What to Expect
What Does a Renovation Actually Cost?
No fake price lists. No surprises. Just honest numbers based on your actual project.
Stop guessing and start planning with confidence. Our investment guides reflect the real-world costs of high-quality craftsmanship in Durham Region today. Get the clarity you need to move forward.
Why You See Ranges, Not Quotes
No two projects are the same, so we'll never slap a single fixed price on a web page — it would either scare you off or set the wrong expectation. What you'll find here are honest investment ranges built from real Durham Region projects, so you can plan with confidence. Your exact number comes after a real conversation — based on your actual space, your actual scope, and your actual budget.
Price Lock Guarantee
Signed price. No surprises.
5-Year Warranty
Every project.
Investment Guidelines
At Cornerstone Construction we believe in transparency. Explore our estimated investment ranges for various project types to help plan your renovation. We Listen, We Build, We Deliver.
Kitchens Investment Ranges
Transform your culinary space with our expert kitchen renovation services.
Refresh
$25k - $40k
Cosmetic updates keeping existing layout.
- Cabinet refacing or painting
- New quartz countertops
- Updated tile backsplash
- Standard plumbing fixtures
- Fresh paint and trim
Complete
$45k - $75k
Full gut with layout modifications.
- Custom semi-custom cabinetry
- Premium stone countertops
- Upgraded lighting plan
- New flooring installation
- Mid-range appliance integration
Luxury
$80k+
High-end materials and structural changes.
- Fully custom millwork
- Luxury stone & waterfall edges
- Structural wall removal
- Smart home integration
- Professional-grade appliances
Bathrooms Investment Ranges
Create a personal oasis with our custom bathroom remodeling solutions.
Update
$15k - $25k
Modernize your space without moving plumbing.
- New vanity and sink
- Updated floor tile
- Standard tub/shower combo
- New fixtures and hardware
- Fresh paint
Oasis
$30k - $50k
Complete redesign for enhanced comfort.
- Custom double vanity
- Walk-in glass shower
- Freestanding soaker tub
- Heated flooring system
- Upgraded lighting and mirrors
Spa
$55k+
Ultimate luxury and relaxation.
- High-end custom cabinetry
- Steam shower system
- Premium natural stone
- Smart shower controls
- Custom lighting design
Basements Investment Ranges
Unlock hidden potential with a fully finished, functional basement.
Basic Finish
$40k - $60k
Create usable living space from an unfinished basement.
- Framing and drywall
- Standard LVP flooring
- Basic electrical and lighting
- Open concept layout
- Painted stairs
Standard
$65k - $95k
Add functional rooms and a bathroom.
- Addition of 3-piece bathroom
- Enclosed bedroom or office
- Upgraded flooring and trim
- Pot light package
- Custom storage solutions
Entertainment
$100k+
High-end features for entertaining or rental.
- Custom wet bar or kitchenette
- Home theater setup
- Luxury bathroom with shower
- Egress window installation
- Soundproofing
Main Floor Investment Ranges
Reimagine your living space with a comprehensive main floor overhaul.
Cosmetic
$50k - $80k
Surface updates across the main level.
- New flooring throughout
- Fresh paint and trim
- Updated lighting fixtures
- Minor drywall repairs
- Door hardware updates
Open Concept
$90k - $150k
Modernize flow and function.
- Non-load bearing wall removal
- Kitchen and living integration
- Hardwood floor installation
- Smooth ceilings
- Upgraded casing and baseboards
Transformation
$160k+
Complete structural and aesthetic overhaul.
- Load-bearing wall removal (steel beam)
- Complete kitchen relocation
- Custom staircase rebuild
- New windows and doors
- Comprehensive smart home wiring
Commercial Fit-Ups Investment Ranges
Professional commercial spaces designed for productivity and brand impact.
Refresh
$50/sq ft
Basic updates for retail or office spaces.
- Paint and wall coverings
- Standard commercial flooring
- Basic lighting updates
- Minor partition changes
- Standard millwork
Build-Out
$80/sq ft
Complete interior fit-up for new tenants.
- Custom reception area
- Glass partition offices
- Upgraded lighting design
- Kitchenette installation
- Acoustic ceiling treatments
Executive
$120+/sq ft
High-end finishes for premium brands.
- Luxury architectural details
- Custom executive suites
- Advanced AV integration
- Premium flooring and stone
- Specialty lighting and acoustics
Please Note:
The pricing ranges above are estimates based on historical data for typical projects in Durham Region and the GTA. Final costs will vary depending on site conditions, material selections, and final scope of work. Contact us for a precise, fixed price proposal.
Transparent Pricing
What Affects Your Number?
Understanding the variables that drive renovation pricing helps you make informed decisions for your Durham Region home. One of the biggest is the markup on materials — here's exactly what a contractor's markup pays for, and why the lowest quote is rarely the lowest final bill.
Size and Scope
The total square footage and complexity of the renovation directly influence the labour and material requirements for your specific build.
Material Selection
From standard finishes to premium custom cabinetry or high-end stone, your material choices heavily influence the final investment.
Structural Changes
Removing load-bearing walls, relocating plumbing stacks, or changing floor plans adds complexity and engineering requirements.
Existing Conditions
The state of your home's current electrical, plumbing, and subflooring can impact the preparation and remediation costs.
Permits & Compliance
Municipal building permits, ESA inspections, and structural engineering fees are essential for legal and safe construction.
Craftsmanship Level
Every Cornerstone project uses licensed trades who ensure long-term durability and quality. No handymen. No shortcuts.
Ready for a precise estimate?
Every property is unique. Let Mike Brock and the Cornerstone team evaluate your space and give you a fixed price proposal tailored to your vision.
Common Upgrades
Explore our most requested renovation upgrades designed to increase your home's value and functionality.
Cabinetry & Storage Upgrades
- Solid Wood Doors & Drawer Fronts: $2,500 – $7,000+
- Heavy-Duty Drawer Conversions: $250 – $600 per drawer
- Pull-out Trash/Recycling Centre: $450 – $900
- Pantry with Internal Pull-out Trays: $1,500 – $4,000
- Panel-Ready Appliance Installation: $600 – $1,500
Countertop & Backsplash
- Waterfall Island Ends: $2,500 – $5,500
- Premium Edge Profiles: $25 – $60 per linear foot
- Material Types (Installed): $60 – $180 per sq ft
- Full-Height Slab Backsplash: $3,500 – $8,000
- Decorative Tile Backsplash: $1,500 – $3,500
Bathroom Luxuries
- Curbless (Zero-Entry) Shower: $3,500 – $6,000
- Rain Shower & Body Spray Systems: $1,200 – $3,500
- Freestanding Soaking Tub: $2,500 – $5,500
- Radiant Heated Floors: $1,200 – $2,800
- Smart Toilets: $2,500 – $6,500
Basement & Structural
- Egress Window Installation: $3,500 – $8,500
- New Side Entrance/Walk-out: $15,000 – $35,000+
- LED Pot Lights: $175 – $300 per fixture
- Legal Secondary Suite: $120,000 – $200,000+
- New Basement Bathroom: $12,000 – $22,000
Our Commitment
The Price Lock Guarantee
At Cornerstone Construction, we believe in honest pricing. Once your quote is signed, your price is locked — no surprises. The only things that ever change it are a change you ask for, or a genuinely hidden condition behind the walls — and either way, you approve the cost in writing before any work happens.
- Fixed-price contracts with no hidden fees
- Detailed scope of work documentation
- Protection against material price surges
- Transparent budget tracking and reporting
"Surprises are for birthdays, not construction. The number you sign is the number you pay."
— Mike Brock, FounderPopular Additions
Common Add-Ons
Enhance your project with these popular upgrades. All pricing includes labour, materials, and Cornerstone's white glove installation standard.
Heated Floors
Radiant Comfort
Energy-efficient radiant floor heating for bathrooms, kitchens, or entire basement levels. Year-round warmth built in during the rough-in phase.
Pot Lights
Modern Illumination
Professional installation of recessed LED pot lights. Includes wiring, fixtures, and dimmable switches for a clean, contemporary look.
Bollard Lights
Pathway Security
Architectural exterior bollard lighting for curb appeal and safety. Weather-resistant units installed with professional underground conduit wiring.
Custom Built-Ins
Tailored Cabinetry
Custom-designed bookshelves, entertainment centres, or mudroom benches. Handcrafted to match your home's existing architectural style.
Egress Window
Basement Compliance
Required for legal basement bedrooms. Includes excavation, window well installation, and high-efficiency egress window to meet Ontario Building Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our estimation process, timelines, and insurance handling.
How do you calculate quotes?
We perform a comprehensive site visit to review the full scope of work. Following this, we build a detailed line-item estimate within our client portal, typically delivered within 3-5 business days for your review.
What is the payment schedule?
Our payments are milestone-based and directly tied to project progress. The specific schedule and percentage for each phase are clearly outlined in your contract before any work begins.
How long will my project take?
Timeline depends entirely on the scope of work. We provide a written schedule before starting and offer regular updates throughout the process to ensure you are always informed of our progress.
Do you work with insurance companies?
Yes, we do. We work directly with adjusters on restoration projects and handle all necessary documentation to ensure your claim is processed accurately and efficiently.
Still have questions?
Our project management team is ready to discuss your specific construction needs.
Contact SupportReady to Get a Real Number?
Free walk-through. Written estimate. No obligation. Let's discuss your vision and provide a transparent quote for your project.
