Add A Shower?
Are you thinking about adding a shower to your home? If so, you’re in luck—it’s easier than ever to add a shower to an existing tub.
It’s important to remember that many realtors advise homeowners to keep at least one bathtub in their home for good resale value. Perhaps adding a shower head to an existing tub is a more viable option. One problem with such an addition is when a window is present. If a window exists you must decide if you will remove the window, replace the window with a glass block, or tile over the window entirely. Each of these solutions carries different costs which must be considered. In order to add a shower to an existing tub, you will need to demolish the wet wall behind the bathtub and change the current valve to a new unit that includes a shower riser and spray head which mounts on the wall at showerhead height.
The Tub Is Out!
If you are thinking about removing your bathtub and replacing it with a shower, there are several things to consider before you make the switch.
As soon as you remove your existing tub, you will get a chance to check for loose fittings, leaking pipes, and damaged subflooring. You can also make any necessary repairs at this time. Additionally, now is the perfect opportunity to upgrade the size of your incoming water pipes as well as the size of your drain pipe to allow for smooth running water.
Once you have finished making these changes, you can begin installing your new shower stall.
Kit Or No Kit?
Next, you will need to decide what type of shower you will use for replacement. Will you purchase a shower kit or custom-build your replacement shower? Kits come complete with skid-proof pans, curbs to keep water in the shower and off the floor, a pre-drilled drain hole, and doors. Prefabricated shower kits offer one-piece options or options that have two or three-piece walls that are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and easy to maintain.
If you prefer to build your own shower from scratch or if you want a custom look and feel for your bathroom remodeling project, then custom-built showers are the perfect option for you. Custom showers can be built with any number of materials including tile or glass panels. They are more expensive than prefabricated kits but they also provide more flexibility in terms of design choices.
Custom Designed Showers
If you’re considering a bathtub to shower conversion, there are a few things you should know.
First, a custom-built shower can provide easy access for elderly homeowners or those with disabilities. If wheelchair access is needed, a curbless pan must be installed—which requires that the pan is positioned lower than the rest of the bathroom floor. This added expense must be calculated in your costs. Custom building a shower is more expensive than a prefabricated kit but it allows you to customize the shower to best meet your family’s needs.
Second, don’t forget that when converting from a tub to a shower, you’ll need to install an exhaust fan and exhaust ductwork if you don’t already have one. An exhaust fan will remove moisture from your bathroom and keep mold from growing in areas where it’s not visible—like behind cabinets or walls.
Third, keep in mind that there are multiple design options for both prefabricated kits as well as custom-built showers so make sure you choose one that will fit well with your existing bathroom fixtures and décor so it doesn’t look out of place once everything’s installed!
Size Matters!
When you’re thinking about replacing your bathtub with a shower, it’s important to consider the size of your new bathroom. The shower has a minimum size requirement of 30 by 30 inches. However, a more comfortable 36 by 36 is recommended.
The shower must be at least 15-18 inches away from the center of the toilet and 21 inches from the front of the toilet. If your replacement shower will have a swinging door adequate swing space must be calculated so it is not obstructed by the vanity or toilet.
Another thing to consider when deciding on a custom shower replacement is the spacing required to ensure your design will work.
Design It
Bathtub to shower conversion is one of the most popular remodeling projects. With a little planning and design, you can convert your old bathtub into an updated shower that is both good-looking, safe, and functional.
There are many options available to homeowners opting to replace their bathtubs with custom showers. There is a myriad of color choices, various materials for both walls and flooring, modern shower doors, or even showers without doors. Heated floors ensure a warm and delightful experience and custom-built seats offer convenience as well. Fancy showerheads like a rain showerhead can enhance your showering experience and adding multiple showerheads really makes a statement.
The prospect of converting your old bathtub into an updated shower may seem daunting at first but, with a little planning and creative designing, you are well on your way to an inviting shower that is both good-looking, safe, and functional.
Need help with bath to shower conversions in Vista, North County? Contact us today!
