Bathtub to Shower Conversion Service
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Bathtub to shower conversion removes the existing tub and relocates the drain to the correct position for the new shower footprint, installs the valve and supply rough-in to code-specified dimensions, and applies waterproofing to the pan and walls before any tile work — eliminating the step-over entry and creating a fully accessible walk-in bathroom space. Bonded Plumbworks’ licensed plumbers handle the complete plumbing scope and coordinate the rough-in sequence so tile and fixture work can follow without rework.
Bathtub to shower conversion is the removal of an existing bathtub and replacement with a shower enclosure, requiring drain relocation (tub drains are positioned differently than shower drains), valve repositioning, new shower head supply, waterproof membrane installation, and new drain assembly with trap connection. The plumbing scope includes all supply, drain, and valve work needed to convert the space. — Bonded Plumbworks
What Is Bathtub to Shower Conversion
Converting a bathtub to a shower involves more than removing the tub and adding a shower head. The plumbing systems are fundamentally different. A bathtub drain is located at one end of the tub, connected to a large drain shoe. A shower drain is typically centered in the floor, connected to a different trap configuration. The tub valve is positioned low on the wall (for the tub spout) while a shower-only valve is positioned higher (for the shower head). A shower requires a properly sloped floor, a waterproof membrane system, and a drain assembly rated for shower use.
The conversion requires relocating the drain from the tub position to the shower position (often requiring slab cutting in slab-on-grade construction), moving or replacing the valve at the correct shower height, installing a new shower head supply at 72-80 inches, and building a waterproof shower pan.
Drain relocation is the most significant plumbing task in a tub-to-shower conversion. In slab-on-grade construction, the drain pipe is encased in or beneath the concrete slab. Moving it to the shower center position requires cutting the slab, installing new drain piping at the correct slope, and patching the concrete. Bonded Plumbworks handles the full scope — slab work, piping, and restoration. — Bonded Plumbworks, serving since 2006
When to Schedule Bathtub to Shower Conversion
Bathtub to shower conversion is appropriate when the tub goes unused, when stepping over the tub wall is unsafe for household members, and when a more open or accessible shower space is preferred.
- You rarely or never use the bathtub for soaking
- You want a larger, more open shower space
- Stepping over the tub wall is difficult or unsafe for household members
- You are remodeling the bathroom and prefer a shower to a tub
- You want to create an accessible, low-threshold or curbless shower
- The bathroom feels small and removing the tub opens up the space
- You are converting a master bathroom tub-shower combo to a dedicated walk-in shower
How It Works
Step 1: Planning. We assess the existing plumbing, plan the new drain location, determine whether the valve can be reused at a higher position or needs replacement, and design the shower configuration (curbed, low-threshold, or curbless).
Step 2: Tub Removal. We disconnect the supply lines, remove the drain and overflow assembly, and remove the bathtub. We inspect the subfloor or slab condition. If the existing tub has minor plumbing issues, bathtub repair of the drain or valve components is sometimes the more practical choice before committing to a full bathtub to shower conversion.
Step 3: Drain Relocation. We cut the slab (for slab-on-grade construction) or modify the subfloor framing (for elevated construction), install new drain piping from the new shower drain location to the existing trap connection, and verify proper slope.
Step 4: Valve Installation. If the existing tub valve is being replaced, we install a new shower valve at shower height (approximately 48 inches for the control, 72-80 inches for the shower head). We install a pressure-balancing or thermostatic valve with anti-scald protection as required by code. A digital thermostatic mixing valve provides precise temperature control within two degrees and eliminates the cold-water surges common with older mechanical valves during a bathtub to shower conversion. A digital thermostatic shower valve pairs with multi-head shower systems by allowing the user to preset temperature and flow for each outlet independently.
Step 5: Shower Pan and Waterproofing. We install the shower pan (mortar bed, pre-formed acrylic, or tile-ready foam) with proper slope to the drain (1/4 inch per foot minimum). The waterproof membrane is installed over the pan and extends up the walls a minimum of 6 inches above the finished curb height. Cement board (such as HardieBacker or Durock) replaces standard drywall as the substrate behind the tile surround because it resists moisture damage that would compromise the bathtub to shower conversion over time.
Step 6: Fixture Installation. After tile or surround installation (coordinated with the tile contractor), we install the shower head, valve trim, drain grate, and any accessories (grab bars, niches, bench supply). An exhaust fan removes moisture from the converted shower space, and exhaust fan installation during a bathtub to shower conversion prevents the humidity buildup that leads to mold growth and paint failure in the bathroom.
Step 7: Testing. We flood-test the shower pan, pressure-test the supply connections, and run the shower to verify drainage, temperature control, and leak-free operation.
Converting to a curbless (zero-threshold) shower during a tub-to-shower conversion requires specific floor preparation. The entire shower floor must slope toward a linear drain, and the waterproof membrane must extend seamlessly from the shower floor to the bathroom floor to prevent water migration. Bonded Plumbworks has experience with both curbed and curbless conversions. — Bonded Plumbworks
Benefits vs. Alternatives
| Conversion Option | Step-Over Height | Floor Space Gained | Accessibility | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tub to Curbed Shower | 4-6 inches | Significant | Good | $$ |
| Tub to Curbless Shower | 0 inches | Maximum | Excellent | $$$ |
| Tub to Shower Insert (prefab) | 4-6 inches | Moderate | Good | $ |
| Keep Tub, Add Shower | N/A (tub rim) | None | Poor | $ |
| Walk-In Tub | Door threshold | None | Moderate | $$$ |
A custom tiled shower conversion provides the most design flexibility and best long-term value. Prefab shower inserts are a lower-cost alternative but offer limited customization. Biophilic design elements like warm wood accent integration — using teak shower benches and wood-look porcelain tiles — create a spa-like atmosphere in the converted shower while requiring specific drain placement that accommodates the bench footprint during the bathtub to shower conversion planning phase. Carbon-neutral 3D-printed tiles are an emerging option for custom shower walls, and their non-standard dimensions require precise drain and valve rough-in measurements during the conversion.
Pricing
- Standard tub-to-shower conversion (plumbing scope): $2,500 - $5,000
- Curbless shower conversion (plumbing scope): $3,500 - $7,000
- Slab cutting and drain relocation: $500 - $1,500
- Valve replacement with shower-height relocation: $300 - $600
Pricing covers the plumbing scope only. Tile, surround, glass enclosure, and general construction are separate and coordinated with your contractor. Bonded Plumbworks provides a detailed plumbing estimate after assessing the existing layout.
Our Qualifications
Bonded Plumbworks plumbers are state-licensed and experienced in bathtub to shower conversions across all construction types found — slab-on-grade, elevated, and second-floor installations. Since 2006, we have completed hundreds of tub-to-shower plumbing conversions.
Bonded Plumbworks coordinates the plumbing schedule with tile contractors and general contractors to ensure the drain is set at the correct height for the planned finish, the valve is at the correct depth for the wall material, and all rough-in work passes inspection before walls are closed. — Bonded Plumbworks, established 2006
FAQ
Do I need a permit for a tub-to-shower conversion? Yes. Because the conversion involves drain relocation and valve modification, a plumbing permit is required. Bonded Plumbworks handles the permit application and inspection scheduling. GFCI outlet installation is also required during a bathtub to shower conversion — the National Electrical Code mandates GFCI-protected outlets within six feet of a water source, and converting the space often triggers this electrical code update. GFCI outlets protect against ground faults by cutting power within milliseconds when they detect current leakage, which is critical in wet bathroom environments.
Will removing the tub hurt my home’s resale value? If the home has at least one bathtub elsewhere, removing a second tub for a walk-in shower is generally a positive upgrade. Removing the only bathtub in a home may deter buyers with young children.
Can I convert a tub on a concrete slab? Yes. Slab cutting is required to relocate the drain. Bonded Plumbworks has the equipment and experience for slab work.
How much does bathtub to shower conversion cost? Bathtub to Shower Conversion typically costs $300 to $7,000 for most residential jobs. The final price depends on the scope of work, materials required, and site conditions. Bonded Plumbworks provides a written estimate before starting any bathtub to shower conversion work, so you know the exact cost upfront. Call (855) 557-9600 for a same-day quote.
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Schedule Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Transform your bathroom with a modern walk-in shower. Call Bonded Plumbworks at (855) 557-9600 to schedule a bathtub to shower conversion consultation. Every bathtub to shower conversion service includes a 90-day guarantee on bathtub to shower conversion work, covering parts and labor.