Converting a bathtub into a walk-in shower can completely transform your bathroom and make it much more functional and accessible. However, careful planning is required to ensure the renovation goes smoothly. Here is an in-depth guide on everything you need to consider during the planning phase for converting your tub to a shower.
Introduction
Converting a standard bathtub to a walk-in shower offers many benefits. Walk-in showers are easier to get in and out of, especially as you age. They also offer more flexibility in design and can make a small bathroom feel more spacious.
However, ripping out a bathtub and installing a new shower is a major renovation project. It requires remodeling of the plumbing system, waterproofing measures, new flooring and wall surfaces, and framing out the shower area.
Careful planning is essential for ensuring your new walk-in shower is designed properly, functions well, and that the renovation process goes as smoothly as possible. Rushing into the project without proper planning can result in mistakes, delays, and frustration.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the key steps involved in planning for your bathtub-to-shower conversion. We’ll cover how to design your new shower, choose fixtures and finishes, evaluate plumbing needs, waterproof the area, pick contractors, get permits, and stick to your budget. Let’s get started!
Evaluate Your Needs and Goals
Before drawing up any renovation plans, take the time to carefully evaluate how you want to use your new shower and what design elements are important to you. Here are some key questions to ask yourself during the planning process:
- Why do you want to do this project? Do you need a shower that is easier to get in and out of? Do you want to open up space in your small bathroom? Identifying your motivations will help guide important decisions.
- How many people will be using the shower? If it’s just you, a compact shower may work. But if there will be multiple users, plan for adequate space.
- What are your priorities? Do you want special features like a rainfall showerhead, body sprays, or a built-in seat? Make a wish-list of must-haves.
- What is your decor style? Traditional, modern, spa-like? The finishes and hardware you choose should match your overall bathroom aesthetic.
- What is your budget? Setting a clear budget will help determine the scope of the project and which design elements you can afford.
Being very clear on your goals, needs and style preferences from the start will help you design a shower that perfectly fits your space and lifestyle.
Choose the Right Shower Type
Once you know your goals for the new shower, it’s time to select what type of shower will work best. Key options include:
- Walk-in shower – No doors or curtains, just an open entryway. Offers easy access but can spill water on the floor.
- Neo-angle shower – Angled glass door to maximize space in a corner. Provides easy entry.
- Curbless shower – No threshold or curb, just a gentle slope to allow roll-in access. Great for accessibility.
- Glass enclosed shower – Fixed glass panels give a sleek, modern look. Use watertight doors to prevent leaks.
- Tub/shower combo – Keep part of your tub and add a shower area. Saves demolition work.
Consider the pros and cons of each option before deciding what will work best for your space and needs. It may help to visit showrooms or use 3D design tools to visualize the different shower types.
Choose the Right Size
Don’t underestimate the importance of shower dimensions. A shower that is too small will feel cramped and limit your range of motion. On the flip side, an oversized shower can look awkward and waste valuable floor space.
When determining the right size for your new shower:
- Consider traffic flow: Make sure the layout allows for safe, easy entry and exit. Watch out for tight squeezes next to doors or corners.
- Check your code: Most residential codes require minimum dimensions of 30-32 inches deep and 30-60 inches wide. Know the rules before designing.
- Account for fixtures: The more features like benches and body sprays, the more interior space you will need to accommodate them.
- Factor in users: Design a shower for the tallest, largest person who will use it regularly to ensure adequate room.
- Include an access route: If using a wheelchair or walker, plan at least a 60 inch diameter turning radius outside the shower.
Being strategic with the shower size and layout can create a functional, comfortable space tailored to your needs.
Choose Fixtures and Features
One of the fun parts of planning a new shower is picking out fixtures and design elements that match your vision. As you make choices, focus on safety, function and long-term performance. Key fixtures and features to select include:
Shower System
This is the heart of your new shower. Options include:
- Wall-mount adjustable shower head
- Fixed shower head and body sprays
- Rainfall shower head
- Hand-held shower wand
- Combination of overhead and hand-held
Look for good water coverage, adjustable height, and easy-clean finishes. A pressure-balancing valve helps maintain temperature.
Drain
Choose a center drain or linear trench drain. Linear drains cost more but reduce splashing and work well in curbless showers. Ensure the drain style you select will coordinate with the slope of your shower pan.
Doors
For framed showers, pick swinging or sliding doors in materials like glass, acrylic, or aluminum. Be sure doors seal tightly to prevent leaks. For a walk-in shower, no doors are needed.
Grab Bars
Install grab bars for stability and safety, especially useful for elderly or disabled users. Use corrosion-resistant materials that attach securely to framing.
Lighting
Proper illumination makes the shower area safer. Waterproof LED lights, skylights, or even fiber optics can create just the right ambiance.
Bench or Seat
Built-in seating provides a place to rest, bathe comfortably or shave legs. Material options range from teak to molded composites. Include grab bars for accessibility.
Storage
Niches, shelves, or recesses for shampoo, razors and soap help keep necessities within reach and organize the space.
Choose Wall & Floor Finishes
The materials you choose for the shower walls and flooring will have a big impact on the overall look, durability and water resistance of the space. Some top options include:
Wall Tile
Porcelain, ceramic, or glass tile in large format creates a sleek, water-resistant finish. Use dark grout for modern style or matching grout for a seamless look. Accent with mosaic tiles or banding.
Natural Stone
Marble, travertine or granite slab bring elegance with variations in color and veining. May need regular sealing. Avoid polished, slippery finishes.
Solid Surface
Acrylic resins like Corian require seamless installation but offer durability and easy cleaning with fewer grout lines. Can match to countertops.
Glass Block
Small colored glass bricks let light in while obscuring views. Fragile but low-maintenance. Often just a design accent.
Fiberglass Surrounds
Affordable, easy to install kits come in one piece with molded shelves. Limit color and pattern options.
For the shower floor:
Porcelain Tile
Durable and decorative but requires precise installation for proper slope to drain. Large grout joints can discolor over time.
Vinyl Plank
Waterproof composite material resists mold and mildew. Groutless installation. Softer underfoot than tile.
Poured Resin
Seamless installation with high-traction textures. Costly but durable and low-maintenance.
Stone, Concrete, Terrazzo
Elegant and long-lasting but requires careful waterproofing at joints and penetrations.
Get design inspiration from showrooms and Houzz before finalizing your shower surface materials.
Design Universal Accessibility
If anyone who uses your new shower has limited mobility or disabilities, be sure to design for wheelchair access and ADA compliance. Key components include:
- Curbless entry or low thresholds
- Wide doorways (at least 32 inches)
- grab bars and seats for stability and comfort
- Easy-to-use drains, valves, and controls
- Non-slip shower flooring
- Adjustable or hand-held shower heads
- Clear floor space for maneuvering
- Water temperature regulation to prevent scalding
Consult ADA bathroom guidelines and seek input from physical therapists or medical equipment suppliers when designing an accessible shower space. Small tweaks can make your new shower safe and comfortable for everyone.
Evaluate Plumbing Needs
Before getting too carried away with design plans, it’s important to assess the home’s existing plumbing to ensure it can accommodate the new shower.
Key factors to consider related to plumbing include:
- Drain and vent location – The shower drain and vent must tie into the home’s drain-waste-vent system properly. This will determine shower placement.
- Water supply lines – Are existing lines large enough to supply good pressure and volume? If not, upgrades may be needed.
- Fixture connections – New shower valves and mixing valves may require different plumbing hookups.
- Access panels – Plumbing access points may need to be relocated or added if covered by the new shower.
Consult with a plumber during planning to get expert input. It’s much easier to revise designs now versus once construction starts. Plumbing prep work may also be needed before installing the shower.
Choose Durable, Waterproof Materials
Preventing leaks and water damage is critical in a shower installation. Choose building materials that are inherently water resistant:
- Waterproof flooring – Vinyl, fiberglass, concrete, and tile work best
- Water-resistant drywall – Specialty greenboard or cement board avoids mold
- Waterproof deck coatings – Hot mopping or liquid membranes create a water barrier
- Tanking – Applying a waterproof adhesive layer before tiling
- Drainage matting – Allows water flow behind walls to the drain
Also use waterproof construction techniques like:
- Sealing all joints and seams
- Waterproofing corners and niches
- Applying silicone between planes
- Flashing water barriers at transitions
A certified waterproofing professional can ensure your new shower will stay watertight for years. Don’t cut corners here!
Determine Your Remodeling Approach
Once you have a good design plan and plumbing strategy, it’s time to decide the best method for tackling the actual construction process. You essentially have two options:
1. Hire a General Contractor
They will coordinate all aspects of the project, including getting permits, subcontracting specialists for plumbing, electrical or tile work, scheduling inspections, and overseeing the team from start to finish. Provides a turnkey experience but costs more.
2. Be Your Own General Contractor
You take responsibility for scheduling plumbers, contractors, and electricians yourself, getting permits, and managing the workflow. More work but you save on contractor fees.
If acting as your own contractor, understand that extensive project management will be required, from developing bid specs to verifying credentials, licensing and insurance for each sub you hire.
Most homeowners find hiring a general contractor well worth the price to ensure a smooth, headache-free remodeling process.
Pick the Right Contractor
If using a general contractor, take time to research options and ask candidates key questions like:
- How much experience do you have converting tubs to showers?
- Are you licensed and insured? May I see a copy?
- Who are your preferred subcontractors for plumbing, tile, etc?
- What are some challenges you’ve encountered on past tub-to-shower projects?
- Do you include all necessary permits and project management fees in your bid?
- Can you share referrals from past clients?
Also ask to see examples of completed shower installations in their portfolio. Vetting contractors thoroughly ensures you hire someone qualified.
Apply for Permits
Most residential remodeling projects require permits from the local building department before getting started. Expect to need:
- Building permit – Required for structural changes like removing walls
- Plumbing permit – For altering drain lines and adding new fixtures
- Electrical permit – If wiring, lighting or fans need adjustment
Your contractor will usually submit drawings and handle the permit process. But if you are acting as your own GC, don’t forget this essential step. Failing to get permits can jeopardize insurance claims down the road.
Create a Realistic Budget
A major part of planning is determining a realistic budget so you can set expectations and select finishes that fit your budget. Key costs may include:
- Contractor fees
- Permits/fees
- Demo of existing tub & walls
- Plumbing modifications
- Shower pan or curbing
- Surround materials and tile
- Fixtures like shower system, valves, drains
- Accessibility features
- Lighting, trim, glass
- Designer costs
Unexpected issues can also increase costs, so pad your budget with a 10-15% contingency fund. Get multiple bids and determine what is achievable for your budget. Rest assured your new shower will provide value for years to come.
Plan for Access During Construction
Remodeling your only bathroom? Then also plan for how you will cope during construction:
- Where will you shower or use the toilet? At a gym or friend/family member’s house?
- How long can you go without full bathroom access? A few days? Weeks?
- Can the plumbing be phased so toilet remains usable part of the time?
- Will you need to move out and stay elsewhere temporarily?
- Can you set up a temporary toilet/shower stall onsite?
Discuss options with your contractor. Carefully staging demolition and having a contingency plan for necessities like bathing allows the project to proceed with minimal daily disruptions.
Convert Your Tub Space to a Shower – In Summary
Transforming your outdated tub into a beautiful new walk-in shower requires careful planning but brings great rewards. Following this detailed guide will set your project up for success.
Be sure to:
- Determine your goals, needs and preferred design style
- Select the ideal shower type and size for your space
- Choose fixtures and finishes that are durable, safe and match your aesthetic
- Design for universal accessibility if needed
- Evaluate and adjust plumbing as required
- Use certified waterproofing techniques
- Hire a qualified general contractor or subcontractors
- Obtain all required permits
- Stick to your budget with realistic expectations
- Plan for bathroom access during the remodel
With proper planning and preparation, your tub-to-shower conversion can go smoothly and on time. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying an inviting new shower designed just for you!
Frequently Asked Questions about Converting a Bathtub to a Shower
Q: Is it cheaper to convert a tub to a shower or replace it entirely?
A: In most cases, converting your existing tub to a walk-in shower is cheaper than fully replacing both the tub and surrounding surfaces. Converting allows you to keep existing walls, flooring, and plumbing intact while only replacing the tub itself.
Q: How long does it take to convert a bathtub to a shower?
A: The timeline can vary based on the scope of work, but most tub-to-shower conversions can be completed in 3-5 days by an experienced contractor. If extensive changes to drainage lines or surfaces are needed, the project may take 1-2 weeks.
Q: Can I install my own shower if I convert my tub?
A: While DIY shower conversions are technically possible for non-plumbing steps, it’s recommended to hire a general contractor and licensed plumber for at least parts of the project to ensure proper installation and function.
Q: Will my bathroom floor need to be replaced when converting a tub?
A: If the current flooring is in good shape, you can usually keep it and just re-work the area under and around the new shower pan for proper slope and drainage. Water-resistant surfaces like vinyl or tile work best.
Q: Can I convert my tub to a shower if I have acrylic or fiberglass surrounds?
A: Yes, tub conversions can often be done with acrylic or fiberglass surrounds in place. The acrylic tub is simply cut out and removed. New shower pans and plumbing are then installed.
Q: What kind of permit do I need to convert a bathtub to a shower?
A: At minimum, a plumbing permit is required anytime you modify drainage lines and fixtures. A building permit may also be required for structural changes like moving walls. Check with your local permitting office.
Q: How do I make my new shower accessible for elderly or disabled users?
A: Include a curbless entry, grab bars, an adjustable hand shower, seat, non-slip flooring, and easy-to-use controls. Also ensure adequate maneuvering space for wheelchairs or walkers.
Q: Should I choose a freestanding shower or one with framed walls?
A: Freestanding neo-angle showers work well in corners and feel more open. Framed showers with waterproof surrounds contain splashing and offer more privacy. Choose based on your needs.
Q: What is the minimum size for a walk-in shower?
A: Residential building codes typically require a minimum size of at least 30 x 30 inches. However, 32 to 36 inches is better for maneuverability. Wider sizes (48-60 inches) work well for two people.
Conclusion
Converting your outdated tub into a fresh new walk-in shower brings many benefits, from better accessibility to a more modern, spacious
