The Rise of Walk-In Showers: A Modern Bathroom Trend
St Paul Pipeworks, a team of experienced plumbers, is witnessing a surge in requests from homeowners who wish to replace their bathtub with a walk-in shower. As people age, the task of getting in and out of bathtubs becomes more challenging. Additionally, the preference for showering over bathing is a common trend among most individuals.
The Complexity of Bathtub-to-Shower Conversions
The challenge is that removing a tub and adding a walk-in shower is a much bigger job than replacing one of the other plumbing fixtures, like a toilet or a wash basin. When replacing a bathtub, consider that the tub is installed against the wood 2 x 4s inside the wall. This makes removal and replacement a significant bath remodel.
The Demolition Process
When St Paul Pipeworks plumbers embark on such a project, they start by disconnecting the toilet and wash basin to clear the space. Often, the bathtub needs to be broken down for easier removal. Then, the drywall is carefully removed, and the carpenter or general contractor strips the finished wall down to the 2 x 4s, ensuring a thorough and meticulous process.
Plumbing Modifications and Upgrades
After the drywall is removed, the plumber meticulously changes or replaces the waste piping, ensuring that the new system is efficient and reliable. The waste piping for a bathtub differs from that for a walk-in shower, and this transition is handled with utmost care. After changing the waste piping under the floor, a new rough-in body for the shower faucet is installed, ensuring the functionality of your new shower.
The new walk-in shower faucet needs to be placed higher up on the wall than a bathtub faucet. That is also the point at which we make sure that the shower head is at an ideal height for the customer. Often, they have been installed too low or too high, so they are also adjusted to the ideal height at that time.
Additional Remodeling Opportunities
That is the rough-in phase, and if a customer is remodeling the room more, the other pipes are adjusted at that time. If it is an older house and there are lead waste pipes in the toilet or wash basin, they are replaced simultaneously because it is important to remove all soft lead pipes.
If there are galvanized threaded water pipes, St Paul Pipeworks plumbers recommend replacing those as well while the walls are already open. The plumbers install either PEX piping, a durable plastic water pipe, or copper piping in place of the galvanized pipe and then fish the new pipes into the basement for a sleek new piping system.
Choosing Your New Shower Design
Finally, the customer must select how they would like the new shower to look. Usually, it is wise to update the bathroom floor when adding the new shower floor and new shower walls. That really impacts the room. There are less expensive fiberglass showers, but in most cases, the customer chooses a ceramic shower. There are a plethora of choices when putting in a ceramic walk-in shower.
The customer should go to the multiple showrooms to get ideas of how they want their bathroom to look. A standard shower curtain can be replaced to fit the new walk-in shower, or another popular choice is to install seamless glass doors in the place of a curtain. Once all work is completed, the plumber comes back to trim out the shower, and if the toilet and wash basin have been removed, the fixtures will be reinstalled at that time as well.
If you are interested in remodeling, replacing a dated bathtub with a walk-in shower, or just looking for a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today. We’re here to help you with your bathroom remodeling needs.
Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager
FAQs
Q: How long does a typical bathtub-to-shower conversion take?
A: The duration of a bathtub-to-shower conversion can vary depending on the project’s complexity and any additional remodeling being done. On average, it can take anywhere from 3 to 10 days. Simple conversions can be completed in less time, while more extensive renovations take longer.
Q: What are the benefits of converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower?
A: Converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower offers several benefits, including improved accessibility, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues. It can also create a more spacious feel in the bathroom, be easier to clean, and increase your home’s value.
Q: How much does it typically cost to convert a bathtub to a walk-in shower?
A: The cost can vary widely depending on factors such as the materials chosen, the size of the shower, and any additional remodeling work. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $3,000 and $15,000 for a professional conversion. This cost includes labor, materials, and any necessary permits. High-end materials and custom designs can increase the cost further, but they also offer the opportunity for a truly unique and luxurious shower experience.
Q: Do I need a permit to convert my bathtub to a walk-in shower?
A: Permit requirements vary by location. In many cases, you will need a permit for this type of renovation, especially if it involves changes to plumbing or electrical systems. It’s best to check with your local building department to understand the specific requirements in your area.
Q: Can I convert my bathtub to a walk-in shower if I have a small bathroom?
It’s often possible to convert a bathtub to a walk-in shower in a small bathroom. In fact, this conversion can make a small bathroom feel more spacious. However, working with a professional who can help you design a solution that maximizes your available space while meeting building codes and safety requirements is essential. There may be challenges such as limited space for the shower enclosure or the need to relocate plumbing, but these can be overcome with the right design and expertise.
