Thinking about converting your shower into a bathtub? Here is the complete shower-to-bathtub conversion guide, from tub types to real costs and permits.
In this episode of The Remodel Report, Chris and Jessica break down the entire shower-to-tub conversion process, the budget you should plan for, and the Northern Virginia permit rules most homeowners miss.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - Intro
0:35 - Why convert a shower to a tub (4 key benefits)
1:40 - Tub options: standard vs. walk-in
2:30 - Planning and prep (order your tub early)
3:25 - Removing the old shower (and the asbestos warning)
4:20 - Installing the new tub, slope, and waterproofing
5:20 - Why you cannot reuse the shower drain + weight/floor joists
6:10 - Doors, faucets, diverter spouts, and storage
6:55 - Design and decor that makes the space yours
7:55 - What it really costs (and why labor is 60-70%)
8:45 - Fairfax County permits, DPWES, and contractor licenses
9:35 - Lightning round: DIY, timeline, resale, military shower method
10:30 - Key takeaways
11:00 - How to get started
A shower-to-bathtub conversion touches plumbing, the drain location, floor framing, waterproofing, and finishes. Key points covered:
- Standard alcove/platform tubs (acrylic, enameled steel) vs. walk-in tubs with ADA-compliant seats and low thresholds
- Order custom tubs early - lead times run 4 to 6 weeks
- Showers use a center drain; tubs need a side drain 8 to 15 inches from the end wall, set at a quarter inch per foot slope
- A filled cast iron tub can weigh 500 to 800 pounds vs. 150 to 200 for a shower base - plan for joist reinforcement
- Waterproof with backer board and a membrane like RedGard before the surround goes on
- Typical cost is about $6,000 all in; Bob Vila reports a $3,000 to $8,000 range, with labor at 60-70% of the total
- Fairfax County requires plumbing and building permits via DPWES and the ePlan portal; verify your contractor holds a DPOR Class A and a Fairfax County BPOL license
- Acrylic offers the best balance of heat retention and weight for most conversions
Full guide: https://www.usacabinetstore.com/shower-to-bathtub-conversion/
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Shower to bathtub conversion guide covering tub types, installation steps, drain relocation, floor joist reinforcement, waterproofing, bathroom remodel cost, and Fairfax VA permits for homeowners across the DMV.