Some bathrooms have only showers when a bathtub would be better. If you have young children, elderly family members, or simply want to relax in a warm bath, converting a shower to a bathtub makes sense. But is it practical? What does it cost? What's involved?
This guide explains the process, costs, and considerations for converting a shower to a bathtub.
Shower to Tub Conversion: Basic Process
Step 1: Demolition, Remove the Existing Shower
Remove the existing shower enclosure, surround, pan, and fixtures. Inspect the walls for water damage or mold. This phase takes 1 to 2 days and costs $300 to $500.
Step 2: Plumbing Work, Relocate Drain and Supply
This is the most complex part of the conversion. The existing shower drain is wall-mounted, but a bathtub requires a floor-mounted drain. The plumber must cut through the floor, relocate the drain line, and ensure proper slope for drainage. The water supply lines must also be relocated from shower height (78 inches) to tub height (48 inches). This work takes 2 to 3 days and costs $1,200 to $1,800.
Step 3: Tub Installation
Install the new bathtub and set it level. Connect plumbing. Install overflow and drain. Cost: $800 to $1,500 (tub purchase + labor).
Step 4: Wall Preparation and Tile
Build up the walls around the tub, install waterproof substrate, and tile. A tub surround typically requires tile about 48 inches high to prevent water damage. This takes 4 to 5 days and costs $1,500 to $2,500 depending on tile choice.
Step 5: Finishing
Install trim, fixtures (tub faucet, shower head if combo unit), and caulk. Paint walls. Final cleanup. Takes 2 to 3 days.
Luxury bathroom with separate tub and shower fixtures
Complete Cost Breakdown
Tier 1: Basic Conversion, $3,000 to $4,000
- Demo and removal: $300 to $500
- Plumbing (drain relocation + supply): $1,000 to $1,200
- Standard acrylic tub: $600 to $900
- Installation: $400 to $600
- Tile and surround: $700 to $800
Tier 2: Standard Conversion, $4,000 to $5,000
- Demo and removal: $300 to $500
- Plumbing work: $1,200 to $1,500
- Quality acrylic or cast iron tub: $1,000 to $1,500
- Installation: $500 to $700
- Quality tile and surround: $1,000 to $1,300
Tier 3: Premium Conversion, $5,000 to $6,500+
- Demo and removal: $400 to $600
- Plumbing work: $1,500 to $2,000
- Premium or luxury tub: $1,500 to $3,000
- Installation: $600 to $900
- Custom tile and surround: $1,500 to $2,000
Plan Your Shower to Tub Conversion
Mastaba specializes in shower-to-tub conversions that transform your bathroom. We handle plumbing relocation, tub installation, and tile work. Call for a free assessment and estimate.
Call (518) 308-6427 →Tub Style Options for Your Conversion
Standard Alcove Tub
Fits in a standard 5-foot alcove. Budget-friendly. Most common option. Cost: $600 to $1,200.
Soaking Tub
Deeper than standard for immersion bathing. Fits standard spaces but requires more water. Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
Freestanding Tub
Luxury centerpiece. Requires floor support. More complex installation. Cost: $1,500 to $3,500+ for tub, plus additional plumbing.
Combination Tub/Shower
Have both tub and shower in one space. More flexible. Cost: $1,500 to $2,500 for tub, plus shower enclosure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to convert a shower to a tub?
Converting a shower to a bathtub typically costs $3,000 to $6,000. This includes tub purchase, plumbing modifications, and surrounding tile work. A simple conversion with minimal tile work costs $3,000 to $4,000. A conversion with custom tile and upscale tub costs $5,000 to $6,000+.
What plumbing work is needed for shower to tub conversion?
You need to relocate the drain from wall-mounted to floor-level, adjust the water supply, and relocate the faucet/valve from shower height (78 inches) to tub height (48 inches). Budget $800 to $1,500 for plumbing work.
Is it more difficult to convert shower to tub or tub to shower?
Converting a shower to a tub is more difficult because the drain must be relocated from wall-mounted to floor-level. This requires more plumbing work than a tub-to-shower conversion. Expect higher labor costs.
Can I have both a shower and tub in the same space?
Yes. You can install a combination tub/shower unit with both a tub and shower enclosure. This is more expensive ($4,000 to $7,000) but gives you flexibility.
What size space do I need for a bathtub?
Standard alcove bathtubs require 60 inches long x 30 inches wide minimum. Larger tubs or corner tubs need more space. Assess your shower enclosure space before committing to conversion.
How long does shower to tub conversion take?
Conversion typically takes 2 to 3 weeks including plumbing modifications, tub installation, and tile work. Complex plumbing situations may extend the timeline.