If you have a bathroom with a seldom-used bathtub and prefer a shower instead, you can convert the old tub to a new stand-alone unit. A shower enclosure designed to fit in a standard 5-foot step-over tub alcove that measures 32 inches by 60 inches by 74 inches makes it possible. Look for a unit with the location of the drain on the left or right side, depending on where your drain is located. A bathroom remodel with a walk-in shower is barrier-free and ideal for anyone with limited mobility, kids, or even bathing a large dog, so there are many good reasons for converting a tub to a shower.
You’ll find these units in home improvement and plumbing centers, with components in modular design made of solid Vikrell material in tongue-and-groove pieces that snap together. Also plan to replace the plumbing figures.
A plumber will charge $5,200 to remove the old bathtub and fixtures and install a new unit with fixtures, which includes the labor and material. If you have tools and experience with carpentry and plumbing projects, you can dismantle and remove the old bathtub and fixtures and buy the new unit and fixtures for $1,850. This can be a complicated improvement, beginning with removing the old tub and fixtures and finding rotten wallboard or damaged framing that needs a replacement. If you have any doubts, hire a plumbing contractor or remodeler who has faced those unknown surprises and knows how to deal with them.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Pro Cost — DIY Cost — Pro time — DIY Time — DIY Savings — Percent Saved
$5,200 — $1,850 — 30 — 50 — $3350 — 64 Percent
