What does heated bathroom floor typically cost in New Brunswick?

Heated bathroom floors in New Brunswick typically cost $8-25 per square foot installed, putting a standard 50 sq ft bathroom at $400-1,250 total. The wide range depends on your heating system choice, bathroom size, and whether you're doing a full renovation or retrofit.

Electric radiant systems are most popular for NB bathrooms, running $8-15 per square foot installed. These use thin heating cables or mats under your tile or luxury vinyl. A 50 sq ft bathroom would cost $400-750, while a larger 80 sq ft ensuite runs $640-1,200. The system itself costs $3-6 per square foot, with installation adding another $5-9 depending on floor prep needed.

Hydronic (water-based) systems cost more upfront at $15-25 per square foot but offer better long-term efficiency for larger bathrooms. These connect to your home's boiler or water heater through a network of small tubes. Installation is more complex, especially in retrofit situations where you're not already renovating.

Several factors significantly impact your final cost. If you're renovating anyway and the subfloor is accessible, installation is straightforward. But retrofitting into an existing bathroom means removing current flooring, possibly adding floor height (which affects door clearances), and potentially upgrading electrical service. Bathrooms in older NB homes often need 20-amp dedicated circuits for heated floors.

Operating costs matter too — electric systems typically add $15-40 monthly to your NB Power bill during heating season, depending on usage patterns and your home's insulation. Many homeowners use programmable thermostats to heat floors only during morning and evening routines.

Professional installation is strongly recommended since this involves both electrical work (requiring a licensed electrician and NB Power wiring permit) and waterproofing in wet areas. The electrical contractor needs to install GFCI protection and ensure proper circuit sizing. Improper installation can void warranties and create safety hazards.

Your best next step is getting quotes from bathroom renovation contractors who can assess your specific situation — whether you're doing a full reno or retrofit installation affects both feasibility and pricing significantly.