Quick Guide to Converting a Bathtub to a Shower
Ready to trade a step-over tub for a space-saving walk-in? Our guide to converting a bathtub to a shower covers planning, accessibility features, materials, and cost. We also explain how Sweeten matches you with vetted contractors to make it happen.
(Above) Sweeten homeowners Ylia + André’s tub-to-shower conversion
Why consider converting a bathtub to a shower
Bathtubs have their place, but most of us take many more showers than baths. So why were most bathrooms outfitted with a bathtub rather than a walk-in shower over the last few decades? The simplest answer is flexibility. You can take a shower in a bathtub, but not vice-versa. Also, families with children do well with a bathtub, and they’re useful for bathing dogs.
However, stepping over the tub rail every time you shower is not ideal, and is not possible for many people. A walk-in shower can create a more open feel and introduce shower design upgrades that add style while maximizing usable space. If you’re ready for a change, this guide by Sweeten lays out how to turn a bathtub into a shower (luckily, it’s pretty straightforward!)
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Showers are ideal for aging and multi-generational families
(Above) A Sweeten remodel for an accessible bathroom
Converting a bathtub into a shower has become much more common as our population ages, aided by the increasing popularity of accessible and universal design. These design concepts are aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act and include features such as entry ramps in place of stairs, rocker-style light switches, and lever-style door handles in place of knobs.
The magic of this approach, even when not mandated, is obvious with multigenerational families or when you find yourself with an injury or chronic health condition. These thoughtful home designs can accommodate changing needs over time.
In a bathroom remodel, the shower can use a curbless entrance that doesn’t impede a wheelchair user. (Another benefit of the curbless design is its streamlined, modern look!) Another popular feature you can specify is a built-in or removable bench. Even better, there are plenty of design and hardware options that can complement all sorts of ideas for a walk-in shower.
Figure out if a shower will work for you
Before ordering materials and fixtures, post your project on Sweeten and discuss with your contractor whether your desired shower size will fit in your space. Create an overall plan that includes the finished size of the shower, location of existing or desired windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of existing plumbing.
If the shower drain stays in the same location, the connection is simple and fast. If the drain must be moved, you’ll see the cost rise, depending on how extensive the work is. Items like the faucet and showerhead will come in later.
Ready to get started?
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Materials for converting a shower
For the shower unit itself, you can choose a good-quality pre-formed pan and walls, but high-quality tiled pans and walls have become prevalent and usually have a better “feel.”
Bathroom tiles are also one of, if not the most, powerful aesthetic statements in the room. This is where you can really get creative when turning a bathtub into a shower. Ceramic, glass, stone, and even metal tiles are available in any color, multiple textures, and finishes.
You can truly have any look you love with tiles, and apart from normal cleaning and sealing, their maintenance is low.
How much does it cost to convert a bathtub to a shower?
(Above) Sweeten homeowners BrettMegan + Zak’s walk-in shower remodel
A good starting point to convert a bathtub to a shower is $15,000. If you’re starting with a bathroom that’s in good condition, you can plan for $15,000 or so for a quick and basic conversion. This can vary depending on labor costs in your geographic area.
However, when you make changes to the layout of the bathroom or add windows that require new framing, your costs will increase. Additionally, if you are in an apartment building, there may be additional considerations for a bathtub to shower conversion.
Costs for faucets and showerheads
Faucets and showerheads are available in countless styles and finishes, and you’re probably aware of rainfall showerheads. Full-body jets are another popular and luxurious feature, but definitely are considered an extra. Good faucets will cost $100 and up and they’re worth every penny.
One item you mustn’t overlook is the shower door system. You’ll find clear glass, frosted glass, and so on, but the aesthetics are less important than the quality.
Like the shower pan, the door keeps the water where it belongs and should seal completely. A tiny leak, unnoticed for five years, is a disaster in the making. Fortunately, you can prevent this scenario easily with a high-quality door system installed by your contractor.
A good unit will cost you $500 and up, depending on the size you need. Custom shower doors typically start at $2,500.
A remodeling team to guide your bathroom remodel
Just like kitchens, bathroom remodels can be more complex than other rooms. This is due to their heavy, daily usage and the requirement for more fixtures in a small space. Toilet, sink, shower, and storage all have to be integrated into one of the smallest rooms in the house.
That’s where interior designers and general contractors shine. Find the right general contractor to help you navigate these decisions, especially when planning to turn a bathtub into a shower.
Ready to renovate your bathroom?
Post your project on Sweeten today and get matched with our vetted general contractors for free! Find endless home renovation inspiration, detailed guides, and practical cost breakdowns from our blogs.
Frequently asked questions
A walk-in shower can cost anywhere between $10,000-$15,000 for labor costs, including installation, plumbing, fixtures, and kits. Keeping the drain in the same location will make connection fast and easy. Depending on how intensive the work, moving the drain will cause the price to increase.
It costs $1.50 to $100 per square foot to tile a shower. Standard ceramic tile can start at just $1.50 per square foot yet glass and mosaic tiles can go as high as $100 per square foot. Plan to add a standard overage amount of at least 10%. Read our blog to learn more about the costs of retiling a bathroom.
You convert a bathtub to a shower by first, discussing your plan with a contractor. Share your desired shower size to determine if it will fit in the space. Create a plan that includes the finished shower size, the location of new or existing windows, lighting, exhaust fan, and the condition and location of plumbing. If the shower drain is staying in the same location, the connection will be simple and fast. However, your costs will increase if the drain must be moved. Once you have a plan in place, you can order materials.
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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.
