By LE Construction · Published October 6, 2026
Converting an alcove tub to a walk-in shower is one of the most popular bathroom projects. Prices vary widely, mostly because “conversion” covers everything from an acrylic kit to a fully tiled custom shower.
Published figures
HomeAdvisor’s 2025 cost guide puts a tub-to-shower conversion at around $3,000, with most projects between $1,500 and $8,000. The lower end reflects simpler conversions, such as prefabricated shower bases and wall panels. A fully tiled shower with a waterproofed pan, niches, a bench and frameless glass usually costs more, and curbless designs more again.
What drives the cost
- Shower type: acrylic kit, tiled shower, or curbless tiled shower.
- Waterproofing: a sloped pan and membrane, flood-tested before tile.
- Tile: size, material and layout. Large-format and natural stone take more labor.
- Drain changes: moving the drain, especially on a slab.
- Valve: a new pressure-balancing or thermostatic valve.
- Glass: curtain, framed door, frameless panel or door.
- Repairs: rot behind the old tub is common.
- Extras: bench, niches, grab-bar blocking, handheld shower.
Curbless options
A curbless shower slopes to a drain, often a linear drain, with no step at the entry. It is safer and easier for anyone with limited mobility. On a raised floor, the framing can often be lowered. On a slab, the concrete is cut and recessed. (Accessible bathrooms)
Decisions to make first
- Keep a tub somewhere in the house?
- Bench and niches?
- Glass door or fixed panel?
- Grab-bar blocking now, bars later?
- Curb or curbless?
Our approach
Every shower we build gets a sloped pan and a waterproof membrane, flood-tested before any tile goes in. That step is invisible in the finished bathroom and is what keeps it dry for years.
See shower remodels and tub-to-shower conversions and our bathroom cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why do tub-to-shower conversion prices vary so much?
Because the same name covers very different projects, from an acrylic shower kit in the tub space to a fully tiled shower with a bench, niche and frameless glass. Waterproofing, tile and glass drive most of the difference.
Is a curbless shower much more expensive?
It usually costs more because the floor has to be recessed so the shower can slope to the drain without a curb. On a raised floor that may mean lowering framing; on a slab, cutting concrete.
Should I keep at least one tub in the house?
Many buyers, especially families with young children, look for at least one tub. If you have another bathroom with a tub, converting one is rarely a resale concern.
Do tub-to-shower conversions need a permit?
Usually, yes, because the drain and valve change and the waterproofing is inspected. Requirements vary by city.