Bathroom Conversion NYC

Converting Your NYC Apartment Bathtub into a Walk-In Shower

April 25, 2013

Real estate professionals recommend that you delay converting a tub into a shower if your apartment only has one bathtub, since this may reduce the resale value of the property (the majority of buyers want at least one full bathroom with shower/tub fixture). However, having an extra bathtub that you want remodeled into a walk-in shower represents the perfect scenario in which to begin planning your renovation project.

Steps to Take
The best and most productive way to begin the conversion process is to consult with a professional remodeling contractor who has experience with bathroom remodeling techniques, construction and material use. Consider the size of your existing tub as well. Be aware that the more narrow the tub, the smaller your new walk-in shower may feel. But, your bathroom may gain space as a result of an upright, walk-in shower needing less horizontal dimensions.

What sort of enclosure to you want? Frosted glass is a popular option but other trendy enclosure choices include doors made of acrylic, fiberglass and fabric. Fabric enclosures allow you to easily change the decor of your bathroom while enclosures constructed of semi-transparent, etched materials can add the special kind of sleek elegance to your new bathroom.

Space restrictions may limit your options as to what type of walk-shower you can install. An expert contractor will take dimensions of the space in which your bathtub currently sits as well as notes regarding any odd fixture placements or plumbing anomalies. With this information, he or she can suggest what style of walk-in shower would be most suitable for your bathroom.

Conversion Costs
Generally, converting a bathtub to walk-in takes around three or four weeks, unless unforeseen issues arise during the remodeling process. While the average cost ranges from $8000 to $12,000, this estimate is subject to an increase or decrease, depending on materials used, problems encountered and whether any last minute decisions are made concerning the project. Moreover, custom glass enclosures are more expensive than factory made and may cost several thousand dollars more than premade enclosures.

Benefits of Walk-In Showers
Increased safety is just one of the many benefits gained by converting your bathtub area into a walk-shower. Instead of stepping over the edge of a slippery bathtub, you simply step into the shower and steady yourself with safety rails while adjusting water strength and temperature. Disabled and elderly people will find it much easier to place small chair inside a walk-in to facilitate showering as opposed to setting a seat in a narrow bathtub.

Since you won’t be taking any more tub baths, water “rings” and calcium build-up no longer need your attention every week. Glass enclosures also inhibit bacterial growth and are easy to wipe off after showering with a handheld squeegee.

Additionally, most NYC apartment dwellers find that by getting rid of their old bathtub and replacing with a modern walk-shower, the available space in the bathroom increases dramatically, allowing them to further initiate much-needed renovations.