are approached. Long before specializing in tub and shower renovations, the team spent years inside Ottawa homes repairing plumbing failures, water damage, and issues caused by poorly planned renovations.
I’ve personally seen what happens when bathrooms are renovated without long-term performance in mind. Walls get opened years later, only to reveal rushed work, improper waterproofing, or outdated plumbing that should’ve been addressed the first time.
Bytown Bath exists because homeowners kept running into the same problems: unclear expectations, rushed work, and renovations that didn’t last. The company was built around doing the job properly the first time, with planning and trade expertise guiding every decision.
Rather than chasing speed or volume, the focus is on high-quality tub and shower renovations supported by real trade experience, thoughtful planning, and clear communication. As a project coordinator, my role is to help ensure that happens on every job.
Our Standard of “Better” at Bytown Bath
At Bytown Bath, “better” isn’t a slogan. It’s a working standard that guides how projects are planned and executed.
It influences:
- Which products are approved
- How installations are scheduled
- Where clear lines are drawn during a renovation
Instead of offering every product available, the company focuses on systems and materials that have proven reliable in real homes over time. I’ve seen plenty of products that look great on day one but don’t hold up years later, and those experiences shape what we recommend.
Quality is also reinforced through execution. Installations aren’t rushed to meet arbitrary timelines, and critical steps aren’t skipped to speed things up. Proper waterproofing, thorough wall preparation, and careful finishing are treated as essential parts of the process.
This approach helps ensure renovations perform as intended long after installation, reducing future maintenance issues and unexpected repairs for homeowners.
Working the Bytown Bath Way
Bytown Bath works with homeowners across Ottawa who want their bathroom renovation done properly – not rushed or pieced together.
That includes:
- First-time homeowners updating older bathrooms
- Families improving functionality and safety
- Retirees planning renovations that support aging in place
From my experience coordinating projects, the best outcomes tend to come from homeowners who value clear communication, realistic expectations, and long-term performance.
My colleague William Culleton, Project Manager and tub and shower specialist, often points out, “The homeowners who tend to have the best experience with us are the ones who’ve already dealt with poor contractors before. They understand the value of clear communication and quality work.”
Throughout the renovation process, we focus on fundamentals that help prevent costly mistakes:
- Educating homeowners on materials and long-term performance
- Guiding practical product selections
- Clarifying scope and expectations early
- Explaining trade-offs between speed, cost, and quality
- Preventing repeat renovations through proper planning
By taking the time to explain these trade-offs, we help homeowners make informed decisions rather than rushed ones, protecting them during the renovation and long after it’s complete.
Comparing Bathroom Renovation Services
When planning a bathroom renovation, homeowners often encounter several different service models. Each approach handles materials, timelines, and project oversight differently.
Understanding these differences can help homeowners decide which option best aligns with their expectations and long-term goals.
Homeowners’ Experiences With Bytown Bath
Homeowners often describe their renovation experience not just by the result, but by how the process felt along the way. From communication and professionalism to follow-through and accountability, these reviews reflect what it’s like to work with Bytown Bath from a homeowner’s point of view:
“Our experience with Bytown Better Bath and Shower was absolutely fantastic. We had our shower completely re-done. The crew of workers was very professional, courteous, and efficient. We are completely satisfied with the total outcome.” – Ronald L.
“The workmanship was excellent. They arrived on time and completed the work on time. But they still took the time to double-check measurements. The problem has been solved, and I have a new bathroom. Excellent value for service. I would highly recommend their services.” – Kathryn X.
“Very professional staff who walked us through the design and construction of our ensuite bathroom. The work was excellent, and we are very happy with our new space. Thanks, Bytown Better Bath!” – Michael F.
These experiences speak to the standards Bytown Bath refuses to compromise on. Quality workmanship, clear communication, and respect for the homeowner’s time are not treated as extras. When challenges arise, they are addressed directly rather than deferred, reinforcing trust throughout the renovation process.
Turn Your Bathroom Renovation Vision Into Reality
If you’re curious what your shower renovation might cost, I recommend starting with Bytown Bath’s free online pricing estimator. It provides a personalized ballpark quote in just seconds.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Bytown Better Bathtubs & Showers at [email protected] or call (613) 746-8055. Our tub and shower specialists are ready to help you design and install a premium renovation that transforms your bathroom with confidence, comfort, and lasting quality.
