The Complete Guide to Tub-to-Shower Conversions in Longmont
If you have an old bathtub that rarely gets used, you're not alone. Across Longmont and Boulder County, homeowners are increasingly choosing to replace their tubs with spacious walk-in showers. A tub-to-shower conversion is one of the highest-impact bathroom upgrades you can make — and when done by a specialist, it can be completed in as few as five days.
Why Convert Your Tub to a Shower?
There are several compelling reasons homeowners make the switch:
- More usable space: A walk-in shower opens up the bathroom and makes daily routines faster and easier.
- Better accessibility: Eliminating the tub ledge makes the bathroom safer for all ages, especially seniors.
- Modern aesthetics: A tiled walk-in shower instantly updates the look of a dated bathroom.
- Home value: Updated bathrooms are consistently among the top features buyers look for.
What Does the Process Look Like?
At Longmont Shower Co, our process is streamlined because shower conversions are all we do. Here's what a typical project looks like:
- Day 1 – Demolition: We carefully remove the old tub, surround, and any damaged drywall or subfloor material.
- Day 2 – Plumbing & Prep: We reroute plumbing as needed and install the new shower base. The subfloor and wall surfaces are prepped for waterproofing.
- Day 3 – Waterproofing: This is the most critical day. We install the Schluter-Kerdi waterproofing membrane across every surface that will be exposed to water. This system provides a lifetime guarantee against leaks.
- Day 4 – Tile Installation: Your chosen tile is set on walls and the shower floor. We take care to ensure precise cuts around niches, fixtures, and corners.
- Day 5 – Fixtures & Finishing: Grout is applied, fixtures are installed, glass doors are set, and a final quality check is performed.
How Much Does It Cost?
In the Longmont and Boulder County area, tub-to-shower conversions typically range from $6,500 for a basic acrylic conversion to $16,000+ for a luxury stone and custom glass enclosure. The biggest factors that affect cost are material choices (acrylic vs. porcelain tile vs. natural stone) and the size of the shower area.
Things to Consider Before Starting
Before committing to a conversion, keep these points in mind:
- Keep at least one tub in the home if you plan to sell. Families with young children still expect at least one bathtub.
- Check your HOA guidelines if applicable. Some communities have requirements about plumbing modifications.
- Plan for ventilation. A properly vented bathroom prevents moisture buildup, which is especially important in Colorado's variable climate.
Why Choose a Specialist?
General contractors handle everything from kitchens to decks. That versatility is great for some projects, but shower waterproofing is an area where specialization matters. A shower that looks beautiful but leaks behind the tile can cause thousands of dollars in structural damage. At Longmont Shower Co, waterproofing is the foundation of every project we do — not an afterthought.
Ready to explore a tub-to-shower conversion for your home? Request a free estimate or call us at (720) 864-1053.