How Much Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in 2024?

If you don’t spend your evenings soaking in a bathtub but use it rather as a shower tray, it can make sense to kick off the conversion project. Not only can you free up the space and make the bathroom appear ampler, but you can also keep slip and fall accidents at bay. Such a transformation makes for a godsend for people with mobility issues and a smart investment for those who have their heart on aging in place. 

Once you replace a tub with a shower, you can equip the latter with built-in seats and handrails for improved comfort and safety. As a bonus, you can notice a significant decrease in your water consumption and, therefore, utility bills. And your home value won’t suffer from such an upgrade as a well-designed shower can increase your home’s aesthetic appeal. With umpteen options of showerhead types, tiling, add-ons, and even built-in niches for storing bath products, creating a dream-like bathing space will be a piece of cake.  

The cost to replace a tub with a shower stall lands between $1,750 and $8,000, with most homeowners spending $3,000. The low-end option can set you back $1,200. However, converting a tub to a walk-in shower costs up to $15,000 as it is considered a high-end alternative. The price can be lower if you go for more affordable materials and won’t change the bathroom’s layout.

The price of a tub-to-shower conversion

A Detailed Cost Breakdown of a Bathtub-to-Shower Remodel

As there are no two identical bath-to-shower transformation projects, there are no standard rates. You can use an average cost range as a reference point, but it is essential to understand its building blocks. The price can be influenced by numerous factors, from the shower size to selected tiles to the specific modifications you wish to make. The overall conversion cost can escalate if you choose high-grade materials or reposition a shower.

The contractor’s rate is another tub-to-walk-in shower conversion cost-driven factor you need to be aware of. Having a clear idea of your shower specifications and the modifications you desire can help you get accurate estimates with MyHomeQuote. We can assist you in reaching out to local specialists and obtaining custom estimates to get a clearer picture of your potential expenses.

The Cost of Tub-to-Shower Conversion by Shower Size

As a shower is the desired outcome of any bathtub-to-shower transformation project, its size plays a key role in cost formation. If you have a tiny bathing space, your expenses will likely be low as fewer materials and effort, aka labor, are required. A master or primary bathroom with a large shower may call for plumbing adjustments, more tiles or paneling for the walls and floor, and a longer installation time. 

The shower size expansion into other bathroom areas or structural modifications can also increase your remodeling costs. As a large shower space allows for luxury features like multiple showerheads, such upgrades can contribute to a higher cost of converting a tub to a shower. Therefore, when planning your conversion budget, consider the shower size’s implications on your overall expenditure.

The price of a tub-to-shower conversion by shower size

The Cost of Tub-to-Shower Conversion by Shower Type

A shower type goes far beyond its configuration, which we are used to thinking about in the first place. Sure, if you compare off-the-shelf models with bespoke ones of the same size, the latter tend to be less budget-friendly. However, prefabricated and custom options come with various features that affect the cost. 

You should pay heed to extra transformation-related services, like bathtub removal or incorporation of built-in shelving, that can also lead to an increase in the cost of converting the tub to a walk-in shower. In essence, the more sophisticated your project, the higher the overall expenses. Therefore, considering the type of shower you want is a crucial step in budgeting appropriately for a tub-to-shower conversion.

Shower Stall

A tub-to-shower conversion is a proactive and smart way to improve your bathing experience. Even though it can cost you a bundle compared to other home renovations, your expenses can still remain moderate than when you delve into a complete bathroom overhaul. Such a transformation can elevate your home’s resale value even without paying through the nose. 

To replace a tub with a shower costs between $900 and $8,000, providing that you opt for a shower stall. Usually, the latter comes prefab in a kit consisting of a shower pan base and three walls. If you decide to install add-ons like a shower seat or bars, you should expect to pay more. Please note that the price can fluctuate depending on the shower stall design. 

The price of a tub-to-shower conversion by shower stall

Tiled Shower

If you crave a tiled shower – with its walls and floors clad in tiles – you should be ready to meet the above-average cost of a tub-to-shower conversion. You can spend $300 to $2,000 for tiling alone or about $25 per sq. ft. for materials and labor. Even though it may be a do-it-yourself project contingent on your skills, it is often best left to experts, especially if you opt for intricate designs. 

Certain tiles can be more costly than others. For instance, you can opt for budget-friendly ceramic tiles or splurge on luxurious stone slabs. While the first option can set you back starting at $1,30 per square foot, the minimal price tag of stone slabs is $40. Ultimately, the tile choice will significantly influence the overall cost of a tiled shower. 

The price of a tub-to-shower conversion by shower material

Walk-In Shower

If you want your spic-and-span shower to steal the show in the bathroom, go for a walk-in type. It is represented in two configurations – prefabricated and custom. The cost to replace the tub with a walk-in shower can fall between $3,000 to $15,000, the exact price hinges on the design, size, and materials used. 

Prefabricated walk-in showers are typically more affordable because they are manufactured in standard sizes and designs. They are produced and assembled in factories, making them less labor-intensive to install. This can substantially reduce labor costs compared to a custom installation. If you fancy custom-made alternatives for a personalized and potentially high-value aesthetic, you should be ready to pay more. Unlike its prefab counterpart, it requires detailed and skilled workmanship for proper installation.

The tub-to-walk-in shower conversion cost by shower configuration

Related Bath-to-Shower Conversion Costs  

There is more to the bath-to-shower transformation project than meets the eye. That’s why it’s recommended to hire professionals who know the ins and outs of such a conversation. Not only can they guarantee your brand-new shower is installed to the highest standards, but they also can manage a zillion problems down the line. 

Willing to know the cost of replacing a tub with a walk-in shower? Employ the MyHomeQuote platform. Here, you can leave a detailed request and get realistic estimates from up to 5 leading contractors in your area. 

Customization

If you have a clear picture of how your future shower should look, an experienced contractor can bring your idea to life. However, creating a custom shower design can increase the overall bathtub-to-shower conversion cost. Coordinating your needs, desires, and budget when planning customization is essential as it can set you $1,000 to 3,000+.

Plumbing Addition

If you are about to move or add fixtures like showerheads, faucets, or drains, the plumbing system may need to be altered. Combined with the cost of the new plumbing materials, this can increase your total expenditure. Older homes have less adaptable plumbing systems, making the addition more complex and potentially expensive.

Pipe Replacement

If your existing pipes are aged or corroded, you should better replace them to maintain good water flow and prevent leakage issues in the future. But plumbers may need to open walls or floors to get things done, meaning this extra service can add a considerable amount to your overall conversion cost.

Shower Door Installation

The type of door you opt for makes for the main cost-driven factor. Within the category of glass doors, a straightforward framed door is less expensive than a frameless or custom-designed one. Installing these doors is an intricate process that often requires professional installation, which can add to labor costs. 

Faucet Installation

You can choose from standard single-handle faucets to more expensive thermostatic or digital mixer faucets. The choice of the faucet itself and the labor fees of a professional plumber can increase the average cost of a tub-to-shower conversion. 

Safety Feature Installation 

Additions like shower bars, seats, and liners are essential for enhancing the safety and accessibility of the shower. However, each of these features comes with its own cost. Grab bars and seats may require professional installation to ensure secure fitting, adding to labor costs. 

Repairs 

Damages like broken tiles, wall patches, or potential water damage need to be fixed before installation. The cost of repair services can vary based on the extent of damage, type of surface, and location. Besides the repair expenses, these complications can extend the project timeline, potentially leading to higher labor costs.

Tub Removal and Disposal

The tub’s size, material, and location can determine the removal process’s complexity. The cost to remove the bathtub with professional assistance is higher but ensures minimal damage to the surrounding bathroom and plumbing fixtures. Following removal, proper disposal can also add expenses as it often involves transportation to a waste facility, with potential dumping fees.

Permits

When calculating how much to convert a tub to a walk-in shower costs, many homeowners overlook getting permits. However, depending on local regulations, they may be required for plumbing changes, structural alterations, or extensive remodeling.  

Mold Remediation

A bathroom is prone to mold and mildew growth. If this issue is uncovered during the renovation process, it’s mandatory to remove it. This process involves specialist teams and specific treatments to eradicate all mold spores, which adds to the labor cost.

Cleanup           

Post-construction cleanup jobs include removing construction debris, dust, and excess materials, which might require a professional service. The project’s size and complexity and local disposal fees for waste materials can influence the cost of cleanup. 

The shower-to-tub conversion cost by add-on services

Labor Cost to Replace a Bathtub with a Shower

Labor contributes significantly to the shower remodel costs, with potential expenses exceeding $1,000. As tile showers require considerable time and expertise to install, they often run at a higher price tag. On the flip side, prefab shower stalls made from acrylic or fiberglass typically see lower labor costs due to their easier installation.

How much is a tub-to-shower conversion if you need a layout alteration? A plumber can charge between $45 to $190 per hour. Though the project typically spans a few days, the duration can be extended if you can’t do it without permits.