Bathtub To Shower Conversion

Do you rarely use your bathtub? Are you tired of battling with your shower curtain, which never seem to act right, on a daily basis? Would you be willing to switch from a bathtub to a shower? If you answered yes to any of these questions then a bathtub-to-shower conversion is definitely for you. One of the most popular home renovation projects is a bathtub-to-shower conversion. It not only saves a bit of space, it can potentially raise your property value if done correctly.

Tubs have there place in the household as they’re great for soaking after a long day’s work or they’re great for practical relaxation purposes. On the other hand, tubs can take up a considerable amount of space, and they can be a hassle for physically disabled people. Let’s be honest for a second. The average bathroom in the average home really isn’t loaded with space. Despite the lack of size, you can do many amazing things to give this entire room an updated appearance.

First things first. If you’re planning to take this task head-on, you should already have all of the necessary equipment and materials on-hand. If you’re not accustomed to completing home restorative projects, or if you’re not a (do-it-yourself) kind of guy, seeking professional assistance is the smartest route to take.

Converting a Tub Into a Shower: How To…

Measure The Space:

This is the very first thing you should do as it will give you an understanding of how much space you have to work with it. The vast majority of tubs are about 60 inches in length by 30 inches in width. Unfortunately, most showers will not fit perfectly in the space that’s left behind by the tub. If this just so happens to be the case then you’ll definitely need to expand the bathroom’s wall. This is why a professional contractor is so important.

*The National Kitchen & Bath Association’s guidelines state that bathroom showers should be at least 30 by 30 inches.*

Remove The Old Tub:

Depending on the type of tub that you posses, this task can be extremely easy or it can be notoriously hard. Most homes, especially for the tubs that have a (shower surround), have tubs that are attached to the interior wall by screws. This type of set up can also have expanding foam underneath its surface. Tiles are very common in bathrooms and if they’re actually surrounding the tub, you’ll have to remove them or remove a portion of the wall itself.

Install Your New Shower:

If there were any significant changes to the structure then you’ll most likely need to repair the wall/structure, which has to be completed before installing the new shower. After repairs are made, will you be implementing tile or a shower pan? Tile is more durable, and it looks amazing, but it can be a lot more expensive.

This is contingent to the amount of tile that’s needed as well as the quality of tile that’s being used. Tile also require a lot more precise measuring. A shower pan/surround is much easier to install as it will generally come in one or two pieces.

Installation of Doors or Panels:

Although shower doors and panels aren’t required, they’ll give your new bath & shower a more cleaner appearance. Glass doors are definitely more common because they provide a better more sealed enclosure. If your bathroom is limited in size, glass doors may not be your best option because they can swing into the toilet or sink.

Of course, there are partial glass panels and tile panels. They both can work just as great for containing the water, which cuts down on dangerously slipping on a wet floor.

Tube-To-Shower Conversion Kits

For homeowners who are more on a budget, all is not lost. You can still achieve the end goal by purchasing a (tub-to-shower) kit. These innovative conversion kits can be purchased at a pre-selected size, or they can be customized from your very own measurements.

They’re generally made from acrylic material, which gives you the benefits of:

Low-Mess/Easy Installation:

Provides A Contemporary Look:

Non-Porous:

Are Mold & Mildew Resistant:

Have A Long Life Span:

Comes In Numerous Colors:

Kits and Your Budget

These kits are also easier on your budget, are wheelchair accessible, offer extra features and can be built in numerous shapes. Since many of them are prefabricated, the actual sizes vary across the board. Their opening can range between 24 to 28 inch openings. Wheelchair access models provide 34 inch openings. Price ranges typically start at $1,100 and go up to over $2,400; depending on the brand. Let’s have a closure look at the available base options.

Tub-Cut (Budget) Step-In Shower Conversion:

Tub-Cut (Budget) Step-In Shower Conversion has a simple design. It offers an easy and extra wide step-in feature, which is great for the disabled.

Step Conversion is loaded with features:

Notch-Cut (E/Z) Step Conversion is loaded with features such as grab bars, shower seats, custom built benches, frameless shower door, wheelchair shower pan and can posses a four inch step.

Full-Cut Shower Conversion:

Full-Cut Shower Conversion is an actual replica to a custom-built authentic shower conversion. It offers all the same features as the Notch-Cut models with added non-slip safety mats, 17 inch high toilets and custom shower doors.

Walk-In Shower Conversion:

Traditional (No Tub) Walk-In Shower Conversion is made from acrylic,granite, cultured onyx, or cultured marble. It offers all of the essential features plus a four-to-five inch step and a new tub finish.

Benefits & Things To Know

Did you know that many of the bathtub-to-shower conversion kits are made of acrylic? This material is easy to clean, is non-porous, it won’t crack and comes with a guaranteed warranty. Built-In Seated Models are great for those who can’t stand. Low Threshold Models are easy to enter, lacks a large step and provides a safer bathing experience. For those who are physically disabled, Barrier-Free Models make entering and exiting a breeze.

Without bathtub conversion kits/models, a shower remodel project could cost you anywhere between $6,500 to $10,000. For those who don’t want a prefabricated model, custom models are available, and their running costs can range from $1,000 to $3,500.

Never remodel a shower conversion near a window because of water seepage and mildew issues. If so, then you’ll end up having to tear out all of your hard work down the line, which is a bad return on investment.

In conclusion: Whether you do it on your own, or you hire a professional contractor, getting a more efficient bathroom won’t necessarily break the bank, but it will surely require some form of monetary investment. This one-time investment will certainly pay off in the long run by providing a more relaxed, stress-free household.