The most popular bathroom upgrade is a tub-to-shower conversion. Popular home project website Angi finds tub-to-shower conversions offer the largest return on your investment in bathroom remodels. Most potential homebuyers prefer to see a walk-in shower versus a tub in a primary bathroom.
So, what does a tub-to-shower conversion cost? Here’s what you should consider in terms of demolition, waste removal, new materials, and installation.
Average Cost of Project
The average tub-to-shower conversion costs are $3,000 per project, but can range from $1,200 to $15,000. Various factors affect the price, including upgrades like a tiled shower, a fancy showerhead, or other premium features.
Factors Affecting the Cost
Other factors impacting the cost include the shape and type of the shower stall, the size, the type of shower door, showerhead, accessories, materials, tub removal and disposal, repairs, and permits. Let’s dive in.
Shape & Type
There are five different shapes of shower stalls. The average prices listed below are according to Angi and do not include professional installation.
- Neo-angle shower stall: These shower stalls fit in corners and increase space in the bathroom because its front corner is angled. They have a small lip to hold in water. The average conversion cost is $450 to $1,200.
- Square corner shower stall: These are similar to the neo-angle, except rectangular. This type of stall ranges from $350 to $1,400.
- Curved or rounded shower stall: As the name indicates, these are round stalls that fit in the corner of the bathroom. The average cost is $500 to $1,300.
- Alcove or rectangular shower stall: This shower stall is enclosed between two walls and has three internal walls surrounding it. It’s typically rectangular, as the name implies. Alcove showers are one of the most popular types of stalls, leaving you with many options and a wide price range. The cost ranges from $500 to $2,300.
- Curbless or barrier-free shower stall: This design is handicap-accessible and aesthetically pleasing. There is little to no threshold to step over to get into the shower. The shower pan sits flush with the flooring, requiring you to cut out the shower flooring to install the appropriately sloped flooring that drains the water correctly. Because of this, it’s the most expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $8,350.
Materials
Unfortunately, the demand for building materials is growing, and so are the prices. Manufacturers have increased prices between 5% and 10% this year. The size of your shower significantly affects how much you’ll spend on materials, including tiles, backing, and flooring. Tile choices can dramatically affect the cost, as white ceramic tile costs about 50 cents per square foot, while patterned or stone costs $15 or more per square foot.
The choice of materials affects price, too. For example, a shower made of fiberglass or acrylic is less expensive than a stone shower wall. Likewise, manufactured shower stalls are cheaper than tiled showers because they’re less labor-intensive.
Accessories
Remember to factor in a showerhead, shelving, bath seat, and shower rail. Showerheads can range in price dramatically, with typical costs ranging from $50 to $900. If you want a door instead of a shower curtain rod, you’ll have to budget for that too. They generally cost $600 to $1,350.
Tub Removal
The cost of the removal and disposal of the tub, if needed, will need to be considered also. Plus, cleaning and repairing any wall damage during the bathroom renovation. This can cost between $450 and $2,000.
Repairs & Modifications
Depending on what type of bathtub you currently have and what shower you’re converting to, plumbing work might be required. Plus, you might find water damage you didn’t know about or a pipe that needs replacing. Many of these costs you can’t predict, but should be factored into your budget by at least ten percent.
Permit
A permit might be required depending on where you live and the project’s size, especially if you have plumbing changes. The requirement varies from city to city and can cost $180 to $2,000.
Find Convenience With redbox+ Dumpsters
You may also need to rent a dumpster, so don’t forget to include that in your pre-project research. Whether you have a contractor perform the job or you’re DIY-ing it, utilizing a dumpster rental will be the fastest and easiest way to clean up the mess—just walk the debris outside to the bin. No trips to the dump means no disposal fees and no traveling time, leaving you with more time to work on the project.
At redbox+ Dumpsters, we even have dumpsters with portable toilets attached. So, if you’re having a contractor perform your bathroom remodeling work, they can conveniently do their business right outside at the dumpster site, keeping the rest of your home clean from the renovation project.
Contact us to receive a custom quote today.