Waking up late and rushing to get ready in a cramped, outdated bathroom is one of the most stressful ways to start your day. With historic homes and classic Victorian architecture lining Denver’s streets, tight or outdated spaces are a frustrating everyday reality for many homeowners.
To combat the issue, bathtub-to-shower conversions are quickly becoming one of the city’s most popular bathroom remodeling trends. They offer an easy way to make bathrooms more functional, modern, and easier to use, without taking away from the charm of your home’s original design.
But before you take on the project, you might be wondering if it’s really worth it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of a tub-to-shower conversion, exploring its cost, convenience, and impact on your resale value, to help you decide whether it’s a worthwhile investment for your Colorado home.
Why Homeowners in Denver Are Converting Bathtubs to Showers
Denver’s known for its charming architecture, with historic Victorian and Craftsman homes lining the streets of neighborhoods like The Highlands and Washington Park. While these classic home styles bring character to the area, they can also pose some challenges.
Tight spaces, aging fixtures, and outdated layouts can make your bathroom feel cramped and inconvenient, especially as you get ready for a busy day at work or need a quick shower after an early morning jog. These hassles are prompting many Denver homeowners to consider remodeling their bathrooms, replacing dated bathtubs with spacious walk-in showers.
With added space and the convenience of modern features, this simple upgrade can make your bathroom feel brighter, larger, and more low-maintenance. You won’t have to worry about maneuvering around a tub as you rush to get ready for a show at Red Rocks or waiting for a bath to fill after a morning hike at the nearby foothills.
Pros of a Bathtub-to-Shower Conversion
There’s no need for major renovations to make your bathroom feel brand-new. A tub-to-shower conversion can quickly make your space feel fresh and modern, offering benefits like:
- Added space and accessibility: Showers take up less floor space than bathtubs and offer the option to add seating, grab bars, and handheld showerheads for easier use.
- Contemporary style: Sleek glass doors, custom tiles, and updated fixtures can give your bathroom a modern look, without taking away from the classic charm of your home.
- Increased home value: Updated bathrooms can be a major selling point for buyers and increase your home’s resale value.
- Easier maintenance: Grout-free tiles, streak-free surfaces, and mold-resistant materials make modern showers easier to clean and maintain.
- Water savings: Showering uses less water than bathing, helping to lower your utility bills and make your home more eco-friendly.
Cons to Consider
Before you jump into the remodel, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Switching from a bathtub to a shower can:
- Affect your resale value: While many buyers prefer modern, walk-in showers, some families with young kids can see the lack of a bathtub as a downside.
- Be costly: Projects that require extensive plumbing work, structural adjustments, or high-end materials can make a tub-to-shower upgrade a significant investment.
- Require extensive planning: In Denver, bathtub-to-shower conversions can require plumbing permits and water line updates, making preparation and coordination with experienced contractors essential.
- Be inconvenient: Tub-to-shower conversions can take anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks to complete, so you’ll have to make adjustments to your routine until the project is complete.
How Much Does a Bathtub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Denver?
Bathtub-to-shower conversions are a relatively cost-effective way to boost your home’s convenience and resale value. Your total bill depends on factors like your tile choice, shower design, and added features. Here’s a look at the average cost of tub-to-shower conversions for local homeowners:
- Basic conversions: $3,000-$7,000
- Mid-range remodels: $7,000-$12,000
- Luxury walk-in showers: $12,000 or more
Projects that require structural work, plumbing changes, or permits may incur additional fees. For the most accurate estimate, contact a licensed Denver bathroom remodeling contractor like Squeak’s. We can assess your current bathroom layout, recommend the best design options, and provide a clear, up-front quote so you know exactly what to expect.
How to Decide if It’s Worth It
If you’re on the fence about your bathroom remodeling project, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is your outdated bathroom getting in the way of your daily routine? If your current setup is slowing down your day or making early mornings more frustrating, a new shower can be a stress-free solution.
- What budget do you have set aside for the conversion? Consider the cost of materials, labor, permits, and potential inspections to weigh whether the project is realistic for your finances.
- Do you plan on selling your home? Modern upgrades can make your home more appealing, increase its resale value, and make it easier to sell in Denver’s competitive housing market.
- Is a shower a more practical option for your future? Showers offer added accessibility for aging household members, while bathtubs may be more convenient for young kids and pets.
- Are you prepared for a remodeling project? Even a simple bathtub-to-shower conversion involves construction, plumbing delays, and permitting requirements that can put your days on hold.
Choosing a Trusted Denver Contractor
A bathtub-to-shower conversion isn’t a simple DIY project. For a safe, compliant conversion, you’ll need to hire a local plumbing expert to handle the job. When searching for a trusted contractor near you, do your research and ask the right questions. Hiring the wrong plumber can quickly turn an exciting home update into a costly and inconvenient headache.
Before hiring a Denver plumbing company for the remodel:
- Ask them about their licensing and insurance.
- Check their BBB ratings.
- Read reviews from other local homeowners.
- Ask about their experience with tub-to-shower conversions.
- Explore their portfolio to see examples of their work.
Denver has specific plumbing codes and permitting requirements for bathroom remodels. Always make sure your contractor is familiar with local regulations and has experience with your specific project. A qualified plumber should handle all necessary permitting and arrange inspections with Denver Water if necessary.
Call Squeak’s to Start Your Bathroom Remodel Today
Upgrading from an outdated tub to a sleek new shower is a quick way to increase the comfort, efficiency, and value of your Denver home. You’ll have less maintenance to worry about, more space to move around, and breeze through your morning routine on those busy days before hitting the trails or heading downtown for work. But if you’re thinking of starting a family or have young children at home, you may want to think twice.
Thinking of making the switch? Contact our local experts at Squeak’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air to learn more. We’ll discuss your project, walk you through your options, and help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your home. Our local experts have years of experience helping Denver homeowners with modern upgrades that transform their bathrooms into functional spaces that complement their home’s classic charm.
