A tub to shower conversion takes out your old bathtub and puts a walk-in shower in the same space, so you no longer have to step over a high tub wall. HomeGuide puts the national cost at $2,000 to $12,000, with a typical project around $7,000, and Bergen County often runs higher. Call (201) XXX-XXXX for a free quote.
Many homeowners in Paramus rarely use the tub but shower every day. Others find that climbing over the tub wall gets harder with time. A conversion solves both.
If safety is your main goal, see bathroom safety for seniors. If you want to change more than the tub, see full bathroom remodeling, or compare styles on our walk-in showers page. Price ranges are on our cost page.
How a Tub to Shower Conversion Works
First we remove the tub and the wall surround around it. Then we check the floor, the walls and the drain. The drain may need to move to fit the new shower base, so some plumbing work is common. Next we set the shower base, waterproof the walls and put up the new wall finish. Last come the valve trim, the showerhead, the glass and any grab bars or niches you chose. Because the new shower uses the space the tub took up, the rest of your bathroom can often stay just as it is.
Prefab Shower or Custom Tile
You can go two ways. A prefab shower uses a molded base and wall panels, usually acrylic, fiberglass or cultured marble. It is easier to install and costs less, but it comes in set sizes. A tiled shower is built on site with ceramic, porcelain, stone or glass tile. It takes more labor and costs more, but you can pick the size, the layout and the finish. HomeGuide lists prefab walk-in showers at $1,000 to $8,000 and tiled walk-ins at $3,500 to $15,000 nationally. We can price both so you can compare.
Should You Keep One Tub in the House?
Some homeowners worry about resale if they take out the only tub in the house. That choice is yours, and it is worth a little thought. If another bathroom in your home still has a tub, converting the hall bath or the primary bath is usually an easy call. If it is the only tub and you bathe young kids, you may want to keep it for now. We are happy to talk it through with you and quote both options, so you can decide with real numbers in front of you.
Features Worth Adding
A conversion is a good time to add things that make daily showers easier. A handheld showerhead helps with rinsing and cleaning. A built-in bench gives you a place to sit. A recessed niche keeps bottles off the floor. Grab bars give you a steady hand hold, and adding wall blocking now makes it easy to put more in later. A low curb or a curbless entry makes stepping in simple. A glass panel or door keeps water in and lets light through. We price each add-on on its own, so you choose what fits.
What It Costs
- Tub to shower conversion: $2,000 to $12,000, typical about $7,000
- Prefab walk-in shower: $1,000 to $8,000
- Tiled walk-in shower: $3,500 to $15,000
- Plumbing work: $400 to $2,000
These are national figures from HomeGuide. Bergen County often runs higher. See the full cost guide, or call (201) XXX-XXXX for a quote on your bathroom.
Tub to Shower Conversion FAQ
Q: How much does a tub to shower conversion cost? HomeGuide puts the national range at $2,000 to $12,000, with a typical project around $7,000. Bergen County often runs higher. A prefab shower costs less than custom tile, and moving the drain adds plumbing cost.
Q: Do I need a permit to convert a tub to a shower in New Jersey? Usually, yes. Swapping a fixture for a similar one with no piping change is ordinary maintenance under the state code. A conversion often changes the drain or the piping, and that work needs a permit. We confirm what your project needs before work starts.
Q: Will taking out my tub hurt resale value? That depends on your home and plans. If another bathroom still has a tub, it is usually less of a worry. If it is your only tub, think about who may buy your home later. We can quote both options so you can weigh them.
Q: How long does a tub to shower conversion take? It depends on the shower type, the drain work and what we find behind the old tub. A prefab shower is easier to install than custom tile. We give you a timeline with your quote.
Towns We Serve
We serve homeowners in Paramus, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Oradell, River Edge, Rochelle Park and Hackensack. Thinking about a tub to shower swap in Oradell or River Edge? Ask for a free quote.
Get Your Free Tub to Shower Quote
Call (201) XXX-XXXX or send the form at the top of this page. Tell us your town and a little about your tub, and we will get back to you fast.
Bathroom Services
Bathroom RemodelNew tile, vanity, lighting and fixtures, from small updates to a full gut.See bathroom remodel
Walk-In ShowersLow curb or no curb, with options like a bench and a niche.See walk-in showers- Shower RemodelReplace an old stall or retile the shower you already have.See shower remodel
- Senior SafetyGrab bars, curbless showers, benches and comfort-height toilets.See senior safety
Want prices first? See typical bathroom remodel costs.