Cost GuideUpdated July 1, 2026
For a lot of Plainfield homeowners, a bathtub just sits unused and takes up too much space. Swapping a tub for a walk-in shower is a straightforward upgrade, one that can improve safety, accessibility, and the look of your bathroom. We see this request all the time, especially in homes built in the late 20th century when full-size tubs were standard. The key is knowing what's involved and how costs break down so you can budget with both eyes open.
Why So Many Plainfield Homes Swap Tubs for Showers
Homes across Plainfield and the southwest Chicago suburbs often come with guest or master bathrooms that feature a standard alcove tub. Over the years, families prefer the convenience and accessibility of a shower with low or no threshold. That's especially true as residents age or want to future-proof their homes. Beyond preference, removing the tub and installing a walk-in shower can work better with the plumbing layouts in newer developments.
With our local humid continental climate, bathrooms see plenty of use year-round. Winter brings dry indoor air, while summer brings extra humidity. A shower is often just more practical. But what you save in convenience, you need to plan for in cost, because there's more to this job than just taking out a tub and dropping in a pan.
Big Cost Factors for Tub to Shower Conversions
The total price to convert a tub into a walk-in shower can vary. Here's what typically has the biggest impact:
- Plumbing adjustments: Most Plainfield homes have floor drains centered for tubs, but showers usually need the drain moved. This means cutting into the subfloor and rerouting the trap and supply lines. Older homes may still have galvanized pipe, which can add labor if we need to replace it.
- Walls and waterproofing: Moisture protection is critical. We recommend cement board as backer, paired with a waterproof membrane before tile or wall panel install. Improper sealing leads to leaks behind walls and costly damage.
- Fixtures and finishes: The price of shower doors, tile, and fixtures like diverters or rain heads ranges from builder-grade to custom. Higher-end materials drive the cost up quickly.
- Accessibility features: Adding grab bars, a built-in bench, or a low-threshold entry can increase materials and labor but are worth the investment for long-term use.
- Permits: Will County and the Village of Plainfield require permits for bathroom remodels. Factor in permit fees and inspection schedules when planning.
Complex projects with tile, glass, and upgraded plumbing run higher, while basic kits and existing rough plumbing lower the price. If we discover hidden issues, like rotten subfloor from old leaks or supply lines that need replacement, those have to be fixed as part of the job.
Step-by-Step What the Job Usually Involves
- Turn off water supply and remove faucet trim.
- Demo old tub, surround, and any backer board to expose framing and plumbing.
- Move the drain and adjust supply lines if the new shower valve or head location changes.
- Address any water-damaged or moldy framing.
- Install new shower pan or mud bed with proper slope to the drain.
- Build up walls with cement board, tape seams, and apply a waterproof membrane.
- Set tile or wall panels and grout any joints.
- Install shower fixtures, doors, and caulk all seams.
- Connect supply lines, test for leaks, and check for proper drainage.
We always check for existing issues behind the walls during demo. If there's a history of leaks, pipe corrosion, or old P-traps, we may recommend repiping for safety and lifespan.
Hidden Problems and How We Address Them
Plumbing issues are common surprises on tub conversions. Around Plainfield, some homes still have original supply or drain pipes, galvanized, cast iron, or even clay in older sections. These materials are likely to show corrosion or rust once exposed. Water hardness in the area can leave scale deposits inside galvanized, reducing flow and creating pinhole leaks.
We inspect all exposed plumbing and recommend fixes or upgrades if needed. If a leak is found, our leak detection and repair team pinpoints the issue so repairs are complete before closing up walls. Sewer gases or slow drains mean it's smart to check with our drain cleaning crew before finishing the new shower install.
Waterproofing and Drainage No Shortcuts
Proper waterproofing is essential. Clay-rich local soils and a moderate to high water table already put basement and foundation drains under stress, adding a poorly sealed new shower above can spell trouble. We always use professional-grade waterproof membranes and take care to slope the shower floor toward the drain so no water pools and finds its way under tile or behind walls.
If you've had basement seepage or drain backups, it's smart to have sump pump services checked before or after your remodel. This isn't something you cut corners on, especially with our constant freeze-thaw cycles in winter that can quickly turn a small issue into costly water damage.
How to Plan for Your Project
Before starting, think about who will use the shower and what features matter most. Plan for long-term accessibility if you want to age in place. Budget for both the visible work and the behind-the-walls plumbing. Work with a licensed plumber who will handle Village of Plainfield permit requirements and coordinate with inspectors. We offer bathroom remodeling services that include everything from demolition through fixture install, so you won't be left patching up after other trades.
If you need to reroute or expand water lines to accommodate body sprays, handheld wands, or additional shower heads, factor that into both timeline and cost. Every detail matters for a job that should last several decades, not just a few years.
Ready to talk about your bathroom remodel? Our crew can walk you through all your options for converting your tub to a walk-in shower. Call us at 779-217-8271 for honest answers and skilled work for Plainfield homeowners.