In a previous article, we discussed how to convert a bathtub into a shower. In this article, we will describe the opposite steps of converting a shower space into a bathtub space.

Before You Start

Before you start, you need to determine the location you wish to place the bathtub.  Typically, showers take up less space than bathtubs, so you want to make sure that you will have enough room for the install.  Additionally, depending on your budget, you will have to decide whether you want to have a complete demolition of an existing shower area or keep the shower and add a bathtub feature.

Demolition

If you decide to go the demolition route, you will need to measure the area carefully to make sure there is enough room for a standard size bathtub.  If there is not enough room, then you will need to consider doing demolition of the walls and rebuilding it in a way that will enable you to install a standard bathtub.

Add-on

If you decide that demolition of the existing shower is not budget-friendly and you want to add a bathtub into an existing shower, then you will need to build a wall to close the open area of the shower to make it more of a bathtub setting.  You will also need to determine if you want to keep the same tile already in place or start over with a new tile.

Determine What Style is Right For You

In our previous article, we discussed the different common bathtub styles.  If you are doing demolition to the shower, then you will have a greater choice as to the bathtub style you can install.  By doing demolition, you can rebuild the walls and reroute the plumbing to fit your needs.  Although you will still be limited to space, you might be able to customize a bathtub to fit your tastes.

If you are converting through the add-on method, then you will most likely be limited to the alcove or drop-in styles since those would be the designs most likely to be able to fit into an existing shower layout.

Deciding Which Tiles are Best

The last decision when converting an existing shower into a bathtub is that of wall and floor tiles.  If you are doing demolition, then it is most likely not possible to keep your existing tiles as you remove and rebuild the walls.  If you are doing a bathtub add-on to an existing shower, then there is a greater likelihood you can use the existing wall and floor tiles.

In Conclusion

If done right, converting a shower into a bathtub, can be a great investment that can add value to your home.