Are you tired of looking at an old, unused bathtub that just takes up space? Many homeowners are choosing to ditch the tub for a sleek, modern shower. It is a great way to make your bathroom feel bigger and safer. But before you start tearing out tile, you probably have one big question: what is the bathtub-to-shower conversion cost?
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the cost of this popular project. We will look at average prices, the factors that change your total, and some real-world examples. Whether you want a simple update or a luxury spa retreat, Dun-Rite Home Improvements is here to help you plan your perfect bathroom.
What is the Average Bathtub-to-Shower Conversion Cost?
The cost of your project will depend heavily on what you want. Nationwide, the price can range anywhere from $1,200 to over $15,000. However, most homeowners find that a standard cost to convert a bathtub into a shower falls between $3,000 and $8,000.
To make it easier to understand, let’s break down the costs by the type of shower you choose:
- Prefabricated Shower Kits (Budget-Friendly): These are made of acrylic or fiberglass. They are quick to install and very easy to clean. You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for the materials and installation.
- Standard Tiled Showers (Mid-Range): If you want a custom look, tile is the way to go. A standard tiled shower with a glass door usually costs between $3,000 and $8,000.
- Custom Walk-In Showers (Premium): The cost to convert a bathtub to a walk-in shower is the highest. These often feature high-end stone, no curbs to step over, and custom glass. These luxury spaces can cost $8,000 to $15,000 or more.
For a deeper dive into national cost averages, you can check out this helpful guide from Angi.
Key Factors That Change the Cost to Replace Bathtub With Shower
Why is there such a big price difference? Several key factors will drive your cost to replace bathtub with shower up or down.
First, the materials you pick matter a lot. A simple acrylic shower pan is much cheaper than custom-cut marble tile. The type of door you choose also changes the price. A shower curtain is nearly free, but a thick, frameless glass door can add $1,500 or more to your bill.
Second, plumbing changes are a major factor. If you keep the new shower drain in the same spot as the old tub drain, you save money. If the plumber has to move pipes or add new showerheads, the price goes up. You can read more about this in our post on avoiding common plumbing issues.
Finally, hidden repairs can surprise you. When the contractor removes the old tub, they might find water damage or mold inside the walls. Fixing the wood and making sure everything is safe and dry will add to the final cost of converting your bathtub into a shower.
Real-World Examples: Convert Bathtub to Shower Cost
Sometimes it is hard to picture what you get for your money. Here are three practical, real-world examples to help you understand the costs:
Example 1: The Budget Update: A homeowner wants to replace a cracked fiberglass tub in a guest bathroom. They choose a clean, white acrylic shower pan and matching acrylic wall panels. They keep the drain in the same spot and use a shower curtain instead of a glass door. The total cost is around $3,000.
Example 2: The Modern Upgrade: A family wants to update their master bathroom. They remove the tub and install a beautiful ceramic tile shower. They add a built-in shelf for shampoo and a clear, frameless glass door. The plumber does not need to move the drain. The total cost is around $8,500.
Example 3: The Luxury Walk-In: A couple is creating their dream bathroom. They want a curbless walk-in shower so they never have to step over a ledge. They choose large-format porcelain tile, a hidden linear drain, and multiple showerheads. Because the plumbing had to be moved and the floor rebuilt for the curbless entry, the total cost is around $15,000.
When planning a luxury remodel like this, many homeowners also choose to update their floors to match the beautiful new shower.
Is the Cost to Convert Bathtub Into Shower Worth It?
For most families, the answer is a big yes! A shower is much easier to get in and out of than a deep bathtub. This makes your bathroom safer, especially for older adults. Plus, modern showers are much easier to clean than old, stained tubs.
You might wonder if removing a tub will hurt your home’s resale value. The general rule is that as long as you have at least one bathtub left in the house (for families with small children), converting your master tub into a shower is a smart investment.
If you are still deciding what is best for your home, take a look at our guide: Are You Ready for a Shower Remodel?. You can also explore different shower styles and trends over at Modernize.
Actionable Summary
Replacing your old tub with a fresh, new shower is an exciting project. Remember that your bathtub-to-shower conversion cost will depend mostly on the materials you choose and whether the plumbing needs to be moved. By planning ahead and choosing the right contractor, you can create a beautiful space that fits your budget.
If you are in the Denver area and want to know exactly how much to convert a bathtub to a shower in your specific home, we are here to help!
Contact the trusted team at Dun-Rite Home Improvements for your bathroom remodel needs. You can also read our reviews and get directions on our Google Business Profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much to convert bathtub to shower on a tight budget? A: If you are on a strict budget, prefabricated acrylic or fiberglass kits are the most affordable option. Keeping the plumbing in the same location and using a shower curtain instead of a glass door will also keep your costs closer to the $2,000 to $3,000 range.
Q: Does a tub-to-shower conversion hurt my home’s resale value? A: Usually, it does not hurt your resale value at all! In fact, many buyers prefer large walk-in showers in the master bathroom. Please keep at least one bathtub in the house for future buyers with small children.
Q: How long does it take to replace a bathtub with a shower? A: The timeline depends on the type of shower. A simple prefabricated shower kit can often be installed in just a few days. However, a custom tiled shower with new plumbing and a custom glass door can take one to two weeks to complete properly.
