Tub-to-Shower Conversion in Conroe, TX: Remove the Tub, Add a Walk-In
Done with the bathtub? We'll remove it and build a custom walk-in shower in the same footprint.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Conroe?
A tub-to-shower conversion in Conroe starts at $2,800 with a prefabricated base and surround panels. A fully custom tiled walk-in with frameless glass runs $5,000-$12,000. Most conversions take 5-10 business days; expanding the footprint or moving the drain can extend that to 2-3 weeks.
Most Conroe homeowners reach a point where they realize the bathtub in their master bathroom hasn't been used in years. It takes up roughly 13 square feet, collects dust and hard water stains, and every morning they step into a cramped shower stall wedged beside it. The solution is straightforward: remove the tub and use that space to build the walk-in shower they actually want. That's exactly what a tub-to-shower conversion is, and it's one of the most popular projects we do in Conroe.
The appeal goes beyond just aesthetics. A tub you don't use is wasted square footage. Converting it to a walk-in shower changes how the bathroom functions: you get more room, a better shower experience and a bathroom that looks significantly more modern. Many Conroe homeowners also make this switch as part of aging-in-place planning, replacing the tall tub wall that's a step-over hazard with a curbless shower that's safe and easy to access at any age.
Waterproofing is particularly important for tub-to-shower conversions in Conroe's climate. Gulf Coast humidity, combined with the constant moisture load of a shower, means the conversion has to be built right from the subfloor up. We use a full waterproof membrane system, not just cement board, applied to the floor and walls before any tile goes down. Skipping this step is how conversions develop mold behind the tile within a few years. We've seen what that looks like, and it's not something we build.
What's Involved in a Tub-to-Shower Conversion
A proper tub-to-shower conversion is more involved than it might appear from the outside, but every step has a clear purpose. Here's what the process looks like:
Step 1: Tub Removal
We disconnect the tub plumbing, cut the caulk lines, and remove the tub unit. Depending on the tub type (alcove, drop-in, freestanding, or jetted), removal may require cutting the surrounding tile or portions of the drywall. The existing tub surround tile or panels are also removed at this stage, exposing the wall framing and subfloor.
Step 2: Subfloor & Drain Work
The existing subfloor is inspected for any water damage (softness, staining or mold) and repaired or replaced as needed. The drain location is evaluated: sometimes the existing tub drain position works for the new shower drain; other times it needs to be moved to the center or a linear position. Subfloor framing is shimmed or modified to achieve the proper slope (typically 1/4" per foot) toward the drain.
Step 3: Waterproofing System
New cement board backer is installed on the walls and floor. A liquid-applied or sheet waterproof membrane is then applied to all shower surfaces: walls, floor, corners and penetrations. This is the most critical stage of the conversion and the one most often skipped in lower-quality work. The membrane is allowed to cure fully before tile begins.
Step 4: Tile Installation
Floor tile is set first with the correct mortar bed to maintain the drainage slope. Wall tile follows, from the floor up, using the layout you've selected. Grout is applied and sealed. If the design includes a niche, bench, or accent row, those are integrated into the tile work at this stage.
Step 5: Plumbing Trim-Out
The shower valve and trim are installed. The showerhead (standard, rainfall, or combination), handheld wand, and any body sprays are connected and tested. The drain cover is set flush with the finished tile floor.
Step 6: Glass Enclosure
The glass door and panel are custom-measured and installed last, after the tile and plumbing work is complete. We offer framed, semi-frameless, and fully frameless options depending on the project scope and your preference.
Before & After: What to Expect
Tub-to-shower conversions produce some of the biggest before-and-after differences of any bathroom project. Here's what the change typically looks like for Conroe homeowners:
Before
- 30"×60" alcove tub with a fiberglass or tile surround
- Sliding glass doors on tracks that collect mildew
- A separate 32"×32" or 36"×36" shower stall, or no separate shower at all
- Dated fixtures and hardware
- Limited counter space on the tub deck
After
- A full 30"×60" or larger walk-in shower footprint
- Floor-to-ceiling porcelain or stone tile
- Curbless entry with a frameless glass enclosure
- Built-in niche and bench
- Rainfall showerhead and handheld wand
See our shower remodel page for more on shower types, materials, and design options. For walk-in shower-specific features and configurations, visit our walk-in shower installation page.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Conroe, TX
Conversion costs vary based on whether you want a basic prefabricated setup or a full custom tile build:
Basic Conversion
Starting from $2,800
Tub removal, new acrylic or fiberglass one-piece shower base, prefabricated surround panels, standard shower door and updated fixtures. Fast, functional and a significant improvement over the old tub. No tile cost involved.
Full Custom Walk-In
$5,000 - $12,000
Tub removal, subfloor resloping, full waterproof membrane, custom tile floor and walls, a glass enclosure (framed through frameless), updated fixtures and a built-in niche. The most popular option among Conroe homeowners looking for a durable, high-quality result.
| Option | Cost | What's included | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic conversion | From $2,800 | One-piece acrylic or fiberglass base, prefabricated surround panels, standard shower door, updated fixtures | Fast: no tile to set or cure |
| Full custom walk-in | $5,000-$12,000 | Subfloor resloping, waterproof membrane, custom tile floor and walls, glass enclosure, built-in niche | 5-10 business days; 2-3 weeks if the footprint grows or the drain moves |
Your final price is confirmed after a free on-site assessment. The condition of your existing subfloor, the drain location and the extent of plumbing changes all affect what the project costs.
For a full view of bathroom remodeling costs in Conroe, see our bathroom remodel cost guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Conroe, TX?
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