Key takeaways
- Short answer: A tub-to-shower conversion is a good idea for primary bathrooms, aging in place and anyone who rarely uses the tub — a walk-in shower is easier to get into and clean.
- Great for accessibility and daily use
- Keep at least one tub in the house
- Cost depends on tile, glass and plumbing changes
- Typical bathroom remodeling cost: $6,600–$18,000 for a typical remodel.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easier, safer entry | Can hurt resale if it removes the only tub |
| More space and a modern look | Tile and glass add cost |
| Easier to clean | Drain may need to move |
What drives the price
- Prefab shower kit vs. custom tile
- Frameless vs. framed glass
- Moving the drain or valve
- Curbless (zero-entry) design, which needs floor work
Related questions
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Prefab installs can take 1–3 days; custom tile showers usually take 1–2 weeks plus glass lead time.
Does a walk-in shower need a door?
Not always. A fixed glass panel works if the shower is large enough to contain splash.
Is a curbless shower worth it?
For aging in place and accessibility, yes. It costs more because the floor must be recessed and sloped.
Other bathroom remodeling questions homeowners ask
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost?
It varies widely: a prefab shower kit sits at the low end, while a custom tiled walk-in with glass costs much more. See our tub-to-shower conversion guide for details.
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?
A typical bathroom remodel costs about $6,600–$18,000 with mid-range finishes. A cosmetic refresh with paint, a new vanity and fixtures can stay under $5,000.
Can a bathroom be remodeled in a week?
A cosmetic update or a prefab tub-to-shower swap can be done in about a week. A full remodel with new tile and plumbing usually takes 2–4 weeks.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
Labor, custom tile showers, frameless glass and moving plumbing are the biggest costs. Keeping the toilet, tub and sink where they are saves the most money.
Does a bathroom remodel add value to a house?
It typically recoups part of its cost at resale, not all of it. Mid-range updates usually return a bigger share than luxury remodels.
Should I keep a bathtub for resale?
Many agents suggest keeping at least one tub in the home, especially for buyers with young children. Converting a second or primary bath tub to a shower is usually fine.
How do I prevent mold in a new bathroom?
Use a proper waterproofing membrane behind shower tile, vent the exhaust fan outdoors and run it 20 minutes after every shower.
What order is a bathroom remodel done in?
Demolition, plumbing and electrical rough-in, inspection, waterproofing, tile, then vanity, toilet, glass and fixtures.
Bathroom Remodeling at a glance
Timeline
A typical bathroom remodel takes 2–4 weeks. A tub-to-shower conversion can take about a week.
Permits
Moving plumbing, adding circuits or installing an exhaust fan usually needs a permit.
DIY or pro?
Swapping a vanity, painting and replacing fixtures are DIY-friendly. Shower waterproofing, plumbing moves and electrical work are best left to pros.
What a bathroom remodel costs
A bathroom remodel typically costs $6,600–$18,000, or about $70–$250 per square foot. Cosmetic updates can stay under $5,000; luxury primary-bath renovations can exceed $80,000.