Thinking about switching your old bathtub for a modern shower? You’re not alone. Most homeowners spend between $1,500 and $5,000 for a tub to shower conversion, with the average cost landing around $3,000. This price includes removing your old tub, installing the new shower, and basic finishing work. The good news? A typical shower uses just 17 gallons of water compared to a tub’s 50 gallons, making this upgrade both practical and cost-effective.
Understanding Basic Conversion Costs
The cost of turning your tub into a shower depends on several key factors. The size of your space, the materials you pick, and any extra features you want all play a role in the final price. Here’s what you need to know about basic costs:
Component |
Cost Range |
Notes
|
---|---|---|
Bathtub Removal |
$50-$500 |
Includes disposal |
Basic Shower Installation |
$675-$1,240 |
Standard size |
Plumbing Work |
$600-$1,500 |
Basic adjustments |
Glass Door |
$325-$600 |
Optional addition |
Choosing Your Shower Style
Different shower styles come with different price tags. The most budget-friendly option is a pre-made shower stall, which costs around $1,500. Want something fancier? Here’s what you can expect to pay:
Shower Type |
Price Range |
Description
|
---|---|---|
Pre-Fabricated |
$1,000-$3,000 |
Basic, ready-to-install |
Corner |
$1,500-$4,000 |
Space-saving design |
Walk-In |
$2,000-$5,000 |
No threshold, very accessible |
Material Choices Matter
The materials you pick make a big difference in both cost and looks. Ceramic tile remains popular, costing between $1.50 and $15 per square foot. Cultured marble offers a high-end look for $3 to $10 per square foot. For the shower pan, expect to pay $200 to $700, depending on the material.
Extra Features to Consider
Adding special features can make your shower more enjoyable but will increase the cost. Built-in benches add $100 to $400. Multiple shower heads might cost $50 to $300 each. Glass doors range from $300 to $1,200, based on style and size.
Planning for Success
Before starting your project, think about these important points:
- Get at least three quotes from different contractors
- Check if you need building permits
- Plan for unexpected issues, like water damage repair
- Consider upgrading your bathroom vent fan
- Think about storage needs for shampoo and soap
Remember that while pre-made shower units offer the lowest upfront cost, custom-tiled showers often add more value to your home. The right choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and what matters most to you in a shower.
This change will affect your daily routine, so take time to think about what you really want. A well-planned shower conversion can make your bathroom more functional and enjoyable while saving water and energy costs over time.
Important Factors When Converting Your Tub to a Shower
A tub-to-shower conversion can make your bathroom more modern and water-efficient. Before starting your project, you need to understand several key areas that affect both cost and results.
Size and Space Requirements
The size of your new shower plays a big role in the total cost. Most bathrooms can handle different shower sizes, but you’ll want to pick one that fits your space and budget.
Shower Size (Inches) |
Average Cost Range |
Description
|
---|---|---|
32 x 32 |
$1,500 – $3,500 |
Good for small spaces |
36 x 36 |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
Standard size |
36 x 48 |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Extra space |
The most common shower size is 36 x 36 inches, which gives you enough room to move while keeping costs reasonable. Bigger sizes like 36 x 48 inches offer more comfort but cost more because they need more materials and work.
Picking Your Materials
Your choice of materials affects both how your shower looks and how much it costs. Here’s what different materials typically cost:
Material |
Cost per Square Foot |
Features
|
---|---|---|
Ceramic Tile |
$0.50 – $15 |
Durable, many styles |
Porcelain Tile |
$1 – $20 |
Very water-resistant |
Natural Stone |
$5 – $30 |
Unique look |
Ceramic tile is popular because it’s strong and comes in many styles. Porcelain costs more but handles water better. Natural stone gives you a one-of-a-kind look but needs more care and costs the most.
Planning Your Project Timeline
When you’re ready to start, work with your contractor to make a clear schedule. Most tub-to-shower projects take 3-5 days, but this can change based on what you want. Basic conversions using a pre-made shower unit might take just 2-3 days. Custom tile work could stretch to a week or more.
You should also think about:
- Getting permits before work starts
- Ordering materials early
- Having a backup bathroom to use
- Planning for possible delays
Making Smart Design Choices
Your shower’s design should match how you’ll use it. If you plan to stay in your home as you get older, think about:
- A curbless entry for easy access
- Grab bars for safety
- A built-in bench
- Anti-slip flooring
- A handheld shower head
These features might add to your initial cost but can save money later by preventing the need for future updates.
Working With Contractors
Finding the right contractor makes a big difference in how well your project turns out. Ask each contractor about:
- Their experience with shower conversions
- Required permits and inspections
- Material recommendations
- Timeline estimates
- Warranty coverage
Getting at least three quotes helps you understand fair pricing in your area. The lowest price isn’t always the best choice – look for a contractor who explains things clearly and has good references.
Remember to check that your contractor is licensed and insured before signing any agreements. This protects you if something goes wrong during the project.
Making Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion a Success
When planning your tub-to-shower conversion, understanding the various aspects of the project helps you make smart choices. Let’s look at key areas that affect both the cost and quality of your bathroom upgrade.
Working with a Professional Contractor
Finding the right contractor makes a big difference in how well your project turns out. Look for someone who has done many tub-to-shower conversions and can show you examples of their work. Ask about their experience with plumbing, waterproofing, and tile installation. A good contractor will explain each step of the process and help you understand what to expect.
Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured. This protects you if something goes wrong during the project. Ask for at least three references and check them. Past customers can tell you a lot about how well the contractor communicates and handles problems.
Getting the Most from Your Budget
Smart planning helps you get the best value for your money. Start by deciding which features matter most to you. Maybe you want a built-in bench for comfort, or perhaps extra storage space is your priority. Tell your contractor about these must-haves early in the planning process.
Some features that often prove worth the extra cost include:
- Non-slip flooring for safety
- Quality shower doors that are easy to clean
- Built-in storage niches for toiletries
- Good lighting to brighten the space
Planning for Success
Good planning prevents many common problems. Your contractor should check the bathroom’s structure, plumbing, and ventilation before starting work. This helps avoid surprises that could delay the project or increase costs.
Most tub-to-shower conversions take 3-5 days, but this can vary based on what you want. Having a clear timeline helps you plan for when you’ll need to use another bathroom. Ask your contractor about:
- When they’ll start and finish
- What hours they’ll work
- How they’ll protect other parts of your home
- Their cleanup process
Making Smart Design Choices
Your new shower should work well for years to come. Think about who will use it and how their needs might change. If you plan to stay in your home as you get older, features like a curbless entry and grab bars make sense. These safety features can look stylish while making the shower more useful for everyone.
The right materials make a big difference too. Porcelain tile costs more than ceramic but handles water better and lasts longer. A glass door might cost more up front but needs less cleaning and maintenance than a shower curtain.
Ready to Convert Your Tub to a Shower?
At ACE Home Services, we understand that a tub-to-shower conversion is a big project. Our team brings years of experience to help make your bathroom upgrade successful. We take pride in explaining every step clearly and helping you make choices that fit your needs and budget.
We’ve helped many Phoenix homeowners transform their bathrooms with tub-to-shower conversions. Our skilled plumbers handle everything from basic conversions to custom designs with luxury features. We always follow local building codes and use quality materials that last.
Ready to start your bathroom upgrade? Call us at [phone_number] to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you plan a tub-to-shower conversion that fits your style and budget while adding value to your home.