Bathtub Conversion Ideas for a More Functional Shower

Outdated bathtubs can make a bathroom feel small, dark, and disconnected. Converting a bathtub into a walk-in shower opens up the space, allowing more natural light to brighten the room. The removal of the large, bulky tub also clears room for more functional and aesthetically pleasing shower options. With some strategic planning, homeowners can execute this bathroom upgrade and gain a more relaxing oasis for a fraction of a full remodel cost.

A tub-to-shower conversion allows homeowners to customize their new shower area with storage niches for toiletries, benches for resting, rainfall showerheads for a spa-like experience, and even windows to boost natural sunlight. By tailoring the redesign to their unique needs, households can gain a bathing space that matches their lifestyle priorities and budget.

Maximizing Space and Comfort

Eliminating the bulky bathtub structure opens up precious square footage in the bathroom. Homeowners can use this extra space to install more accessible showers, such as walk-in or roll-in options. By removing obstructive doors and entryways, the new shower layout prevents tripping hazards and makes entering and exiting safer and easier.

The increased open area also allows for larger formats, such as neo-angle showers. The angled entranceway on these designs makes the interior feel more spacious. Square and rectangular layouts work well for smaller baths, while customized shapes provide high-end luxury.

Shower Door Alternatives

Instead of shower curtains that cling uncomfortably during bathing, glass doors allow for temperature-controlled interiors. Frameless options provide seamless entryways that enhance aesthetics. For more privacy, frosted and textured glass doors diffuse views without blocking all light.

Pocket doors offer another alternative to standard shower entrances. These doors slide discreetly into the wall, disappearing when open. Pivot doors also conserve space with their rotational operation. Their weighty glass construction adds durability.

Built-In Storage and Seating

Tub-to-shower conversions allow for customized features like recessed shelving, corner benches, and niche shampoo holders. By building these items directly into the shower walls, homeowners save space while adding function.

Locating benches along the shower edge provides in-bathing seating for comfort, safety, and accessibility. Storage nooks also reduce bathroom clutter by stowing items out of sight.

Aesthetic Improvements

Switching from a tub to a walk-in shower provides numerous options for enhancing bathroom aesthetics. Removal of the bulky tub and surround opens up the space for new surfaces and materials. Homeowners can choose eye-catching patterns and textures when selecting floor tiles, wall panels, and backsplashes.

Tile, Stone, and Glass

Tile offers one of the most customizable options for shower surfaces. Homeowners can select colors, sizes, textures, and designs that match their vision. Combine various tiles on each wall or coordinate all surfaces with unified schemes. Glass and stone tiles inject luxury feels.

For quick and affordable application, homeowners can install pre-fabricated shower surrounds or wall panels. These water-resistant coverings snap directly onto walls with adhesive or slide into grooved tracks. Panels come in solution-dyed acrylic, polymer, fiberglass, laminate, and coated polystyrene.

Fixtures and Hardware

The showerhead provides the focal point for design schemes. Rainfall styles install directly overhead for a drenching spa sensation. Body jets project water from the walls to envelope users. For flexibility, handheld showerheads allow users to direct water pressure.

Matching faucets, handles, shelves, and accessories complete the aesthetic. Matte black for contemporary elegance or polished chrome for modern opulence. Contrast these metallic fixtures against neutral tiles or vibrant shower curtains.

Logistics of Tub Removal

Before removing the existing bathtub, homeowners should turn off water supplies and disconnect plumbing connections. Protect floors, walls, and fixtures from damage during the demolition process. Then break through any surrounding tile and clear debris before prying the tub away.

As cast iron or enamel tubs weigh several hundred pounds, homeowners may need professional assistance with removal. The contractor will also inspect drainage and pipes before installing new plumbing infrastructure.

Preparing Walls and Floors

After eliminating the tub, reassess the subfloor integrity. Water damage often penetrates floors over time. Rotted sections require replacement prior to new installations. Preserve as much existing floor as possible to minimize costs.

Shower conversions require proper moisture barriers between new tiles and wall boards. Waterproof membranes combined with thinset mortar provide protection. Alternatively, meditation showers contain drainage layers to divert stray water from penetrable envelope materials.

Prioritizing Safety

When designing the new shower scheme, homeowners should consider adding supportive accessories. This becomes especially important for households with mobility issues or aging occupants. Grab bars offer stability while benches allow resting during the showering process.

Textured Materials Prevent Slipping

Choosing grip-enhanced textures for shower flooring enhances traction. Mixing tile sizes adds dimension while breaking up large slippery spans. Alternatively, full-spread adhesive mats create anti-slip surfaces without aesthetic impact.

Extend non-slip materials beyond the shower perimeter. Spills commonly occur when exiting wet areas. Place grip strips on nearby flooring for prudence. When selecting bathroom floor tiles, check coefficiency of friction ratings.

Adjustable and Comfort Height Toilets

Sit-to-stand mobility limitations make toilet access challenging for some users. Comfort height models feature taller seating positions that emulate chair heights. Grab bars offer additional leverage assistance.

For customize support, homeowners can install adjustable height toilets. These innovative models allow users to raise or lower the seat elevation using a remote control. This assists with entering and exiting for those with hip, back, or knee pain.

While tub-to-shower conversions require intensive initial planning, homeowners reap long-term dividends from lower maintenance costs. Walk-in showers eliminate recurring tasks like caulking joints or replacing shower doors. Their minimalist designs significantly reduce cleaning times as well.

Glass shower doors with water-repellent treatments withstand mineral buildup and soap scum longer than shower curtains. Tightly grouted floors provide fewer locations for grime to hide. Using daily bathroom spray cleaners preserves sanitation with little effort.

Semi-annual inspections ensure fresh caulk beads at corner joints and tile grout lines. Check for cracks annually. Address these minor issues promptly to prevent moisture seeping behind walls or under floors.