If you’re considering replacing your tub with a walk in shower, there are a few things you should know. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of how to replace a tub with a walk in shower, from choosing the right shower to preparing your bathroom for the installation. We’ll also touch on some of the benefits of walk in showers, so you can decide if this is the right choice for your bathroom. Ready to get started? Read on for everything you need to know about replacing a tub with a walk in shower.
What You Will Need
If you’re planning on replacing your tub with a walk-in shower, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration. First, you’ll need to make sure that your bathroom is large enough to accommodate a walk-in shower. If it’s not, you may need to expand the space or consider a different layout. Second, you’ll need to decide what type of shower enclosure you want. There are many different styles and materials to choose from, so be sure to do your research before making a decision. Third, you’ll need to purchase all of the necessary materials and tools for the project. This includes things like tile, grout, caulking, sealant, and more. Be sure to consult with a professional before starting the project to ensure that you have everything you need.
Step One: Remove the Old Tub
If your home improvement plans include replacing your old bathtub with a new walk-in shower, you’ll need to remove the old tub first. Here’s how:
1. Turn off the water to the tub. There should be a shut-off valve somewhere near the tub. If you can’t find it, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.
2. Once the water is off, open the faucets and drain any remaining water from the tub.
3. Use a pry bar or putty knife to loosen and remove any caulking or sealant around the edge of the tub where it meets the wall or tile surround.
4. If your tub is held in place by nails or screws, remove them now. If it’s held in place by brackets, you may be able to remove them from behind the drywall or tile surround (be careful not to damage anything as you do this). Otherwise, they may need to be cut through with a sawzall or other power tool.
5. With help from a friend or two, lift the tub out of its alcove and set it aside for disposal (check with your local municipality for guidelines on how to do this).
Step Two: Install the New Shower Base
If you’re replacing an existing tub, the first step is to remove it. This will vary depending on the type of tub you have. For a standard alcove tub, you’ll need to disconnect the drain and overflow pipes and unscrew the apron from the studs.
If you’re installing a new shower base, the next step is to install it. Once again, this will vary depending on the type of base you’re using. For example, if you’re using a mortar bed base, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preparing the surface and installing the base.
Once the new shower base is in place, you’ll need to hook up the drain. This usually involves attaching a drain assembly to the bottom of the shower base and connecting it to your home’s plumbing. If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to hire a professional plumber.
With the new shower base installed and the drain hooked up, it’s time to install the new shower doors or curtain. Again, there are many different options available, so be sure to choose something that fits your style and budget.
Step Three: Install Shower Walls
Now that the tub is removed and the shower base is installed, it’s time to install the shower walls. There are a few different materials you can use for shower walls, including tile, stone, and acrylic.
Tile is a popular material for shower walls because it is easy to clean and maintain. Stone is another popular option because it adds a luxurious look to your bathroom. Acrylic is a less expensive option that is easy to install.
When choosing shower wall materials, keep in mind that they will be exposed to water and moisture. Make sure to choose materials that are waterproof and mold-resistant.
If you are using tile or stone for your shower walls, you will need to apply waterproof sealant before installation. This will help protect your walls from water damage.
Acrylic shower walls can be installed directly onto the studs in your bathroom wall. However, if you are using tile or stone, you will need to install a backer board before installation. This will provide extra support for your shower walls.
Once you have chosen your material and prepared your installation surface, it’s time to start installing your shower walls! Begin by applying adhesive to the back of each panel and pressing it into place on the wall. Make sure each panel is level before moving on to the next one.
If you are using tile or stone, grout each seam between panels after they have been installed. Once all of the panels are in place, caulk
Step Four: Caulk and Seal
Caulking is an important part of any shower installation. Sealing the gaps between the trim and the shower pan will help prevent water damage and preserve the beauty of your new shower for years to come.
To caulk the shower, you will need a tube of silicone caulk and a caulk gun. Apply a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the shower base, taking care to smooth it out as you go. Once you have sealed all the seams, use a wet rag to wipe away any excess caulk.
Sealing the shower is also important for preventing leaks. Apply a bead of caulk around all of the fixtures, including where the shower head is attached to the wall. Again, use a wet rag to wipe away any excess caulk.
Conclusion
Replacing your tub with a walk in shower is a great way to update your bathroom and make it more functional. With a few simple tools and some careful planning, you can easily install a walk in shower in your bathroom. Be sure to follow all the steps outlined in this article to ensure that your new shower is installed correctly and will work properly for years to come. Thanks for reading!
