How Long Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Take?

How Long Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Take?

One of the most common questions homeowners in Raleigh, Durham, and the Triangle area ask us is: "How long will it take to convert my bathtub into a walk-in shower?" It's a fair question. Nobody wants their only bathroom out of commission for weeks on end.

At Showerly, most tub-to-shower conversions are completed in 5 to 7 working days. That timeline covers everything from demolition to the final walk-through. Here's exactly what happens during each phase so you know what to expect.

Day 1-2: Demolition and Rough-In

Removing the Old Tub

Our in-house crew starts by carefully removing the existing bathtub, surrounding tile or surround panels, and any damaged drywall or backer board. We protect your floors and hallways with drop cloths and plastic sheeting.

Plumbing Rough-In

Once the tub is out, our plumber reconfigures the drain location and supply lines for your new shower layout. If you're switching from a tub valve to a shower valve, this is when that work happens.

Day 3-4: Waterproofing and Tile Preparation

Schluter KERDI Waterproofing System

This is where Showerly stands apart from most contractors. We install the Schluter KERDI waterproofing membrane on every shower we build. This bonded waterproofing layer prevents moisture from reaching your wall studs and subfloor, eliminating the risk of mold and structural damage.

Many contractors skip this step or use paint-on waterproofing that degrades over time. Our KERDI system comes with a lifetime warranty from Schluter Systems.

Cement Board and Mud Bed

We install cement backer board on the walls and create a properly sloped mud bed for the shower floor. The slope ensures water flows directly to the drain without pooling.

Day 5-6: Tile Installation

Real Tile, Not Acrylic

Showerly uses real porcelain or ceramic tile on every project. We never install acrylic panels or fiberglass surrounds. Real tile gives your shower a premium look, lasts decades longer, and adds genuine value to your home.

Our tile installers typically complete the walls in one day and the floor the following day. This includes any shower niches or built-in shelves you've selected.

Grout and Caulk

After the tile sets, we apply grout between the tiles and silicone caulk at all change-of-plane joints. We use high-quality sanded grout with built-in sealer for lasting durability.

Day 7: Fixtures, Glass, and Final Walk-Through

Installing Your Fixtures

Your new shower valve trim, shower head, and any accessories like grab bars or towel hooks are installed. We carry a range of finishes including matte black, brushed nickel, and chrome.

Glass Enclosure

If you've selected a frameless or semi-frameless glass enclosure, it's typically installed on the final day. Some glass orders require a separate measurement visit, which can add a few days to the overall timeline.

Quality Gate Final Inspection

Before we consider the project complete, our crew lead walks through a detailed Quality Gates checklist. This covers waterproofing verification, tile alignment, grout consistency, fixture function, and overall finish quality.

Factors That Can Extend the Timeline

Several factors may add a day or two to the standard timeline:

• •Structural repairs: If we find water damage or rot behind the old tub, those repairs come first.
• •Custom tile patterns: Herringbone, chevron, or mosaic designs require more cutting and fitting time.
• •Accessibility features: Adding a curbless entry or bench seat involves additional waterproofing and slope work.
• •Permit inspections: Some municipalities require a plumbing inspection before we can close up walls.

How Showerly Keeps Projects on Schedule

Our scope-locked pricing model means your project scope is defined before Day 1. There are no mid-project change orders inflating the timeline or budget. Our in-house crew handles every trade, so we don't wait on subcontractor availability.

We offer three packages to fit your needs:

• •Essential Package ($6K): Quality shower conversion with standard tile and fixtures
• •Signature Package ($9K): Upgraded tile selections, premium fixtures, and design details
• •Masterpiece Package ($12K): Top-tier materials, custom design, and luxury finishes

Ready to Start Your Conversion?

Most Raleigh-Durham homeowners are surprised by how quickly a tub-to-shower conversion can be completed when the crew and materials are ready on Day 1. If you're considering a conversion, schedule a free consultation or call us at (984) 895-0101 to discuss your project timeline.

View our completed projects to see real tub-to-shower transformations from Triangle homeowners just like you.