Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Boise
A comprehensive pricing guide for Boise and Treasure Valley homeowners planning a tub-to-shower conversion in 2026. Real numbers, local cost factors, and transparent breakdowns from an experienced Boise remodeling contractor.
Tub-to-shower conversion costs in Boise vary based on the type of conversion, tile selection, glass enclosure, fixture quality, and whether structural modifications are needed for curbless entry. Because a conversion involves tub demolition, disposal, drain relocation, and building a shower from scratch, costs are generally higher than a simple shower refresh. Here are the three primary investment tiers we see across the Treasure Valley market.
Budget
$5,000 – $9,000
Standard curbed walk-in shower
- Tub demolition and disposal included
- Ceramic or basic porcelain tile
- Standard 4–6 inch curb entry
- Framed or semi-frameless glass enclosure
- Pressure-balance valve and single showerhead
- Liquid-applied waterproofing (RedGard)
Mid-Range
Most Popular in Boise
$9,000 – $18,000
Walk-in shower with quality materials
- Complete tub removal and subfloor prep
- Large-format porcelain tile walls
- Schluter Kerdi waterproofing system
- Frameless glass enclosure
- Rain showerhead + handheld combo
- Built-in tiled bench and recessed niche
- Glass mosaic accent band
Luxury Spa
$18,000 – $35,000+
Curbless spa conversion with premium features
- Natural stone or premium porcelain tile
- Curbless zero-threshold entry
- Custom frameless glass with protective coating
- Thermostatic valve with body sprays
- Linear drain system with subfloor modification
- Heated tile floor and steam option
- ADA-compliant grab bars and bench
Understanding exactly what your investment buys helps you make informed decisions. A tub-to-shower conversion includes more scope than a standard shower remodel because the bathtub must be demolished, hauled away, and the entire shower area built from scratch — including new drain plumbing, waterproofing, tile, glass, and fixtures.
Budget Tier ($5,000 – $9,000)
Demolition & Prep
Removal of the existing bathtub (fiberglass, acrylic, or steel), surrounding tile or surround panels, and any deteriorated drywall or greenboard. Disposal of the old tub and debris is included. New cement board substrate is installed on all shower walls. Subfloor is inspected and repaired if needed. Demolition and prep at this tier typically costs $500 to $1,000 including hauling.
Tile & Waterproofing
Ceramic subway tile or basic porcelain on walls, with 2×2 mosaic tile on the shower floor for proper slope to the drain. Waterproofing via liquid-applied membrane (RedGard or Hydroban) over cement board substrate. This is a reliable, code-compliant approach that protects against water damage while keeping tile material and labor costs between $1,500 and $3,500.
Plumbing & Drain
The bathtub drain is repositioned or adapted for a standard center-drain shower pan. New shower valve rough-in replaces the old tub/shower combo valve. If the existing drain location works for the new shower layout, plumbing costs stay between $800 and $1,500. Drain relocation to a different position adds $500 to $1,500 depending on distance and access.
Glass & Fixtures
Framed or semi-frameless glass enclosure in clear tempered glass at $800 to $1,500. Pressure-balance valve with a single showerhead in chrome or brushed nickel finish. Brands like Moen Posi-Temp or Delta Monitor provide reliable temperature control at $300 to $600. A single recessed niche for shampoo storage is standard at this tier.
Mid-Range Tier ($9,000 – $18,000)
Demolition & Subfloor
Full tub removal including any cast iron or steel units (heavier tubs require additional labor). Complete subfloor inspection and replacement of damaged plywood with 3/4" exterior-grade plywood. Cement board or Schluter Kerdi-Board substrate installed on all walls and the shower pan area. Any mold or water damage behind the old tub is remediated before new work begins.
Tile & Waterproofing
Large-format porcelain tile (12×24 or 24×24) on walls for a contemporary look with fewer grout lines — a significant maintenance advantage in Boise's hard-water environment. Schluter Kerdi sheet membrane waterproofing system with pre-formed corners and pipe collars. A glass mosaic accent band adds visual interest. Tile material and labor costs range from $3,000 to $6,000 at this tier.
Glass & Entry
Frameless glass enclosure in 3/8-inch tempered glass with minimal hardware in brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome. Frameless glass is the most requested shower upgrade in the Boise market — it creates a clean, open look and makes the bathroom feel larger. Cost ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on configuration. A low-threshold curb (1–2 inches) is an option at this tier.
Fixtures & Features
Pressure-balance or thermostatic valve with a rain showerhead (8–10 inch diameter) and a handheld showerhead on a slide bar. Brushed nickel or matte black finishes that resist hard-water spotting. Built-in tiled bench seat and one or two recessed niches. Decorative grab bars that double as towel bars. Fixture budget at this tier runs $800 to $1,800.
Luxury Spa Tier ($18,000 – $35,000+)
Tile & Surfaces
Natural stone (marble, travertine) or premium large-format porcelain with bookmatched patterns. Full-height tile to the ceiling. Custom mosaic accent walls or feature niches with LED backlighting. Tile material and labor at this tier ranges from $6,000 to $12,000. Natural stone requires annual sealing — a maintenance commitment worth discussing before selecting marble in Boise's hard-water conditions (10–14 grains per gallon).
Curbless Entry & Glass
Custom frameless glass enclosure in 1/2-inch ultra-clear (low-iron) tempered glass with a factory-applied protective coating (ShowerGuard or EnduroShield) that repels hard-water deposits. Curbless zero-threshold entry with a linear drain system for a seamless floor transition. Subfloor modification to create the necessary recess for slope-to-drain. Glass and linear drain costs range from $3,000 to $6,000.
Fixtures & Systems
Thermostatic valve system (3/4-inch) with separate volume controls for a ceiling-mounted rain head, handheld showerhead, and 4–6 body sprays. Premium brands (Kohler, Delta, Grohe) in designer finishes. Steam generator option for a home steam shower experience. ADA-compliant grab bars and fold-down teak bench. Fixture and valve system costs range from $2,000 to $5,000.
Structural & Specialty
Subfloor modification for curbless entry, floor joist sistering for upper-floor installations, heated tile floor (electric radiant mat), recessed LED lighting on a dimmer, and premium exhaust fan (110+ CFM with humidity sensor). Additional plumbing for body sprays and steam systems adds $2,500 to $5,000 in rough-in costs. Complete tub area transformation including wall framing adjustments if the shower footprint is being expanded.
Every tub-to-shower conversion is composed of individual components. This breakdown shows the typical cost range for each element in the Boise market, helping you understand where your money goes and where to prioritize your budget.
| Component | Low Range | High Range | % of Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition & Tub Disposal | $500 | $1,500 | 5-8% |
| Plumbing (drain relocation, valve, supply) | $800 | $3,000 | 10-18% |
| Waterproofing System | $400 | $1,500 | 5-8% |
| Tile (material + labor) | $1,500 | $12,000 | 30-40% |
| Glass Enclosure | $800 | $6,000 | 12-20% |
| Fixtures (valve, showerhead, trim) | $300 | $5,000 | 5-15% |
| Electrical (fan, lighting, heated floor) | $200 | $2,000 | 3-8% |
| Permits & Inspection | $150 | $400 | 1-3% |
* Labor costs are included in each component line item. General contractor overhead and profit margin (typically 15–25%) may be applied on top of material and subcontractor costs. Cast iron tub removal adds $200–$500 versus fiberglass due to weight and cutting requirements.
Tub-to-shower conversion costs are not uniform across the country. Several factors unique to Boise, Ada County, and the Treasure Valley directly impact what you will pay for your project.
Tub Disposal Costs
Tub disposal in Ada County depends on the tub material. Fiberglass and acrylic tubs are lightweight and go to the landfill for $50 to $100 in dump fees. Cast iron tubs (common in Boise's North End and Bench neighborhoods from the 1950s–1970s) weigh 300–500 pounds and require 2–3 workers to remove. Some scrap metal recyclers in the Treasure Valley will accept cast iron for free, offsetting the extra labor cost of $200 to $500 for removal.
Housing Stock Age
Older homes in Boise's North End, Bench, and Vista neighborhoods (built 1950s–1980s) often have galvanized steel plumbing, cast iron tubs set in mortar, and showers built on greenboard instead of cement board. Replacing corroded pipes and remediation of inadequate substrates can add $1,000 to $4,000 to the budget. Newer homes in Meridian, Eagle, Star, and Southeast Boise typically have PEX plumbing and lighter fiberglass tubs that simplify the conversion.
Plumbing Condition
The condition of existing plumbing behind the tub wall is the single biggest cost variable in a conversion. If supply lines are copper or PEX and in good condition, you'll only pay for the new valve and drain work. If we discover galvanized steel supply lines, corroded fittings, or outdated drain assemblies during demo, replacing them adds $800 to $2,500 but is essential for a reliable long-term result. We assess plumbing condition during our free in-home estimate.
Hard Water Impact
Boise's municipal water averages 10–14 grains per gallon of hardness, classified as “hard” to “very hard.” This directly affects material choices and long-term maintenance costs. Glass enclosures without protective coatings will develop permanent mineral etching. We recommend budgeting $200–$500 for a glass coating (EnduroShield or Diamon-Fusion) and selecting finishes that resist spotting — matte black and brushed nickel outperform polished chrome in hard-water areas.
Seasonal Pricing
Tub-to-shower conversions are interior projects, making them ideal for Boise's winter months (November through February) when contractor schedules are less compressed by exterior work. You may find more competitive pricing, shorter lead times for frameless glass fabrication, and better tile availability during the off-season. Spring and summer scheduling can be tighter as contractors balance interior and exterior projects across the Treasure Valley.
Permit Costs
The City of Boise, Ada County, and Canyon County all require a building permit for tub-to-shower conversions because the project involves plumbing modifications. Permit fees typically range from $150 to $300 for plumbing. If electrical work is included (recessed lighting, fan upgrade, heated floor), a separate electrical permit adds $75 to $200. Iron Crest handles all permit applications and inspections as part of our service.
The type of shower you build in place of your bathtub is the primary driver of total project cost. Each conversion type involves different levels of structural modification, waterproofing complexity, and material requirements. Here is how the four most common conversion types compare in the Boise market.
| Conversion Type | Budget Range | Mid-Range | Luxury | Key Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Curbed (4–6”) | $5,000 – $9,000 | $9,000 – $15,000 | $15,000 – $25,000 | Most cost-effective |
| Low-Threshold (1–2”) | $6,500 – $10,000 | $10,000 – $18,000 | $18,000 – $28,000 | Aging-in-place friendly |
| Curbless (Zero-Threshold) | $8,000 – $13,000 | $13,000 – $22,000 | $22,000 – $35,000+ | Subfloor modification required |
| Luxury Spa (Multi-Head) | — | $18,000 – $25,000 | $25,000 – $35,000+ | 3/4” valve + body sprays |
* All conversion types include tub demolition, disposal, plumbing rough-in, waterproofing, tile, glass, and fixtures. Curbless and low-threshold options cost more due to subfloor modification and linear drain requirements. Cast iron tub removal adds $200–$500 versus fiberglass or acrylic.
A tub-to-shower conversion is one of the most impactful bathroom improvements you can make for both daily living and resale value in the Treasure Valley market. Here is what the data shows.
Resale Value Data
Tub-to-Shower Conversion: 65–75% ROI
A $14,000 mid-range tub-to-shower conversion in Boise typically adds $9,100 to $10,500 in resale value. Converting an unused master bath tub to a spacious walk-in shower modernizes the bathroom and reclaims valuable floor space — two things Treasure Valley buyers prioritize.
Faster Time on Market
Homes with updated walk-in showers in the master bathroom sell faster in the $350,000–$600,000 Boise price range. Buyers expect modern shower features — frameless glass, large-format tile, and proper waterproofing. Homes with dated tub/shower combos spend longer on market and often receive lower offers.
Accessibility Premium
Curbless and low-threshold conversions appeal to the growing aging-in-place market. In Boise, where Baby Boomers represent a significant homeowner demographic, accessible showers are increasingly valued at resale. See our accessible walk-in shower options.
Beyond Resale: Daily Living Value
ROI calculations focus on resale, but most Boise homeowners stay in their homes for 7 to 12 years after a bathroom remodel. The daily improvement — stepping into a clean, spacious, modern walk-in shower instead of climbing over a tub ledge every morning — delivers quality-of-life value that does not appear on a spreadsheet.
Safety is a major factor. The National Institute on Aging reports that bathroom falls are one of the leading causes of injury in adults over 65. Removing the tub's high step-over barrier and replacing it with a low-threshold or curbless shower significantly reduces fall risk — a real consideration for Boise homeowners planning to age in place.
A properly waterproofed, well-built shower also prevents expensive damage. We regularly see Boise homeowners spend $5,000 to $15,000 repairing water damage from failed tub/shower combos that leaked through deteriorated caulk and grout into subfloors, wall cavities, and the rooms below. Investing in a quality conversion now eliminates this risk entirely.
Maintenance is simpler too. A walk-in shower with large-format porcelain tile and epoxy grout is significantly easier to clean than a tub/shower combo with small tile and cement grout. Most homeowners report cutting their weekly cleaning time in half after converting from a tub to a walk-in shower.
Common questions Boise homeowners ask about tub-to-shower conversion costs.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Boise, Idaho?
A tub-to-shower conversion in Boise typically ranges from $5,000 for a basic curbed walk-in shower with standard porcelain tile to $35,000 or more for a luxury curbless spa shower with natural stone, frameless glass, thermostatic valve, and body sprays. The average mid-range tub-to-shower conversion in the Boise market falls between $9,000 and $18,000, which includes large-format porcelain tile, Schluter Kerdi waterproofing, a frameless glass enclosure, and quality fixtures.
Is a tub-to-shower conversion worth it for resale in Boise?
In most cases, yes. A tub-to-shower conversion in a secondary bathroom has no negative impact on resale value in the Treasure Valley market. Converting the master bath tub to a walk-in shower is one of the highest-return bathroom improvements, typically recouping 65–75% of the project cost at resale. The key rule is to keep at least one bathtub in the home — usually in a hall or guest bath — for families with young children. Homes with updated walk-in showers in the master bath sell faster in the $350,000–$600,000 Boise price range.
Does a curbless tub-to-shower conversion cost more?
Yes. A curbless (zero-threshold) tub-to-shower conversion typically adds $2,000 to $5,000 compared to a standard curbed conversion. The premium covers subfloor modification to create the necessary recess for slope-to-drain, a linear drain system ($300–$1,200), and more complex waterproofing for a barrier-free entry. On upper floors, the cost is higher because floor joists may need to be modified. Despite the added cost, curbless conversions are increasingly popular in Boise for aging-in-place planning and ADA compliance.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take in Boise?
A standard tub-to-shower conversion typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from demolition to final walkthrough. The timeline includes 1 day for tub demolition and disposal, 2–3 days for plumbing rough-in and waterproofing, 3–5 days for tile installation and curing, 1–3 weeks for custom glass fabrication (after tile is complete), and 1–2 days for fixtures, glass install, and finishing. Curbless designs or extensive subfloor work can extend the project to 3–4 weeks.
Can I reduce the cost of a tub-to-shower conversion in Boise?
Several strategies can lower costs without sacrificing quality: keep the drain as close to the original tub drain as possible to minimize plumbing relocation ($800–$2,500 savings), choose porcelain tile that mimics natural stone instead of real marble, select a semi-frameless glass enclosure instead of fully frameless ($500–$1,500 savings), use a standard 4–6 inch curb instead of a curbless design, and schedule during Boise's slower winter months (November–February) when contractors may offer more competitive pricing.
Cost is just one piece of the puzzle. Explore our other tub-to-shower conversion and bathroom remodeling guides to make fully informed decisions about your project.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Service
Our full tub-to-shower conversion overview
Shower Remodeling Service
Complete shower remodeling options
Bathroom Remodel Cost Guide
Full bathroom pricing for Boise
Accessible Walk-In Showers
ADA-compliant and aging-in-place options
Conversion Timeline
Phase-by-phase scheduling breakdown
Conversion Materials Guide
Tile, glass, fixtures & waterproofing
Conversion Design Ideas
Styles, layouts, and trending features
Conversion Permits & Regulations
Boise & Ada County permit requirements
Get a Free Estimate
Request your personalized conversion quote
Financing Options
Flexible payment plans for your remodel
The following government agencies, industry organizations, and official resources provide additional information relevant to your remodeling project.
Get Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion Estimate
Every conversion is different. Contact Iron Crest Remodel for a free, detailed estimate tailored to your Boise home, your bathroom layout, and your budget.