If you’re planning to convert a tub to a walk-in shower, then the article I have written for today is specially written just for you! In today’s discussion, I will explain the instances when you may need to modify your bathroom and change the bathtub for a shower. In addition, I’ll lay out the things you need before the process and how to convert the bathtub to a walk-in shower with ease. So without any further delays, let’s begin!
Why You Need to Replace a Bathtub with a Shower
The simple answer to the question of why you may have to turn the bathtub into a shower is whether the changes work for you and if they could provide the comfort and satisfaction you prefer. Although a bathtub is a common fixture in every household, there’s nothing wrong if you’re considering changing the floor plan of your bathroom.
However, there’s the other question of whether the services of an expert are needed for this task or could you do it on your own to save money? Some sort of a DIY bathtub to shower conversion, if you will. The good news is that there are some things you can do to reduce installation costs and put up the bathroom aesthetics you have in mind. Let’s go over the next section and talk about the subject of how to convert a tub into a walk-in shower a little further.
Preparation before Replacing
Before you complete the modification process, here are some of the things you have to bear in mind to successfully convert a tub into a walk-in shower:
- Firstly, you need to have a floor plan for bathroom renovation
- And then, you have to select the best bathtub for the new interior design of the bathroom
- Lastly, you need to consider the convert tub to walk in shower cost for you to be able to identify the budget needed for the project
The next thing you have to gather is the tools and materials needed for the job—
- Screwdrivers
- Plywood to prevent the floorings from cracking or scratching
- Allen wrench
- Pry bar
- Drywall saw or reciprocating saw
- Utility knife
- Putty knife
- Jigsaw
Now that you have gathered the necessary tools and materials let’s continue to the next section and discuss how to convert a tub to a walk in shower on your own…
Step by Step by Guide on How to Replace a Bathtub with a Shower
The following are six simple steps on the replacement procedure from the bathtub to a walk-in shower:
First Step: Evaluate the Space Available and Placement
The very first step is to determine the place available in your bathroom. By doing so, you also identify the proper shower installation for the bathroom space area. It also enables you to manage the plumbing and drainage system.
Second Step: Walk-In Shower Design
Next is the fun part of the entire process, which is deciding on the walk-in showerhead design that would perfectly fit the interiors of the bathroom. You can take as much time as you want because it would be highly inconvenient in events where you realize the walk-in shower isn’t serving you.
Third Step: Consider Using a Bathtub to Shower Conversion Kit
Yes, there are available conversion kits if you’re thinking of ditching a bathtub for a walk-in shower. There are two basic types of conversion kits which include the followings:
- Curbed Shower – the shower platform is enclosed with curbs
- Curbless Shower –contrary to the curbed shower, the curbless shower has no enclosure
The downside, however, is that shower conversion kits are relatively expensive. The curbed shower has an average price range of $600 to $1,000, while the curbless shower has an average cost of between $1,800 and $4,000.
Fourth Step: Proceed with the Removal Process
Now, you have to continue with the arduous process of removing and uninstalling the bathtub. In this part, you have to take note of the following:
- First and foremost, you have to cover the floorings with plywood
- Shut off the water system
- Unscrew the bolts connected to the bathtub
- Detach the drainage and water supply connected to the bathtub using an Allen wrench
- Remove the tiles and wall section, if necessary. Use a prying tool and putty knife
- Pry the drywall from the main wall section
Fifth Step: Remove the Bathtub
The next step is to detach the bathtub from the wall and plumbing system. Here is the removal process you have to perform to successful remove the bathtub:
- Again, be sure that every bolt and screw are removed
- Remove any seals or caulks between the flooring and bathtub
- Pry the bathtub from the bathroom wall
- Maneuver the bathroom outside of the room or house
Once you have installed the new bathroom fixture, you can see the aesthetically pleasing and compare the replaced tub with a shower before and after. Lastly, you have to dispose of the old bathtub properly.
Takeaway
The procedure of removing and installing the new fixture or turning the bathtub into a shower may seem complicated at first sight. But once you get the hang of it and are able to see the fruits of your labor, it will give you the satisfaction and confidence to do it next time. I hope the article I have prepared for today has helped you in your quest to convert a tub to a walk-in shower.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Convert a Tub to a Walk-In Shower
Now, I also collected some of the most commonly asked questions about the matter of how to convert a tub to a walk-in shower:
The cost of converting a bathtub from a walk-in shower depends on several factors. But it is estimated that the general cost would be approximately between $2,000 to $12,000, which includes expenses on the shower fixture, shower sliders, style, material, and other essential items to complete the project.
The process of cutting a bathtub from the wall section can take at least a day with a professional. But in a DIY procedure—it may take longer because you have to work your way from the removal process along.
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