Shower Remodel Timeline in Boise

In-home consultation to measure your existing shower, assess plumbing and substrate conditions, and discuss your goals. Tile and fixture selections are finalized during this phase. We provide a detailed scope of work and estimate before any commitment. This is also when we determine if your project requires a plumbing permit.

• In-home measurement and assessment
• Tile, glass, and fixture selection
• Detailed scope and pricing
• Permit determination and submission

Tile, waterproofing materials, fixtures, and the shower valve rough-in kit are ordered. Most tile is available from local Boise suppliers within 1 week. Specialty tile, imported stone, or custom-ordered fixtures may take 2–3 weeks. We confirm all materials are on-site or scheduled for delivery before demolition begins.

• Tile and waterproofing materials
• Valve rough-in kit and trim
• Niche insert or blocking material
• Showerheads and trim accessories

Existing tile, substrate, and fixtures are removed. If converting a tub, the tub is disconnected and removed. Dust barriers are installed to protect the bathroom and adjacent rooms. The framing, subfloor, and existing plumbing are inspected for damage, rot, or inadequate conditions. Any hidden issues are identified at this stage and communicated to you immediately.

New shower valve is installed at the correct height and position. Supply lines are connected and tested for leaks. If the drain is being relocated or a linear drain installed, drain plumbing is modified. Showerhead stub-outs are positioned. For multi- head systems (rain head + handheld + body sprays), additional supply lines are run. A plumbing rough-in inspection is scheduled if a permit was pulled.

Cement board (Durock, HardieBacker) or Schluter Kerdi-Board is installed on all shower walls. The shower curb is built from stacked cement board or a pre-formed foam curb. For curbless showers, the subfloor is modified to create the necessary recess for a flush threshold. A pre-sloped shower pan (mortar bed or foam pan system) is installed on the shower floor to direct water toward the drain.

The most critical phase. Schluter Kerdi sheet membrane is applied to walls with pre-formed corners and pipe collars at all penetrations. Liquid-applied membrane (RedGard, Hydroban) is rolled onto the shower floor in two coats, each at the manufacturer-specified mil thickness. Every seam, corner, curb, and penetration is sealed to create a continuous waterproof envelope. This step prevents the water damage we see most frequently in failed Boise-area showers. Read our waterproofing systems guide for detailed information.

The phase that takes the longest and has the greatest visual impact. Wall tile is set first, working from the bottom up with a level ledger board to ensure straight courses. Floor tile follows, sloped precisely to the drain. Niche tile, bench seat tile, and curb cap tile are installed. After setting, the tile cures overnight before grouting. Grout is applied, cleaned, and sealed (or epoxy grout is used for a maintenance-free finish). Complex patterns and natural stone add 1–2 extra days.

Once tile is complete, the glass fabricator visits to take precise field measurements. Frameless glass must be custom-cut and polished to exact dimensions — there is zero tolerance for error since there is no frame to hide gaps. Fabrication takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the season and fabricator workload. During this wait period, your shower is usable with a temporary shower curtain if needed.

Showerhead(s), handheld unit, valve trim plate, and handle are installed. The glass enclosure is set and secured with appropriate hardware. All connections are tested for leaks and proper operation. Silicone caulk is applied at all glass-to-tile and tile- to-fixture junctions. Final plumbing inspection is scheduled if a permit was pulled.

If a permit was pulled, the final plumbing and/or electrical inspection is completed. We conduct a detailed walkthrough with you to review every element: tile quality, grout consistency, glass alignment, fixture operation, and water drainage. Any punch list items are noted and addressed. We provide care instructions for your specific tile, grout, and glass finish, including hard-water maintenance recommendations for Boise conditions.