Swapping an old bathtub for a walk-in tile shower is one of the most popular bathroom upgrades we do around Springfield. It makes the bathroom easier to use, easier to clean and a lot more modern. Here are the questions people ask before they commit.
What is a tub-to-shower conversion?
We remove the bathtub and its surround, move the drain to suit a shower, build a sloped shower floor, waterproof the walls and floor, and tile the whole space. The result is a walk-in shower in the same footprint the tub used.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost?
The tile part is priced per square foot: $18 per sq ft for wall tile, $5 per sq ft for Schluter-KERDI waterproofing and $3 per sq ft to remove old tile. A standard 5 ft alcove has about 90 sq ft of wall tile, or roughly $1,620 in tile labor plus $450 for waterproofing. Tub removal, plumbing, glass and the tile itself are added on top. Your tile shower quote lists every piece.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Plan on about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on plumbing changes and glass lead time. The tile work itself usually takes 5 to 7 working days.
Will removing my only bathtub hurt resale value?
It can matter to buyers with small children. If the bathroom you are converting is the only one in the house with a tub, many homeowners keep a tub elsewhere. If there is another tub, a nice walk-in shower is usually a selling point.
Does a 5 ft tub space make a big enough shower?
Yes. A 5 by 3 ft shower feels roomy, and without a tub wall to step over it feels even bigger. A recessed niche keeps bottles off the floor.
Can I add a bench or a niche?
Yes. Recessed niches fit between the wall studs, and a built-in bench can be added at one end. Both are waterproofed and tiled to match.
Do I need a curb, or can it be curbless?
Most conversions use a low curb because it is simpler and costs less. Curbless is possible when the floor framing allows it to be lowered. We check during the free on-site measure.