I would like to remove my tub and just make one big shower.

11 years ago

I have garden tub and shower stall side by side, I would like to remove the garden tub and extend the shower to that space. Possibly installing either a wall with ceramic tile or glass. Is this a major project? Or is it a DIY'er?

Lot 317 - Lake Arrowhead, GA · More Info

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PRO

Beautiful Space Co

11 years ago

last modified: 11 years ago

Hi central84, it really depends on your experience as a DIY'er. There are many critical details that need to be addressed for it to look great and function correctly. If you're making the shower larger then you most likely have to relocate the drain closer to the new center of the pan or your slope will be very high on the "longer" side of the drain.

If you keep the wet wall in the same location and just want more open space in the shower, then you may be able to avoid addressing the waterproofing at the window. If you make the overall "wet" footprint larger (using a ceiling mount shower head for example) then you'll need to carefully waterproof the window and surrounding framing, even if the window is vinyl. If its not vinyl then it will need to be replaced with one, if its in the wet zone. (All the surfaces that can get wet need correct waterproofing).

Here's one we did that has some similarities with regard to the layout and window in the shower.

Modern Bathroom · More Info

and a photo of what we started with.

Steve

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Comments (12)

PRO
The Renner Companies
11 years ago
It could be a weekend warrior type of project but you really need to know what you are doing to prevent leaks as the entire shower has to be demolished and a new liner pan installed and the installation of it and the relocation of the plumbing and additional fixtures might be something you do not want to take on.
PRO
Dytecture
11 years ago
It could be done especially if you are not moving any plumbing in the shower. Do you have experience with similar situation? it's extra tricky for shower areas that will get wet regularly.
central84
Original Author
11 years ago
The shower fixtures and drains will stay where they are, and I intend to tile all around the window and walls. Is there a particular type of waterproofing I need for the ceramic tile?
PRO
Beautiful Space Co
11 years ago
Hi Central84, as with any tile, the waterproofing is installed below the tile and would ideally be a sheet membrane. We use products by Schluter and Noble. If youre using backerboard then you should also add a liquid membrane such as those by Laticrete or Redguard. Make sure your pan liner is sloped to the drain and continues over the curb and up the walls 12". The wall waterproofing should be lapped shingle style over the liner at the walls. The window is tricky if it stays in place, you need to lap the window flashing with the shower flashing, we use Duponts flexwrap for this. Water test your waterproofing before you tile, to ensure its working correctly. Youll need to replace the current drain with an FHA style made for the pan liner.

Hope this helps,
Steve
PRO
Modaa Construction
10 years ago
@beautifulremodel.com love the use of limited space and how you maximized the shower seat to play a dual role.
PRO
Beautiful Space Co
10 years ago
Thank you Modaa!
Heather Jones
9 years ago
BeautifulRemodel.com if you don't mind me asking...what was the ballpark figure for this remodel? This is very similar to our set up and we're hoping to make a change soon.
PRO
Beautiful Space Co
9 years ago
Hi Heather, thanks for the question. This project cost around $55k-$60k to complete in 2009. As I'm sure you're aware though, there are many factors that can change the price of an equivalent project for you. Its best to work with a great design-build company, or a designer who's very familiar with construction techniques and pricing. They can get the most out of your budget and make the best recommendations for fixtures and finishes etc.

- Steve
aet0283
8 years ago
Anymore recommendations about this type of project? Design? Price? My bathroom is the first picture and I'm looking to remove the tub and expand the shower a little. I like the wall idea in the first picture. Would that work in this space?
aet0283
8 years ago
I mean the 2nd picture I like the wall
njmillet06
6 years ago
We just did this. It turned out awesome. Added a accent chest for towels.