How Long Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Take? A Realistic Timeline for Homeowners
Thinking about replacing your bathtub with a sleek, modern shower? One of the first questions homeowners ask is: How long will it take? If you’re tight on time or have just one bathroom, knowing the tub to shower conversion timeline is crucial. The good news? With proper planning and the right professionals, this transformation can be quicker than you think. In this post, we’ll break down the average timeline, what can cause delays, and how to keep your bathroom project on track.
What’s Involved in a Tub-to-Shower Conversion?
Before diving into days and deadlines, it helps to understand what’s included in a typical conversion:
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Demolition – Removal of the old tub, fixtures, and tile
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Plumbing adjustments – Repositioning drains or faucets if needed
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Shower base and wall installation – Installing a pre-fab base or custom tile pan and surrounding wall system
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Waterproofing and sealing – Crucial for durability and mold prevention
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Finishing touches – Fixtures, glass doors, trim, caulking, and cleanup
Each of these steps plays a part in the total project time.
If you're ready to convert your tub and want a local expert to handle the details, reach out to us today!
Typical Tub-to-Shower Conversion Timeline
For a standard project, here’s how the timeline usually breaks down:
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Day 1–2: Planning and Material Delivery
Finalizing your design, ordering materials, and prepping the work area. -
Day 2–3: Demolition and Plumbing Adjustments
Removing the tub and making any necessary plumbing changes. If your water lines or drain needs moving, expect a little more time. -
Day 4–5: Shower Base and Wall Installation
This stage involves setting the new shower pan and installing the wall system—whether acrylic, fiberglass, Onyx, or tile. -
Day 6: Fixtures and Finishing Touches
Includes hardware, shower doors, trim, caulk, and cleanup. Some projects wrap up here.
On average, a tub to shower conversion takes 4 to 7 days, especially if you’ve chosen a pre-fabricated system and there are no surprises behind the walls.
What Can Delay the Timeline?
While many projects run smoothly, a few issues can extend the process:
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Custom tile work – Adds labor time, especially for waterproofing and grouting
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Plumbing rerouting – Moving water or drain lines requires extra time and permits
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Damage behind walls – Discovering mold, rot, or water damage means remediation work
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Material backorders – Special-order products can push timelines out by weeks
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Permit delays – Depending on your location, permits and inspections may be required
This is why hiring a contractor who knows the ins and outs of bathroom remodeling is so important. If you want to avoid timeline bloat, contact us today for a free quote!
Pre-Fab vs. Custom: The Timeline Trade-Off
If speed is your top priority, prefabricated shower systems can shave days off your project. These come ready to install and require minimal waterproofing work. Brands like Onyx or acrylic one-piece surrounds are popular for this reason.
However, if you're going for a high-end, custom tile shower, be prepared to allow for additional time—especially for drying, grouting, and sealing.
Another important decision? Whether you’ll DIY or hire a pro. While a handy homeowner might save money, professional installers have the tools, training, and experience to move faster—and get it right the first time.
Want it Done Right and On Time?
Consider partnering with our team of bathroom remodeling pros.
Tips to Keep Your Project on Track
Whether you go custom or pre-fab, here’s how to prevent unnecessary delays:
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Order materials early – Don’t wait until the week of your project
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Stick to your design plan – Last-minute changes add time
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Communicate with your contractor – Be available to make decisions when needed
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Prepare your home – Clear the work area and protect surrounding spaces
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Schedule inspections in advance – If your project requires permits
By setting clear expectations from the start, you can avoid most hiccups and keep things running smoothly.
The Bottom Line: Plan Ahead, Stay on Track
A well-planned tub to shower conversion timeline ranges from 4 to 7 days for standard jobs—but variables like custom materials or plumbing changes can stretch that. Knowing what to expect (and hiring the right team) makes all the difference.
If you're ready to turn your bathtub into a beautiful, functional shower, we're here to help. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.