Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower: My Personal Experience

Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower: My Personal Experience

When my husband and I bought our house, we loved everything about it except for the tub shower combo in the master bathroom. Neither of us enjoyed taking baths, and the shower was cramped and uncomfortable. We knew we wanted to convert it into a walk-in shower, but we didn’t know where to start. After doing some research and consulting with professionals, we were able to successfully convert our tub shower to a walk-in shower. Here’s what we learned:

Step by Step Guide for Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower

1. Determine if your bathroom can accommodate a walk-in shower

Before you start any work, make sure your bathroom has enough space to accommodate a walk-in shower. Consider the size of the shower you want and whether it will fit comfortably in your bathroom without making the space feel cramped.

2. Hire a professional

While it’s possible to convert a tub shower to a walk-in shower on your own, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. A contractor can help you choose the right materials and design for your new shower.

3. Remove the existing tub and shower

The first step in the conversion process is to remove the existing tub and shower. This may involve removing tiles, plumbing fixtures, and other materials. Be sure to dispose of these materials safely and responsibly.

4. Install the new shower base

Once the existing tub and shower are removed, the next step is to install the new shower base. This will serve as the foundation for your new walk-in shower.

5. Add the walls and doors

After the shower base is installed, it’s time to add the walls and doors. This may involve installing new tiles, glass doors, or other materials. Choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and complement the overall design of your bathroom.

6. Install the plumbing fixtures

The final step in the conversion process is to install the plumbing fixtures. This may include a new showerhead, faucet, and other accessories. Be sure to choose fixtures that are high-quality and designed to last.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower

1. Consider adding a bench or seat to your new walk-in shower for added comfort and convenience.
2. Choose materials that are easy to clean and maintain, such as tile or acrylic.
3. Install a grab bar for added safety and support.
4. Consider adding a niche or shelf for storage of shower essentials.
5. Choose a showerhead with multiple settings for added versatility.
6. Consider adding a frameless glass enclosure for a modern and sleek look.
7. Choose a non-slip shower base for added safety.
8. Install a shower door that swings both ways for added convenience.
9. Add lighting to your new walk-in shower for added ambiance and visibility.
10. Choose a color scheme that complements the overall design of your bathroom.

Pros and Cons of Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower

Pros:

• Increased accessibility and convenience
• More spacious and comfortable
• Easier to clean and maintain
• Can increase the value of your home

Cons:

• May require professional installation
• Can be costly
• May result in loss of tub functionality

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Converting A Tub Shower To A Walk In Shower

Overall, I am extremely happy with our decision to convert our tub shower to a walk-in shower. The new shower is much more spacious and comfortable, and it’s easier to clean and maintain. We also added a bench and grab bar for added convenience and safety. While the conversion process was costly and required professional installation, I believe it was worth it in the end. I highly recommend considering a walk-in shower if you’re unhappy with your current tub shower combo.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How long does it take to convert a tub shower to a walk-in shower?

A: The timeline for the conversion process can vary depending on the size of your bathroom and the complexity of the project. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-3 weeks for the conversion to be completed.

Q: Will I need to replace my existing plumbing?

A: It’s possible that you may need to update your plumbing fixtures to accommodate the new shower design. Your contractor can help you determine if this is necessary.

Q: Can I still take a bath if I convert my tub shower to a walk-in shower?

A: No, if you convert your tub shower to a walk-in shower, you will no longer have the option to take a bath. It’s important to consider this before making the decision to convert.