Are you tired of stepping over that high bathtub wall every morning? You’re not alone. Many homeowners are making the switch from tubs to showers, and for good reason.
A shower conversion can give your bathroom a sleek, modern appearance while making daily routines safer and more accessible for family members of all ages. Plus, it’s a smart investment that often boosts your home’s resale value.
But here’s what you’re probably wondering: how much will this cost you? The truth is, conversion prices vary significantly based on your specific needs.
You might spend as little as $1,200 for a basic swap, or invest up to $15,000 for a complete luxury renovation. Let’s break down exactly what influences these costs so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Factors That Influence Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost
Your conversion cost depends on several key decisions. Let’s walk through each one so you know what to expect.
1. Type of Shower You Choose
This is your biggest decision. And it makes the most difference in your final bill.
Prefab Shower Stall: Think of this as the quick and simple option. These units come ready to install. Your contractor can typically finish the job in 1-2 days.
Walk-In Shower: Most homeowners pick this option. It offers a good balance of style and cost. You get flexibility without breaking the bank.
Tile Shower: Want something completely custom? This is your route. You can choose every detail, from tile pattern to niche placement. But expect to pay for that freedom.
Curbless Shower: These showers sit flush with your bathroom floor. They look amazing and work great for anyone with mobility concerns. However, they require significant floor modifications.
2. Size of the Shower
Bigger means more expensive. It’s that simple.
A standard 32×32″ shower runs $1,500 – $3,500. Step up to 36×60″ and you’re looking at $3,000 – $6,000. Why the jump? More materials, more labor, more everything.
3. Materials and Finishes
This is where costs can add up.
Your shower walls might be acrylic (budget-friendly), fiberglass (mid-range), ceramic tile (popular choice), or natural stone (luxury option).
Then there are your glass doors. Framed versions cost $200-$600. Frameless doors? That’s $500-$3,000 or more.
Don’t forget fixtures. Chrome keeps costs down. Matte black or brass finishes cost significantly more.
4. Labor Costs
Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize. Labor typically eats up 50% of your total project cost.
Plumbers charge $45-$200 per hour. Need plumbing changes? That adds time and money.
Waterproofing and custom framing also increase labor costs. These steps can’t be rushed.
5. Tub Removal and Disposal
Getting rid of your old tub costs $150-$2,000.
Got a lightweight fiberglass tub? You’re on the lower end. Cast iron tub? Prepare to pay more. These things weigh 300+ pounds and require special removal techniques.
6. Permits and Unexpected Repairs
Most areas require permits for this work. Budget $200-$2,000 for paperwork and inspections.
But here’s the real wildcard. Once your contractor opens up those walls, surprises can pop up.
Water damage repair runs $1,500-$9,000. Mold remediation adds even more. These issues are common in older bathrooms, so factor them into your planning.
Typical Cost Ranges
Let’s break down what you’ll spend.
Budget-Friendly Conversion
Prefab stall with minimal plumbing changes. Many parts are DIY-friendly. Gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Conversion
Walk-in shower with upgraded fixtures and some tile work. This is where most homeowners land. Good balance of style and cost.
High-End Conversion
Custom tile, curbless design, frameless glass, designer finishes. Think spa-level luxury.
Which category fits your budget?
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Should you tackle this yourself or call the pros? Here’s the honest breakdown.
DIY Conversion
You could save thousands doing this yourself. But there’s a big “if” attached.
You need real skills in plumbing and waterproofing. Not YouTube tutorial skills. Real experience.
DIY works best with prefab kits. These come with clear instructions and fewer variables.
But here’s the risk nobody talks about. You might miss hidden water damage behind those walls. Or accidentally violate building codes. Both mistakes cost way more than hiring help.
Professional Installation
Contractors work faster than you will. They know the codes. Their work comes with warranties.
Got plans for tile or curbless showers? Don’t even think about DIY. These projects require specialized knowledge.
Yes, professionals cost more upfront. But they prevent expensive mistakes that could haunt you later.
The real question? How confident are you in your skills? And how much is your peace of mind worth?
How to Estimate Your Own Conversion Cost
Ready to crunch some numbers? Here’s your step-by-step guide to figuring out what you’ll spend.
1. Start with shower type & size
Pick your shower style first because this sets your budget range. Prefab costs less than walk-in, which costs less than custom tile.
Measure your space because size directly impacts costs. Larger showers need more materials and labor.
2. Add material upgrades
Basic acrylic keeps costs down, but tile adds beauty at higher prices. Glass doors affect your budget, too.
Chrome fixtures save money, while matte black or brass options cost significantly more.
3. Include labor
Labor typically runs about 50% of your total project budget. This percentage stays consistent across most projects.
Got a $6,000 materials budget? Plan for approximately $3,000 in labor costs.
4. Factor in tub removal & disposal
Your old tub doesn’t disappear for free, and costs vary by material type. Lightweight tubs cost less to remove.
Heavy cast iron models require special equipment and multiple workers. Budget $150 to $2,000 for removal.
5. Account for permits & potential repairs
Most cities require permits for bathroom renovations, costing $200 to $2,000 depending on local requirements.
Hidden problems like water damage or mold commonly appear behind walls. Add 20% for surprise repairs.
Final Thoughts
After helping countless homeowners through this process, I can tell you that converting a tub to a shower is one of the smartest bathroom investments you can make.
Yes, costs range widely from $1,200 to $15,000+, but that’s because every project is different.
Your final price depends on the shower type you choose, the size of your space, your finish selections, and whether you tackle it yourself or hire professionals.
Here’s what I’ve learned from years in this business: smart planning prevents those costly surprises that can derail your project and your budget.
Take time to research your options, get multiple quotes, and always budget for the unexpected. Your future self will thank you for doing this right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to convert a bathtub to a shower?
Conversion costs typically range from $1,200 to $15,000+, depending on your choices. Budget options with prefab units start around $1,200, while luxury custom installations can exceed $15,000.
Can I convert my tub to a shower myself?
Yes, but only if you have solid plumbing and waterproofing skills. DIY works best with prefab kits, but mistakes can cost thousands in repairs later.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Simple prefab conversions take 1-3 days with professional installation. Custom tile work or complex plumbing changes can extend the timeline to 1-2 weeks.
Do I need permits for a tub-to-shower conversion?
Most areas require permits for bathroom renovations, costing $200-$2,000. Check with your local building department before starting any work to avoid code violations.
What’s the biggest factor affecting conversion costs?
Labor typically accounts for 50% of your total project cost. The type of shower you choose (prefab vs. custom tile) makes the second biggest impact on your final bill.
