Take the Plunge into an Open-Concept Shower Conversion

Outdated, cramped tub/shower combos can make bathing a chore. By opening up the space, converting to a roomy walk-in shower simplifies routine cleaning while adding modern style. We'll explore the what, why, and how of planning your remodel, from layout considerations to material choices for a dazzling, low-maintenance result.

An open-concept shower centered in the room provides an unencumbered bathing experience. Without confining walls or doors, there's ample elbow room and flexibility to install spa-like features.

Carefully Evaluate Your Bathroom's Current State

Eliminating tubs can feel drastic, but their usefulness decreases with age. Showers are safer, conserve water, and better suit changing household needs over decades of use.

Still, analyzed your existing setup honestly. Is there adequate space for a spacious walk-in shower? Identifying potential drainage locations and estimating plumbing modifications steers your plans realistically.

Measure Exact Dimensions for Shower Placement

Precision measurements prevent delays and do-overs. Map out an open shower's footprint centered under plumbing lines.

Remember, curbless showers require waterproofing behind walls. Allocate at least 30 inches clearance for a serviceable bathing zone. Jot down the precise span available rather than eyeballing it.

Assess Plumbing and Structural Elements

Inspect under the existing tub. Can drainage redirect beneath subfloors to new linear trench drains?

Probe walls and ceilings adjoining the bath for soundness too. Any signs of leaks or rot must get addressed before proceeding.

Design an Appealing and Functional Shower Sanctuary

Now for the fun part: choosing fixtures and features that convert your tired tub into a resort-worthy oasis. Consider what enhances everyday bathing and simplifies cleaning before splurging on spa-like luxury.

Select the Right Mix of Practical and Indulgent

An invigorating rainfall showerhead delivers a rejuvenating drenching. Pair it with a handheld unit on a slide bar to tackle targeted bathing jobs.

Frameless glass doors spanning the entrance contain splashes without cramping space. Inset shelves provide ample storage nooks to de-clutter the room.

Maximize Convenience and Accessibility

A corner bench serves multiple functions. It offers somewhere to rest while shaving legs or waiting for conditioner to set. Underneath, utilize storage cubbies to organize bottles and accessories.

For universal accessibility, a curbless entryway eliminates obstructive tripping points. Combining non-slip textures underfoot and grab bars across walls suits users of all agility levels.

Execute Your Shower Conversion Flawlessly

Meticulous planning clears way for smooth installation. Ensuring materials arrive preremoval avoids delays mid-project. Schedule inspectors to examine waterproofing and drainage early, nipping issues in the bud.

Choose Your Installer Carefully

Vet licensed contractors thoroughly, verifying experience converting tubs to curbless showers.

Request references from recent customers, scanning reviews for punctuality sticking to quoted prices and timelines.

Confirm All Materials Before Removal Begins

Tearing out your tub rapidly reaches the point of no return. Wait until everything from plumbing to tiles gets delivered before allowing removal.

Physically inspect glass doors, faucets, shower pans upon arrival too. Better to spot fractures or send wrong sizes back immediately.

Maintain Your Spa-Like Sanctuary

Preserve your shower's splendor and functionality with proper care. Wiping down walls post-soaking prevents soap scum buildup and mildew spread.

Check for leaks, loose tiles or failing grout with periodic deep cleaning. Reapplying caulk seals annually catches minor drips before they escalate.

Squeegee Doors and Walls After Each Use

It merely takes 60 seconds. Wipe standing water and residues off glass panels, sills, and walls right after toweling off.

Removing these allows surfaces to fully dry, inhibiting mold or mildew taking hold in moist corners.

Schedule exhaustive scrub downs every 6 months. Thoroughly clean grout lines and reapply fresh caulk anywhere failing.

Probe for soft, damp sections in walls and floors suggesting water infiltration too. Catching leaks quickly minimizes extensive repairs.

It is possible to convert your tub to a walk in shower. Enjoy revitalizing soaks amid stylish, low-maintenance surroundings through meticulous upfront preparations.