Is CONVERTING to a SHOWER more expensive than going back with a tub?
No, in most circumstances. If the plan is to install a prefab insert shower and surround vs a prefab tub and surround, there isn't much labor difference. Also, the cost of materials are comparable.
When will it cost more? Whenever there is tile work involved. Doing a tiled shower pan will add a couple thousand dollars. Also, if the plan is to do a prefab shower pan vs tub but the surround will be getting tiled, it will cost most. With the shower pan, there is more area that needs tiled.
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What are THREE QUESTIONS to help determine to do a curbed or curbless shower?
1. How important is water containment?
With a curbless shower it's highly likely water will find it's way out of the shower area. We recommend waterproofing the entire floor when doing a curbless shower.
2. How likely will someone using the shower be in a wheelchair?
More often than not, if someone isn't in a wheelchair they will still be able to maneuver a short curb. If they are in a wheelchair or their mobility is trending that direction, having a curbless shower may be vital in their assistance in getting into the shower area.
3. Am I okay with more extensive remodeling work?
A true curbless shower is going to require opening up the floor substructure and making modifications. It will be ideal to waterproof the entire floor. To get the most benefit from a curbless shower, the shower area will be larger.
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THREE decisions to keep in mind when deciding to have a tiled or insert shower pan?
1. How hard is your water?
After a relaxing shower, who really wants to spend the time wiping it out? The water is going to stand in some areas and will evaporate. Just like in any shower. If you have hard water, the grout lines will discolor. Then you'll find yourself in a vicious cycle of being on your hands and knees cleaning grout lines to needing a how shower to loosen the tight muscles!
2. Does your house shift a lot through seasonal changes?
Not sure if your house shifts much? An indication is if a door works perfectly at certain times of the year but rubs other times of the year. The issue this create with a tiled shower pan is an increase likelihood the grout will crack and pop. Ultimately, this can lead to tiles becoming lose. Lastly, there's the possibility of there being a small water leak.
3. How much are you wanting to invest in this project?
There are insert shower pan options that are not white. They're designed to look like natural stone. These shower pans do cost more than a standard white insert but they are about the same cost of a prefab tile shower pan and the waterproofing required. Then you still have the cost of tiling the shower pan.
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