How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Tub With a Walk-In Shower?

Replacing an existing tub with a walk-in shower can be a stylish and practical update for your home as it makes your bathroom feel modern and larger than before. It expands your bathroom space, making it more accessible for the elderly, and people with mobility issues. Walk-in showers solve the problem of getting in and out of a conventional bathtub. It can be customized to suit the needs of the user and increase the safety of anyone using the shower.

However, the cost of converting a tub into a walk-in shower may vary depending on several factors. This article discusses the shower installation costs of converting a tub into a walk-in shower and factors that determine the overall budget of the project.

The Average Cost of Converting a Tub Into a Walk-In Shower

The installation and costs of a walk in shower remodel range between $5,997 and $11,950, with average coming in at $7,997. Although it may seem like a wide range for a simple project, many other factors contribute to the total cost. You can either install a ready-made walk-in shower stall or get a complete bathroom makeover with luxury showerheads, marble tile, and other accessible features. Replacing an existing tub with a luxurious walk-in shower can cost about $15,000 or higher depending on the complexity of the project. The amount you pay may vary depending on whether you choose a custom design or a one-piece stall. Extra services like new plumbing and a glass door can put the overall cost on the higher end.

Factors That Determine The Cost of Tub-To-Walk-In Shower Conversion

Plumbing Costs

Moving fixtures or changing the layout of your bathroom can significantly increase your total cost. You can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,500 to install a shower in a different place from where your original tub once stood. A licensed plumber may charge a rate of $65 to $90 per hour depending on where you live.

DIY vs Hire a Professional

While you may save some money by doing this kind of installation on your own, it is a very risky and complex project. Any slight mistake could cost you more than what you would have spent if you hired a professional. Although you may pay labor costs of about $1,000 or more, everything will be handled professionally to meet or exceed your expectations.

Electric or Steam Shower Cost

If your budget allows, you can maximize your comfort and enjoyment by adding some extra features. An electric shower makes the water hot instantly when turned on. For this installation, you should expect to spend at least $1,000 including the labor costs for an electrician and a plumber. You can also opt for a steam shower, which is an expensive but wonderful option. You can expect to pay between $3,500 and $6,500 for both materials and labor depending on the size of your shower and added accessories.

Tile Costs

There is a wide range of tile materials you can get for your walk-in shower based on your budget. You can spend as little as $1 to $2 per square feet for a simple, white ceramic tile and as much as $30 to $50 per square feet for high-end tile materials. This translates to a range of $1,500 to $2,600 for installing ceramic tile and $1,800 to $3,500 for high-end tile designs. A beautiful tile can significantly enhance the look and appearance of your bathroom. The prices may vary depending on the quality and design of the tile.

Painting Costs

You need to repaint your walls and trims to complete your bathroom remodel. It is important to select a water-resistant quality paint that is designed for use in rooms that are prone to moisture. Painting the walls only can cost an average of $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot or more if you are including the ceiling and trim. This means that you should budget between $250 and $650 for repainting your bathroom after installing the walk-in shower.

The existing bathtub should be removed carefully to avoid plumbing or electrical issues. A bathtub that is still in good condition can be sold to a home improvement store that deals with secondhand household items. Alternatively, it can be sent to a manufacturer for recycling rather than disposing of it in a rented dumpster. Before hiring a professional bathroom remodeling company, request an onsite consultation to get accurate details about your project and the way you want the overall outcome to look like.