If you’re researching a bathroom remodel and wondering whether you can replace your tub with a walk-in shower, here’s the honest answer:
Most bathtub-to-shower conversions in Nashville cost between $15,000 and $25,000.
That surprises a lot of homeowners—but once you understand what’s involved, it makes sense.
Why Is a Tub-to-Shower Conversion So Expensive?
This isn’t a simple fixture swap. You’re not just removing a tub and dropping in a shower.
You’re rebuilding the entire system behind it.
A properly built walk-in shower requires structural prep, plumbing changes, waterproofing, and detailed finish work—all of which drive cost.
What’s Included in a Typical Tub-to-Shower Conversion?
At BEC Innovations, a standard bathtub-to-walk-in-shower conversion typically includes:
- Selections assistance + demo prep: We help guide material selections and protect your home before work begins.
- Bathtub and surround removal + disposal: Full demolition of the existing tub and walls.
- Plumbing relocation: Shower drains are not in the same location as tub drains. We move plumbing to properly support the new layout.
- Full waterproofing system: This is one of the most critical (and often skipped) steps. A shower must be fully waterproofed behind the tile—not just “water-resistant.”
- Custom sloped shower floor: The floor is built and sloped on-site to direct water to the drain.
- Tile installation:
- Small format tile on the floor (~$6/sf) for proper drainage
- Medium format tile on the walls to the ceiling (~$4/sf)
- Upgraded shower valve + fixtures: Better functionality, longevity, and user experience.
- Tile and grout installation: Skilled labor that directly impacts how your shower performs long-term.
- Glass enclosure (standard, not frameless/custom): Even a basic glass surround is a meaningful cost component.
What Drives the Price Toward $25K?
Several factors can push your project toward the higher end of the range:
- Larger shower footprint
- More complex plumbing moves, or original plumbing that doesn’t easily integrate with newer plumbing systems
- Higher-end tile selections
- Structural or framing adjustments
- Upgraded fixtures or glass
- Water intrusion that affects the surrounding framing
Why Cheap Shower Conversions Fail
If you’re seeing significantly lower pricing, it’s usually because something is missing:
- Incomplete waterproofing
- No proper slope to the drain
- Lower-quality installation
- Shortcuts in prep work
These are the exact issues that lead to leaks, mold, and expensive repairs later.
The Bottom Line
A walk-in shower conversion is one of the best upgrades you can make to your bathroom—but only if it’s done correctly.
At BEC Innovations, we focus on building showers that last, function properly, and feel like a true upgrade—not a patch job.
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Nashville and want to understand what your project will realistically cost, how long it takes to obtain necessary permits, or what the process will look like, our team is here to help.
