Tub-to-Shower Conversion: How It’s Done and What to Buy

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Swapping an unused tub for a walk-in shower is one of the most requested bathroom upgrades we do. It’s safer, easier to clean, and makes a small bathroom feel bigger.

How the job goes

1. Remove the tub and the wall tile or surround around it.
2. Fix any rot or water damage we find behind it. Old tubs often hide some.
3. Move or adapt the drain to the new shower base, and update the shower valve if needed.
4. Set the shower base, waterproof the walls, then tile or install wall panels.
5. Install the glass door or panel, and the fixtures.

What you’ll need to buy

The base is the big decision. A standard tub space is about 60″ x 30-32″, so a 60″ x 36″ base usually fits with a little framing adjustment.

Then the glass: see our frameless shower door guide. If you want a zero-step entry, read curbless shower bases first, because it changes the floor work.

Should you keep one tub?

If it’s your only bathroom with a tub and you have young kids, or you’re planning to sell soon, keeping one tub in the house is usually smart. Converting a second or primary bathroom is where a walk-in shower makes the most sense.

We do shower rebuilds and conversions across Brevard County.