One of the most common questions we get here at HomeAdvisor is, “How much does it cost to convert a tub to a walk in shower?” On the surface, it seems like a simple enough question with a straightforward answer. After all, there are only so many ways to build a bathroom. However, the reality is that there are many factors that can affect the price of this home improvement project. In this blog post, we will explore all the different variables that can impact the cost of converting a tub to a walk-in shower. From the size and layout of your bathroom to the type of shower you choose, each element must be taken into account to get an accurate estimate. Read on to learn more about the cost of converting a tub to a walk-in shower.
Assess Your bathroom
If you’re considering changing your tub to a walk-in shower, there are a few things you need to assess first. How much space do you have in your bathroom? Is your bathroom on the ground floor or second story? Do you have a window in your bathroom? These are all important factors to consider when changing your tub to a walk-in shower.
If you have a small bathroom, you may not have enough space for a walk-in shower. If your bathroom is on the second story, you’ll need to make sure the floor can support the weight of the shower. And if you have a window in your bathroom, you’ll need to make sure the shower is properly sealed so that water doesn’t leak out.
Choose Your Shower Base
When it comes to choosing a shower base, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the size of your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, you’ll want to make sure you choose a shower base that fits well within the space. You don’t want it to be too big or too small.
Another thing to consider is the height of the shower base. If you’re taller, you might want to choose a taller shower base so that you don’t have to stoop down while showering. On the other hand, if you’re shorter, you might want to choose a shorter shower base so that you can reach the water more easily.
Finally, think about what kind of look you want for your bathroom. Do you want a sleek and modern look, or something more traditional? Once you’ve decided on the look you’re going for, it’ll be easier to narrow down your choices for a shower base.
Gather the Remaining Materials Needed
You will need a few more materials to complete the installation of your walk in shower.
-Shower base: A walk in shower needs a slightly different base than a standard shower. You will need a base that is sloped to allow water to drain properly.
-Shower doors: You have a few options for doors, including frameless glass doors, sliding glass doors, or curtain style doors.
-Shower fixtures: Choose fixtures that match the style of your bathroom and provide the functions you desire, such as rain showerheads, handheld showerheads, or body sprays.
-Tile: Select tile for both the walls and floor of your shower. Be sure to choose tile that is rated for use in wet areas and that will coordinate well with the rest of your bathroom decor.
Install the Shower Base
Installing a shower base is a fairly straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the area where you plan to install the base is level. If it’s not, you’ll need to level it out before proceeding. Second, measure the space to make sure that the base will fit. Third, gather all of the necessary materials and tools before starting.
Once you have everything you need, follow these steps to install the shower base:
1. Position the base in the desired location and mark the outline with a pencil.
2. Remove the base and use a saw to cut out any excess material from the marks you made.
3. Place the base back in position and use caulking to seal any gaps between the base and your bathroom floor.
4. Connect the drainpipe to your existing plumbing according to your manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Finally, turn on the water supply and test for leaks.
Add the Waterproofing
Adding a waterproofing membrane to your tub-to-shower conversion is an important step to prevent water damage. There are many different types of waterproofing membranes available, so it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your shower base and walls.
Once you have chosen a waterproofing membrane, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. In general, the process involves applying the membrane to the shower base and walls with a trowel, then covering it with a layer of fabric. Allow the membrane to dry completely before continuing with the shower installation.
Install the Tile
There are a few things you need to do to install the tile.
First, you need to make sure that the surface is clean and free of any debris. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to remove any dirt or dust from the surface.
Once the surface is clean, you need to apply a layer of mortar on the area where you will be installing the tile. You can use a trowel to spread the mortar evenly over the surface.
Next, you need to place the tiles on the mortar and press them down firmly. Make sure that there is enough space between each tile so that they can expand and contract without cracking.
After all the tiles are in place, you need to apply grout between the joints. You can use a rubber float to push the grout into all of the joints and then wipe off any excess with a damp cloth.
Enjoy Your New Walk-In Shower!
A walk-in shower is a great way to update your bathroom and add value to your home. Here are some things to keep in mind when enjoying your new walk-in shower:
1. Be sure to take a shower curtain or door to prevent water from escaping the shower area.
2. Adjust the water temperature before getting in, as the floor may be cold.
3. Use a non-slip mat inside the shower to prevent slipping.
4. Place all of your shampoo, soap, and other bath items within arm’s reach so you don’t have to step out of the shower to retrieve them.
5. Enjoy!
