Tub-to-Shower Conversion Timeline in Boise

The project begins with an in-home consultation where we measure your existing tub alcove, assess the plumbing configuration and substrate conditions, and discuss your goals for the new shower. We evaluate whether the drain can stay in its current position or needs to be relocated, check the condition of supply lines, and inspect the subfloor for any signs of water damage. Tile, fixture, and glass selections are finalized during this phase. We provide a detailed scope of work, itemized estimate, and projected timeline before any commitment. This is also when we determine whether your project requires a building and plumbing permit from the City of Boise or Ada County.

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

All materials are ordered and confirmed before demolition begins. Tile, waterproofing membrane, cement board, shower valve rough-in kit, trim, and fixtures are sourced from local Boise suppliers whenever possible. Standard porcelain and ceramic tile from local distributors is typically available within 3–5 business days. Specialty tile, imported stone, or custom-ordered fixtures from national suppliers may take 2–3 weeks. We never begin demolition until every critical material is on-site or has a confirmed delivery date — this prevents the mid-project delays that plague many remodeling projects.

• Tile and waterproofing materials
• Shower valve rough-in kit and trim
• Niche insert and blocking material
• Showerheads, drain, and accessories

The existing bathtub is disconnected from the drain and supply lines, then carefully removed from the bathroom. Fiberglass and acrylic tubs (common in 1990s–2010s Boise homes) can be cut into sections for easier removal. Cast iron tubs found in older Bench and North End homes are significantly heavier and may require two people and additional time. The tub surround, any existing tile, and the substrate behind it are all removed. Dust barriers are installed to protect the rest of the bathroom and adjacent rooms. Once the tub is out, we inspect the framing, subfloor, and existing plumbing for damage, rot, or code-compliance issues. Any hidden problems are identified at this stage and communicated to you immediately with a clear explanation of what needs to be addressed and the cost impact.

The tub drain is converted to a shower drain configuration. Tub drains and shower drains sit at different heights and positions, so this step always requires plumbing modification. A new shower valve is installed at the correct height (typically 48" from the finished floor for the valve body). Supply lines are connected and pressure-tested for leaks. If a linear drain is being installed for a curbless design, the drain plumbing is relocated to accommodate the new drain position. Showerhead stub-outs are positioned at the proper height and angle. For multi-head systems — rain head, handheld, and body sprays — additional supply lines are run behind the wall. A plumbing rough-in inspection is scheduled with the City of Boise if a permit was pulled.

With the tub removed, the subfloor where the tub sat is now exposed. In many Boise homes, the subfloor beneath the tub is thinner than the surrounding bathroom floor or may show signs of moisture damage from years of minor leaks. We replace or reinforce the subfloor as needed to create a solid, level base. 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 conversions, the subfloor is recessed to accommodate the pre-slope and linear drain. A mortar bed or pre-formed foam shower pan is installed on the floor to create the slope toward the drain — typically 1/4 inch per foot per code.

The most critical phase of the entire conversion. Since you are building a brand-new shower where a bathtub used to be, the waterproofing system must be constructed from scratch with zero margin for error. Schluter Kerdi sheet membrane is applied to all wall surfaces with pre-formed corner pieces and pipe collars at every penetration. Liquid-applied membrane (RedGard, Hydroban) is rolled onto the shower floor in two full coats, each at the manufacturer-specified mil thickness, with drying time between coats. Every seam, corner, curb face, and plumbing penetration is sealed to create a continuous, watertight envelope. We never rush this step — inadequate waterproofing is the number-one cause of shower failure and the most common issue we see in poorly executed Boise-area conversions.

The longest single phase and the one with the greatest visual impact. Wall tile is set first, working from the bottom up with a level ledger board to ensure perfectly straight horizontal courses. Floor tile follows, sloped precisely toward the drain to ensure complete water evacuation. Niche tile, bench seat tile, curb cap tile, and any accent bands are installed. After the tile is set, it cures overnight before grouting. Grout is applied, cleaned, and sealed — or epoxy grout is used for a zero-maintenance finish. Complex patterns, herringbone layouts, natural stone, and large-format tiles that require precise cuts around plumbing penetrations add 1–2 extra days. Review our materials guide for tile options and recommendations.

Once all tile work is complete and grouted, the glass fabricator visits your home to take precise field measurements. Frameless glass must be custom-cut and polished to exact dimensions — there is zero tolerance for error because there is no frame to hide gaps. These measurements cannot be taken from the plans or before tile is installed because tile thickness, grout joint width, and minor wall variations all affect the final dimensions. After measurement, the glass is fabricated over a 1 to 3 week period depending on the season and the fabricator's workload in the Boise market. During this wait period, your shower is fully usable with a temporary shower curtain.

The showerhead(s), handheld unit, valve trim plate, handle, and any body spray trim are installed. The frameless glass enclosure is set, leveled, and secured with stainless steel or brass hardware. All plumbing connections are tested for leaks and proper operation. Silicone caulk is applied at every glass-to-tile junction, tile-to-fixture junction, and along the shower curb. If grab bars or a fold-down teak seat were specified, they are mounted into the blocking that was installed during framing. The final plumbing inspection is scheduled with the City of Boise if a permit was pulled.

If a building or plumbing permit was pulled, the final inspection with the City of Boise or Ada County is completed. We then conduct a thorough walkthrough with you to review every element of your new shower: tile alignment and quality, grout consistency and color, glass fit and alignment, fixture operation and water pressure, drain performance, and overall craftsmanship. Any punch list items are documented and addressed promptly. We provide care and maintenance instructions specific to your tile type, grout selection, and glass finish, including hard-water mineral deposit prevention tips for Boise's moderately hard water (10–14 grains per gallon).