Taking on a bathroom conversion of any kind requires careful planning and consideration. But the great news is that the right bathroom conversion can pay serious dividends and add maximum value to your home.
A shower to bathtub conversion is one such renovation project. What was once a simple, stand-alone shower can become a show stopping centerpiece in your bathroom. It’s no secret that there is no better way to make a stunning first impression than with a statement tub.
So, if you’re a homeowner considering a home bathroom renovation, here’s what to know about a shower-to-tub conversion.
Setting Your Budget
First thing’s first, let’s talk about the cost of a bathtub conversion. On average, it costs a homeowner approximately $3,000 for a shower-to-tub conversion, however costs can range from $1,200-$8,000, depending on numerous factors.
It all depends on the extent of your renovation, plumbing modifications your bathroom might need, the bathtub, fixtures, and finishes you choose. There’s also your geographic location to consider. Larger cities tend to come with higher pricing.
When creating your budget, try to be as detailed as possible and make allowances for setbacks.
Choosing a Bathtub
This is possibly one of the largest influencing factors in the scope and cost of your project. The type and size of your bathtub can also determine the extent of plumbing you might need.
There are two types of bathtub options:
- A standard tub – the most affordable, common choice for homeowners, with most bathtubs comprised of enameled steel or acrylic. Options include oval, rectangular, or corner tubs that are either wall-fitted or free-standing
- Walk-in tubs – as the name suggests, these tubs allow you to enter them through an accessibility door that swings outward. They also offer non-slip flooring, support bars, massage jets, and more
Naturally, walk-in tubs will cost you more.
Bathtub Installation Tips: What to Know
Preparation and planning go hand-in-hand with successful and impactful bathroom renovations. In other words, if you want the best value-for-money project, you better plan and prepare well.
While a shower-to-tub conversion is not a massive renovation project, it does have moderate implications. Here’s a few tips to help you prepare:
DIY Shower to Tub is Not Recommended
If you’re thinking about DIYing this project – don’t. It’s best to work with trained professionals who understand your renovation goals and options, based on the layout and plumbing of your bathroom.
They’re also well-adept at handling and understanding all the required building permits and codes to ensure your project meets all health and safety standards.
Consider Demolition and Home Structure
It’s important to bear in mind that not all bathrooms are created equal and can withstand the same type of demolition and load capacities. When considering your bathroom layout and the type of bathtub, you must understand the weight load requirements and demolition capacities of the space, first.
You’ll also need to think about floor joists, plumbing, ventilation, drain locations, and waterproofing. This is where the right team of contractors can guide you through every important consideration.
Order Your Tub, Fixtures, and Materials Early
All homeowners have a specific timeline they’d like to stick to when it comes to a renovation project – this is often determined by their budget. If you want to ensure your project does not extend past this timeline, make sure you get your orders in early.
It’s important to check lead times for specific tub types and materials. Custom tubs can sometimes take up to six weeks to deliver.
Removal of Your Shower: What to Expect
The first major step during this process is to shut-off your home’s water supply. This might remain shut-off for a good few hours in order to avoid leaks as your contractor removes all the shower components.
Next,
- A contractor will remove your shower drain by unscrewing the drain top plate and removing the pipe body from underneath the floor. They’ll then plug all holes to prevent debris from clogging them up
- They’ll then remove/break up the shower mortar bed and remove all chunks of debris
- After that, your contractor will remove the surrounding shower panels or wall tiles
- Lastly, they’ll remove all plumbing fixtures from the area, including the showerhead, handles, pipes, valves, and then cap all supply lines
After they’ve cleaned up the space and removed all debris and dirt, you have a blank canvas ready for your new tub installation.
Installation of Your Tub: What to Expect
This is one of the more intricate parts of the project, so DIY bathtub installation is not a good idea if you do not have the know-how or experience. Always hire the expertise of a professional for this job.
Here’s what installation typically looks like:
- Your contractor will position and level your tub in your preferred bathroom location. They’ll also mark out plumbing locations that need cutouts
- They’ll then move onto installing drains and waste lines. This includes attaching drain pipes, fittings, and valves. They’ll confirm the best slope angle for your water flow and conduct a leak check
- If there are any significant weight differences, your contractor will account for this and strengthen the subfloor where necessary. This might include installation of new blocking and solidifying framing
- Your contractor will move onto any wiring and plumbing of all specialized features of your bathtub
- Once that’s done, they’ll then waterproof all surrounding walls and apply membrane seals to corner seams and any plumbing penetrations
The final step is to finish off the walls/area surrounding your tub. This might include the installation of acrylic materials, tile, rock or wall panels – whatever finishes you’ve chosen. All that’s left after that is your own decorative finishing touches.
Find the Right Team for Your Shower to Bathtub Conversion
Working with the right set of experts on your side can make all the difference. Don’t settle for second-best – find your ideal team of contractors today with HelloProject.
We offer some of the best contractors in the business for your shower to bathtub conversion. Explore here for more and get your bathroom remodeling project off to the best start.
