Turning a Shower into a Bathtub – Renovation Guide

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You don’t stand alone if that is the decision to consider turning a shower into a bathtub. The homeowners could prefer upgrading and adding a bathtub to their bathroom to boost the home value. This is especially true if the bathroom only has a stand-up shower. Such change goes beyond attaching luxury to your daily experience; it is instead about building your inner world, which is your personal experience. 

From the occupational advantage of a soaking bath to an economical option of washing kids and pets, turning a shower into a bathtub will be wise. This article will teach you the steps to build a shower into a bathtub, from considering initial matters to the final furnishing so that you can decide and finish the job handsomely.

How to Turn a Shower into a Bathtub

Being thoughtful about turning a shower into a bathtub is mainly necessary because so many aspects need to be considered. On the very first step, you will find yourself studying the space available in the bathroom to see whether it can handle a bathtub. This procedure will be conducted by measuring the length and breadth of the shower area and considering the plumbing system to ensure it can accommodate a bathtub’s specifications, such as drainage and supply. 

The structural restrictions of a bathroom’s floor are the first things one has to understand before buying bathtubs or showers. Showers weigh significantly lighter than bathtubs, especially when filled with water. If your goal is to save money from repairing damage, it is good to hire a structural engineer to ensure that your house’s floor can bear the weight. 

How to Turn a Shower into a Bathtub

Moving along, the type of bathtub chosen – colloid, freestanding, or inset—will determine the specified installation method and materials needed accordingly. Please note that DIY may sound attractive; however, the high level of technicalities related to hooking up waterproofing components and plumbing should be left to a professional to ensure it’s done properly.

Can You Convert a Stand-Up Shower to a Tub?

Lastly, the change from a stand-up shower to a tub can be easily achieved, and it is typically among the bathroom renovation options. The main factors are the reliability of the assessment and the plan. 

The first question you should try to answer is: how big will your new tub be relative to the current shower space? The answer will help you understand exactly what you need to fit your tub into your bathroom. A regular bathtub roughly measures 60 inches long, but plenty of tubs with an area will better fit into a smaller bathroom model if space is a limiting factor. Adjustments might be necessary for the plumbing, with more notable discrepancies in the location of drains and faucets. 

The showers and bathtubs installed are different. Apart from that, you also have to take account of the water supply need if you want to have a whirlpool tub installed in the bathroom. On top of that, it exposes the potential to replace tiling fixtures and upgrade the room from simple remodelling to an aesthetic transformation.

Stand-Up Shower to a Tub

One-Day Shower-to-Tub Conversions

Converting a one-day shower-to-tub could help the owners eliminate the problem, an appealing option. They are to be carried out using a pre-fabricated bathtub kit with the footprint of the old shower as cover size. 

Perks include minimal lifestyle disruption and short time frames, which are some rules for those pressed for time. Yet it is worth noting that the secret of their success lies in sticking to those kits by well-known firms whose products are superior quality and installation is sure to be done loyally. 

These kits can be adjusted to a certain degree – building shelves, using non-slip surfaces, and choosing the kit design that will match your existing bathroom décor is possible. Due diligence is imperative, which implies checking all the options available and having all the information and understanding of how the installation will be done to ensure that it meets your expectations regarding quality and functionality.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Living Green Walls

Pros and Cons of Having a Bathtub

For homeowners who cherish a quicker solution, one-day shower-to-tub conversions are alluring. It contains prefabricated items that make the replacement of the showerhead with a bathtub work within the existing footprint of the shower. 

Advantages include fewer inconveniences, and it is ideal for busy households since it requires no particular diversion and the whole process is completed within a short period. In that case, you are very much recommended to opt for a reliable company that would give them to you along with good quality and free installation service. This package can be tailored with numerous options, such as built-in shelves, non-slip surfaces, and fashionable collections that match your current bathroom’s main designs. 

Both types of countertops offer lots of choices, and the installation process needs to be thoroughly understood to ensure that the materials selected fit the purpose should be considered.

Tips For Choosing The Right Type of Tub For Your Home’s Needs

These five steps will assure you that you have bought the right bathtub. Suitable material: Acrylic, fibreglass, cast iron, and stone resin are commonly used materials, with their pluses and minuses of maintainability, appearance, and durability. 

It should have a form and style that blend with the general design aesthetics of your bathroom, fitting ergonomically to suit your relaxation needs. “Jet systems, integrated heaters, and chromotherapy lighting are only some of the features that could turn a simple bath into a health club experience—but consider the additional cost and installation requirements.”. 

Last, consider the amount of water used in the tub. A giant tub will offer much more convenience but significantly increase water consumption.

Choosing The Right Type of Tub For Your Home's Needs

Steps To Turning a shower into a bathtub

  • Planning and Design: Create a final product drawing or consult with a designer first.
  • Space Evaluation: To ensure the new tub will fit, measure the current shower area and consider the door opening and other space needs.
  • Plumbing Assessment: Have a licensed plumber examine your existing system and provide advice on any repairs or changes that should be made.
  • Choosing the Right Tub: Choose the bathtub that best meets your demands by considering its size, material, and extra amenities.
  • Preparation: Take out the current shower, fixtures, tiling, and wall sections.
  • Installation: Install the new tub, focusing on securing it properly and connecting it to existing plumbing.
  • Waterproofing: To stop leaks, ensure all connections and seals are waterproof.
  • Finishing Touches: Finish the surrounding area with wall panels or tiles and install new fixtures.
  • Inspection and Testing: Make sure everything is firmly installed and leak-free before using it for the last time. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How much does it cost to convert a shower to a bathtub?

Ans: Expenses might differ significantly, from $1,000 to $5,000, based on labour, materials, and the necessity of structural modifications.

Q2: How long does the conversion take?

Ans: Depending on the complexity and scope of the needed renovations, it usually takes a few days to a week.

Q3: Is a permit required to convert a shower to a bathtub?

Ans: Yes, in many cases, mainly when plumbing adjustments are necessary. Verify local building codes and rules at all times.

Conclusion

Turning a shower into a bathtub improves your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics. That is truly a luxury upgrade to your home, but it also adds value. A bathtub has it all for relaxation, practicality, or style.

A careful choice of materials and the type of bathtub to be used, through proper planning with professional help, will make your bathroom comfortable and attractive. Ensure you’re going through the detailed steps and tips to get your renovation right without stressing out or hassle.