Tub to Shower Conversion Guide for Hialeah Homeowners

"I haven't used my bathtub in three years, but I climb over the edge twice a day to shower." When Robert told me this in his Hialeah home, I knew he was ready for a tub-to-shower conversion.

Like thousands of South Florida homeowners, he was maintaining a space-consuming bathtub he never used while making his daily shower routine unnecessarily difficult.

Tub to shower conversions in Hialeah typically cost $3,500 to $12,000 depending on shower size, materials, and installation complexity. Most homeowners spend $5,500-$8,500 for a quality conversion that includes removing the existing tub, installing a custom or prefab shower base, tile or acrylic wall surround, glass door, and all necessary plumbing modifications. After completing conversions across Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, and Miami Gardens, I can show you exactly what to expect—from planning to installation to enjoying your new walk-in shower.

Understanding Tub to Shower Conversions: What's Involved

Let's clarify what this project entails and why it's so popular in South Florida.

What Happens During a Tub to Shower Conversion

Complete process overview:

1. Demo and disposal - Remove existing tub, surround, fixtures (1-2 days)
2. Plumbing modifications - Relocate drain if needed, install shower valve (1 day)
3. Shower base installation - Custom tile pan or prefab base with waterproofing (1-2 days)
4. Wall preparation - Cement board, waterproof membrane, prep work (1 day)
5. Surround installation - Tile work or acrylic panels (2-4 days depending on material)
6. Fixture installation - Showerhead, valves, accessories (1 day)
7. Door/enclosure - Glass door installation and sealing (1 day)
8. Final touches - Caulking, cleanup, inspection (1 day)

Total timeline: 5-10 days for complete conversions

Why Hialeah Homeowners Choose Tub to Shower Conversions

Top reasons for conversions:

A Miami Gardens client hadn't used her bathtub in five years but climbed over the edge twice daily. Her conversion to a spacious walk-in shower cost $6,800 and transformed her daily routine. "I should have done this ten years ago," she told me.

Tub to Shower Conversion Cost Breakdown

Let's get specific about what you'll invest at different quality levels.

Budget-Friendly Conversion: $3,500 - $5,500

This range uses prefab components with professional installation.

What's included:

• Tub removal and disposal: $400-$700
• Prefabricated fiberglass or acrylic shower base: $300-$600
• Acrylic or fiberglass wall surround panels: $500-$900
• Standard shower valve and trim kit: $150-$350
• Basic showerhead and fixtures: $100-$250
• Semi-frameless or framed shower door: $300-$600
• Plumbing modifications (if minimal): $400-$800
• Labor and installation: $1,200-$2,000
• Permits and final cleanup: $250-$400

Timeline: 3-5 days
Best for: Rentals, budget-conscious updates, situations prioritizing function over aesthetics

A Coral Springs landlord converted three rental property tubs to budget showers for $4,200 each. Tenants appreciated the easier access, and the conversions required minimal maintenance over five years.

Mid-Range Custom Conversion: $6,000 - $9,500

This is the sweet spot—custom tile work with quality materials and professional installation.

What's included:

• Professional demo and disposal: $600-$900
• Custom tile shower pan with linear or center drain: $800-$1,500
• Cement board and waterproofing membrane: $400-$700
• Quality porcelain or ceramic tile (walls and floor): $1,500-$3,000
• Mid-range shower valve system (Moen, Kohler, Delta): $300-$600
• Quality showerhead and hand shower: $200-$500
• Semi-frameless or frameless glass door: $600-$1,200
• Niche or corner shelves: $150-$350
• Complete plumbing work: $700-$1,400
• Professional tile installation: $1,200-$2,500
• Permits, inspections, cleanup: $400-$700

Timeline: 5-8 days
Best for: Primary residences, homeowners seeking quality and custom aesthetics, long-term investment

💡 This range delivers showers that look professionally designed, function beautifully, and appeal to future buyers. A Pembroke Pines homeowner spent $7,900 on her mid-range conversion with subway tile, a frameless door, and a built-in bench. Three years later when selling, multiple buyers specifically mentioned the shower as a selling point.

Premium Luxury Conversion: $10,000 - $18,000+

You're creating a spa-like experience with high-end materials and custom features.

What's included:

• Expert demo with careful disposal: $800-$1,200
• Custom zero-threshold (curbless) shower base: $1,500-$3,000
• Large-format porcelain or natural stone tile: $3,000-$6,500
• Multiple shower heads and body sprays: $800-$2,500
• Thermostatic valve with digital controls: $600-$1,500
• Frameless glass enclosure (Euro-style): $1,500-$3,000
• Custom bench seating with matching tile: $500-$1,200
• Multiple niches with accent tile: $400-$900
• Specialty lighting (recessed, LED strips): $400-$1,000
• Heated shower floor: $1,000-$2,500
• Complete custom plumbing: $1,200-$2,500
• Premium installation and finishing: $2,000-$4,000
• Engineering, permits, inspections: $600-$1,200

Timeline: 7-12 days
Best for: High-value homes, luxury market positioning, homeowners prioritizing spa experience

A Hollywood client in a $680,000 home spent $14,500 on a luxury conversion featuring book-matched marble, a 6-foot curbless shower with rain head plus body sprays, heated floor, and architectural glass enclosure. Stunning result that matched her home's upscale positioning and delivered genuine spa experience.

Types of Tub to Shower Conversions

Different approaches suit different needs and budgets.

Standard Walk-In Shower (Most Common)

Replaces tub with shower of similar footprint (60"x30" typical).

Characteristics:

• Uses existing tub footprint
• 4-6 inch curb or threshold
• Standard height (ceiling or 72-84 inches)
• Single showerhead configuration

Cost: $5,500-$8,500 typical
Best for: Standard bathrooms, maintaining similar layout, budget-conscious projects

Expanded Walk-In Shower

Uses tub space plus adjacent area to create larger shower.

Characteristics:

• Expands beyond tub footprint (often 48"x48" or larger)
• May incorporate vanity space or adjacent floor area
• Lower curb (2-4 inches) or curbless entry
• Room for bench seating, multiple heads

Cost: $8,000-$14,000 typical (includes layout modifications)
Best for: Homeowners wanting spacious shower, accessibility needs, luxury experience

A Miramar client removed her tub and reduced vanity width from 60" to 48", creating a 60"x42" shower with built-in bench. Cost: $9,800. The expanded shower transformed her bathroom's functionality.

Curbless/Barrier-Free Shower

No step-over threshold—completely level entry.

Characteristics:

• Flush with bathroom floor (zero threshold)
• Requires specialized waterproofing and sloped floor
• Often features linear drain
• Universal design for aging in place

Cost: $9,000-$15,000 typical (more complex waterproofing and floor work)
Best for: Accessibility needs, wheelchair access, aging in place, modern aesthetic

Additional requirements:

• Floor must be lowered 3-4 inches for proper drainage slope
• Enhanced waterproofing beyond shower area
• Linear drain installation ($400-$800 more than center drain)
• Possible floor joist modifications

Prefab Shower Insert (Fastest Installation)

One-piece or multi-piece prefabricated unit installed in tub opening.

Characteristics:

• Acrylic or fiberglass construction
• Typically fits standard 60"x32" tub space
• Seamless surfaces (easy cleaning)
• Limited design options

Cost: $3,500-$5,500 installed
Best for: Budget projects, rentals, quick turnarounds, maintenance ease

Pros: Fast installation (1-3 days), lowest cost, easy maintenance
Cons: Less custom appearance, limited sizes, lower resale appeal

Tub-Shower Combo to Walk-In Conversion

Removes the tub from a combination unit, creating shower-only space.

Common scenario: You have tub-shower combo but only use shower function.

Options:

• Convert to enclosed walk-in shower (eliminate tub entirely)
• Remove tub but keep shower area (simple door addition)

Cost: $4,000-$7,500 depending on configuration
Best for: Bathrooms where tub portion is unused, creating defined shower space

Planning Your Tub to Shower Conversion

Strategic decisions during planning dramatically affect cost, function, and satisfaction.

Decision 1: Shower Size and Layout

Key considerations:

• Available space (can you expand beyond tub footprint?)
• Budget (larger = higher cost)
• Accessibility needs (wider entry, bench seating?)
• User preferences (spacious vs. cozy)

Popular sizes for Hialeah conversions:

• 60"x32" (standard tub footprint): Most common, fits existing space
• 48"x48" (corner design): Good for small bathrooms, efficient use of space
• 60"x36" (expanded from tub): Adds 6" depth for more comfortable space
• 48"x60" or larger (luxury sizing): Spa-like, room for benches and multiple heads

A Sunrise client asked: "Should I stick with the 60x30 tub space or expand to 60x36?" I recommended expansion. The additional $1,200 for 6" extra depth transformed the shower from "adequate" to "spacious"—worth every penny for daily use.

Decision 2: Custom Tile vs. Prefab Surround

My recommendation: For primary residence bathrooms in homes valued over $300K, choose custom tile for better ROI and aesthetic appeal. For rentals, budget projects, or homes under $300K, prefab surrounds deliver excellent value.

Decision 3: Shower Base Options

Three main approaches:

South Florida consideration: Custom tile pans with proper waterproofing perform best in our humid climate when installed correctly. However, quality prefab bases work well for budget projects.

Decision 4: Shower Door Selection

Options ranked by popularity:

My recommendation: For primary bathrooms, invest in at least semi-frameless doors ($500-$1,200). The daily visual and functional improvement justifies the cost over basic framed doors. Frameless doors ($800-$2,000) deliver best aesthetic but at premium pricing.

Decision 5: Shower Fixtures and Features

Essential fixtures:

• Shower valve (pressure-balancing or thermostatic): $150-$600
• Showerhead: $75-$500
• Tub spout removal and capping: $50-$150

Popular upgrades:

• Hand-held shower wand: $75-$250
• Rain showerhead (8-12" diameter): $200-$800
• Body spray jets: $150-$400 each
• Built-in bench: $300-$800
• Recessed niches for storage: $100-$300 each
• Grab bars (safety/accessibility): $50-$150 each installed

Budget allocation guidance:

• Budget project: Allocate $200-$400 for basic fixtures
• Mid-range project: Allocate $400-$800 for quality fixtures with 1-2 upgrades
• Premium project: Allocate $1,000-$2,500 for multiple heads and luxury features

A Pembroke Pines client debated between basic showerhead ($120) and dual-head setup with rain shower plus handheld ($650). I recommended the upgrade. Two years later, she still raves about the rain shower—it's her favorite feature. The $530 difference equals $0.73/day of enhanced enjoyment over two years.

The Conversion Process: What to Expect

Understanding the step-by-step process helps you prepare and set realistic expectations.

Day 1-2: Demolition

What happens:

• Contractor protects surrounding areas
• Removes shower door/curtain and hardware
• Disconnects and removes fixtures
• Breaks out tub (cast iron requires cutting, fiberglass is easier)
• Removes surround tiles or panels
• Assesses condition behind walls
• Disposes of all debris

Your role:

• Clear bathroom of personal items
• Provide access to water shut-off
• Be available for unexpected issue discussions

Potential discoveries:

• Mold or water damage behind surround ($500-$3,000 for remediation)
• Rotted floor joists or subfloor ($800-$2,500 for repair)
• Outdated plumbing requiring updates ($400-$1,500)

A Hollywood homeowner discovered minor mold behind her tub surround during demo. Remediation added $900 and one day to the project. Unpleasant surprise, but far better to address it during renovation than ignore it.

Day 2-3: Plumbing Modifications

What happens:

• Relocate drain if necessary for new shower base
• Install shower valve (typically 44-48" above floor)
• Cap old tub spout plumbing
• Rough-in any additional showerheads or body sprays
• Pressure test all connections
• Schedule rough plumbing inspection (if required by permit)

Critical South Florida consideration: Hialeah's hard water can reveal corroded supply lines during this phase. If your home is 30+ years old, consider replacing supply lines during this phase even if not strictly necessary. Cost: $300-$800 additional, but prevents future leaks.

Day 3-4: Shower Base and Waterproofing

For custom tile pan:

• Build mortar bed with proper slope (1/4" per foot toward drain)
• Install waterproof membrane (hot-mop, RedGard, or Schluter system)
• Perform flood test (24-48 hours)
• Install cement board on walls
• Apply waterproof membrane to walls

For prefab base:

• Ensure level, properly supported substrate
• Apply sealant
• Set base in place
• Secure and seal edges
• Install cement board or surround attachment surface

⚠️ This phase cannot be rushed. Proper waterproofing is critical in South Florida's humid climate. Contractors who try to shortcut this phase create expensive mold and rot problems within 1-2 years.

Day 5-7: Tile Installation (Custom Tile Projects)

What happens:

• Install tile using proper thin-set mortar
• Maintain consistent grout lines
• Work from bottom up on walls
• Incorporate niches, benches, or accent tile
• Cut precisely around valve and showerhead penetrations

Timeline factors:

• Simple subway tile: 1-2 days
• Large format tile (12"x24" or larger): 2-3 days
• Intricate patterns or mosaics: 3-4 days

Quality indicators:

• Perfectly aligned tile (use level frequently)
• Consistent grout lines (spacers used throughout)
• Proper cuts around all penetrations
• Soldier course or edge detail at shower entry

Day 7-8: Grouting and Sealing

What happens:

• Mix and apply grout to all tile joints
• Clean excess grout while slightly damp
• Allow 24-48 hours curing time
• Apply grout sealer (if using cement-based grout)
• Caulk all corners and penetrations with silicone

Grout color matters:

• Light grout (white, light gray) shows dirt but creates clean, bright appearance
• Dark grout (charcoal, black) hides dirt but can make space feel smaller
• Mid-tone grout (medium gray) best balance for most applications

Day 8-9: Glass Door Installation and Fixtures

What happens:

• Measure for precise glass door fit
• Install door hardware and hinges
• Mount tempered glass panels
• Install shower valve trim and showerhead
• Connect and test all fixtures
• Install grab bars or accessories

Quality check:

• Door opens/closes smoothly without binding
• All seals are water-tight
• Showerhead delivers good pressure
• Temperature control works correctly
• No leaks at any connections

Day 9-10: Final Touches and Inspection

What happens:

• Final caulking of all seams
• Touch-up paint around shower area
• Clean thoroughly (remove haze, construction dust)
• Schedule final inspection (if permitted work)
• Final walkthrough with homeowner
• Address punch list items

Your final inspection should verify:

• Water drains properly (no standing water)
• All fixtures function correctly
• Door seals effectively
• Grout lines are consistent and clean
• No visible gaps or imperfections
• Ventilation fan works properly

Permits and Code Requirements for Hialeah Conversions

Understanding permit requirements prevents problems during and after installation.

When Permits Are Required

Always need permits for:

• Plumbing modifications (drain relocation, valve installation)
• Structural changes (expanding shower footprint, floor modifications)
• Electrical work (adding outlets, lighting, ventilation)

May not need permits for:

• Replacing tub with shower in exact same footprint using existing plumbing (rare)
• Cosmetic updates without plumbing/electrical changes

Reality: Most tub-to-shower conversions require plumbing permits in Miami-Dade County because you're modifying drain locations and installing new shower valves.

Permit costs: $250-$600 typical for tub-to-shower conversion

Timeline: Add 10-15 business days for permit approval before starting work

Building Code Requirements

Florida Building Code mandates:

Reputable licensed contractors design installations to meet all code requirements. This is why working with licensed professionals matters—unpermitted, non-code-compliant work creates major problems when you sell or face inspection issues.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Your new shower will perform beautifully for years with proper care.

Daily/Weekly Maintenance

After each use:

• Squeegee glass doors and tile walls (30 seconds, prevents water spots)
• Wipe down fixtures
• Hang shower curtain to dry (if applicable)

Weekly:

• Clean glass doors with vinegar solution or commercial cleaner
• Wipe down tile and grout
• Check for any loose caulking or sealant issues

Monthly:

• Deep clean grout lines
• Check drain for hair/debris buildup
• Inspect caulk around fixtures and corners
• Clean showerhead (soak in vinegar if hard water buildup)

Long-Term Care

Annually:

• Reseal grout (if using cement-based grout): $150-$400 DIY or professional
• Inspect and replace worn caulk: $100-$300 professional
• Check for any signs of water damage or leaks
• Service shower valve cartridges if needed: $150-$300

Every 3-5 years:

• Professionally regrout if needed: $400-$1,000
• Replace worn door seals: $50-$200
• Update fixtures if desired

Every 10-15 years:

• Consider tile refresh or full renovation
• Update glass doors if appearance dated
• Modernize fixtures and finishes

South Florida Specific Care

Hard water management:

• Use shower spray with chelating agents to prevent mineral buildup
• Consider water softener ($800-$2,500) for whole-house treatment
• Clean glass doors weekly (Hialeah's hard water creates spots quickly)

Humidity and mold prevention:

• Always run exhaust fan during and 20 minutes after showering
• Wipe down surfaces regularly
• Address any leaks immediately
• Consider dehumidifier if bathroom stays consistently damp

A Miramar client asked: "Why is my beautiful new shower getting spots so quickly?" Hialeah's hard water was the culprit. She started squeegeeing after each shower (30 seconds) and the problem disappeared. Simple habit, dramatic improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tub to Shower Conversions

Making Your Decision: Is Tub to Shower Conversion Right for You?

Robert, the Hialeah homeowner from the opening, completed his conversion for $7,200. Two years later, he tells me it's his favorite home improvement ever. "I should have done it sooner. Climbing over the tub edge twice a day for years when I never used the bath was ridiculous."

For most Hialeah, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, and South Florida homeowners with multiple bathrooms, converting a rarely-used tub to a functional walk-in shower delivers excellent value—both in daily enjoyment and eventual resale appeal.