How To Convert Tub To Walk In Shower: A Personal Experience

As someone who loves taking long, hot showers, I always found it frustrating that my bathroom only had a bathtub. I wanted to convert my tub to a walk-in shower, but I wasn’t sure how to get started. After doing some research and speaking with professionals, I was able to successfully make the conversion and I couldn’t be happier with the results.

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Assess the Space

The first step in converting your tub to a walk-in shower is to assess the space. Take measurements of your bathroom to determine if a walk-in shower will fit comfortably. You’ll want to make sure you have enough space for the shower itself as well as any additional features, like a bench or shelves.

Step 2: Choose Your Shower System

Once you’ve determined that a walk-in shower will fit in your bathroom, you’ll need to choose your shower system. There are a variety of options available, including pre-fabricated units and custom-built showers. Consider your budget, your design preferences and any specific needs you may have, like grab bars or a bench.

Step 3: Demolition and Removal

Before you can install your new walk-in shower, you’ll need to remove your existing tub. This can be a messy and time-consuming process, so it’s important to hire a professional if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself. Your contractor will remove the tub, as well as any plumbing fixtures and tiles.

Step 4: Install Your New Shower

Once the demolition is complete, it’s time to install your new shower. This may involve building a new shower pan, installing new plumbing fixtures and tiling the walls. Again, it’s important to hire a professional if you’re not experienced with these tasks.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Finally, you’ll want to add any finishing touches to your new walk-in shower. This may include installing accessories like shelves or a bench, as well as adding grout and sealant to the tile. With all the work complete, you can now enjoy your new walk-in shower!

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Consider adding a built-in bench or seat for added comfort.
Choose non-slip flooring to prevent falls.
Install grab bars for added safety and support.
Choose a showerhead with adjustable pressure and settings for a customized experience.
Consider installing a rain showerhead for a spa-like experience.
Choose a glass shower enclosure for a sleek, modern look.
Add a niche or shelf to store shampoo and other shower essentials.
Consider adding a handheld showerhead for added flexibility.
Choose a shower system with easy-to-clean surfaces to reduce maintenance time.
Add a steam feature for added relaxation and health benefits.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Increased accessibility and convenience
Modern and updated look for your bathroom
Increased home value
Reduced risk of slips and falls

Cons

Costly and time-consuming process
May require professional installation
May not be suitable for all bathroom layouts
May require additional plumbing work

Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I’m extremely happy with my decision to convert my tub to a walk-in shower. It’s made my daily routine much more convenient and enjoyable. I would highly recommend this process to anyone who’s considering it, but be sure to do your research and hire a professional to ensure a successful outcome.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: How long does it take to convert a tub to a walk-in shower?

A: The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the availability of materials. On average, the process can take anywhere from two to four weeks.

Q: How much does it cost to convert a tub to a walk-in shower?

A: The cost can also vary depending on factors like the size of your bathroom, the type of shower system you choose and any additional features you want to add. On average, the cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000.

Q: Do I need to hire a professional to convert my tub to a walk-in shower?

A: While it is possible to do the work yourself, it’s highly recommended that you hire a professional to ensure a successful outcome. Converting a tub to a walk-in shower involves complex plumbing and construction work that can be dangerous and time-consuming if you’re not experienced.