Cost GuideUpdated July 4, 2026
For many Frankfort homeowners, the bathroom layout that worked decades ago no longer fits today's needs. We see it often, tubs in homes built from the 1980s on, taking up floor space that could serve much better as a walk-in shower. Whether you want better accessibility, easier cleaning, or a more open look, converting your tub to a walk-in shower brings real improvements. But what does the job actually involve, and what should you budget for?
Why Frankfort Homeowners Swap Tubs for Showers
Most houses in Frankfort and surrounding areas were built with family living in mind. Over time, needs change, especially as kids leave home or mobility becomes a bigger concern. Walk-in showers offer easier access, safer stepping, and a modern look that also helps resale value. In newer subdivisions, we often see oversize tubs that rarely get used, while older layouts make bathrooms feel cramped. Upgrading the tub isn't just about style, it's often about practical day-to-day comfort and addressing future needs.
Main Cost Factors for Tub-to-Shower Conversions
Cost can vary quite a bit, depending on the age of the home and what you want for your finished shower. Here are the biggest cost drivers:
- Demolition and disposal (removing the existing tub, walls, and fixtures).
- Framing and prep work (ensuring walls and floors are ready for a shower base).
- Plumbing adjustments, moving supply lines, shower valve, and drain location if needed. With most Frankfort houses, supply lines are modern copper or PEX, but older houses might still have sections of galvanized pipe needing replacement.
- Shower base and surround material (acrylic, fiberglass, or tile, tile costs more in materials and labor).
- Glass doors or enclosures, frameless glass runs higher than basic sliding doors.
- Fixture upgrades like custom shower heads, handhelds, and bench seating.
- Finishing touches, grab bars, shelving, and lighting.
Keep in mind that construction debris disposal can add up, and unexpected plumbing issues sometimes show up once the walls are open. That's especially true in older homes where hidden leaks or slow drains go undetected until demo begins. For homes with basement bathrooms or slab foundations, adjusting drain lines may require concrete cutting.
Common Plumbing Challenges in Frankfort Bathrooms
Frankfort's housing stock is mostly newer, so we don't run into as many old lead or cast iron drains as in parts closer to downtown Chicago. Still, plenty of homes have original tubs with shallow P-traps or old shutoff valves that don't seal anymore. Relocating a drain or raising the shower head might mean new supply line work behind the wall. If water pressure isn't consistent, it's worth checking the pressure reducing valve (PRV) before closing everything up.
We always recommend checking for proper ventilation during a remodel. Bathroom fans vented into attics, instead of outdoors, are fairly common in renovations from past decades. If your drain lines have been slow, a professional drain cleaning can get things running smooth before the new shower goes in.
Steps in a Typical Tub-to-Shower Conversion
- Turn off water at the main shutoff and isolate the bathroom supply lines.
- Remove the tub, tile, and any old fixtures. Haul out debris.
- Inspect subfloor, framing, and existing plumbing for leaks, rot, or corrosion. Check for any hidden water damage or slow leaks, this can require leak detection & repair before moving on.
- Move or adapt supply lines and drains as needed. Replace old valves or P-traps if they're showing signs of wear.
- Install the new shower base, waterproof walls, and shower pan. For tiled showers, take extra time to slope the floor right and seal every seam.
- Mount fixtures, glass doors, benches, and grab bars. If you want extra spray options, now's the time to rough-in for those upgrades.
- Test all connections, check for leaks, then clean up and haul away any extra debris.
Depending on choices and complexity, the full process might take anywhere from a few days to two weeks. Custom tile and glass work stretch out timelines, while prefab acrylic surrounds speed things up.
Reducing Risk of Water Damage and Leaks
Hidden leaks cause the biggest headaches during and after a remodel, especially with our region's clay soil and higher water table, which mean water has fewer places to escape. We always inspect under the tub for previous water issues, and reseal all drain and supply connections using quality materials. Upgrading shutoff valves and using proper waterproofing membranes is a must. After the shower is in, monitor the area for any signs of moisture. Early warning signs include:
- Musty odors or dark spots around the shower base
- Visible grout cracks or caulk pulling away
- Stains on the ceiling below (in two-story homes)
- Soft or bouncy flooring around the shower
If any of these crop up after your project, don't wait to call for pipe repair & repiping or leak detection to avoid bigger structural issues.
Budgeting for Materials and Fixtures
Shower conversion costs hinge on what finishes and features you pick. Acrylic bases offer dependable performance at a lower cost, while custom tile and heavy glass bring a higher price tag for both materials and labor. Reusing some plumbing lines can help, but worn-out shutoffs or old fixtures rarely play nice with modern shower valves. Investing in quality faucets and fixtures pays off in daily use. If you want upgrades like rain heads, body sprays, or bench seating, plan for extra material and labor. Take this chance to consider energy-efficient options, too. If your water heater struggles to keep up, now is a good time to look into water heater services so you aren't left with cold showers later.
For local families with basement bathrooms or homes in areas with a higher water table, it's important to check your sump pump system before major plumbing work. Protecting your investment from future leaks or flooding starts with a thorough checkup of all related systems.
Working With Local Plumbing Pros
Swapping a tub for a walk-in shower isn't just a finish carpentry or tile job, it takes careful planning, code knowledge, and plumbing experience. Our crew knows Frankfort's modern housing layouts, common problem spots, and typical pipe runs. We keep an eye out for issues that might surface after years of freeze-thaw cycles and can spot the early signs of mineral buildup or slow leaks. From initial demo to final walkthrough, we prioritize long-term reliability and clean workmanship. You can learn more about our full bathroom remodeling service here.
If you're thinking about converting your tub to a walk-in shower in Frankfort, give us a call at 708-729-8953. Our experienced team handles everything from the first plumbing cut to the last tile, and we're always happy to answer questions before you get started.