Replacing your old bathtub with a modern walk-in shower makes your bathroom safer and easier to use. Most San Diego homeowners spend between $2,500 and $6,000 for this upgrade, and the work takes 3 to 5 days to complete. You’ll get a cleaner look, better accessibility, and more space without tearing apart your whole bathroom.
This guide shows you exactly what to expect during a tub to shower conversion. You’ll learn about costs, timelines, materials, and how to avoid common mistakes that waste money.
Table of Contents
How Long Does a Tub to Shower Conversion Take with San Diego Home Remodeling?
The timeline depends on what type of shower you want and how much plumbing work your bathroom needs.
Basic Prefab Systems: 1-2 Days
If you choose an acrylic or fiberglass shower kit, we can finish in 1 to 2 days. These bath fitter tub to shower systems come ready to install. We remove your old tub on day one and install everything on day two. You can use your new shower the same evening.
Custom Tile Showers: 3-5 Days
Custom tile work takes longer because materials need time to set properly. Here’s the typical schedule:
- Day 1: Remove your bathtub and check for water damage
- Day 2: Install the shower base and update plumbing
- Day 3: Set tile on walls and let it cure overnight
- Day 4: Apply grout and install your shower heads and controls
- Day 5: Seal everything and clean up
Complex Projects: 5-7 Days
Some bathrooms need extra work. Older homes often have outdated plumbing or hidden water damage. When we find these issues, we fix them before installing your new shower. This protects your investment and prevents future problems.
What Can Delay Your Project?
Water damage behind walls is the most common delay. About 30% of homes built before 1980 have some moisture issues. We also see supply delays for specialty tiles or custom glass doors. Order these materials 2-3 weeks ahead to avoid waiting.
At San Diego Home Remodeling, we give you an honest timeline based on your specific bathroom. Our bathroom remodeling services in San Diego include free inspections to spot potential delays before we start work.
Does a Tub to Shower Conversion Increase Your Home's Value?
Yes, a bathroom tub to shower conversion adds value to your home. Real estate agents in San Diego report that updated bathrooms help homes sell faster and for higher prices.
The Numbers
A mid-range bathroom conversion costs $3,000 to $5,000 and typically returns 60-70% of that cost when you sell. So if you spend $4,000, your home value could increase by $2,400 to $2,800.
Walk-in showers with modern features return even more. Glass doors, rainfall shower heads, and built-in benches appeal to buyers who want move-in ready homes.
Why Buyers Prefer Walk-In Showers
Today’s home buyers want three things in bathrooms:
- Easy maintenance (no scrubbing tubs)
- Modern style (updated fixtures and finishes)
- Accessibility (safe for all ages)
A shower enclosure with tempered glass doors checks all these boxes. It looks clean, works better than old tubs, and makes your bathroom feel bigger.
The San Diego Market
San Diego has an aging population. Many buyers over 55 look for homes they can live in long-term. They specifically search for bathrooms with low-threshold showers and grab bars. Adding these features during your bathroom conversion makes your home more attractive to this large buyer group.
Families also like walk-in showers. Parents with young kids appreciate not having to bend over a tub for bath time. A handheld shower head mounted low enough for kids adds extra appeal.
When to Keep a Tub
If your home has only one bathroom, think carefully before removing the only tub. Some buyers with small children prefer at least one bathtub in the house. For homes with two or more bathrooms, replace the tub with shower in the master bath and keep a tub in another bathroom.
Converting Your Bathtub Into a Walk-In Shower
Let’s talk about what makes a good walk-in shower and how to plan yours.
Space Requirements
Most standard bathtubs measure 60 inches long and 30-32 inches wide. This gives you plenty of room for a comfortable shower. The minimum shower size is 32×32 inches, but 36×48 inches feels much better.
If you have a small bathroom, a corner shower or neo-angle design saves space. These fit into tight corners while giving you room to move.
Essential Components
Every bath conversion to shower needs these parts:
Shower Base (Pan): This waterproof floor piece catches water and drains it properly. You can choose:
- Prefab acrylic bases (quick install, affordable)
- Tile-ready bases (custom tile floor, more expensive)
- Zero-threshold bases (flush with floor, best for accessibility)
Walls: Three sides of your shower need waterproof walls. Options include:
- Acrylic panels (fast, low maintenance)
- Ceramic or porcelain tile (classic, customizable)
- Solid surface panels (modern, seamless)
Glass Doors or Curtain: Glass shower doors look better and contain water better than curtains. Frameless glass costs more but creates a spa feeling. Semi-frameless doors offer good value.
Fixtures: Your shower heads, controls, and any extras like body sprays or rain heads.
Design Choices That Matter
- Threshold Height: The step into your shower should be as low as possible. Anything over 6 inches becomes hard for older adults. Zero-threshold showers sit flush with the bathroom floor for easy access.
- Grab Bars: Install them during construction, not later. They support up to 500 pounds when installed correctly into wall studs.
- Bench or Seat: Built-in seating helps with shaving legs, washing feet, or resting during longer showers. Position it opposite the shower head to avoid direct water spray.
- Storage: Recessed shelves or corner caddies keep products organized. Plan for 2-3 storage areas at different heights.
- Drainage: Proper slope is critical. The floor should slope 1/4 inch per foot toward the drain. Too flat and water pools. Too steep and it’s uncomfortable to stand.
How to Convert Your Bathtub into a Walk-In Shower
Here’s exactly what happens during your bathroom remodel, step by step.
Step 1: Free Consultation and Planning
We start by visiting your home to see your current bathroom setup. During this visit, we:
- Measure your bathroom carefully
- Take photos of your existing tub and plumbing
- Discuss what you want in your new shower
- Check for potential problems like soft floors or old pipes
- Explain your material options
- Give you a written quote with no hidden fees
This consultation takes about 45 minutes and costs you nothing. We answer all your questions and help you understand what’s possible within your budget.
Step 2: Remove Your Old Bathtub
On day one, our crew arrives with all the tools needed to remove your tub safely. We:
- Cover your floors with protective sheets
- Turn off water to your bathroom
- Disconnect all plumbing connections
- Cut the caulk seal around your tub
- Carefully remove the tub without damaging walls
- Haul away the old tub and debris
Once the tub is out, we inspect what’s behind it. About 1 in 3 tubs hides some water damage. If we find problems, we tell you right away and explain what needs fixing.
Step 3: Prepare the Shower Area
This step is the most important for preventing leaks. We:
- Check that your floor is level and solid
- Replace any damaged subfloor or wall studs
- Install a waterproof membrane on the floor
- Set your new shower base with proper slope for drainage
- Test the drain to make sure it works correctly
Good waterproofing here prevents thousands in water damage later. We use commercial-grade materials that last 20+ years.
Step 4: Update Plumbing Lines
Your new shower needs water supply lines and a drain in the right spots. We:
- Move drain lines if needed to match your new shower base
- Install new supply lines for hot and cold water
- Add any extra lines for body sprays or multiple shower heads
- Pressure test everything to check for leaks
- Make sure all work meets San Diego building codes
If your home has old galvanized pipes, we recommend replacing them with modern PEX or copper. This prevents leaks and improves water pressure.
Step 5: Install Shower Walls
Now your shower starts taking shape. The wall installation process depends on your material choice:
For Tile Walls:
- We install cement backer board as a base
- Apply waterproof membrane over all seams
- Set your tiles with proper spacing
- Let the thin-set mortar cure for 24 hours
- Apply grout and seal it
For Acrylic or Solid Surface Panels:
- We cut panels to fit your exact space
- Apply strong adhesive to the walls
- Set panels in place with no gaps
- Seal all seams with waterproof caulk
Step 6: Add Fixtures and Finishing Touches
The final day brings everything together:
- Install your shower door or curtain rod
- Mount your shower heads and controls
- Add any shelves, grab bars, or benches you ordered
- Caulk all corners and seams
- Clean up and test everything
We run the shower for 10 minutes to check for leaks and proper drainage. You’ll see hot and cold water working correctly and all features functioning as they should.
Step 7: Final Walkthrough
Before we leave, we walk through the completed shower with you. We show you how everything works and answer your questions. You get:
- Care instructions for your specific materials
- Warranty information
- Our contact info for any future questions
We don’t consider the job done until you’re completely happy with your new shower.
You may also read: Tub to shower conversion ideas
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Shower
The materials you pick affect how your shower looks, how long it lasts, and how much maintenance it needs.
Acrylic and Fiberglass Systems
Cost: $800-$1,500 for materials
These prefab systems come in one or a few pieces that fit together. They’re the fastest to install and easiest to maintain.
Pros:
- Quick installation (often same day)
- Never needs sealing or grout repair
- Resists mold and mildew naturally
- Available in many colors and patterns
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Can crack if something heavy hits them
- May yellow over time in direct sunlight
- Feels less substantial than tile
- Limited design options
Best for: Rental properties, tight budgets, homes you plan to sell soon.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Cost: $1,200-$3,000 for materials
Tile offers unlimited design options. You can create any pattern, use any color, and match any style.
Pros:
- Extremely durable (lasts 20+ years)
- Completely waterproof when installed right
- Won’t scratch or dent
- Increases home value
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Takes longer to install (3-5 days)
- Costs more than acrylic
- Grout lines need resealing every 1-2 years
- Poor installation causes leaks
Best for: Homes you’ll live in for years, custom designs, master bathrooms.
Natural Stone
Cost: $2,500-$5,000 for materials
Marble, granite, and slate create luxury showers that impress everyone.
Pros:
- Beautiful, unique appearance
- High-end look and feel
- Excellent resale value
- Very durable with care
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Needs regular sealing (2-3 times per year)
- Some types stain easily
- Slippery when wet without texture
- Heavy (may need floor support)
Best for: Luxury remodels, master suites, high-end homes.
Solid Surface and Composite Materials
Cost: $1,800-$3,500 for materials
These engineered materials look like stone but need less maintenance.
Pros:
- Seamless, modern appearance
- Non-porous (resists mold)
- Warm to touch (not cold like tile)
- Repairable if damaged
- Never needs sealing
Cons:
- Mid to high price
- Can be scratched by abrasive cleaners
- Limited to manufacturer’s color options
- Requires professional installation
Best for: Contemporary styles, low-maintenance preference, accessible showers.
Our Recommendations for San Diego
San Diego’s coastal climate means higher humidity near the beach. Choose materials that resist moisture and mold. Porcelain tile works great because it’s completely waterproof and never needs sealing.
For budget projects, quality acrylic systems perform well. Brands like Sterling and American Standard make reliable products that last 15+ years with normal use.
Avoid natural marble or limestone if you have hard water. These soft stones etch and stain from mineral deposits in San Diego’s water supply.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Some homeowners wonder if they can save money by doing the work themselves.
When DIY Might Work
You could handle a simple tub to shower renovation if you:
- Have done plumbing work before
- Understand waterproofing principles
- Can get permits and pass inspections
- Have 20-40 hours to spend on the project
- Own or can rent the right tools
Potential savings: $1,500-$2,500 in labor costs
The Risks
Most DIY failures happen in waterproofing. Water gets behind walls through tiny gaps you can’t see. By the time you notice a problem, you have mold growing inside the walls.
Other common DIY mistakes:
- Wrong drain slope (water pools or drains slowly)
- Skipping the permit (creates problems when selling)
- Using cheap materials that fail quickly
- Improper tile setting (tiles fall off)
- Plumbing leaks behind walls
Why Most People Hire Professionals
We’ve fixed hundreds of DIY projects gone wrong. The cost to repair bad work usually exceeds what professional installation would have cost in the first place.
Professional installation includes:
- Proper permits and inspections
- Warranty on labor and materials
- Insurance coverage if something breaks
- Expert problem-solving when issues arise
- Speed (3-5 days vs 3-4 weeks DIY)
Permits and Building Codes in San Diego
San Diego requires permits for most bathroom work. Here’s what you need to know.
When You Need Permits
You need permits if your project includes:
- Moving or adding plumbing lines
- Installing new electrical fixtures
- Changing wall structures
- Waterproofing work
Most tub to shower projects require at least a plumbing permit. The city charges $150-$300 depending on the scope of work.
Why Permits Matter
Unpermitted work creates three big problems:
- Home Sale Issues: You must disclose unpermitted work when selling. Buyers often require you to get permits retroactively or reduce the sale price by thousands.
- Insurance Problems: If unpermitted plumbing causes water damage, your insurance may deny the claim.
- Safety Risks: Inspections catch mistakes before they cause problems. Poor plumbing can lead to sewage backups or contaminated water.
Our Permit Process
We handle all permit paperwork for you. We submit the application, pay the fees, and schedule inspections. The permit typically adds 7-10 days to your timeline but it’s required by law.
Common Mistakes That Cost You Money
Learn from other people’s expensive errors.
Mistake 1: Choosing the Cheapest Contractor
Low bids often mean poor materials or rushed work. We’ve seen contractors skip waterproofing steps to save time. This causes leaks within months.
What to do instead: Get 3-4 quotes and compare what’s included. Ask about warranty coverage and check recent reviews.
Mistake 2: Poor Ventilation Planning
Bathrooms need proper air flow to prevent mold. Your exhaust fan should move at least 50 cubic feet per minute (CFM). Replace fans over 10 years old.
Mistake 3: Wrong Tile Choice for Floors
Smooth tiles get slippery when wet. Choose textured or matte finish tiles for shower floors. Look for tiles rated for “wet areas” with good slip resistance.
Mistake 4: Skipping the Waterproof Membrane
Some contractors just use cement board and tile. This isn’t enough. You need a waterproof membrane between the cement board and tile. This costs about $200 extra but prevents thousands in water damage.
Mistake 5: Improper Drain Installation
Your drain must slope correctly or water will pool. We’ve seen drains installed backwards, creating standing water that breeds mold.
Tub to Shower Conversion Cost: What to Expect
Let’s break down exactly what you’ll pay for different types of projects in San Diego.
Basic Conversion: $2,000-$3,500
This includes:
- Prefab acrylic shower kit
- Standard shower head and controls
- Basic plumbing updates
- Shower curtain instead of glass door
- Minimal custom work
Total time: 1-2 days
Mid-Range Conversion: $3,500-$5,500
This includes:
- Custom tile walls and floor
- Quality fixtures and hardware
- Semi-frameless glass door
- Some accessibility features
- All permits and inspections
Total time: 3-5 days
Premium Conversion: $5,500-$9,000+
This includes:
- High-end tile or stone
- Frameless glass enclosure
- Multiple shower heads or body sprays
- Built-in bench and storage
- Luxury fixtures and finishes
- Full accessibility features
Total time: 5-7 days
What Affects Your Final Cost?
- Bathroom Size: Larger showers need more materials. A 4×6 foot shower costs $800-$1,200 more than a standard 3×5 foot shower.
- Material Choice: Natural stone costs 3-4 times more than ceramic tile. Glass shower doors range from $400 (standard) to $2,500 (frameless).
- Plumbing Work: Moving drain lines adds $500-$1,200 to your cost. Updating old pipes costs $800-$1,500.
- Accessibility Features: Zero-threshold bases cost $300-$600 more than standard. Grab bars installed during construction cost $100-$200 each.
- Hidden Issues: Water damage repair costs $500-$2,000 depending on severity. About 30% of projects need some repair work.
Price to Convert Tub to Shower by Material
Material Type | Materials Cost | Installation Cost | Total Range |
Acrylic/Fiberglass | $800-$1,500 | $1,200-$2,000 | $2,000-$3,500 |
Ceramic Tile | $1,200-$2,500 | $1,500-$3,000 | $2,700-$5,500 |
Porcelain Tile | $1,500-$3,000 | $1,800-$3,200 | $3,300-$6,200 |
Natural Stone | $2,500-$5,000 | $2,000-$4,000 | $4,500-$9,000 |
Cost to Replace Tub with Walk in Shower: Money-Saving Tips
- Keep the Same Footprint: Using your existing tub space saves $500-$1,000 in plumbing costs.
- Choose Standard Sizes: Custom shower pans cost $400-$800 more than standard sizes.
- Mix Material Quality: Use high-end tile on walls where you see it. Use standard tile on the floor where it’s less visible.
- Reuse Good Fixtures: If your current shower head and handles work well, keep them. New fixtures cost $200-$800.
- Time It Right: We sometimes offer discounts during slower winter months.
- Skip Unnecessary Features: Do you really need body sprays and a rain head? Standard fixtures work great for most people.
Final Thoughts
A tub to shower conversion improves your bathroom’s safety, style, and value. Most San Diego homeowners spend $3,000-$6,000 and finish the project in less than a week.
The key is proper planning and quality installation. Choose materials that fit your budget and lifestyle. Make sure your contractor gets the right permits and uses proper waterproofing. These steps protect your investment and prevent costly repairs later.
At San Diego Home Remodeling, we’ve completed over 500 bathroom conversions in the past 10 years. We handle everything from permits to cleanup, and we guarantee our work with a 5-year warranty.
Ready to start your project? We offer free consultations where we visit your home, measure your bathroom, and give you an honest quote with no hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a tub to shower conversion take?
Most projects take 3-5 days from start to finish. Simple prefab installations can be done in 1-2 days. Custom tile work needs 5-7 days because materials must cure properly between steps. Projects that involve fixing water damage or updating old plumbing may take longer.
What does it cost to replace a bathtub with a walk-in shower?
The cost ranges from $2,000 to $9,000 in San Diego. A basic acrylic system costs $2,000-$3,500. Mid-range tile showers run $3,500-$5,500. Premium conversions with luxury materials cost $5,500-$9,000 or more. Your final cost depends on materials, bathroom size, and any plumbing updates needed.
Do I need a permit to convert my tub to a shower?
Yes, most conversions require permits in San Diego. You need a plumbing permit for any drain or water line changes. Electrical permits are required if you add lights or outlets. The permit process takes 7-10 days and costs $150-$300. Working without permits can cause problems when you sell your home.
Will removing my only bathtub hurt resale value?
It depends on your buyer market. Families with young children prefer at least one tub. If your home has multiple bathrooms, convert the master bath to a shower and keep a tub in another bathroom. If you only have one bathroom, consider who typically buys homes in your neighborhood before removing the tub.
Can I do a tub to shower conversion myself?
Simple prefab installations might work for experienced DIYers. However, most projects require plumbing knowledge, waterproofing expertise, and permit experience. Poor waterproofing causes water damage that costs thousands to repair. Most homeowners save time and money by hiring professionals who guarantee their work.
What’s the best material for a shower conversion?
It depends on your priorities. Acrylic systems cost least and install fastest but offer limited designs. Ceramic or porcelain tile gives you unlimited design options and lasts 20+ years. Natural stone looks luxurious but needs regular maintenance. For San Diego’s climate, we recommend porcelain tile because it resists moisture and never needs sealing.
How do I choose between a shower curtain and glass door?
Glass doors contain water better and look more modern. They cost $400-$2,500 depending on style. Frameless glass creates a spa feel but costs most. Semi-frameless doors offer good value. Shower curtains cost $20-$100 and work fine for budget projects or rental properties.
Will a walk-in shower make my small bathroom feel bigger?
Yes, removing a bulky tub opens up floor space and sight lines. Choose a clear glass door instead of frosted to maximize the open feeling. Light-colored tiles also make small bathrooms feel larger.
How do I prevent mold in my new shower?
Proper ventilation is critical. Run your exhaust fan during showers and for 20 minutes after. Choose non-porous materials like porcelain tile or acrylic. Squeegee walls after each shower to remove water. Seal grout lines every 12-18 months if you have tile.
