How Much Does A Tub To Shower Conversion Cost?

Tub to Shower Conversion Cost by Type

There are several types of showers to choose from when you decide to convert your tub. These include walk-in showers, shower stalls, and tiled showers. Each type has its pros and cons, but homeowners who value a low-cost option might prefer a shower stall, while homeowners who don't mind paying more for the ability to customize may find a walk-in shower a better choice.

Walk-In Shower

A walk-in shower is on the higher end of the price range. This is primarily due to the size compared to other types of showers. A walk-in shower costs as little as $750 or as much as $7,000 to install. Tile walk-in showers cost $4,200, but you can find acrylic or fiberglass models for less.

Shower Stall

A shower stall costs $700 to $1,600 on average to install. Expect to pay more if you want luxurious finishes or extra features such as a seat or attached shower door.

Tiled Shower

The cost of tiling a shower is more than a fiberglass one, generally priced at $25 per square foot for tile, grout, and labor. However, the tile material may increase the cost. For example, marble tile is about $8 per square foot, while travertine tile is closer to $2 per square foot. The total project cost comes out at about $1,500 on average.

Bath to Shower Conversion Cost Breakdown

Much of the cost of replacing a bathtub with a shower comes down to the labor involved with removing the tub, building a new shower in its place, and any necessary plumbing changes. Below is a more specific breakdown of installation and material costs to consider before requesting a quote from a pro.

Tub Conversion Cost Factors

Consider these factors influencing the price of converting a tub to a shower as you plan for your project.

Size

A smaller shower generally costs less because it requires fewer materials to install. Many shower types, including stall showers, come in various standard sizes, so you'll save by choosing a standard size versus building custom. Size and material go hand-in-hand, as showers made of tiles or panels increase in cost per square foot.

Materials

The type of material used to line the new shower will impact the project's overall cost. For example, the cost of a stone shower wall or one made from tiles is generally more than a shower made of fiberglass or acrylic.

Bathtub Removal

Although most of the expense comes from placing the new unit, a significant portion of the price also depends on how difficult it is for your installer to get the old unit out. If it’s a one-piece tub-shower combo, it might take very little time. By comparison, removing hundreds of tiles and repairing the wall to put in something new may take hours of work.

Taking out the old bathtub and getting the walls and floor ready for shower installation costs around $450 to $2,000. This includes approximately $600 to $700 for removal, about $100 to $200 for disposal, and around $300 to $800 to clean or repair the walls.

Permits

Depending on where you live, bathroom additions may require a permit. A bathroom permit costs anywhere from $180 to $2,000, depending on the project. A qualified pro will be able to tell you for sure if your project falls into that category.

Repairs or Replacement Parts

When you convert a tub to a shower, the dismantling process might cause damage that needs repairing. Or once you remove the old tub, you may find structural damage hiding underneath. Here are a few of the most common scenarios when it comes to potential repairs for this project:

• Tile repair: If your tile is damaged in the removal process, you’ll need to repair or replace it.

• Wall patching: When changing from a bathtub to a shower, you'll likely need to fix part of the wall, adding to your cost.

• Potential water damage: If your tub wasn't properly sealed or was particularly old, you may need to pay to repair any water damage.

• Pipe replacement: Depending on your setup, you may need to replace the pipes around your shower to reflect your new layout.

Accessibility and Safety Features

If you need to add features like shower bars, seats, and liners, these will all add to your total project cost. 

Project Cleanup

You may need to take the tub apart or the installation process can produce a bit of a mess, so any debris cleanup could add to your cost.

Upgraded Fixtures

If you want better showerheads, doors, or faucets, these will also cost extra to install.

DIY vs. Hire a Professional

Since converting your bathtub to a shower is tricky to do correctly, you’ll want to hire a pro. Labor costs up to $1,000 or more but can save you a lot of stress and expensive repairs. If you try to do this job on your own, you may end up with leaks or water damage inside the bathroom floor and walls.

Once you’re ready to find a shower installer near you, do the following:

• Be specific about your project.

• Request an on-site consultation.

• Get at least three quotes from different pros.