How to convert a shower to a bathtub is one of those questions that you often ask yourself. The majority of homeowners consider changing the current spaces in their showers to a comfortable environment in the form of a tub, which will not only be a luxury in the bathrooms but also functional.
Throughout this guide, we will look into the steps involved in the process and discuss the possibilities to choose the best price and style that suits you.
Reasons to Turn a Shower into a Bathtub
A bathtub can be used to relax in and enjoy soaks, host a family with young kids, and even sell your home better. Certain homeowners opt to convert a tub to a shower because they did not focus on soaking at the start. Also, bathrooms are the most often remodeled areas, with 29% of homeowners giving these upgrades top priority.
In case you have noticed that a mere shower does not do the trick anymore, it is possible to change it to a tub. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1. Determining Space Design
Begin by measuring your shower space. Take into consideration the kind of tub you desire: Alcove tubs can fit on three walls, and freestanding tubs can make a lavish centerpiece. Other factors to consider are:
- Material: Acrylic is cheaper and lightweight than cast iron or porcelain.
- Drain position: The drain of the shower might need to be shifted.
- Wall tiling A/P/L System: Whether you want tiles, acrylic panels, or a full liner system.
A thorough plan eliminates unexpected situations and makes the project run smoothly. Professional bathroom remodel Atlanta service tends to recommend the use of design guides to get the final appearance before demolition.
Step 2. Demolition of the Existing Shower
Next comes demolition. This is done by taking away the shower wall, base, and fixtures, possibly even the flooring.
Even though this can be performed by a homeowner, most of them would depend on the services of professionals who guide them on how to convert a shower to a bathtub, particularly when some modifications in their plumbing are necessary.
Step 3. Plumbing Adjustments
Plumbing is one of the largest difficulties in a shower-to-bathtub conversion. The drainage of a shower is normally at the center, whereas bathtubs need the drainage at one end. This can typically require the shifting of the drain, installation of supply lines, and linking up of the overflow.
These adaptations can be efficiently carried out by a professional shower remodel Atlanta service ensuring that leaks or poor drainage will not ruin your new tub. When asking how to convert a shower to a bathtub, it is better to let professionals manage it instead of you feeling stressed.
Step 4. Framing and Waterproofing
When the frame is done, cement board is installed, and a waterproof wrap is applied to the walls. Quality waterproofing inhibits molds, water leakages, and more significant damage.
Step 5. Installing the New Tub
Install the tub carefully, and then connect the plumbing to it and check its levelness. You can choose between:
- Acrylic liners: This is a shell made in the form of an existing wall, which is installed on top of walls in a one-day process.
- Tiled surrounds: A custom appearance is provided by traditional, tangible tile and cement board, although it is time-consuming.
Both will give a professional finish that is clean. The decision would be based on your purchasing power, timing, and fashion.
Step 6. Finishing Touches
Install the tub, complete the project with caulking, and install the fixtures and, optionally, waterproofing. Close all the edges and make sure that the water moves properly and does not accumulate.
Price Comparisons of a Shower to Tub Conversion
Price is another important question after determining how to convert a shower to a bathtub. They differ significantly depending on the materials, labor, and complexity:
- DIY and Professional Projects: Under $1,200 – $3,000. An initial investment in DIY projects is lower, around $1,200 – $3,000, but professional and custom conversion ventures may be over $12,000.
- Materials: Acrylic tubs, which are cheaper as compared to cast iron or custom tiled tubs, which increase the costs.
- Plumbing Complexity: The highest cost driver is relocating the drains and pipes.
- Labor: Experienced installers and tile labor can be quite expensive, but it would provide a more durable, high-quality outcome.
The addition of proper materials and professional luxury home remodeling service can be quite worthwhile in terms of durability, beauty, and an increase in the value of the home.
FAQs
1. Is changing a bathtub to a shower possible?
Yes, one of the popular bathroom renovations is a shower-to-tub conversion. It will require the removing of the current shower system, installation of a tub, plumbing, and waterproofing walls.
2. How expensive is the shower-to-tub conversion?
The cost ranges between $3,000 and $15,000 based on material, labor, and difficulty. DIY projects end at a lower cost, but custom installations might be more costly.
3. What are the typical bathroom renovation mistakes?
Errors may consist of inaccurate calculations of measurements, disregard of the drain location, lack of waterproofing, and hurry in finishing work. Working with professionals can reduce their occurrence significantly.
4. What is the duration of the conversion?
A liner tub to shower conversion or vice versa can be accomplished within one day, and a traditional tile conversion could require several days or a week, depending on the complexity.
Bottom Line
Your question of how to convert a shower to a bathtub is totally worth it because a shower-to-bathtub conversion is a smart approach to improving the comfort, functionality, and market value of your home.
In case you think about such a project, contacting Georgia Best Home Builders can save time and provide accuracy. Whether you draw inspiration from fast acrylic liner installation or a complete custom tile installation, our team ensures the process remains smooth from start to end for bathroom addition Atlanta.
