Walk-in Shower Cost

A tile walk-in shower costs $4,200 to $8,500 for a 32 inch square model. If you need to add plumbing, special features or expensive materials, the total will run higher. Acrylic or fiberglass can not be used for walk-in showers as they can not efficiently seal in water.

By installing a walk-in shower, you can get these benefits:

• Use less water, especially with a low-flow showerhead
• Find space even in the smallest bathrooms
• Make it easy to get in and out, particularly for seniors and disabled people

Cost to Install Tile Shower

Installing a new tile shower runs $1,800 to $6,850. If you only need to replace the wall and floor materials, the cost to retile a shower ranges from $1,000 to $3,000.

Ceramic tiles start at $0.50 per square foot. Natural stone and other high-end options can go up to $15 per square foot.

Shower Installation Costs

Labor usually costs $400 to $1,000 in addition to the price of materials. In many cases, you’ll hire a professional shower installer who purchases a kit from a popular brand, such as:

• Bath Fitter
• Kohler Luxstone
• Showereasy
• Schluter Shower System

If you want a price for a particular product, you’ll need to contact an authorized dealer for a quote.

Cost to Add Shower to Half Bath

The price to add a shower to a half bath ranges from $900 to $12,500. You’ll need a space at least 5 by 7 feet to accommodate three fixtures. This might require you to change the position of walls and plumbing.

If you want to add a shower to a half-bathroom, you may need these additional services:

• Cost to remove a wall: $300-$3,000
• Price to build a wall: $1,000-$2,900
• Cost to install new plumbing: $600-$1,600 per fixture

Tub-Shower Combo

The price to put in a tub-shower combo is similar to the cost to install a bathtub, which averages $4,200. This includes $400 to $2,000 for the bathtub and $500 to $1,000 for the surround, plus about $1,000 for installation. You might consider this type for the following reasons:

• Good for Resale Value: At least one bathtub in the home makes it easier to sell.
• Style: Tubs offer as many stylish options as a walk-in shower.
• Easy to Maintain: Refinishing is often easier and less-expensive than replacement.

If you want something quicker, the cost to install a bathtub or shower liner ranges from $1,800 to $5,000. This process involves applying a liner made of acrylic or PVC and using heat to attach it to the existing surface.

Shower Replacement Cost

Replacing your shower costs $1,200 to $6,350, including removal of the old unit. If you need to add new pipes or relocate them, you’ll pay an additional $600 to $1,600.

Bathtub to Shower Stall Conversion Cost

The cost to convert a bathtub to a shower stall ranges from $1,200 to $8,000. This includes:

• Removing the tub
• Preparing the surface
• Installing the new stall

Cost to Replace Showerhead and Faucet

Installing a new showerhead and faucet ranges from $50 to $1,000, including $20 to $900 for materials. If your shower is in good condition, this can be a great way to spruce it up without the hassle of tearing out the old one.

Replacing a shower head yourself can also save you money on installation. You’ll need these tools for the job:

• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Plumber’s tape
• A toothbrush or rags to clean the threads

Full Body Shower Costs

A premade, jetted, full-body shower unit costs $600 to $1,200. This style features several sprayers coming from multiple points on the wall and ceiling. Adding a custom-placed jet requires separate piping, increasing the total project price.

Installing a Shower Pan

Installing a shower pan costs $250 to $400. You’ll pay more to add a new drain or prepare the surface.

Hot Mop Shower Pan Cost

The cost to install a hot mop shower pan is $250 to $400, similar to the price for other installation methods. You’ll need to hire a pro with experience in this job, as it’s easy to make mistakes.

The hot mopping process uses asphalt and felt to waterproof the space under the shower pan. Instead of mixing mortar and applying a wet solution to the site, the pro applies the layers dry and then adds hot asphalt. Homeowners like this approach because installation takes several minutes.

Other Shower Installation Costs

As part of your shower installation, you may need to pay $250 to $1,600 more for other products and services. For example, if you want to put in a new bath fan or a bench, the total may be $250 to $800 more.

Shower Door Installation Cost

Installing a shower door costs $600 to $1,350, including $350 to $800 for materials. Depending on the bathroom layout, you may or may not need a door.

It’s easier to clean than a curtain, but it can cut down on the available space while stepping in or out. With a variety of colors and styles, you can choose one that suits your aesthetic.

Adding or Upgrading a Bath Fan

The cost to install a bath fan averages $400, including $100 to $300 for the equipment. If you want one with added lighting or heat, expect to pay about $100 to $200 more for these features.

Fans are a necessary component of bathrooms. Without them, humidity accumulates in the room and can lead to mildew or mold buildup. Replacing one might be a reasonable DIY project, but you’ll want to hire a pro for a new installation.

Showers Designed for Seniors

To make the shower more accessible to seniors or disabled people, you may need to pay an additional $400 to $800. Many stalls come with pre-molded grab bars, but installing more may cost $100 to $200 per bar. Adding a bench runs an extra $300 to $500.

Although a custom walk-in shower tends to cost the most, you may prefer this option. Many stalls have a 7-inch curb that may be difficult for people to step over.

Cost to Install Shower Plumbing

Hiring a plumber costs $600 to $1,600 per fixture, depending on the size of the project. If you have to run a new drain line, you may pay $1,000 to $7,000.

It can be easy to forget these possible expenses, particularly if you’re putting a shower in the same place. Before you start the project, ask a plumber if you need to relocate the drain or pipes.

In some cases, your plumbing needs repair before you can install. This is usually easier to do once you remove the old unit.

DIY vs. Hire a Professional

Since installing a new shower is a complicated process that is easy to do incorrectly, you’ll want to hire a professional shower installer near you. The pro can:

• Grade the floor for proper draining
• Confirm that the liner is sufficiently waterproof
• Provide a seamless installation

Remember that your installer may not be a licensed plumber. For a completely new shower or a larger bathroom remodel, you’ll probably need both pros.

FAQs

Are walk-in showers a good idea?

Walk-in showers can be a good investment if you already have one bathtub in the house. They make entering and leaving the space easier, and offer many luxury features.

How big should a walk-in shower be?

A walk-in shower should be at least 32 inches square, not including space needed for a door. Very large ones, more than 64 inches square, can feel cold.

How much water does a 20-minute shower use?

A 20-minute shower uses 50 to 100 gallons of water. This assumes that the average head sprays 2.5 to 5 gallons per minute.

Do plumbers install shower pans?

Some plumbers install shower pans, but it tends to be a different service than what this pro typically does. You may need a professional installer for the job.

Can you tile over a shower pan?

You typically can’t tile over a shower pan. This product can’t provide a flat installation for the tiles, which means they may crack if you step on them.

Does Thinset stick to shower pan liner?

Thinset doesn’t stick well to a shower pan liner. You’ll probably need a thicker mortar for the job.

What type of mortar do you use for a shower pan?

Most of the time, you’ll use either Portland sand mix or cement mix to create the mortar for the shower pan.