For any morning, a clean and entirely new way of bathing can make your bathroom feel like a getaway to an extravagant spa. A dysfunctional old grungy shower can truly feel like a menace to your mental state and health.
The good news is that changing your shower or having a remodel done isn’t astronomical, and a shower installation can even increase your property value. Here are some estimated prices to replace or remodel a shower. This article gives you all the answers to your questions.
The Average Cost to Replace a Shower
Depending on the extent of the change you require, remodeling or replacing your shower will cost between $3,118 for minor replacements and up to $10,126 for major overhauls, with the average cost of a shower remodel now at $6,576.
Cost of a Shower Remodel
On the low end, a shower remodel may be less than five figures, but opting for higher-end materials, fixtures, or tile can easily push that figure closer to six. The number varies depending on a few different variables.
Shower Size and Type
- The largest cost factor in your remodel will be the size and type of shower. A small walk-in prefab shower is significantly cheaper and easier to replace than a larger walk-in or combined bathtub/shower with features like trendy black shower doors. A simple shower installation will entail minimal demolition, minimal movement of essential plumbing, and no re-tiling.
- By contrast, an entirely new shower will involve high labor costs during both demo and construction and is the most likely to hit surprises like mold or rot.
Scope of Project
- When you remodel your shower, are you planning to reglaze the tub and regrout the tile, or to replace your shower head and call it good? Or will you be tearing out everything in your existing shower and moving the location to expand? These decisions will determine whether you face a few hundred dollars in costs or a few thousand dollars at least. It’s important to work out exactly how far your renovation will go before starting.
Age of Your Home
- Older properties may often require the replacement of these features as well as new plumbing, insulation, or even structural work. Older homes commonly reveal unsafe or outdated plumbing and electrical systems, sagging joists, or a lack of insulation, which can impact your shower installation project.
Shower Material and Fixture Quality
- There are many different faucet, shower head, and drain brands and quality options. You could select a budget set from your local big-box store for a couple hundred dollars or get a luxurious spa-like set of fixtures from a name brand.
Shower Doors or Curtain?
- Shower doors, especially black-framed ones, are trendy and can range from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on size. Meanwhile, shower curtains are affordable and replaceable, but they have their cons, such as being prone to mold and not holding water well.
Tile or Acrylic Surround
- Putting tile in as part of a shower installation can significantly increase the project’s price. Tile finishes are labor-intensive and require precision. Expect to spend around $2.00 per square foot for materials, $1.35 per square foot for setting materials, and approximately $8.00 per square foot for professional installation.
Repairs
Whenever you replace a water-using device, you may encounter water damage that requires cleanup. Carefully examine the remaining elements after disassembling the shower and repair or replace any damaged pieces of the plumbing assembly. In your budgeting, factor about 10% to 15% for unplanned repairs to prepare for the unexpected.
Shower Replacement Costs by Type
Here are some average costs for different types of showers:
- Prefabricated Shower: $200 – $8,000
- Walk-In Shower: $400 – $8,500
- Tub-Shower Combo: $3,000
- Bathtub to Shower Conversion: $1,200 – $3,600
Pros & Cons of DIYing vs. Professional Installation
Installing a shower yourself can save on labor costs, but it requires some experience with home improvements. Certain parts of a shower remodel, like tiling, can be done by homeowners with guidance from a contractor. However, hiring a professional ensures that your bathroom functions properly and that the remodel is completed promptly.
Shower Replacement Costs & How to Estimate
The cost of replacing your shower can vary widely due to multiple variables. Below are some tips to help you determine how much a new shower installation will cost:
- Labor Costs: Decide if you’ll gut the shower yourself or hire professionals. DIYing can save on labor costs but will generate construction debris.
- Type of Shower: Prefabricated showers are the least expensive, while walk-in showers and tub-shower combinations are more costly.
- Tile Requirements: If tile is needed, expect to pay from $2.00 per square foot for materials alone up to $8.00 per square foot with professional installation.
- Unexpected Repairs: Always add 10% to 15% of your project cost to the total for unexpected repairs.
Shower Remodel or Replacement—What are the Differences?
Remodeling the shower area is more affordable but only feasible with prefabricated shower systems. For tiled showers, gutting the old assembly and starting from scratch is necessary.
Signs Your Shower Needs Replacement
- Leaks: Harm flooring and adjacent baseboards.
- Cracking or Chips: Can cause rust and leaks.
- Mold or Mildew: Indicates water infiltration.
- Water Intrusion: Manifests on the ceiling or walls.
- Mushy Shower Pan: Suggests a drain leak.
- Broken or Rusty Fixtures or Doors: Indicate immediate replacement is necessary.
Conclusion
Replacing or remodeling your shower can significantly enhance your bathroom’s aesthetics and functionality, making it feel like a luxurious spa. A well-executed shower installation not only improves your daily experience but also increases your property’s value. While the costs can vary depending on the type, size, materials, and scope of the project, careful planning and budgeting can help manage expenses and avoid surprises.
Whether you choose a prefabricated unit or opt for a custom-built shower, understanding the factors involved in shower installation is crucial. Assess your needs, evaluate the condition of your current setup, and consider professional advice to ensure a successful project. Remember, investing in a quality shower installation is an investment in your home’s comfort, safety, and value.
