Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost Calculator

Tub-to-shower conversion costs $3,000–$12,000 depending on the type. Prefab/insert conversions are the most affordable at $3,000–$5,000. Custom tile walk-in showers run $5,000–$9,000. Curbless/ADA-accessible showers cost $7,000–$12,000. Add $500–$1,500 for a glass door, $300–$800 for a bench seat, and $100–$300 for grab bars. Most homeowners spend $5,000–$8,000 for a mid-range tile conversion with glass door.

Prefab insert conversion takes 1–3 days. Custom tile walk-in shower takes 5–10 days. Curbless/ADA shower takes 7–14 days. Timeline includes: demolition and tub removal (1 day), plumbing rough-in (1 day), waterproofing and pan installation (1–2 days), tile work (2–5 days), glass door installation (1 day), and finishing touches. Expect your bathroom to be out of commission for the full duration. Some one-day conversion companies offer faster prefab installs.

Tub-to-shower conversions offer 60–70% ROI at resale and provide daily convenience. Benefits: easier access (especially for aging-in-place), more usable space, modern look, and lower water usage. However, keep at least one bathtub in the home — houses without any tub can lose 10–15% of buyer interest. Best candidates for conversion: master bath second tub, guest bath rarely used tub, or small bathrooms where a shower frees floor space.

The cheapest option is a prefab/insert conversion at $3,000–$5,000. One-day bath conversion companies (Bath Fitter, Re-Bath) install acrylic or fiberglass shower surrounds over existing walls for $3,000–$5,000 including labor. DIY prefab shower kits from home improvement stores cost $500–$1,500 for materials, but you still need plumbing work ($500–$1,000). The most budget-friendly approach: keep existing plumbing in place, use a prefab pan and surround, and skip the glass door (use a curtain instead).

Yes, most jurisdictions require a plumbing permit for tub-to-shower conversions, typically $75–$250. A permit is required because you are modifying the drain location and/or plumbing connections. Electrical permits may also be needed if adding recessed lighting or heated floors. Inspections verify proper waterproofing, drain slope, and code compliance. Unpermitted work can cause issues with home insurance and resale. Check with your local building department.

A curbless (zero-threshold) shower has no step to enter — the floor slopes directly to the drain. It costs $7,000–$12,000 because it requires: modifying the subfloor for proper slope (1/4" per foot to drain), specialized waterproofing membrane across the entire bathroom floor, linear drain installation ($300–$600), and precise tile work. Benefits: ADA-accessible, wheelchair-friendly, modern spa look, easier cleaning, and aging-in-place ready. The extra cost comes from subfloor modification and waterproofing complexity.

Glass shower doors cost $500–$1,500 installed but offer a more polished look, better water containment, and higher resale value. Frameless glass ($800–$1,500) looks most modern. Semi-frameless ($500–$1,000) balances cost and style. Shower curtains cost $20–$100 and are easy to replace. Choose glass for: permanent installations, modern aesthetics, and higher-end homes. Choose curtain for: budget projects, rentals, and when you may want to change styles frequently.

Yes, small bathrooms are often the best candidates for tub-to-shower conversion. A standard tub is 60" × 30" — the same footprint works perfectly for a walk-in shower. A 36" × 48" shower is the minimum comfortable size. Converting frees visual space and makes the bathroom feel larger, especially with glass doors. For very small bathrooms, consider a neo-angle (corner) shower to maximize floor space. Keep the drain in the same location to minimize plumbing costs ($500–$1,000 savings).