The Ultimate Guide to Converting Your Bathtub into a Shower
Imagine standing in your bathroom, looking at a tub that rarely gets used. It takes up space, it’s hard to clean, and you’ve thought more than once that a shower would make life easier. A tub-to-shower conversion solves that problem. Instead of worrying where to start, think first about the common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Phase 1: Planning and Preparation for Your Conversion
Key Considerations Before You Start
Is your bathtub getting often used or rarely? If the answer is “rarely,” switching makes sense. Families with small kids may want to keep at least one bathtub somewhere in the house, but for most people, a shower is simply more practical.
Assessing Your Bathroom Space and Layout
Your bathroom’s layout guides the options. Measure carefully, note where the plumbing lines are, and look at windows or walls that could affect placement. Small bathrooms often work better with corner showers, while bigger spaces leave room for walk-ins with benches or added storage.
Budgeting for a Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Demolition, plumbing changes, and new fixtures all drive costs. Tile, pans, and glass doors add to the total. Hidden mold or old pipes can also show up during demolition, so keep extra funds set aside.
The Impact on Your Home’s Resale Value
If resale is on your mind, think carefully before removing the last bathtub in the house. Walk-in showers appeal to a wide range of buyers, especially older homeowners and younger professionals. Families may still look for at least one tub, so balance your immediate needs with what might help your home sell later.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Which is Right for You?
We all can learn from YouTube university, and try our lucks with random, probably outdated blogs on the subject, but does it really save you money in the long run? As one remodeling expert from Future Generation Construction in Citrus Heights, California puts it, “Cutting corners today means paying for water damage tomorrow.” Hiring a pro costs more upfront but usually saves money, time, and stress in the long run.
Phase 2: The Conversion Process Explained
Option 1: Full Bathtub Removal and New Shower Installation
Most homeowners choose this option. You pull out the tub, update the plumbing, and put in a shower that matches your vision. It takes more work with demolition, rerouting pipes, and sometimes framing, but it also lets you pick every detail, from layout to fixtures.
Option 2: Retrofitting Plumbing for a Tub-Shower Combination
Keeping the tub and adding a showerhead with a curtain or glass screen is quicker and cheaper. The tub still dominates the room, so space savings are limited, but you do get both options without a full remodel.
Understanding Plumbing and Drain Adjustments
Drains need the right slope, and water lines may need to move. Even a small mistake can cause leaks, which is why many homeowners call in a contractor for this step.
Phase 3: Designing Your New Walk-In Shower
Choosing the Right Shower Pan (Base)
The base is the foundation. Prefabricated pans are budget-friendly and quick to install, while tiled bases let you create a custom look. Pick one that is sturdy, non-slip, and well-sealed.
Selecting Wall Surrounds: Tile, Panels, and Waterproofing
Walls shape both style and function. Tile opens up endless design options but takes more time and maintenance. Panels are simpler and easier to clean, though the choices are fewer. Whatever you choose, waterproofing is the most important part.
Shower Door and Enclosure Considerations
Doors keep the water where it belongs. Sliding, hinged, or partial-glass walk-ins all have their benefits. Choose based on your bathroom’s size and how much upkeep you want.
Maximizing Usability with Features and Accessories (Cubbies, Benches, Grab Bars)
A good shower is more than just walls and fixtures. Shower cubbies hold your bottles, benches provide comfort, and grab bars improve safety. Plan these early so they fit into the design from the start.
The Importance of Ventilation and Lighting
A damp shower without airflow becomes a mold magnet. Good ventilation paired with waterproof lights keeps the space safe and comfortable. Natural light changes the feel of the space, so keep it in play if you have a window.
15 Common Conversion Problems and How to Avoid Them
Problem #1: Overpaying for Materials or the Project
Quotes vary more than you’d think. One supplier might list a glass door for hundreds less than another. Get a few estimates, ask for itemized pricing, and compare before you buy.
Problem #2: Choosing a Slippery or Flimsy Shower Pan
If it feels flimsy in the store, it’ll feel worse in your bathroom. Test it if you can. Look for textured, non-slip surfaces and solid weight ratings so it feels steady underfoot.
Problem #3: Selecting Materials That Are Difficult to Clean
High-shine tile shows water spots fast. Matte finishes, bigger tiles with less grout, or solid panels all make cleaning easier.
Problem #4: Installing a Short or Impractical Glass Door
Ever had a shower door smack into your sink or spray water across the floor? That’s what happens when the size or swing is wrong. Go with sliding or bi-fold styles if space is tight, and measure twice before ordering.
Problem #5: Creating Water Leakage Issues on the Floor
A trickle of water escaping the shower doesn’t seem like much until your floor starts to buckle or stain. A waterproof membrane, careful sealing, and a slight inward slope keep the water where it belongs.
Problem #6: Forgetting About Future Accessibility Needs (Aging in Place)
Today it might not matter, but down the road stepping over a high ledge can be a dealbreaker. Plan for low thresholds, wider entries, and reinforced walls so grab bars can be added when needed.
Problem #7: Sacrificing Quality for a “One-Day” Remodel
Fast remodels sound appealing until six months later when you’re calling someone to fix leaks. Ask contractors to explain each step, especially waterproofing, and give the job enough time to be done right.
Problem #8: Buying a System That Isn’t Space-Efficient
Cramming oversized fixtures into a small bathroom makes it feel tighter than it is. Corner or curved showers open the room up and still give you plenty of space inside.
Problem #9: Settling for an Unstylish Design
Think about staring at that tile or glass every morning. Pick finishes and layouts you’ll still appreciate years later, not just what seems trendy now.
Problem #10: Underestimating the Time and Mess of a Tile Installation
Tile work means dust, noise, and waiting longer than planned. Have a backup place to bathe and expect delays, it’s part of the process.
Problem #11: Not Visualizing the Final Look
Ordering on impulse leads to regret when pieces don’t match. Use samples, sketches, or 3D tools to picture the final space before a single tile goes up.
Sketches, samples, or 3D tools help preview the end result. Seeing it first prevents regrets and mid-project changes.
Problem #12: Buying the Wrong Products and Facing Restocking Fees
Specs and sizes matter. Double-check with your contractor before ordering so you don’t pay for returns.
Problem #13: Covering a Window and Losing Natural Light
Windows brighten a shower and reduce mold. Use frosted glass, waterproof blinds, or glass blocks instead of closing it off.
Problem #14: Forgetting to Plan for Accessories Until It’s Too Late
Cubbies, benches, and hooks are easier to add during construction. Plan them early so they fit naturally into the build.
Problem #15: Taking Inaccurate Measurements
Bad measurements lead to wasted material and poor fits. Measure twice, ask someone else to confirm, and bring exact numbers when ordering.
Henry Sinclair is a graduate of the University of Florida with a BFA in Interior Architecture and has been revolutionizing the world of integrated modern interior design for over a decade. His journey began with a prestigious role at a renowned New York design firm, where he honed his skills for five years before venturing into freelance consulting.
With a master's degree in Interior Design from Parsons School of Design, he has been a leading figure in the field for over 12 years. He loves cycling outside the studio and enjoys exploring urban landscapes on two wheels.
