A Comprehensive Bathtub to Shower Conversion Guide

Showers are considered to be a part of contemporary bathrooms. As much as we want a shower unit in our bathrooms, squeezing one in a limited space is quite a challenge. However, there are plenty of ways you accommodate a fancy shower in your bathroom, tub to shower conversion is one such approach. 

Converting the bathtub into a shower ensures practicality and delivers an instant-posh look to your otherwise ordinary bathroom. A shower enclosure not only elevates the bathroom interior but also enhances the value of your home. Installing a modern shower enclosure can make a significant difference in both functionality and style. So if you are looking to upgrade your bathroom interior with a single fix, bathtub to shower conversion is the way to go!

Let’s see what things you should consider while converting a bathtub to shower.

Know the Bathtub to Shower Conversion Cost

Converting a bathtub to a shower not only saves water consumption but also renovates your bathroom into a more functional area. However, you should know your budget to convert your bathtub to shower before starting this project. Tub to shower conversion cost varies depending on various things like shower enclosure size & type, material type, thickness, and installation, etc. For instance, the cost to replace a bathtub with a walk-in shower may vary from $4,000 to $10,000, including the installation service. For more stylish shower doors like double sliding shower enclosure or a steam shower, the cost may vary from $8,000 to $15,000. Tub to shower conversion doesn’t require a major bathroom remodel like changing the tiles, adding a shower tray, or replacing the shower hardware. Only upgrading the entrance by replacing the tub with a glass shower enclosure improves the bathroom ambience so it appears wider, brighter, and modern. If you’re unsure about the right fit for your new shower, learning how to measure shower doors accurately is essential to ensure a proper installation.

Average Cost Range: $6,000 to $12,000 (Including the installation service)

Consider Your Space 

Analyze your available space and examine how you want to convert your bathtub into a shower. If you have enough space on the sides of the bathtub, you can install the shower enclosure at a distance. And if space is at a premium, you can go for adding a glass enclosure to your bathtub. Bathtub showers also give off the same uber-chic vibe as the stand-alone shower enclosures. So, if you want to keep your bathtub but also aspire to enhance your bathroom interior, you can go for a bathtub shower. It all depends on the space and your preferences. So, evaluate the available space carefully. 

Choose the Shower Design 

When upgrading your bathroom, you have a number of choices to make. You can employ your design aesthetics to enhance and elevate the overall design. 

In bathtub to shower conversion, you can choose the shower enclosure design to match your personal style. For instance, if you are more into modern minimalism, you can choose fixed frameless shower panels and turn your bathroom into a contemporary space. However, if you are more into rustic and retro designs, you can go vintage with frames. Take your time and think about your preferences and what vibe you want to deliver with your shower design. Additionally, consider bathroom shower with window ideas to enhance the natural light and open feel of your space. Make sure to choose a low-cost but practical approach.

Quick Tips for Converting Your Bathtub to a Shower

Now that we are done with the considerations, we can move on to converting the bathtub into a shower. You can do it your way. However, here are some quick tips to give you some new perspectives. 

Root Up the Bathtub And Install a Shower 

Starting with the basic approach, tear it out and build a new one. 

One way of upgrading your bathroom is by removing the bathtub altogether. Eliminating the bathtub will give you enough space to install a shower. For a stand-alone shower, you can either choose swinging doors (if you have got enough space) or go for sliding doors. Additionally, consider exploring various toilet room door ideas to complement the overall design and functionality of your bathroom.

However, removing the tub is not an easy job. You would need professionals to do the job. 

Go for Bathtub Shower

If you don’t want to lose your bathtub, here is one great idea for you. 

Turn your bathtub into a shower. This way you can keep your bathtub while also upgrading it to a shower. You can shower or take a bath in your new tub shower. If you want to enhance the look and durability of your tub shower, consider a refinish acrylic shower. This approach is also a cost-effective one. You can save big money by going for a tub shower.

All you have to do is get the shower fixtures and tub enclosure. The fixtures are then fixed to make the shower functional while the shower enclosures are installed around the tub. 

Employ a Curvier Approach

Go curvier for your small bathroom where you don’t have enough space to accommodate the bathtub or shower. The idea is to employ a curved shower pan. Remove the bathtub and install a curved shower enclosure in its space. A curved shower pane bows out a little from the center, creating more shower space while also taking up a lesser bathroom area. Thus, it’s a win-win for small bathrooms. When considering a curved shower enclosure, it’s also important to factor in the corner shower installation cost to ensure it fits within your budget.

Go Barrier-Free

If you want to save big on space and remodel your bathroom, here’s a quick tip for you. Remove the bathtub and install a fixed panel stand-alone shower without any entryway barrier (shower door that is!). The shower doors take up considerable space for operation. Without a shower door swinging in or out, you can utilize the bathroom space smartly. And this minimalistic fixture is trendy too, so you can go on with a doorless shower enclosure without any concerns. Keep in mind, if you ever decide to switch back to a traditional shower door, it’s important to consider the shower glass replacement cost.

Summing Up!

Turning the tub into a shower is an interesting and space-effective idea. The benefits of the tub to shower conversion are urging a lot of people to take the plunge. So what are you waiting for? Go on with it and fulfill your long-planned bathroom remodeling plan. Don’t forget to visit your local glass and mirror store for high-quality shower enclosures and mirrors to complete your renovation.