At Lamont Bros., one of our most popular bathroom renovation requests is converting bathtubs to walk-in showers. This transformation addresses three key homeowner concerns:
- Homeowners rarely use their bathtubs for daily bathing
- Outdated tub designs clash with modern bathroom aesthetics
- High tub walls create safety hazards and accessibility challenges
What Is a Tub-to-Shower Conversion?
A tub-to-shower conversion involves removing your existing bathtub and replacing it with a shower enclosure in the same footprint. This renovation can range from a simple swap using prefabricated units to a complete custom redesign that reconfigures your entire bathroom layout. The process typically includes updating plumbing, waterproofing, flooring, and often extends to surrounding walls and fixtures.
In this Beaverton bathroom remodel, the tub-to-shower conversion included grab bars and a bench so that the homeowners will be able to safely use this shower as they age.
Why Convert From Shower to Tub?
Aging in Place and Accessibility
For many Portland residents, especially those planning to age in place, safety becomes the primary motivation. Traditional bathtubs require stepping over a high threshold, which poses significant fall risks for older adults or those with mobility challenges. Converting to a walk-in shower eliminates this barrier, often reducing the step-in height from 14-16 inches to just 2-4 inches with a low-threshold shower pan.
Key accessibility benefits include:
- Easier entry and exit without climbing over tub walls
- Option for grab bars and built-in seating
- Improved maneuverability for wheelchairs or walkers
- Better lighting and visibility
- Non-slip flooring options for enhanced safety
Before
Modern Lifestyle and Functionality
A lot of us aren't taking baths on a day-to-day basis. Tubs take up a lot of space, but often don't see that much use. Converting to a shower provides:
- Faster daily routines - Quick in-and-out convenience
- Better water pressure - Dedicated shower systems often outperform tub/shower combos
- Easier maintenance - Shower enclosures are simpler to clean than bathtub surrounds
- More storage - Built-in niches and shelving maximize space efficiency
Contemporary Design and Home Value
Modern bathroom design increasingly emphasizes clean lines, open spaces, and spa-like experiences. Tub-to-shower conversions allow homeowners to:
- Create a more spacious feeling in smaller bathrooms
- Incorporate luxury features like rainfall showerheads and body sprays
- Use contemporary materials like large-format tiles and natural stone
- Improve the overall aesthetic flow of the bathroom
Current Design Trends in Shower Conversions
Material Trends
Tile Selections:
- Large-format porcelain tiles (12"x24" or larger) for minimal grout lines
- Natural stone looks in porcelain for durability with organic appeal
- Subway tiles with colored grout for classic-modern appeal
- Textured tiles for slip resistance and visual interest
Wall Materials:
- Quartz shower surrounds for seamless, low-maintenance surfaces
- Mixed materials combining tile with natural stone accents
- Glass block for natural light in interior bathrooms
- Waterproof wall panels that mimic high-end materials
Modern Shower Features
Smart Technology Integration:
- Digital temperature controls for precise water temperature
- LED lighting systems with dimming capabilities
- Bluetooth speakers built into shower systems
- Smart glass that switches from clear to opaque
Luxury Elements:
- Multiple showerheads including rainfall and handheld options
- Steam shower capabilities
- Built-in seating with heating elements
- Aromatherapy and chromotherapy systems
Storage Solutions:
- Large recessed niches with interior shelving
- Corner caddies that blend seamlessly with tile work
- Integrated towel warmers
- Hidden storage behind mirrors
This remodel includes multiple shower heads, recessed niches, and heated flooring
Planning Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Assessing Your Current Space
Before beginning any conversion, evaluate your existing bathroom layout:
Plumbing Considerations:
- Location of existing water supply lines
- Drain position and whether it needs relocation
- Ventilation requirements for steam and moisture
- Electrical access for lighting and ventilation fans
Structural Elements:
- Wall framing and support requirements
- Floor joist capacity for new shower materials
- Window placement and privacy concerns
- Door swing clearance and accessibility
Design Options and Configurations
Standard Footprint Conversions: Most tub-to-shower conversions work within the existing 60" x 30" bathtub footprint. This approach minimizes plumbing changes and keeps costs manageable while still providing significant improvement in functionality.
Expanded Shower Designs: If space allows, many homeowners choose to expand beyond the original tub footprint. This might involve:
- Extending into adjacent closet space
- Borrowing space from an adjoining bedroom
- Reconfiguring the entire bathroom layout
- Creating a walk-through shower design
Barrier-Free and Curbless Options: For maximum accessibility, curbless showers eliminate any threshold. These require:
- Careful floor grading for proper drainage
- Linear drains for effective water management
- Waterproofing expertise to prevent leaks
- Potential floor lowering in some installations
Cost Considerations for Portland Area
Typical Investment Ranges
Tub-to-shower conversions fall primarily within the "Pull-and-Replace" category of bathroom remodeling, though they can extend into custom remodel territory depending on scope and features. Based on local Portland data and our extensive experience with these projects, here's what homeowners can expect:
Basic Conversion (Standard Footprint):
- $8,000 - $18,000 for prefabricated shower units with professional installation
- $12,000 - $25,000 for tile shower systems with standard fixtures
- $15,000 - $35,000 for mid-range materials and accessibility features
Custom Conversion with Premium Features:
- $25,000 - $45,000 for full custom tile work with luxury fixtures
- $35,000 - $60,000 for natural stone, multiple showerheads, and smart features
- $45,000 - $75,000 for expanded footprint with spa-like amenities
Full Bathroom Integration:
- $60,000 - $120,000 when conversion is part of complete bathroom renovation
- $75,000 - $200,000+ for whole-bathroom redesign with structural changes and luxury finishes
Timeline: What to Expect
Timeline varies significantly based on project scope. Most tub-to-shower conversions are completed as part of comprehensive bathroom remodels rather than standalone projects. Factors affecting timeline include whether you're working with a design-build contractor, the extent of plumbing modifications needed, and additional bathroom updates. For detailed timeline information, see our comprehensive bathroom remodel timeline.
Choosing the Right Bathroom Contractor in Portland
Essential Qualifications
Licensing and Insurance:
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license
- General liability and workers' compensation insurance
- Bonding for larger projects
- Plumbing and electrical subcontractor relationships
Specialized Experience:
- Portfolio of accessibility modifications and aging-in-place projects
- Knowledge of ADA guidelines and universal design principles
- Experience with Portland's unique housing stock (many homes built 1950s-1980s)
- Understanding of local building codes and permit processes
Quality Indicators:
- References from recent tub-to-shower conversion projects
- Membership in professional organizations (NARI, NKBA)
- Warranty offerings on labor and materials
- Clear communication about timeline and potential complications
We've helped many homeowners transform their bathrooms across the Portland Metro area. We'd love to discuss your tub-to-shower conversion goals and explore the possibilities for your bathroom transformation. Reach out to our team to get started.
