Factors Affecting Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost

If you wish to know how much you would need to convert a bathtub to a shower, you should know that the answer depends on multiple factors. Here are some of those factors.

Type of Shower

Different showers command different prices. Showers come in different types, but the main ones are prefabricated (prefab) and custom showers.

Prefab Showers

Manufacturers design and manufacture the shower offsite. You only need to assemble the shower after purchase. Examples of prefab showers include:

• Multi-piece units that have multiple-interlocking pieces that you assemble
• Wall kits resembling multi-piece units but lack the shower pan
• Single-piece units consisting of a single molded piece

The single-piece units are the most expensive, while the wall kits are the least expensive units.

Custom Showers

A professional plumber will design and install the shower in your house. Unlike prefabs, you can get a custom shower in almost any shape or size. However, custom showers tend to cost more than their prefab counterparts.

Existing Damage

Many people only replace their bathtubs after a long time. In such a case, you might notice some damage to your plumbing system or bathroom once you remove the tub. For example, removing the tub might reveal:

• Dry rot around the tub space
• Deteriorated water pipes
• Deteriorated valves

In some cases, the tub-removal process might also cause some light damage. Fix these issues while installing the shower. Fixing them now will be cheaper than installing the shower and commissioning the repairs later.

Tiling

The floor under the tub doesn't have tiles, so you will need to tile it once you remove the tub. The type of tiles you choose affects your project's overall cost. Various shower tiles are in the market, and you can make your choice as long as the tile is:

• Non-porous
• Nonslip
• Easy to clean

Many people consider tile aesthetics since they want something to match their overall bathroom style.

Lighting

Many people agree that you need light both outside and inside the shower stall. The number of light fixtures you need depends on your shower's design and size. The condition of the existing electrical wiring plus the lighting fixtures you choose also affects your budget.

Door Type

Your shower doesn't need a door - you can just hang a curtain. If you want a door, however, the type of door you choose also affects your budget. Options include:

• Frameless doors
• Bi-fold doors
• Curved doors

As you would expect, different doors command different prices.

Your shower's design also affects door choice. Ensure you measure the available space to confirm it has adequate clearance for your door before you begin shopping.

Tub Location

The tub's location may affect the shower's location and design, which affects your final price. For example, you should not install your shower next to a window. If you do that, shower water might get into the window's structure and cause structural damage.

Thus, you shouldn't install the shower in the exact tub's location if the tub is under a window. You have to either relocate the window or move the shower to avoid the window. The latter option might involve moving or extending plumbing pipes, which cost extra money.

Special Enhancements

Lastly, the bells and whistles you choose for your shower also affect your budget. Maybe you want:

• High-end materials
• A heated floor
• Digital or smart systems
• Fog-free mirrors

Your budget determines the number and type of enhancements.

The best way to get a budget estimate is to get a plumbing contractor to assess your bathroom and understand your needs. Power Plumbing Inc. has been active in the plumbing industry since 2002. Contact us for a quote on your plumbing needs, and you will soon be one of our satisfied clients.