Tub-to-Shower Conversion Services
Stop stepping over a tub you never use. Iron Crest Remodel converts bathtubs into modern walk-in showers with custom tile, glass enclosures, and accessible entry options — all within your existing bathroom footprint.
- Complete bathtub removal and disposal
- New shower pan installation (tile or acrylic)
- Custom tile wall surround
- Frameless or semi-frameless glass door
- Plumbing valve and drain relocation
- Grab bar and bench seat options
- Low-threshold and zero-entry builds
- Niche and shelf installation
Timeline
5 – 10 days
In-Home Assessment
We evaluate your tub area, measure the space, check plumbing access, and discuss your shower preferences and accessibility needs.
Design & Quote
You receive a detailed conversion plan with tile options, glass style, fixture selections, and a fixed-price quote.
Tub Removal & Build
We remove the existing tub, modify plumbing, install the shower base, tile the walls and floor, and install the glass enclosure and fixtures.
Final Inspection
Plumbing is tested, glass is sealed, and we walk through the completed conversion to verify everything meets your expectations.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Boise?
Tub-to-shower conversions typically cost $6,000-$15,000 in the Boise area depending on tile selection, glass type, and whether plumbing needs to be relocated.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Most conversions are completed in 5-10 business days. Simple conversions with acrylic surrounds can be done in 3-5 days.
Will removing a bathtub hurt my home value?
As long as your home retains at least one bathtub (typically in a secondary bathroom), converting an additional tub to a shower generally adds value. Walk-in showers are the most requested bathroom feature in the Boise market.
Plan your tub-to-shower conversion project with our in-depth guides.
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Every tub-to-shower conversion is different. Explore our detailed guides covering accessibility, design options, and specialty features for Boise homeowners.
Bathtub-to-shower conversions are one of the most requested bathroom projects in the Treasure Valley. Many Boise-area homes built between the 1990s and 2010s have tub/shower combos in every bathroom — but most homeowners rarely use the tub. Converting to a dedicated walk-in shower creates a more functional, accessible, and modern bathroom.
More usable space — walk-in showers feel larger and are easier to clean
Accessibility — low-threshold or curbless entry eliminates the step-over hazard
Modern aesthetics — walk-in showers with tile and glass are the top bathroom trend
Better ventilation — open designs reduce moisture buildup and mold risk
Aging-in-place — grab bars, benches, and handheld showerheads add safety
Higher perceived value — updated bathrooms are the #2 ROI remodeling project in Idaho
Standard Curbed Walk-In Shower
Most PopularThe most common conversion. A 4-6 inch curb contains water within the shower area, and a frameless or semi-frameless glass enclosure completes the design. This is the most cost-effective option and works in any bathroom layout. Curbed showers use a traditional center drain and standard pre-sloped shower pan.
Low-Threshold Shower (1-2 Inch Curb)
Aging-in-PlaceA compromise between standard curbed and fully curbless designs. The low threshold is easy to step over for most people while still providing good water containment. This option works well with a linear drain near the entry and a fixed glass panel. It's a popular choice for Boise homeowners planning for aging-in-place without the added cost of a full curbless build.
Curbless (Zero-Threshold) Shower
ADA-CompliantThe bathroom floor transitions seamlessly into the shower with no step or curb at all. This requires precise subfloor work — the shower floor must slope toward a linear drain while the surrounding bathroom floor remains level or slopes slightly toward the shower. Curbless designs are ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible but cost 20-30% more than curbed options due to the subfloor modifications required.
Tub-to-Shower with Built-In Bench
Comfort OptionFor homeowners who want a bench or shelf where the tub used to be, we can build a tiled half-wall or bench that occupies part of the former tub footprint. This creates a built-in seat without reducing the shower's floor area. It's especially useful in master bathrooms where the tub alcove is wider than needed for a standard shower.
Waterproofing is the single most important element of any shower conversion. When a tub is removed and replaced with a tile shower, the waterproofing system must be built from scratch — there is no room for shortcuts. Water intrusion behind tile causes mold, rot, and structural damage that is far more expensive to repair than doing it right the first time.
Schluter Kerdi System
Our preferred waterproofing system. The Kerdi membrane bonds directly to the cement board substrate and creates a continuous waterproof barrier on the shower floor and walls. Kerdi is the industry gold standard and is required by many tile manufacturers to maintain their warranties.
Liquid-Applied Membranes
Products like RedGard, Hydroban, and AquaDefense are roller-applied liquid membranes that cure into a flexible waterproof coating. They are effective when applied properly — two full coats, with reinforcing fabric at seams and corners.
What We Check During Demo
Subfloor condition — plywood thickness, rot, levelness
Stud framing — spacing, condition, blocking for grab bars
Existing plumbing — drain location, supply line condition
Ventilation — exhaust fan CFM rating and duct routing
Moisture damage — signs of prior water intrusion
The tile you choose defines the look and feel of your new shower. Here are the most popular options we install in Boise-area tub-to-shower conversions:
Large-format porcelain (12×24)
Walls — fewer grout lines, modern look
Subway tile (3×6 or 4×12)
Walls — classic, timeless
Mosaic tile (1×1 or 2×2)
Shower floor — conforms to slope
Natural stone (marble, travertine)
Accent walls, niches
Most Boise tub-to-shower conversions use a combination: large-format porcelain on the walls, small mosaic tile on the shower floor for slip resistance, and an accent strip or niche in a contrasting material. This approach balances aesthetics, durability, and budget.
Shower Valve
Pressure-balance (standard) or thermostatic (premium). We recommend thermostatic for consistent temperature control.
Showerhead
Rain shower, handheld, or dual-function combo. Handheld is essential for aging-in-place and easy cleaning.
Glass Enclosure
Frameless ($1,200–$3,500), semi-frameless ($800–$2,000), or fixed panel ($600–$1,200). Frameless is the most popular upgrade.
Grab Bars & Bench
Decorative grab bars that double as towel bars. Built-in tile bench or fold-down teak seat for comfort and safety.
Tub-to-shower conversions in Boise typically range from $8,000 to $25,000+ depending on scope, materials, and design complexity. Here is a typical breakdown:
| Line Item | Basic | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition & disposal | $500–$800 | $500–$800 | $600–$1,000 |
| Plumbing modifications | $800–$1,200 | $1,000–$1,800 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Waterproofing | $400–$600 | $600–$900 | $800–$1,200 |
| Tile (materials + labor) | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$6,000 | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Glass enclosure | $800–$1,200 | $1,200–$2,000 | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Fixtures (valve, showerhead) | $300–$500 | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Bench / niche / grab bars | $200–$400 | $400–$800 | $800–$1,500 |
| Permits & inspection | $200–$350 | $200–$350 | $200–$350 |
| Total | $5,200–$8,550 | $7,900–$13,650 | $11,900–$22,550 |
Basic
$5,200–$8,550
Standard tile, curbed entry, basic fixtures
Mid-Range
$7,900–$13,650
Premium tile, frameless glass, upgraded fixtures
Premium
$11,900–$22,550
Natural stone, curbless entry, luxury fixtures
Hard Water Impact
Boise's water is moderately hard (10-14 grains per gallon), which means mineral deposits will build up on glass, fixtures, and grout over time. We recommend frameless glass with a protective coating (EnduroShield or similar), light-colored grout that hides mineral staining, and fixtures with spot-resistant finishes.
Ventilation Requirements
Walk-in showers produce more airborne moisture than tub/shower combos because of their open design. The bathroom exhaust fan should be rated for at least 50 CFM (ideally 80-110 CFM) and vented to the exterior — not into the attic. If your existing fan is undersized, we upgrade it as part of the conversion.
Common Issues by Home Era
1960s–1980s
Original cast iron or steel tubs are heavy and may require additional labor for removal. Plumbing is often galvanized steel that should be replaced. Subfloors may need replacement with 3/4" plywood.
1990s–2000s
Fiberglass tub/shower units are lighter and easier to remove. Plumbing is typically copper or PEX in good condition. The 60" × 30" alcove provides a great walk-in shower footprint.
2010s+
Modern plumbing and framing mean fewer surprises during demo. Main consideration is whether the shower valve should be upgraded from pressure-balance to thermostatic.
See examples of our tub-to-shower conversions across the Treasure Valley. Every project features custom tile, professional waterproofing, and frameless or semi-frameless glass.
Will removing my bathtub hurt my home's resale value?
In most cases, converting a tub to a shower in a secondary bathroom has no negative impact on resale value in the Boise market. However, real estate agents recommend keeping at least one bathtub in the home — typically in a hall or guest bath — for families with young children. If your home has two or more bathrooms with tubs, converting one to a walk-in shower is almost always a net positive for value and buyer appeal.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
A standard tub-to-shower conversion in Boise typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from demolition to final walkthrough. The timeline includes 1 day for demolition, 2-3 days for plumbing and waterproofing, 3-5 days for tile installation, and 1-2 days for glass, fixtures, and finishing. Custom tile work, curbless designs, or structural modifications can extend the timeline to 3-4 weeks.
Do I need a permit for a tub-to-shower conversion?
Yes, the City of Boise requires a building permit for tub-to-shower conversions because the project involves plumbing modifications. The permit ensures the drain relocation, waterproofing, and any structural changes meet code. Ada County and Canyon County have similar requirements. Iron Crest handles all permit applications and inspections as part of the project.
Can you convert a tub to a curbless shower?
Yes, but curbless conversions require more planning than standard curbed showers. The shower floor must slope precisely toward the drain (typically 1/4 inch per foot), and the bathroom floor outside the shower may need to be raised slightly or re-graded. A linear drain along the shower entry helps manage water flow. Curbless designs are ideal for accessibility and aging-in-place but cost 20-30% more than standard curbed conversions due to the additional subfloor work.
The following government agencies, industry organizations, and official resources provide additional information relevant to your remodeling project.
Research your tub-to-shower conversion project with our in-depth Boise-area guides.
A tub-to-shower conversion is a great starting point. Many homeowners combine it with broader bathroom updates.
Ready to Start Your Remodeling Project?
Get a free, no-obligation estimate from Boise's trusted remodeling experts. Licensed, insured, and ready to build.