Converting Your Bathtub into a Walk-in Shower
Are you tired of dealing with a cramped and outdated bathtub in your bathroom? If your bathroom is in need of an update, one option to consider is converting your existing bathtub into a walk-in shower. Removing the bathtub and installing a spacious, accessible shower can help modernize your bathroom while also making it safer and more functional, especially for aging homeowners or those with mobility issues. PGS Painters & Remodeling is here to guide you through the process and provide you with all the necessary tips and information to ensure a successful tub to shower conversion. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of a tub to shower conversion, discuss different design options, and provide helpful tips to help you achieve the bathroom of your dreams.
Why Convert Your Tub into a Shower?
There are several reasons you may want to swap out a standard bathtub for an open, walk-in shower configuration:
– Improved safety & accessibility. High walls, slippery surfaces, and awkward maneuvering make traditional tubs treacherous for seniors or those with disabilities or limited mobility. Walk-in showers eliminate safety hazards with flush entry, grab bars, non-slip floors, and fold-down seats.
– More space & improved comfort. Removing bulky tubs open up floor space and make bathing easier with open access and room to move or bring a caregiver. You also gain flexibility in showerhead placement for customized comfort.
– Contemporary style. Tub-to-shower conversions lend a clean, modern look popular in today’s bathrooms. Glass doors maintain light and an airy aesthetic. Removing the existing tub also allows you to reconfigure or relocate plumbing and fixtures.
– Increased home value. Updating to a walk-in shower can be a smart investment, yielding 70-75% ROI in added resale value, per National Association of Realtors estimates. This also appeals to aging homeowners looking to age in place.
– Water efficiency. Switching to a shower-only bathroom cuts water usage by saving gallons of water previously needed to fill a full tub. Low-flow showerheads further reduce environmental impact.
What’s Involved: Tub to Shower Conversion Process
Converting existing bathtubs into walk-in showers requires careful planning, some complex construction work, professional expertise, and often a significant financial investment. Here are the primary steps involved:
- Consultation & planning. Work with a licensed remodeling contractor to review your vision, assess current bathroom layout and infrastructure, identify modifications needed, and map out a detailed conversion plan. Be ready to communicate existing problems (e.g. leaks) plus any accessibility needs.
- Demolition. The contractor guts the room by tearing out the tub, surrounding walls, flooring and plumbing lines. This also provides an opportunity to spot & fix hidden issues like mold or termite damage behind walls.
- Framing & additions. New stud wall framework goes up, reinforced to support fixtures. The floor is prepped and sloped to improve shower drainage. Depending on layout, bumping out walls can add a few extra inches of floor space.
- Plumbing & waterproofing. Updated pipes and drains are installed per new shower configuration, along with moisture barriers behind walls and a waterproof shower pan lining the floor.
- Tile, fixtures & lights. Wall tiles or other water-safe finishes are applied throughout the shower area along with additions like recessed shelving, grab bars, benches, or small corner spa features. New lighting and adjusted electrical completes the room.
- Doors, glass & final details. Shower doors mount onto the tiles, ceiling moisture-resistant drywall goes up, flooring finishes are laid down, and final trims and seals are added throughout.
The order of steps depends partly on whether you’re gutting just the tub alcove vs. doing a full bathroom remodel. Total active construction time ranges 1-3 weeks depending on scope. Working with an experienced remodeling contractor is highly advised.
Our team at PGS Painters & Remodeling understands the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail when it comes to your project. Contact us today to discuss your tub to shower conversion needs and let us transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space.
How Much Does a Bathtub to Shower Conversion Cost?
Converting a standard tub to a basic shower typically costs $1,500 to $5,000, including removal of the old tub and professional installation of a new shower kit, walls, plumbing, and basic finishes. Expect pricing near the higher end for more complex layouts or larger showers.
Here’s a breakdown of what impacts your total tub-to-shower conversion cost:
– Size of existing tub/bathroom
– Choice of replacement shower and features (e.g. doors, tile, benches)
– Layout changes and necessary framing/plumbing modifications
– Accessibility add-ons like grab bars, seats, or converting to roll-in shower
– Overall repair needs and problems uncovered in demolition
– Selection of wall & flooring materials, faucets, doors & hardware
Keep in mind potential extra costs if issues like leaks, mold, or rot become evident once walls come down. Building code updates related to bathroom electrical or ventilation may also add a few thousand dollars in upgrades as part of a full remodel.
Getting quotes from at least 3 professional contractors gives you a reliable sense of pricing for your specific bathtub conversion project.
Key Design Decisions for Your Shower Conversion
If you’re planning to convert your tub into a walk-in shower configuration, key design decisions include:
– Layout: Will you use the existing tub footprint or change dimensions? Standard is 32” x 60” but larger showers (36”-42” x 60”) provide more elbow room.
– Entry: Curbless entry works best for accessibility but requires extra effort ensuring drainage. Avoid elevated curbs over 1⁄2”.
– Door or No Door: Shower doors occupy space but contain splashes. Open access showers promote ease of mobility at expense of some water mess.
– Grab Bars: Strategically placed grab bars boost safety and independence. Look for rustproof stainless steel bars, 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inch diameter.
– Seating: Built-in teak/polymer benches offer resting spots and promote independence (plus serve as shelf space). Sturdy fold-down seats maximize flexibility.
– Flooring: Smaller shower tiles visually widen space. Textured surfaces prevent slips and falls. Ensure 3-4% slope for drainage; a center drain prevents pooling.
– Mixing Valves: Include thermostatic or pressure balance mixing valves to prevent sudden hot/cold shifts. Position controls at easy, ADA-approved reach ranges.
– Fixtures: Hand-held, height-adjustable showerheads with 60+” hoses accommodate all users. Recessed shelving provides convenient storage space.
– Lighting: Waterproof LED ceiling lights contain moisture. Provide minimum 30 lumens per square foot. Install switches at entrance and away from streams.
Tub Conversion Shower Ideas
When planning your design, think about who will use the shower most and how you can optimize function. Some creative ideas include:
- Aging in Place: For seniors, include a fold-down seat, easy-access low-profile shower pan, adjustable showerhead, and grab bars – Low Threshold
- Shower: A curbless entry makes access easiest for those with limited mobility
- Spa Shower: Consider bench seating, soothing rainfall showerhead, and recessed shelves for a luxurious at-home spa feel
- Steam Shower: Install a fully-enclosed steam generator for therapeutic moist heat to soothe muscles and relax
- Pet Wash Station: Install a hand-held sprayer and drain just outside entry for washing messy pets
Choosing the right contractors who specialize in accessible bathrooms and have experience with tub cutouts and plumbing work can make all the difference in creating your dream space. Be sure to communicate any mobility challenges, safety concerns, or health conditions needing accommodation upfront before finalizing any blueprints.
Converting your tub into a shower can be a game-changer for your bathroom, providing convenience, accessibility, and a modern touch. Our team at PGS Painters & Remodeling understands the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail when it comes to your project. Whether you’re looking to update your bathroom for personal enjoyment or to increase the value of your home, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your bathroom renovation needs and let us transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space.
The Bottom Line You Bathtub Conversion
We hope you found our article on tub to shower conversion helpful and informative. When done properly, converting your outdated and unused bathtub into a spacious, modern walk-in shower can greatly enhance your bathroom. Opening up the space not only allows for gorgeous updated styles but also boosts accessibility and usability for years to come. However, effectively planning and executing a tub conversion comes with challenges. Careful shopping of professional converting contractors is essential to avoid shoddy work and prevent issues like leaks or drainage problems down the road. While costs can add up, bathroom remodels featuring tub-to-shower conversions have excellent return potential in terms of daily enjoyment, safe accessibility, and added resale value.
Our team at PGS Painters & Remodeling is experienced in tub to shower conversions and can help you transform your bathroom into a modern and stylish space. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to discuss your project and schedule a consultation. Trust us to deliver the highest quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Transform your bathroom today with PGS Painters & Remodeling!
Frequently Asked Questions about Converting Your Bathtub to a Shower
Still have some questions? Check out the most common FAQs about switching your tub to a walk-in shower conversion below:
How complicated is converting a tub to a shower?
Doing a full tear out of an existing tub and converting to a walk-in shower requires some complex plumbing and construction work. The process involves removing walls/tile, installing new drainage, waterproofing, framing a new non-load-bearing stud wall, adding fixtures, and finishing details. In most cases, it’s wise to hire professional bathroom remodeling experts to ensure proper building techniques and prevent problems down the road.
Is it cheaper to convert a tub to a shower?
In general, yes – converting your existing tub to a walk-in shower costs less than a full custom shower installation requiring new plumbing lines. Tub conversions typically run $1,500 to $5,000. Exact pricing depends on the complexity of the project, which accessories you add, and finishes you select. Be sure to get quotes from at least 3 reputable contractors before committing.
How long does it take to convert a bathtub to a shower?
Most tub-to-shower conversion projects take 1 to 3 weeks from demolition to completion. After gutting and removing the old tub, new plumbing and framework must be installed before waterproofing, laying tile, mounting fixtures, and finishing. Working with an experienced professional ensures efficient timelines.
Can any tub be converted to a shower?
The vast majority of standard tubs can be converted to walk-in showers, including aluminum, acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain, and even cast iron. The key requirement is having enough space in the existing footprint to install a shower pan and open entryway. Severely damaged, irregularly sized, or corner tubs may present challenges.
What is the difference between a tub door and a shower door?
Tub doors simply provide basic water splash protection and visibility into a standard built-in tub, without any sealing. Shower doors fully enclose the space to prevent overflowing water and moisture damage, featuring water-tight edges and seals along the overlap and floor. They are also reinforced to withstand daily use over many years.
How do I clean my new acrylic or fiberglass shower after installing?
Use non-abrasive bathroom cleaners and avoid stiff scrub brushes or wire pads, which can scratch the surface. Also skip glass cleaners, as these deteriorate the water-repellant sealant over time. Mild dish soap, vinegar, or squeegeeing also works. Be sure to carefully follow any maintenance guidelines from your product manufacturer as well.
Will insurance cover any part of the cost of converting my bathtub?
Tub-to-shower conversions for purely cosmetic reasons would not be covered by homeowners insurance. However, if undertaken due to injury/illness or upon a doctor’s orders for medical need, you may be able to submit receipts for reimbursement of certain basic accessibility add-ons like grab bars, shower seats or walk-in conversion kits. Check policy terms.
Need help getting started? Contact our team for your free estimate or to answer any other questions on how to make your tub-to-shower conversion dreams a reality!
