What to Expect for Price

Converting the bathtub to a shower can be a good way to improve the look and function of the bathroom. Showers tends to be easier to access and can be equipped with grab bars or even a bench for individuals with mobility issues. By switching a tub to a shower, homeowners can gain often gain more space for standing while bathing, reclaim a few square feet of floor space, and upgrade the look of their bathroom.

Plan to spend about $3,000 on average to convert a tub to a shower, though prices can range from $1,200 to $8,000, depending on several key factors.

Use this guide to learn more about tub to shower conversion cost factors to build a budget for this project.

Tub to Shower Conversion Benefits

Making the change from a tub to a shower is a big job that can take several days to several weeks to complete, depending on the contractor, but there are a wide range of benefits that make this change worthwhile.

• Improved accessibility: Getting into and out of a bathtub with high, slippery walls can be difficult for some individuals. Converting the tub to a shower can help improve the accessibility of the bathroom.
• Aesthetic update: Sometimes the home can feel plain or boring, especially if it has been years since you have made a major change. Switching out the old bathtub for a new shower can update the aesthetic appearance of the bathroom, breathing new life into the home.
• Increase property value: An old, worn bathtub with equally aged tiles isn’t exactly attractive for prospective home buyers. Convert the tub to a shower to improve the look and functionality of the bathroom, leading to a potential increase in property value.
• Replace a damaged tub: One of the best reasons to convert a tub to a shower is if the existing tub is chipped, cracked, dented, or otherwise damaged. Hire a pro to replace the old tub with a new shower to prevent the risk of leaks, water damage, and subsequent mold growth.

Tub to Shower Conversion Cost Factors

Shower Type

The type of shower that you are putting in can impact the overall cost of the project, so before starting, it’s a good idea to find out more about the various types, including manufacturer shower stalls, tiled showers, and curbless showers.

• Manufactured shower stalls are essentially pre-fabricated showers that can be purchased at local home improvement stores. This type of shower ranges in cost from $1,000 to $8,000, depending on the shower stall shape and any accessories, like a built-in shelf or grab bar.
• Tiled showers are built directly in the bathroom, without any prefabricated elements. These showers may cost more or less than a manufacturer shower stall depending on the size of the shower and the type of material. On average, a tiled shower will cost between $1,800 to $5,000, though the cost can increase to more than $10,000 for high-end materials.
• Curbless showers are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, because there’s no curb to step over to get into the shower. However, installing this type of shower will typically cost a little more than the average shower stall, at a price of $2,650 to $8,350.

Shower Size

The larger the shower, the more material will be required, driving up the material costs. Larger showers will take longer to install, leading to increased labor costs as well.

Typically, a small, prefabricated shower can be installed for about $700 to $3000, though you can find a lightweight plastic one for as little was $300. A large custom shower may cost more than $8,000 for materials and installation.

Shower Materials

Tile is a relatively affordable choice for a shower, ranging from about $1 to $17 per square foot, which is why it is one of the most common options for a tub to shower conversion project.

Cultured marble at $10 to $35 per square foot and cultured granite at $40 to $64 per square foot are a step up from tile, offering a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Quartz is one of the most expensive options, ranging from $50 to $100 per square foot, though homeowners may decide to go with a fiberglass or acrylic insert, which is only about $400 to $2,000, in total.

Labor

Hiring a plumber will generally cost about $75 to $150 per hour, while hiring a bathroom renovation contractor can cost $50 to $75 per hour. Given that these projects will take a few days, you can expect to pay over $1,000 in labor costs.

Additional Considerations for Tub to Shower Conversion Cost

A basic budget can help prepare for the primary cost of this project, but there are many situations that can arise and increase the overall cost.

“Some of the most likely ones are, structural modifications, permitting and inspection depending on the scope of the project, unforeseen problems like asbestos, lead and mold abatement, scope changes, material unavailability, and even special disposal fees for hazardous materials,” says Joshua Rudin, president of ASAP Restoration.

Bathtub Demolition

Before the contractor can install the new shower, they will need to remove the existing bathtub. The cost to demolish and remove an old bathtub varies based on the type of tub, though it will typically range in cost from $50 to $500.

You can expect to pay another $100 for the pros to dispose of old grout, tiles, and other debris that is created when demolishing the tub.

Accessories

Several accessories can be included with the shower installation to make the new shower more convenient and easier to use, such as basic accessibility add-ons, like a grab bar or seat, which will cost about $600 on average.

When selecting the new shower, you will also need to choose a showerhead. Models can vary in look and function, which is why there is such a wide price range for this accessory, stretching from $50 to $900.

Some showers will need a shower door, which can cost $600 to $1,350, depending on the size and style you choose. Sliding, hinged, or fixed shower doors are relatively inexpensive, but you can upgrade to a high-end glass door to improve the aesthetics of the bathroom.

Permits

When converting a tub to a shower, you may need to get a building permit, depending on where you live. Acquiring a building permit will typically cost $180 to $2,000. Prices for a building permit increase based on the extent of the project and the location of the home.

Hidden Tub to Shower Conversion Costs

Water Damage

Any water damage discovered during the conversion process will need to be repaired before the new shower can be installed. Water damage repair in a bathroom to fix a shower, tub, drain, or pipe usually costs between $100 and $800.

Repairs or Replacement Parts

The discovery of cracked, leaking, or otherwise damaged drain lines can increase the cost of a tub to shower conversion. While some parts of the plumbing will naturally be replaced during the installation to accommodate the configuration of the shower, the repair or replacement of any existing parts can add between $300 and $2400 to the project cost.

Tub to Shower Conversion Cost: DIY Vs. Professional

DIYers that are confident in their plumbing abilities can replace faucets, repair leaks, and fix drain lines, but converting a tub to a shower may be too difficult to tackle. However, if you feel you can manage the job, you may be able to save more than $1,000 on the cost of labor.

For homeowners that don’t have the time or the experience to handle this work, a crew of pros can typically wrap up a tub to shower conversion project in a couple of days.

“Not only do you get peace of mind knowing that your shower conversion has been done successfully by a professional, but you get the warranty that comes with their services too,” Rudin says.

With a warranty or guarantee on the work, if anything goes wrong you can contact the contractors instead of having to troubleshoot the situation on your own.

When Is the Best Time of Year for a Tub to Shower Conversion?

Typically, bathroom renovations are completed during the warmer months of the year, though some homeowners may book this work for the months leading up to the holidays in anticipation of family visiting. With this in mind, one of the best times for a tub to shower conversion is in January, right after the holiday season.

Contractors tend to be slower during this time of the year, making it more likely that you will receive their undivided attention. Since the demand for this service is lower, the cost may also be lower, allowing you to save on the overall cost of the project.