For years, the classic bathtub-shower combo was the go-to for most bathrooms. Now, homeowners are choosing to upgrade with a tub-to-shower conversion¹. This change can cost between $800 and $15,000¹. It’s a great option for those wanting to refresh their bathrooms without breaking the bank.

Picture this: walking into your bathroom and finding a modern, spacious walk-in shower where a dated tub once was. This update not only makes your bathroom look better but also makes your daily routine easier. Let’s dive into why swapping out a bathtub for a full shower is a smart move and how to make it happen.

Key Takeaways

Tub to shower conversions can cost between $800 and $15,000, with shower kit prices ranging from $1,000 to $8,000¹
Opting for a DIY tub to shower conversion could save around $1,000¹
The process to convert a tub to a walk-in shower generally takes around 2-3 days to complete¹
Careful planning and budgeting are essential for a successful bathroom remodel
Hiring a professional contractor can ensure the project is completed to the highest standards

Advantages of Replacing a Bathtub with a Walk-In Shower

Switching from a bathtub to a walk-in shower can change your bathroom for the better, especially in small spaces. By taking out the big tub, you free up floor space that can be used better². This is super helpful in small bathrooms, making the space more useful and open².

Walk-in showers also make life easier and more convenient for everyone³. They have simple designs and can include benches, making them great for people who move around less easily³. This makes it easier for people to stay in their homes as they get older³.

Space-Saving Benefits in Smaller Bathrooms

Removing a big bathtub in small bathrooms makes the space feel bigger and more open². A standard tub takes up about 13 square feet, while a shower uses only 9 square feet². This means you get more room for storage or a bigger shower area². This change can really improve how useful and nice a small bathroom feels.

Accessibility and Convenience for All Ages

Walk-in showers are great for everyone, no matter their age³. They have easy access, seats, and grab bars that help with safety and make showers easier to use, especially for those who move less easily³. This makes it easier for people to stay in their homes as they age and keeps them independent³.

Also, walk-in showers look modern and welcoming, making your bathroom look better³. This new look can be a big plus if you’re thinking of selling your home, as walk-in showers are very popular and seen as a valuable feature³.

“When homeowners remodel their bathrooms, a spacious walk-in shower is one of the most sought-after features.”³

Planning Your Bathtub to Shower Conversion

Turning your bathtub into a shower is a great way to make your bathroom better and look nicer. But, you need to plan and think about the layout and plumbing first. This makes sure your project goes smoothly and turns out well.

Assessing Your Bathroom’s Layout and Plumbing

First, look at your bathroom’s layout. Measure the bathtub’s size and where it sits, and check the plumbing fixtures’ spots. This helps you see if the project can work and what you’ll need to do.

Families with small children may choose to keep a bathtub if there is only one bathroom, and potential limited mobility is a factor influencing the decision for a bathtub to shower conversion.⁴

Then, check the plumbing’s condition and how easy it is to get to. Look at the drain pipe size and where the water lines are. This info helps you plan the changes needed for the new shower.

Budgeting for a Bathroom Remodel

Changing a bathtub to a shower can cost a lot, from tearing things out to putting new stuff in. Make a realistic budget that includes everything you’ll need for the project.

Look up the average costs for a bathroom remodel in your area, including materials and labor.
Think about extra costs, like fixing hidden plumbing or unexpected structural work.
Save some money in your budget for things like shower doors, fixtures, and accessories.

Good planning and budgeting make sure your tub to shower change goes well and meets your needs.

“Removing a bathtub to create space for larger vanities, sinks, or more functional layouts is a common goal.”⁴

Removing the Existing Bathtub and Surround

The first step in updating your bathroom is removing the old bathtub and its surroundings. This means taking apart and getting rid of the tub, which could be made of acrylic, fiberglass, or cast iron⁵. Signs like stains, discoloration, or an old look mean it’s time for a new bathtub⁵. Choosing between a new bathtub, shower, jetted tub, or walk-in shower affects the replacement steps⁵.

Next, you need to take down the tub surround, like tile or drywall, to start fresh⁵. The size of the old bathtub area and where the drain is, plus what you like, will guide the replacement⁵. Replacing it might be hard and could need a pro for some people because it involves turning off water and electricity, and setting up the new fixture right⁵.

“It’s important to shut off the water and electricity before removing the bathtub to avoid any potential safety hazards.”⁶

Removing the bathtub can be tough and you’ll need tools like a hammer, saws, and blades⁶. Always wear gloves, a respirator, and goggles to stay safe and keep dust down⁶. If the bathtub is hard to remove or the drain won’t come out, it makes things harder⁶.

For a smooth change, make sure the drain lines are correct for the new fixtures⁶. Working with a reliable bathroom remodeling company can make the process easier and ensure great results, even if there are delays in getting new parts⁵.

Plumbing Considerations for a Shower Conversion

When you switch a bathtub to a shower, getting the plumbing right is key. The shower drain must fit a 2-inch or bigger pipe. You might need to reroute the current drain for the bigger size⁷.

Connecting to a 2-Inch or Larger Drain Pipe

Shower drains are bigger than bathtub ones, often 2 inches or wider. This size ensures good water flow and helps avoid clogs⁷. If your drain is smaller, you’ll have to upgrade to meet the code and keep your shower working well.

Relocating Supply Lines and Mixing Valve

You might also need to move the supply lines and shower mixing valve for the new setup. It’s wise to get a pro to make sure everything is done right and up to code⁷.

With careful planning and attention to plumbing, you can make a successful switch to a shower. This will follow local building codes and give you a great shower experience⁸.

“Showers take up less space than bathtubs, making your bathroom feel bigger.”⁸

Framing and Carpentry Work for the New Shower

After the plumbing is done, it’s time to work on framing and carpentry for your new shower. This step is key to building walls, putting in a shower curb, and making a recessed niche for your shower stuff⁹.

Planning and precise carpentry are vital for a smooth and good-looking shower setup. Notching studs helps the screw flanges fit well with the framing, making drywall installation easier⁹. Furring out walls to the right depth also ensures a clean finish, especially when tiling⁹.

Creating a Recessed Shower Niche for Storage

A recessed shower niche adds both function and style to your shower. It keeps your essentials within reach and boosts the bathroom’s look⁹.

Choosing a single-piece acrylic tub and shower surround costs about $300¹⁰. Or, you might pick a pricier option. Materials for your shower project could be around $200¹⁰. Doing the carpentry yourself can save you about $1,000 in installation costs¹⁰.

Getting framing and carpentry right is key to a successful tub-to-shower change. Overcoming the tub flange offset and making a useful, good-looking niche turns your bathroom into a spa-like space. It meets your needs and improves your home’s look⁹.

Waterproofing and Tile Installation

Getting your shower right means making sure it’s waterproof. This means picking the best shower pan and using a waterproofing membrane on walls and floors¹¹. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to waterproof the tub surround. The type of waterproofing, like Kerdi Board¹¹, can vary.

Choosing the Right Shower Pan and Waterproofing Membrane

Choosing the right shower pan and waterproofing membrane is key¹². Redgard is a popular choice for waterproofing and resisting cracks, with drying times around 1-1.5 hours¹². Good ventilation is crucial when applying Redgard¹².

Selecting Tile for Durability and Style

Finding the right tile is vital for durability and style¹². Tiling a bathtub surround involves steps like using thinset mortar and alkali mesh tape for seams¹². Cement backer boards like Durock and Hardiebacker are good options, and starting with the tub and ensuring it’s level is important¹².

The size, finish, and color of the tile can affect your bathroom’s look¹².

“Proper waterproofing and tile selection are essential for creating a functional and visually appealing shower that will stand the test of time.”

Choosing the right shower pan, waterproofing membrane, and bathroom tile makes your bathroom both useful and beautiful¹³.

Prepare walls for tiling by filling gaps with mortar and using the right primers¹³.
For shallow dips, consider using self-leveling compound or leveling before tiling¹³.

By following these tips, you can turn your bathroom into a modern, useful, and stylish space that adds value to your home and improves your daily life¹².

Replacing A Bathtub Shower Combo With A Full Shower

Changing a bathtub shower combo to a full shower is a top choice for bathroom makeovers. By taking out the big tub and adding a newer, bigger shower, you make the space look better and work better. This change gives you more floor space, better access, and a nicer bathroom look.

When you’re swapping out a bathtub shower combo, think about the room’s layout and plumbing first. Most bathtubs are 5-feet long and 30- or 32-inches wide. It’s key to know where the drain pipe is to pick the right tub. You should also measure 6-inches above the tub on each side for wall changes later¹⁴.

The cost to turn a bathtub into a shower varies a lot, from $1,200 to $8,000, with an average of $3,000¹⁵. The shower’s size, the materials, and how hard it is to install affect the price. Also, getting rid of the old tub and preparing the walls and floors for the new shower can cost an extra $450 to $2,000¹⁵.

Getting rid of the old bathtub is important during installation. You might need to break it up with a sledgehammer or cut it with a saw¹⁴. After removing the old tub, you can put in the new shower. Make sure the tub’s flange fits the marks before securing it to the studs with nails or screws¹⁴.

In the end, turning a bathtub shower combo into a full shower can really change and improve your bathroom. With good planning and doing it right, you’ll get a beautiful, easy-to-use shower in your home¹⁴¹⁵.

Finishing Touches: Shower Doors and Accessories

When you finish your tub-to-shower conversion, the final touches matter a lot. Picking the right shower door selection and adding useful bathroom accessories can improve your shower’s look and use. This makes your new space better.

There are many styles of shower doors, like classic sliding doors and fancy pivot ones. Glass shower doors are stronger and safer than shower curtains, and they clean easily¹⁶. Frameless doors look modern, while framed doors give a traditional feel. Think about the glass thickness, finish, and privacy options to match your bathroom.

Adding accessories to your shower can really upgrade it. Use shelves, towel bars, and caddies to keep things handy.

Don’t forget, the small details are important. By choosing the right shower door and bathroom accessories, you can make a shower design that looks great and fits your tub-to-shower change.

Hiring a Professional Contractor for Your Shower Conversion

For a smooth tub to shower conversion, team up with a professional bathroom contractor. A skilled remodeling company like Prestige Statwide will help you from start to finish. They’re experts in plumbing, carpentry, and tile work, serving Lane County homeowners.

Working with a pro means your bathroom will look great and you’ll get a warranty and good customer service. The cost to switch a tub to a shower ranges from $1,200 to $8,000, with an average of $3,000¹⁸. A small stall can cost $700 to $1,600, while a big custom shower can be $8,000 or more¹⁸. A professional bathroom contractor can guide you through these costs and make sure it’s done right.

Prestige Statwide: Trusted Bathroom Remodelers in Lane County

Prestige Statwide has been remodeling bathrooms in Lane County for years. Our team can turn your old bathtub into a modern shower. We offer everything from prefabricated kits to custom tiled enclosures.

Choosing Prestige Statwide means you avoid common problems and get a smooth tub to shower change. We are experts in plumbing, carpentry, and tile work, ensuring your shower is perfect¹⁹. They also know the latest design trends and materials to make your bathroom both beautiful and practical.

Don’t settle for a bad bathroom renovation. Go for a professional bathroom contractor and let Prestige Statwide turn your old tub into a stunning walk-in shower. This will boost your home’s value and make it more enjoyable²⁰.

Design Inspiration: Stunning Tub to Shower Conversions

If you’re looking for design ideas for your tub to shower conversion, there are many stunning examples to check out. You can find everything from minimalist, spa-like showers to elaborate, custom-designed spaces. The possibilities for transforming your bathroom are endless. Walk-in showers are popular because they make bathrooms look bigger²², and²³upgrading old shower/tub combos is a quick and cost-effective way to renovate²³.

Looking at different tub to shower conversion projects can help you see what you can do with your own bathroom. It can spark ideas for the style, size, and features you want²¹.Walk-in showers are safer and come in various sizes, perfect for small bathrooms²¹²².Mobility issues often lead people to choose bathtub to shower conversions, adding features like grab bars and benches for safety²².

²³Adding features like seats and grab bars to walk-in showers makes homes more accessible, especially for seniors²³. Seeing how others have turned their bathtubs into beautiful showers can motivate and guide you in your own renovation.

“Creating a spa-like retreat involves decluttering, simplifying space, installing soft lighting, and choosing showerheads you like.”

²²Tub to shower conversions are great for saving space, improving safety, and making maintenance easier²²²³.Switching to a new shower can add beauty and personality to your room²³.

²²There’s been a rise in tub to shower conversions, showing a trend towards walk-in showers in bathroom remodeling²².
²²Converting a tub to a shower is a smart investment, offering a big return on your bathroom upgrade and appealing to potential buyers²².
²³Walk-in showers are becoming a popular choice in bathroom designs²³.
²³Choosing a space-saving luxury shower with double shower heads and other upgrades is seen as more luxurious than traditional tub/shower combos²³.

²²Families with young kids might still want a tub in one bathroom, so consider this when planning your conversion for resale value²²²³.Removing a bathtub can make a small bathroom look bigger, and²³using a shower lets you add more important features like double vanities or extra storage²².

Maintaining Your New Walk-In Shower

Congratulations on making your bathroom look amazing with a new walk-in shower! Keeping it clean is key to its lasting beauty. Use mild, pH-balanced cleaners to stop soap scum and hard water stains from forming³.

Check the caulk and sealants often and fix any damage to keep your shower dry. A simple cleaning routine will help your bathroom stay beautiful for years³.

Getting advice from a licensed plumber is important when changing your bathtub to a walk-in shower. They can guide you and avoid problems³.

With care, your walk-in shower will make your bathroom more useful and look better. It will also increase your home’s value²⁴. Enjoy your updated bathroom and the benefits of this smart change²⁵.

“Maintaining a clean, well-cared-for shower is the key to its long-term performance and enjoyment.”

Use a mild, pH-balanced cleaner to clean the shower walls and door every week. This stops soap scum and hard water buildup.
Check the caulk and sealants around the shower pan, walls, and fixtures every few months. Fix any damage to keep it waterproof.
Think about getting a water softener or filter to cut down on mineral deposits and keep your shower clean.

Follow these easy shower maintenance tips to keep your walk-in shower looking great for years³²⁴²⁵.

Shower Longevity and Cleaning Tips

Buy a squeegee and use it after each shower to get rid of extra water and stop water stains.
Clean the shower head now and then to stop mineral buildup and keep the water flowing well.
Think about using a water-repellent sealant on the tiles or shower enclosure to make cleaning easier.

Make shower maintenance a regular part of your routine. This way, you’ll enjoy your walk-in shower for many years³²⁴²⁵.

Conclusion

Turning a bathtub into a walk-in shower changes your bathroom in big ways. It makes it more useful, easier to get around in, and looks better²⁶. With good planning and the right materials, you can make a shower that fits your life perfectly.

Looking to use space better or make your bathroom easier for everyone to use? A tub to shower change is a smart move for your home²⁶. Working with a pro like Prestige Statwide means your bathroom update will go smoothly. They make sure your bathroom remodel conclusion and tub to shower conversion benefits come together perfectly.

Changing your bathtub to a walk-in shower brings many advantages. You get more function, easier access, and a nicer look²⁶. With the right plan and expert help, your bathroom will not just serve your needs but also make your life better.

FAQ

What are the benefits of replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower?

Replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower saves space, makes bathrooms more accessible, and gives them a modern look.

How do I assess my bathroom’s layout and plumbing for a tub to shower conversion?

Start by looking at your bathroom’s size and where the tub is. Check the plumbing’s location too. This helps figure out if the change is possible and what you’ll need.

What are the key steps involved in removing the existing bathtub and surround?

First, take out the old bathtub and throw it away. Then, tear down the tile or drywall around it. This makes room for the new shower.

How do I ensure proper plumbing for the new shower?

Make sure the shower drain connects to a big enough pipe. You might also need to move the supply lines and mixing valve for the shower to work right.

What kind of framing and carpentry work is required for the new shower?

You might need to build walls, put in a shower curb, and make a recessed niche for storing shower items.

How do I ensure proper waterproofing for my new shower?

Waterproofing is key for your shower’s life and work. Pick the right shower pan and use a waterproofing membrane on walls and floor.

What should I consider when choosing tile for my shower?

Choose tile that’s tough, won’t slip, and looks good. Think about the size, finish, and color of the grout to match your bathroom’s look.

What types of shower doors and accessories should I consider?

Pick shower doors that slide, pivot, or are frameless. Add bathroom accessories like shelves, towel bars, and caddies to make your space work better and look better.

Why should I hire a professional contractor for my tub to shower conversion?

A pro like Prestige Statwide makes sure your bathroom looks great and works well. They offer a warranty and good customer service too.

How can I maintain my new walk-in shower?

Keep your shower clean with mild cleaners and check the caulk and sealants now and then. This keeps it working well and lasting long.

Source Links

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