A tub to step in shower conversion removes the high side wall of a bathtub and replaces it with a shower floor you step into at a much lower height. It is a practical choice for homeowners in Chicago, IL who find the climb over a tub edge awkward but do not need a fully barrier-free entry.
How the Entry Height Is Planned
The defining detail of a step-in shower is the threshold, the raised edge at the entrance that keeps water inside. Low-profile shower bases and shaped thresholds keep that step short while still containing water. Your installer measures the opening, checks the floor structure, and recommends a base height that works for the people who will use the shower.
After the tub is removed, the drain and supply lines are connected to the new base, the walls are waterproofed, and the panels or tile, valve, and trim are installed. A glass door, fixed panel, or curtain finishes the opening. Plumbing work may require a permit in Chicago, IL, so confirm local requirements before work begins.
When This Option Makes Sense
- Climbing over a tub wall has become tiring or unsteady.
- You want a lower entry, and a standard shower base is enough for your needs.
- Your bathroom has limited space, and a full curbless build is not practical.
- You want costs that are easier to predict than a custom floor rebuild.
What Affects the Price
Base height and style, wall material, glass type, and any drain or plumbing changes all affect the total. A lower or specialty base can cost more than a standard one, and a tiled surround costs more than prefabricated wall panels. Exact pricing for a tub to step in shower conversion depends on the project, so request a written quote and compare the scope item by item.
Request a quote for Chicago, IL to see which entry height fits your bathroom.
