The average cost to fully remodel a shower is $7,195. Costs range from $2,895 to over $11,495 depending on the scope, materials, and customization.
Are you looking to give your bathroom a fresh new look with a shower remodel? Updating an outdated or damaged shower can completely transform your bathroom. But before you dive in, it’s important to understand the factors that impact your shower remodeling cost.
Remodeling your shower can range widely in price due to the many factors that impact the total project cost. The typical price for a basic bathtub-to-shower conversion starts around $3,000. Meanwhile, you could spend upwards of $15,000+ on a large, luxury walk-in shower remodel. Well, before hiring a kitchen and bath company to help you with your idea, there are things you should know first.
So what makes up your total shower remodeler pricing guide? The main elements are:
- Type of shower (bathtub conversion, stall, walk-in, etc)
- Shower materials (tile, fiberglass, acrylic, etc)
- Plumbing work
- Removal of existing tub/shower
- New shower door
- Shower size and layout
- Special features like bench seating, niche shelving, etc
We’ll break down how these key factors impact your typical price range and what to expect as we dive into the details below. Let’s start with the basics!
Types of Showers
The first major factor determining your new shower’s final cost is the type of shower you choose. Let’s look at some of the most popular options and their typical price points.
Bathtub-to-Shower Conversions
Converting your existing tub into a walk-in shower is one of the most budget-friendly remodels. By keeping your existing plumbing, you save significantly on labor costs.
Tub-to-shower conversions start around $3,000 on average and range up to $7,000 depending on size, materials, and custom touches. This is often a smart choice to gain space and accessibility without a full gut renovation.
Walk-In Showers
Walk-in showers offer a luxurious spa-like feel with their spaciousness and open access. Custom tiled walk-in showers start around $6,500 on average and can range from $4,000 for a DIY-friendly fiberglass unit up to $15,000+ for a large tiled shower with custom features.
Prefab Shower Stalls
Prefabricated fiberglass or acrylic shower stalls offer an affordable option starting around $1,500 installed. Price ranges based on size features like built-in seating, as well as door type. This budget-friendly choice makes replacement fast and simplifies installation.
Tub & Shower Combinations
If you want to keep a bathtub but still want an upgraded shower remodel, a new tub and shower combo starts around $2,500 ranging up to $5,000. You can opt for an acrylic surround paired with a new tub or customize it with tile. This allows you to enjoy both bathing options.
As you can see, shower type plays a major role in your remodeling budget. Next, let’s look at key materials considerations.
Shower Material
The materials you choose for your new shower walls, floor, and fixture trim also impact your total project investment. Let’s compare options.
Tile Showers
Tile is a classic, high-end look that offers unlimited design options. However, it comes at a cost. Custom tiled showers start around $6,500 on average. The typical cost range per square foot:
- Ceramic tile: $5 – $10 per sq. ft. installed
- Porcelain tile: $10 – $25 per sq. ft. installed
- Natural stone tile: $25 – $50+ per sq. ft. installed
Other tiling costs include waterproof backer board, thin-set mortar, grout, specialty accent tiles, and trim. So while beautiful, tile showers are one of the most expensive options due to material and labor costs.
Fiberglass & Acrylic Showers
For an affordable alternative, fiberglass or acrylic shower units cost $1,500 to $3,000 on average. Made from molded plastics, these lightweight, easy-to-clean showers install quickly and handle wear well. Though less custom, they offer a budget-friendly update.
Glass Block Showers
For a unique look, glass block showers cost $3,500 on average to install. The glass bricks create a textured effect that lets light in while offering privacy. This provides a contemporary aesthetic perfect for modern baths.
Shower Doors
A new shower door national average cost from $500 to $1,500 depending on the type:
- Basic plastic curtain rod: $20 to $50
- Fabric shower curtain: $50 to $150
- Vintage cloth shower curtain: $250 to $500
- Basic framed glass door: $400 to $800
- Frameless glass door: $800 to $1,500
The costs add up quickly! But you can balance the look you want with your budget.
Next, let’s look at the factors that influence your specific project costs.
What Impacts Your Shower Remodel Cost?
Many variables affect what you’ll pay for your custom shower remodels. Check out the top factors to consider as you plan and budget this project.
Bathroom Age and Condition
If your bathroom hasn’t been updated in over 20 years, you’re likely to face additional costs. Outdated plumbing, electrical, galvanized or lead pipes, and potential water damage can all add complexity and labor fees for replacements. The budget is more for total renovation than a surface update.
Shower Layout
The overall footprint and layout you choose directly impact cost. Small neo-angle showers can be $3,000 to $5,000. But a larger walk-in shower may cost $8,000 to $12,000. The number of walls to tile or surround plus the shower pan size plays a big role. There are shower remodeling ideas that could help you redesign your shower accordingly.
Plumbing Relocation
If you change the location of shower valves and drains, the plumbing labor will increase your costs compared to using existing ones. However, smart layouts can minimize this by keeping plumbing in place.
Accessibility Features
For aging-in-place or ADA compliance, plan for added costs of $2,500 on average for a seat, curbless pan, grab bars, and zero entry. These important features improve usability and safety.
Specialty Features
Trendy add-ons like rainfall shower heads, body sprays, niche shelving, heated floors, and more also raise your total. But you can always scale back to the must-haves to save money.
DIY vs Hiring a Contractor
If you’re handy and willing to learn, DIY shower remodeling saves significantly on labor. But undertaking the demolition, plumbing fixtures, waterproofing, tiling, and installation yourself is a major commitment. Hiring a tile contractor generally yields the best results unless you have tiling experience.
Always get professional installation help for electrical and plumbing work. And remember to pull any required permits. Doing the job right is crucial.
Your Location
Labor rates for plumbers, electricians, and contractors vary greatly by region. Additional permit fees and local regulations can also impact project costs. Budget more in areas with higher costs of living and stricter codes.
There are always ways to balance your budget with shower features that provide the look you want without overspending. Having a clear picture of these shower remodel cost factors helps you plan wisely.
Shower Remodel Cost by Type
Now let’s put it all together to see typical total project costs. Here’s an overview of price ranges based on different shower types and materials.
Bathtub-to-Shower Conversions
Budget: Fiberglass pan, acrylic surround – $3,000 to $4,500
Mid-range: Custom tiled walls, acrylic pan – $5,000 to $7,000
High-end: Full tile, frameless glass door, custom niche – $8,000 to $12,000
Prefab Stall Showers
Budget: Fiberglass unit, basic door – $2,000 to $3,500
Mid-range: Larger acrylic unit, glass door – $3,500 to $5,000
High-end: Acrylic with custom tile accents and seating – $5,000 to $7,500
Walk-In Shower
Budget: Fiberglass pan, tile on one wall – $4,000 to $6,000
Mid-range: Tile floor, two walls, acrylic pan – $8,000 to $12,000
High-End: Full tile, custom glass door, heated floor – $12,000+
Tub & Shower Combos
Budget: Acrylic tub-surround combo – $2,500 to $4,000
Mid-Range: New acrylic tub, partial tile surround – $4,000 to $6,000
High-End: New tub, full tile walls, and accents – $6,000 to $10,000
Budgets for tile showers and walk-ins can vary even more widely based on size and customization. As you can see, you can creatively mix and match to hit your target budget. Glass doors, tile accents, and small designer touches go a long way if cost is a concern.
4 Tips for a Budget-Friendly Shower Remodel
If you want to shave costs for your shower remodel project, it comes down to smart design choices and creative solutions. Here are 4 savvy tips to help you save:
1. Keep Your Plumbing in Place
Work with your existing shower layout rather than relocating valves, drains, and supplies. This saves hugely on labor costs and renovation complexity.
2. Install a Tub Surround Instead of Tiles
Acrylic and fiberglass units cost a fraction of custom tile work. Use surrounds on walls or the lower portion of showers to maximize effect with less tile.
3. Buy Materials Directly
Skip the middleman and order shower kits, doors, and accessories yourself online to avoid markups. Then have your contractor install.
4. DIY Demo and Pre-Work
Save on labor by doing the tear-out of your old tub and shower yourself or with handy family members. Just be sure to turn off the water lines first!
Get creative to work within your budget constraints for a shower remodel you’ll love.
Transform Your Bathroom on Any Budget
As you can see, you can upgrade your shower on any budget when you know how the costs stack up. Careful planning is key to afford the revamp you crave. So measure your space, assess your needs, and determine the upgrades that matter most.
There are always ways to reduce costs like:
- Scaling downsize
- Choosing economical materials
- Simplifying the layout
- Doing prep work yourself
- Sticking with your existing plumbing
- Adding DIY touches
Homeowners spend $9,000 to $10,000 on full bathroom remodels. You likely don’t need to invest that much if a shower update is your primary goal. Focus on the elements that make the biggest impact on your dollar. With strategic investing, you can gain a beautiful new shower that boosts your bath’s function and resale value without overspending.
FAQs
How much does it cost to remodel a shower?
The cost to remodel a shower can range greatly depending on the size, materials used, and special features added like a steam shower or double showers. Most homeowners spend between $3,500-$7,500 to remodel an existing shower to include new items like tile, a stone slab base, luxury fixtures and handmade accent tiles. Opting for professional installation rather than DIY will also increase costs.
Is upgrading my shower worth the investment?
Upgrading your shower can greatly increase your home’s resale value, with most real estate experts estimating you can recoup 60-70% or more of shower remodeling costs. Luxury fixtures, new tile and niche features like a rainfall shower head also add value and make your home stand out while allowing you to enjoy the space. As long as the price is reasonable, shower upgrades are usually worthwhile.
How can I keep my shower remodeling costs affordable?
To keep shower remodeling affordable, look for sales on materials at home improvement stores, create your own design using big box store tile rather than costly handmade accent tiles, and comparison shop plumbers and contractors. Doing prep work like removing old surfaces yourself can also reduce installation costs. Avoid moving plumbing or water heater if possible.
What shower upgrades provide the best return on investment?
Upgrading to stone slab surfaces, new tile, and luxury fixtures like wall-mounted or rainfall shower heads provide excellent ROI. Adding special features like a steam shower, bench seating or double shower can also boost home value significantly for a relatively low price compared to the boost it gives to resale prices.
Should I remodel my shower before selling my home?
Yes, shower upgrades are one of the best investments you can make before selling your home. Outdated showers with mold, mildew, cracked tile or grout, poor caulking and other issues can turn buyers away. Remodeling your shower makes your bathrooms appear cleaner, more modern and better maintained, while allowing you to recoup over half the costs on average after selling.
Final Thoughts
Remodeling your shower offers big benefits, but it’s a major project requiring careful budgeting. Knowing typical price ranges and cost factors allows you to plan wisely.
Aim high, but scale back if needed to keep your project affordable. Limiting the project scope, choosing economical materials, reusing existing layouts, and DIYing what you can are all great ways to meet your budget.
With the pricing intel in this guide, you can confidently invest in shower upgrades that enhance your home. Just focus on the features that matter most. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a fresh new look, improved functionality, and added value in your bathroom for years to come!
