Is a tub to shower conversion the right home improvement project for your home? Whether the kids outgrew tub time, you think a shower could save space, or you just prefer the crisp, clean aesthetic of a glass-enclosed shower, take a look at what you need to know about a conversion and your bathroom remodeling options.
What Is a Tub to Shower Conversion?
It’s all in the name. As the title of this project implies, a tub to shower conversion transforms a bathtub into a shower. The specific method the contractor uses for this transformation depends on a few factors.
These include the contractor’s recommendation, area of expertise, the amount of space, the existing tub, the type of shower you want, and whether you would like to keep the bathtub and add a shower or completely replace it with a stand-alone or stall unit.
Why Choose a Tub to Shower Conversion Bathroom Renovation?
There isn’t a standard or universal reason to choose this type of home improvement project. Instead, the decision to convert a tub into a shower (or into a tub/shower combination) depends on your personal preferences and the rest of the room.
Even though there isn’t one reason to select this type of renovation, many homeowners choose a conversion to:
- Eliminate an unused bathtub. Perhaps you don’t have children, the kids are too old to bathe in a tub, or you don’t like to soak. If you never use the tub, a shower conversion project is an option to seriously consider.
- Add extra space. A bathtub could take up twice as much space as a stall-type of shower. If you have a small bathroom and want to maximize the square footage, a shower conversion can make room for a second sink, a longer countertop, or an extra closet.
- Create a spa-like setting. Do you want to transform your bathroom into a spa-like space with a steam shower? An old-fashioned or out-of-date tub won’t fit into a modern spa aesthetic.
Along with these benefits, a shower is often easier for people with mobility issues to get in and out of compared to a tub. If you or a household member struggles to climb over the bathtub’s side wall, a conversion is an option that offers an added sense of safety and may reduce the risk of a slip and fall injury.
Will a Shower Add Value to Your Home?
Before you decide to remove the tub and replace it with a shower, think about the resale value of your home. According to Remodeling Magazine, in 2022 a mid-range bathroom remodeling project had a cost recoup value of just over 58 percent. If would-be buyers want a spa-like aesthetic, enjoy showers as much as you do, or feel safer with an easy-entry stall shower, you’re in luck. But if buyers want a family-friendly home, they may want a tub.
How can you maximize a tub to shower renovation investment? If you know you want to convert this bathroom space:
- Consider leaving another bathroom with a tub. Does your home have more than one full bathroom? Instead of converting two tubs to two showers, leave one as-is.
- Add another tub in another bathroom. The renovations don’t have to stop in one room. Add a tub to a half-bath. Not only will you get a shower and a tub, you’ll go from 1.5 to two full baths and increase your home’s overall value.
- Make the shower special. A steam feature, custom-cut glass, a larger enclosed space, or stylish designer tile can transform the tub to shower project into a standout feature that makes the room shine.
A professional renovation contractor who has extensive experience in tub to shower conversions can help you to choose the perfect project for your needs. If you’re not sure how to make the most of this investment or which type of shower will work best in the bathroom, start with a pro.
Are you looking for a contractor to walk you through a tub to shower conversion project? Contact Nielsen’s Remodeling & Construction for more information.