Homeowners with some plumbing and remodeling experience under their belts might be able to tackle a tub-to-shower conversion. Before you begin the steps for how to convert a tub to a shower, you should recruit a helper. You’ll appreciate the extra set of hands when removing the old tub. In this article, the bath experts at PJ Fitzpatrick will walk you through the entire process.
Tools Needed
- Drywall or reciprocating saw
- Pry bar
- Jigsaw
- Putty knife
- Utility knife
- Plumbing wrenches
- Allen wrenches
- Plywood for floor protection
- Power drill
Steps for How to Convert a Tub to a Shower
- Cover your bathroom floor with plywood pieces to protect flooring from damage.
- Shut off the water supply.
- Take off faucet knobs, drain and overflow drain covers.
- Use a wrench to disconnect drain pipes beneath the tub by turning the locking nuts counterclockwise.
- To remove tile around the existing tub, scrape the grout with a utility knife. Pry off the tiles until you reach about 8 inches above the tub.
- To remove drywall by the tub, use the drywall saw, but avoid cutting into the studs. If the wall is plaster instead of drywall, a reciprocating saw will work more effectively.
- Pull out the nails or screws holding the tub to the studs.
- Score through the caulk around the tub edges.
- Pry the tub a few inches away from the wall.
- If the tub cannot fit through the door as a whole unit, cut it into manageable pieces with a jigsaw.
- After removing the tub, thoroughly clean up dirt and debris in the installation area.
- If necessary, adjust plumbing for the faucet, shower head, and drain to match positions on the new shower enclosure.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for the shower enclosure for specific guidance about installing the shower pan and panels.
- After the pan is in place, begin attaching the shower wall panels. Begin with the back panel and proceed to the wall panel opposite the faucet.
- On the final panel, drill holes to fit over plumbing connections.
- Nail or screw all panels to wall studs and caulk the seams.
- Attach the shower door.
- Connect the faucet controls and shower head.
- Connect the drains.
- Turn the water on and test the new shower.
PJ Fitzpatrick Professionals Can Help
If the directions for how to convert a tub to a shower appear too time consuming for your schedule, talk to the team at PJ Fitzpatrick. We’re an award-winning home improvement company that can help you convert your exiting bathtub to a barrier free, low threshold, or seated shower. Request an estimate for your project today.