A common bathroom upgrade: converting that old bathtub into a modern shower. If you rarely bathe and prefer showers, if you're aging in place and want accessibility, or if you simply want a spa-like shower, converting a tub makes perfect sense.
The good news is that tub-to-shower conversions are relatively straightforward and affordable. The existing plumbing rough-in stays in place. You're basically removing the tub and installing a shower enclosure. This guide explains the costs, what to expect, and which design options work best.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Costs: What You'll Pay
Simple Conversion (Tile Surround Only), $3,000 to $4,500
Remove the existing tub and install a floor pan with tile surround. No glass doors or fancy features. This is the basic, budget-friendly option.
- Tub demolition and disposal: $500 to $700
- Plumbing (faucet relocation): $800 to $1,200
- Shower pan and tile: $1,200 to $1,800
- Fixtures (showerhead, controls): $400 to $600
- Labor and finishing: $500 to $800
Standard Conversion (Tile + Glass Doors), $4,500 to $6,500
Same as above, but with framed or semi-frameless glass doors. Modern look, easy to clean.
- Tub demolition and disposal: $500 to $700
- Plumbing (faucet relocation): $800 to $1,200
- Shower pan and tile: $1,200 to $1,800
- Glass doors (framed): $1,500 to $2,500
- Fixtures (showerhead, controls): $400 to $600
- Labor and finishing: $700 to $1,000
Premium Conversion (Custom Tile + Frameless Glass), $6,500 to $8,500+
Custom tile design, frameless glass doors, premium fixtures, and luxury finishes. Spa-like appearance.
- Tub demolition and disposal: $500 to $700
- Plumbing (faucet relocation, accent plumbing): $1,000 to $1,500
- Custom shower pan and premium tile: $2,000 to $3,000
- Frameless glass doors: $2,500 to $3,500
- Premium fixtures (luxury showerhead, body sprays): $800 to $1,500
- Labor and finishing: $1,000 to $1,500
Luxury shower and tub combination in high-end bathroom
Design Options for Shower Conversions
Walk-In Shower (No Door)
An open walk-in shower with no door. Minimal maintenance, spacious feeling, accessible for aging in place. Cost: $3,000 to $5,000. Requires proper slope to contain water and prevent splashing into the bathroom.
Framed Glass Doors
Traditional sliding or hinged glass doors with aluminum frame. Classic look, easy to clean. Cost: $1,500 to $2,500 for the doors alone. Framed doors are more affordable than frameless but show water spots.
Frameless Glass Doors
Modern frameless glass enclosure. Contemporary look, spacious appearance, premium feel. Cost: $2,500 to $3,500 for the doors. More expensive than framed but worth it for high-end bathrooms.
Corner Shower with Partial Surround
A compact shower for small bathrooms. Minimal tile work, one or two glass walls. Cost: $3,000 to $4,500. Good space-saving solution.
Ready to Convert Your Tub to a Shower?
Mastaba specializes in tub-to-shower conversions that transform your bathroom. We handle demolition, plumbing, tile work, and glass installation. Call for a free estimate and design consultation.
Call (518) 308-6427 →Plumbing Requirements and Considerations
A tub-to-shower conversion requires minimal plumbing work if the existing supply and drain lines are adequate. Here's what happens:
The drain stays in place. The existing drain (usually center floor) works for a shower. No major drain relocation needed.
Supply lines are rerouted. The faucet moves from tub height (48 inches) to shower height (78 inches). Supply lines are slightly rerouted and the new valve is installed.
No vent work. The existing vent line (if present) stays in place. No modifications needed.
Timeline for Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Day 1 to 2: Demolition of tub, disposal, and preparation. Wall inspection for water damage.
Day 3 to 4: Plumbing work. Faucet relocation and valve installation.
Day 5 to 8: Shower pan installation and tile work. Waterproofing, tile setting, and grouting.
Day 9 to 10: Glass door installation, fixtures, and finishing touches.
Day 11 to 14: Grout curing and final inspection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to convert a tub to a shower?
Converting a bathtub to a shower typically costs $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the scope. A simple conversion with existing rough-in runs $3,000 to $4,500. A conversion with new tile, fixtures, and glass doors runs $5,000 to $8,000+.
What plumbing work is required for tub to shower conversion?
Minimal plumbing work is required if the existing supply lines work. The drain stays in place. You may need to relocate the faucet from tub height (48 inches) to shower height (78 inches). Budget $800 to $1,500 for plumbing labor.
Is tub to shower conversion cheaper than bathroom remodel?
Yes. A tub-to-shower conversion is a single-fixture upgrade. A bathroom remodel typically replaces all fixtures, cabinets, flooring, and tile. A conversion costs $3,000 to $8,000. A bathroom remodel costs $15,000 to $35,000+.
Can I convert a tub to a shower myself?
Not recommended. Converting a tub requires waterproofing tile work, plumbing relocation, and proper drain slope. DIY mistakes lead to water damage and costly repairs. Professional installation ensures code compliance and durability.
What design options are available for tub-to-shower conversion?
Options include: tile surround with glass doors, frameless glass enclosure, walk-in shower with bench, corner shower with tile only. Glass doors add $1,500 to $3,000 but create a modern look. Tile-only is less expensive but dated-looking.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
A tub-to-shower conversion typically takes 1 to 2 weeks from demolition to completion. Tile work and grout curing require time. Simple conversions with existing tile can be faster.