Ready to Love Your Bathroom Again?
Imagine Waking Up to Your Dream Bathroom Every Day Professional Bathroom Remodeling in Hialeah Makes It Real
- 0
- Projects Completed
- 0
- Years Experience
- 0
- Client Satisfaction
Why Convert Your Tub to a Walk-In Shower?
Bathtubs are falling out of favor—and for good reason. If you rarely use your tub, a tub-to-shower conversion transforms wasted space into a functional, modern, and accessible bathroom. Whether you're aging in place, seeking easier maintenance, or simply want a contemporary look, converting your tub to a walk-in shower is one of the smartest bathroom renovations you can make.
Serving Hialeah, Miami Gardens, Miami Beach, Miramar, Coral Springs, Sunrise, Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Boca Raton, and Deerfield Beach, our licensed contractors specialize in both rapid one-day conversions and custom tile shower installations. From budget-friendly prefab units to luxurious spa-inspired designs, we deliver tailored solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Our shower systems are specifically engineered for South Florida's humid climate. We use mold-resistant materials, proper ventilation planning, and waterproofing techniques that stand up to year-round moisture and coastal conditions.
Aging in Place
Safer, easier access for seniors and those with mobility challenges
Increase Home Value
Modern showers appeal to buyers—4-7% ROI on bathroom renovations
Easier Maintenance
No more scrubbing tub rings—walk-in showers clean faster
Quick Installation
One-day conversions available—minimal disruption to your routine
Space Optimization
Larger shower footprint without expanding bathroom size
Modern Aesthetics
Contemporary design that refreshes your entire bathroom
Your Tub to Shower Conversion Options
Not all shower conversions are created equal. Your choice depends on budget, timeline, design preferences, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Here's a comprehensive comparison of the three main approaches:
One-Day Prefab Conversion
Best for: Quick updates, budget-conscious projects, rental properties, seniors needing immediate accessibility
✅ Advantages
- • Completed in 8-12 hours (one day)
- • Lowest upfront cost ($1,800-$4,500)
- • Minimal disruption—bathroom usable same evening
- • Durable acrylic/fiberglass (20+ year lifespan)
- • Easy to clean (no grout lines)
- • Mold & mildew resistant
- • DIY-friendly (experienced homeowners)
❌ Considerations
- • Limited design customization
- • Standard sizes only (fits most tubs)
- • May look less high-end than tile
- • Seams visible on multi-piece units
- • Lower resale value impact vs custom
Timeline: Consultation → Template → Install (1-2 weeks total)
Custom Tile Conversion ⭐
Best for: Master bathrooms, design-focused homeowners, those planning to stay 5+ years, increased home value
✅ Advantages
- • Unlimited design options (tile, pattern, color)
- • Custom size—perfectly fits your space
- • Premium, high-end appearance
- • Highest resale value impact
- • Tile choices: ceramic, porcelain, natural stone
- • Built-in niches, benches, custom features
- • Timeless aesthetic—won't look dated
❌ Considerations
- • Higher cost ($4,500-$12,000)
- • Longer timeline (5-10 days without bathroom)
- • Grout requires periodic maintenance
- • Professional installation required
- • Proper waterproofing critical
Timeline: Design → Demo (1 day) → Plumbing/waterproofing (2 days) → Tile (3-5 days) → Grout/seal (1 day)
Luxury Spa Conversion
Best for: High-end homes, spa-inspired bathrooms, complete bathroom remodels, luxury resale market
✅ Advantages
- • Curbless (zero-entry) walk-in design
- • Premium materials (natural stone, glass tile)
- • Multiple shower heads, body sprays, rain systems
- • Digital controls, steam features
- • Frameless glass enclosures
- • Built-in lighting, sound systems
- • Heated floors, towel warmers
- • ADA-compliant with grab bars & benches
❌ Considerations
- • Highest investment ($12k-$25k+)
- • Extended timeline (2-3 weeks)
- • May require structural changes
- • Electrical upgrades often needed
- • Higher ongoing maintenance
Timeline: Design → Permits → Demo → Plumbing/electrical → Waterproofing → Tile → Glass → Final (14-21 days)
For most Hialeah and South Florida homeowners, custom tile conversions offer the best balance of value, aesthetics, and longevity. If you plan to stay in your home 5+ years and want a bathroom that wows, custom tile is worth the investment. For quick accessibility needs or budget constraints, one-day conversions provide excellent functionality.
Tub to Shower Conversion Cost Calculator
Get an instant estimate for your bathroom conversion project
Shower Wall Materials: Complete Comparison
Your shower walls are the most visible element of your conversion. Each material offers distinct advantages in aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and cost:
| Material | Cost per Sq Ft | Installation Time | Maintenance | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Panels | $8-$20 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1 Day | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Low | 20-30 years | Quick updates, budget projects |
| Fiberglass Surround | $6-$15 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1 Day | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Low | 15-20 years | Budget conversions, rentals |
| Ceramic Tile | $10-$25 | ⭐⭐⭐ 5-7 Days | ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate | 50+ years | Traditional, versatile designs |
| Porcelain Tile | $12-$40 | ⭐⭐⭐ 5-8 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Low | 50+ years | High-traffic, durability priority |
| Natural Stone | $20-$100 | ⭐⭐ 7-10 Days | ⭐⭐ High | 30-50 years | Luxury, unique aesthetics |
| Glass Tile | $25-$60 | ⭐⭐ 6-9 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Low | 40+ years | Modern, light-reflective designs |
| Solid Surface Panels | $50-$120 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2-3 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Low | 25-35 years | Seamless, contemporary look |
Detailed Material Breakdown
🛡️ Acrylic Shower Panels (Most Popular for One-Day)
Cost: $8-$20 per sq ft | Total Conversion: $1,800-$4,500
- • Fast install (1 day)
- • No grout to clean
- • Mold-resistant
- • Affordable, lightweight
- • Warm to touch
- • Limited design options
- • Can scratch (buffable)
- • Seams visible
- • May look less premium
Best for: Quick conversions, seniors needing immediate access, budget-conscious projects, rentals
South FL Note: Excellent for humid climates—completely non-porous with antimicrobial surfaces available
🎨 Ceramic Tile (Most Versatile)
Cost: $10-$25 per sq ft | Total Conversion: $4,500-$9,000
- • Unlimited design options
- • Timeless, durable (50+ years)
- • Water-resistant, repairable
- • Widely available
- • Grout requires sealing/cleaning
- • Longer install (5-7 days)
- • Professional required
- • Can crack with settling
Best for: Custom designs, traditional aesthetics, homeowners staying long-term, resale value
South FL Note: Use epoxy grout in humid climates—resists mold better than standard cement grout
💎 Porcelain Tile (Premium Durability)
Cost: $12-$40 per sq ft | Total Conversion: $5,500-$12,000
- • Extremely durable
- • Water-resistant (0.5% absorption)
- • Stain-proof, scratch-resistant
- • Low maintenance
- • More expensive than ceramic
- • Harder to cut (pro required)
- • Heavier (needs support)
- • Cold to touch
Best for: High-traffic showers, modern designs, homeowners wanting minimal maintenance
South FL Note: Perfect for coastal areas—salt air won't damage porcelain like it can affect other materials
🪨 Natural Stone (Luxury Choice)
Cost: $20-$100 per sq ft | Total Conversion: $10,000-$25,000+
- • Stunning natural beauty
- • Unique patterns
- • High-end appeal
- • Increases home value significantly
- • Expensive
- • Requires sealing (1-2x/year)
- • Porous (can stain)
- • Heavy, professional install only
Best for: Luxury bathrooms, spa aesthetics, high-end homes, marble/travertine/slate lovers
South FL Note: Requires more frequent sealing in humid climates; consider honed finishes to minimize slip risk
✨ Solid Surface Panels (Seamless Modern)
Cost: $50-$120 per sq ft | Total Conversion: $8,000-$18,000
- • Absolutely seamless (no grout)
- • Non-porous, repairable
- • Modern look
- • Fast install (2-3 days)
- • Premium pricing
- • Limited patterns vs tile
- • Not heat-resistant
- • Requires professional fabrication
Best for: Contemporary designs, easy-clean priority, commercial-grade durability, minimal maintenance
South FL Note: Ideal for humid environments—zero grout means zero mold growth opportunities
Unsealed wood, untreated drywall, and cheap laminate panels are NOT suitable for South Florida showers. Always use moisture-rated materials and proper waterproofing systems (cement board or Kerdi membrane).
Tub to Shower Conversion Process & Timeline
Understanding the conversion process helps you plan around the disruption. Timeline varies by conversion type:
One-Day Prefab Conversion (8-12 Hours)
Morning (7 AM - 10 AM): Demolition
Duration: 2-3 hours
Crew removes old tub, tub surround, fixtures, and faucets. Protects floors with drop cloths. Disposes of debris. Inspects plumbing and walls for damage or mold.
Note: Unexpected issues (rot, mold) may add 2-4 hours
Mid-Morning (10 AM - 12 PM): Preparation
Duration: 2 hours
Install new shower base/pan. Connect drain. Ensure level and proper slope for drainage. Repair walls if needed. Install backing boards for grab bars (if ordered).
Afternoon (12 PM - 3 PM): Wall Panels & Fixtures
Duration: 3 hours
Install acrylic wall panels (typically 3-5 pieces). Seal all seams with waterproof silicone. Cut holes for plumbing fixtures. Install new shower valve, showerhead, and faucet handles.
Late Afternoon (3 PM - 5 PM): Finishing Touches
Duration: 2 hours
Install glass door or shower curtain rod. Caulk all edges and seams. Install grab bars (if applicable). Clean up and haul away all debris. Final walkthrough with homeowner.
✅ Shower ready to use after 24 hours (caulk cure time)
Custom Tile Conversion (5-10 Days)
Demo & prep (same as above). Inspect framing, repair studs if needed, install waterproof membrane (RedGard, Kerdi, or cement board).
Waterproofing cure time. Install tile-ready shower pan or mortar bed. Set custom niche and bench (if ordered). Rough plumbing adjustments.
Tile installation. Start with floor pan, then walls from bottom to top. Cut tile around fixtures. Allow thinset to cure 24-48 hours.
Grout application and sealing. Clean tile. Apply grout sealer (wait 48-72 hours). Install fixtures (valve trim, showerhead, door).
Glass enclosure installation (if custom). Final caulking. Cleanup. Cure time before first use (24-48 hours).
Weather delays (high humidity slows curing), unexpected plumbing issues, custom glass lead times (2-4 weeks), permit inspections (Miami-Dade/Broward), and material back-orders can extend timelines by 1-2 weeks.
Accessibility Features for Seniors & Safety
Converting your tub to a walk-in shower dramatically improves bathroom safety—especially for seniors, those with mobility challenges, or anyone aging in place. Here are the essential accessibility upgrades:
Low/No Threshold Entry
Cost: +$0-$2,500
Standard curbs (4-6") are trip hazards. Low-profile (2") or curbless entries eliminate this risk. Curbless requires floor slope adjustment.
Grab Bars (ADA-Compliant)
Cost: $100-$150 each installed
Horizontal bars at 33-36" height. Vertical bars near entry. Support 250+ lbs. Stainless steel lasts longest.
Built-In Shower Seat
Cost: +$400-$1,200
Fold-down or permanent bench. 17-19" seat height (ADA). Teak or tile options. Allows seated showering.
Handheld Showerhead
Cost: $80-$300
Adjustable height slide bar. Reach all areas while seated. Easier rinsing. Dual-head systems available.
Non-Slip Flooring
Cost: Included in tile selection
Textured tile or pebble floors. Minimum COF rating 0.6 (DCOF). Avoid polished stone—too slippery when wet.
Thermostatic Valve
Cost: +$300-$800
Prevents scalding. Maintains consistent temp. Anti-scald protection required by code in new construction.
ADA-Compliant Grab Bar Placement Guide
Proper placement is critical for effectiveness and safety:
| Location | Orientation | Height from Floor | Length | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control Wall (Side) | Horizontal | 33-36 inches | 24 inches min | Stability entering/exiting |
| Back Wall | Horizontal | 33-36 inches | 36-48 inches | Support while showering |
| Near Entry | Vertical | 9-11" from corner | 18 inches | Entry/exit assistance |
| Near Seat | Horizontal | 33-36 inches | 42 inches | Transfer to/from seat |
Permit Requirements: Miami-Dade vs Broward County
Most tub-to-shower conversions in South Florida require building permits, especially when plumbing or electrical work is involved. Here's what you need to know:
Miami-Dade County
Permit Required For:
- Any plumbing modifications (valve, drain changes)
- Structural changes (removing walls, moving fixtures)
- Electrical work (new outlets, lighting, GFCI)
- Waterproofing installations
Permit Cost:
$150-$400 depending on scope
Inspection Requirements:
- • Rough plumbing inspection (before walls close)
- • Waterproofing inspection (before tile)
- • Final inspection (after completion)
Timeline Impact:
Add 2-4 weeks for permit approval. Schedule inspections 48 hours in advance.
📞 Contact: Miami-Dade Building Department (305) 375-2800
Broward County
Permit Required For:
- Plumbing alterations (relocating fixtures)
- Structural modifications
- Electrical upgrades
- Changing bathroom layout
Permit Cost:
$125-$350 depending on project value
Inspection Requirements:
- • Plumbing rough-in inspection
- • Building inspection (structural/waterproof)
- • Final building inspection
Timeline Impact:
Permit processing 1-3 weeks. Faster for simple conversions.
📞 Contact: Broward Building Division (954) 765-4500
Work That Typically Does NOT Require a Permit:
- Simple fixture replacement (same location, no plumbing changes)
- Installing a prefab shower surround over existing tile (cosmetic only)
- Replacing shower doors or curtains
- Painting, caulking, or minor repairs
Always verify permit requirements with your local building department before starting work. Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home, may void insurance claims, and could result in fines. Most reputable contractors handle permitting as part of their service.
Tub to Shower Conversion FAQs
Answers to costs, timelines, permits, materials, and maintenance.
How much does it cost to convert a tub to a shower in South Florida?
Average costs in Hialeah, Miami, and South Florida:
- One-Day Prefab Conversion: $1,800-$4,500 (acrylic/fiberglass)
- Custom Tile Conversion: $4,500-$12,000 (ceramic/porcelain tile)
- Luxury Spa Conversion: $12,000-$25,000+ (high-end materials, multiple features)
Costs include demolition, materials, labor, and installation. Add 10-15% for Miami Beach and Boca Raton. Factors affecting cost: shower size, material choice, accessibility features, plumbing changes, and glass enclosures.
How long does a tub to shower conversion take?
Timeline by conversion type:
- One-Day Prefab: 8-12 hours (1 day) – Bathroom usable next day after caulk cures
- Custom Tile (Standard): 5-8 days – Demo (1 day), waterproofing (1-2 days), tile (3-4 days), grout/cure (1-2 days)
- Luxury/Complex: 10-21 days – Includes structural work, custom glass (2-4 week lead time), electrical upgrades
Total project timeline (consultation to completion): Add 1-3 weeks for permits, material ordering, and scheduling. One-day conversions can be completed start-to-finish in 2-3 weeks.
Should I choose prefab acrylic or custom tile for my shower conversion?
Choose Prefab Acrylic if you need:
- Quick installation (1 day vs 5-10 days)
- Lower upfront cost ($1,800-$4,500)
- Minimal maintenance (no grout to clean)
- Immediate accessibility (seniors, mobility issues)
- Rental property or short-term solution
Choose Custom Tile if you want:
- Unlimited design options and customization
- Higher resale value (adds 4-7% to home value)
- Timeless, high-end appearance
- Durability (tile lasts 50+ years vs 20-30 for acrylic)
- Plan to stay in home 5+ years
Bottom line: Acrylic for speed and budget; tile for aesthetics and long-term value.
Will converting my tub to a shower hurt resale value?
Generally NO, as long as you keep at least one bathtub elsewhere in the home. Modern buyers (especially younger demographics) prefer showers over tubs. However, there are nuances:
✅ Helps resale value if:
- Your home has 2+ bathrooms (keep one tub for families)
- Neighborhood demographics skew older (no small children)
- Conversion is high-quality (custom tile vs cheap prefab)
- Bathroom modernization was needed anyway
❌ May hurt resale if:
- It's your ONLY bathtub (families need at least one)
- Neighborhood has many young families
- Cheap, dated-looking prefab installation
ROI: Quality bathroom renovations return 60-70% of investment at resale. Walk-in showers add safety appeal for aging buyers.
Do I need a permit to convert my tub to a shower in Florida?
YES, in most cases. Florida building codes require permits for:
- Any plumbing modifications (moving drain, changing valve height)
- Electrical work (adding outlets, GFCI, lighting)
- Structural changes (removing walls, altering framing)
- Waterproofing installations (required for tile showers)
Permit costs: $125-$400 depending on county and scope
Timeline impact: 1-4 weeks for approval + inspection scheduling
Work that MAY NOT need a permit: Simple fixture replacement in same location with no plumbing/structural changes (verify with local building department).
Why permits matter: Protects your investment, ensures code compliance, required for insurance claims, necessary for home sales. Reputable contractors handle permitting.
What is a curbless shower and should I get one?
A curbless (barrier-free) shower has NO step or threshold—the bathroom floor slopes gradually into the shower. Also called zero-entry or walk-in showers.
✅ Advantages:
- Ultimate accessibility (wheelchair accessible, no trip hazard)
- Modern, spa-like aesthetics
- Easier to clean (no curb to scrub around)
- Makes small bathrooms feel larger
- Ages in place—future-proofs your home
❌ Considerations:
- Costs $2,000-$4,000 MORE than standard curb
- Requires floor height adjustment (sunken shower floor)
- Water containment—needs proper slope (1/4" per foot minimum)
- Linear drain typically required ($400-$800)
- Not feasible on slab-on-grade without raising entire bathroom floor
- May require structural engineering in some homes
Best for: New construction, major renovations, homes with raised floors, aging-in-place priority, luxury spa aesthetics.
Can I convert my bathtub to a shower myself (DIY)?
Prefab one-piece units: Possibly, if you're experienced with plumbing and have 2-3 helpers (units are heavy and awkward).
Custom tile showers: Not recommended unless you're a skilled DIYer with tile experience.
DIY Challenges:
- Plumbing: Moving drains, installing valves requires code knowledge
- Waterproofing: Improper technique = leaks, mold, $10k+ damage
- Permits: DIY work still requires permits and inspections
- Tile work: Proper slope, layout, cutting glass/porcelain is difficult
- Time: Professional 1-day job takes DIYer 4-7 days (or weeks)
What you CAN do to save money:
- Demolition (remove old tub/surround yourself) – Save $200-$400
- Disposal (haul debris to dump) – Save $100-$200
- Fixture shopping (buy your own faucets/showerhead) – Save 10-20%
Our advice: Hire licensed professionals for plumbing, waterproofing, and tile work. The risk of doing it wrong far outweighs DIY savings.
What size shower should I get when converting my tub?
Most tubs are 60" long x 30-32" wide. Your conversion options:
Option 1: Same Footprint (60" x 30-32")
- Lowest cost—uses existing plumbing location
- No structural changes needed
- Feels slightly cramped for larger individuals
- Standard alcove shower size
Option 2: Expand to 36" Depth (60" x 36")
- Add 4-6" depth—much more comfortable
- Requires moving one wall in 2-4"
- Adds $800-$1,500 to cost (framing, tile, waterproofing)
- Most popular choice—better value than staying at 30"
Option 3: Large Walk-In (72" x 36" or bigger)
- Spa-like, spacious feel
- Room for bench, multiple showerheads
- Requires significant structural work
- Adds $3,000-$8,000+ to cost
Minimum code requirements: 30" x 30" (Florida Building Code), but we recommend 32" x 36" minimum for comfort.
How do I maintain my new shower to prevent mold and mildew?
Daily Maintenance (30 seconds):
- Squeegee walls after each shower (prevents water spots, mineral buildup)
- Leave shower door/curtain open after use (air circulation)
- Run bathroom exhaust fan during shower + 20 minutes after
Weekly Cleaning:
- Tile showers: Spray with tile cleaner, scrub grout lines, rinse
- Acrylic showers: Wipe with mild soap or all-purpose cleaner (no abrasives)
- Clean glass doors with vinegar-water solution or glass cleaner
Monthly/Quarterly:
- Deep-clean grout with baking soda paste (tile showers)
- Check caulk for cracks or mold—re-caulk as needed
- Clean showerhead (remove, soak in vinegar overnight if clogged)
Annual:
- Re-seal grout (tile showers)—prevents water penetration, mold
- Inspect drain for hair clogs—use enzyme drain cleaner
- Check for loose tiles or damaged caulk—repair immediately
South Florida tip: High humidity requires extra vigilance. Use a dehumidifier in bathroom if mold is recurring. Ensure exhaust fan vents outside (not into attic).
What shower fixtures and features should I include in my conversion?
Essential Fixtures (Included in Base Cost):
- Shower valve (pressure-balanced or thermostatic)
- Single showerhead (wall-mounted, 8" arm height)
- Drain (standard 2" diameter)
Popular Upgrades:
- Handheld showerhead (+$80-$300): Easier cleaning, flexibility, accessibility
- Rain showerhead (+$150-$600): 8-12" wide, ceiling-mounted, spa feel
- Dual showerheads (+$200-$800): Fixed + handheld on same valve
- Body sprays (+$400-$1,500 for 2-6 jets): Wall-mounted side jets, requires larger valve
- Built-in niche (+$150-$400): Recessed shelf for shampoo/soap
- Corner shelves (+$50-$150 each): Tile or acrylic corner caddies
- Shower bench (+$400-$1,200): Permanent tiled seat or fold-down
- Frameless glass door (+$800-$2,500): Modern look, easier to clean than framed
- Linear drain (+$400-$800): Enables curbless entry, modern aesthetic
- Shower lighting (+$200-$600): Recessed LED, waterproof rated
Our recommendations: At minimum, add a handheld showerhead (+$150) and built-in niche (+$200). These two upgrades significantly improve functionality for only $350 extra.
Still have questions? Book a free consult or email info@bathroomremodelinghialeah.com.
What Our South Florida Customers Say
