A tub to tile shower conversion replaces your bathtub with a custom-built shower finished in tile. It suits homeowners in Chicago, IL who want design freedom, such as tile choices, a built-in bench, or a niche for bottles.
What the Project Involves
After the tub is removed and the plumbing is adjusted, the shower is built layer by layer. A shower pan is formed or installed, a waterproofing membrane is applied to the floor and walls, and tile is set on a suitable backer. Grout goes in once the tile has set, and sealing follows where it is needed. Allow extra time for the tile to cure before the shower is used.
Tile showers take more time than prefabricated systems because each layer must be set and cured. Waterproofing is the most important step, since tile and grout alone do not make a shower waterproof. Ask your installer how the membrane is installed and whether the work is inspected, and confirm permit rules in Chicago, IL.
When This Option Makes Sense
- You want a specific look, color, or tile pattern.
- You want features such as a bench, niche, or shaped floor.
- Your bathroom has an unusual size or layout that prefabricated units do not fit.
- You want the shower to match the rest of the bathroom's finishes.
What Affects the Price
Tile type and size, pattern complexity, the shower pan method, the waterproofing system, glass, and fixtures all affect cost. Intricate patterns and custom features take more labor. Pricing for a tub to tile shower conversion depends on the project and a quote, so compare what each estimate includes, including whether the waterproofing membrane, the pan, and the tile are all part of the quote. Grout lines need periodic cleaning and sealing, which is worth weighing against low-maintenance alternatives.
Request a quote for Chicago, IL to start planning your tiled shower.
