Upgrading your bathroom is one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s comfort, functionality, and value. Among the most popular renovations today is replacing an old bathtub with a sleek, modern shower. If you’re tired of stepping over a bulky tub or struggling with limited mobility, a conversion may be exactly what you need.
In this Tub-to-shower conversion guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should know before starting your project—from the benefits and planning process to costs, design options, and professional installation tips. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to make an informed decision about transforming your bathroom into a safer, more stylish, and more practical space.
Why Consider a Tub-to-Shower Conversion?
Converting a bathtub into a shower is more than just a cosmetic update. Homeowners choose this upgrade for a variety of reasons:
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Improved accessibility: Stepping over a tall tub wall can be difficult for seniors or anyone with mobility concerns. Walk-in showers provide easier entry and exit.
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Modern style: Showers instantly make a bathroom look more open, updated, and sophisticated.
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Practicality: Many households simply don’t use their bathtubs. A shower makes better use of space for everyday routines.
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Added safety: With features like grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, and handheld showerheads, showers reduce the risk of slips and falls.
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Boosted home value: A clean, modern shower can make your home more appealing to potential buyers.
Step 1: Planning Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Like any renovation project, success starts with careful planning. Ask yourself:
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How will the shower be used? Will it serve a busy family, aging parents, or just you? Usage determines size, fixtures, and features.
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What’s your budget? Costs vary depending on whether you choose a prefabricated shower system or a custom tile surround.
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How much space is available? Measure carefully to make sure your new shower fits the layout without crowding sinks or toilets.
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Do you want extra features? Think about shelving, seating, lighting, and glass doors versus shower curtains.
A professional remodeling company like Bathtub Made New can guide you through these questions and create a design that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Shower Walls
Your shower walls are one of the most visible parts of the remodel, and they play a big role in style, durability, and maintenance. Here are a few options to consider:
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Onyx Collection wall systems – A premium choice that combines elegance with low maintenance. Onyx walls come in a wide variety of colors and finishes and are resistant to mold and mildew.
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JETCOAT® wall systems – A cost-effective, waterproof option designed for quick installation with the look of real tile. Perfect for homeowners who want a high-quality finish without extensive construction.
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Tile walls – Classic and customizable, though they require more maintenance to keep grout lines clean.
At Bathtub Made New, we specialize in Onyx and JETCOAT wall systems because they provide the best balance of beauty, durability, and value.
Step 3: Selecting the Shower Base
Shower bases (also called pans) come in different sizes, shapes, and materials. Common choices include:
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Acrylic bases – Lightweight, durable, and budget-friendly.
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Onyx bases – Custom-sized and highly durable with slip-resistant surfaces.
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Custom-tiled bases – Offer complete design flexibility but often require more maintenance.
Make sure your base has proper waterproofing and a non-slip surface to ensure both safety and longevity.
Step 4: Features That Make Your Shower Shine
Beyond the walls and base, there are many ways to customize your shower:
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Glass doors – Frameless glass creates an open, modern look.
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Built-in shelving – Keep soaps, shampoos, and razors organized.
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Seating – A built-in bench or folding seat adds comfort and accessibility.
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Showerheads – Choose from rain showers, handheld sprayers, or multi-function options.
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Grab bars – Essential for safety, especially in age-in-place bathroom upgrades.
Step 5: Understanding Costs
The cost of a tub-to-shower conversion can vary based on materials, labor, and design complexity. On average, homeowners can expect:
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Basic conversion: $3,000–$5,000 for a prefabricated shower system.
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Mid-range conversion: $5,000–$8,000 with higher-quality materials like Onyx or JETCOAT.
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Custom conversion: $8,000+ for tiled showers or luxury features.
While it’s possible to attempt a DIY conversion, professional installation ensures waterproofing, plumbing, and finishes are done correctly—saving you costly repairs in the long run.
Step 6: Timeline for a Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Unlike full-scale bathroom remodels, a tub-to-shower conversion is relatively quick. Most projects can be completed in as little as two to three days when you choose Bathtub Made New. The efficiency comes from our specialized systems that minimize demolition and mess, giving you a brand-new shower without weeks of disruption.
Step 7: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Homeowners sometimes run into issues when converting a tub to a shower. Here are pitfalls to watch out for:
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Ignoring plumbing needs – Moving drains or pipes can increase costs significantly if not planned for.
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Choosing the wrong materials – Low-quality panels or bases may not last long.
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Skipping professional installation – Poor waterproofing can cause leaks and mold growth.
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Overlooking storage – Make sure your new shower includes shelves or niches.
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Not planning for resale value – If your home only has one tub, removing it could affect resale appeal for families with young children.
Why Work With Bathtub Made New
When it comes to a successful bathroom remodel, experience matters. At Bathtub Made New, we’ve helped countless homeowners throughout Rochester and the surrounding areas transform outdated bathrooms into spaces they truly love.
Here’s why clients choose us:
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Expertise in tub-to-shower conversions – We specialize in making this upgrade smooth, efficient, and beautiful.
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Premium wall systems – Offering both Onyx and JETCOAT options tailored to your budget and design preferences.
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Fast, clean installations – Most conversions are done in just a few days.
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Commitment to quality – From waterproofing to finishing touches, every step is done right the first time.
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Customer-first service – Our team guides you through the entire process, ensuring your new shower meets your needs.
FAQs About Tub-to-Shower Conversions
1. How long does it take to convert a tub into a shower?
Most projects are completed in 2–3 days.
2. Will I lose bathroom storage with a shower?
Not if you plan ahead—built-in shelves, niches, and corner caddies provide plenty of storage.
3. Is a permit required?
In many cases, yes. Bathtub Made New handles all necessary permits for your project.
4. What if I only have one bathtub in the house?
It may be wise to keep at least one tub for resale purposes, but if accessibility and convenience are more important, a shower is a smart choice.
5. Are tub-to-shower conversions safe for seniors?
Yes—walk-in showers with grab bars and non-slip flooring are far safer than tubs.
Transform Your Bathroom Today
If you’re ready to enjoy the benefits of a modern, easy-to-use shower, Bathtub Made New is here to help. Our team specializes in tub-to-shower conversions in Rochester, NY, offering durable, stylish solutions that fit your home and lifestyle.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how easy it is to transform your outdated tub into a shower you’ll love for years to come.
Bathtub Made New – Where your dream bathroom becomes reality.