The average shower remodel cost is around $3,100 and $10,000, with a national average of $6,500. Remodeling your shower can give your bathroom a new look and make the space more comfortable.

Shower Remodel Cost Factors to Consider

Many factors will influence the overall cost of a shower remodel. Mostly, it will depend on the scope of the project.

Shower Size and Type

A new type of shower involves many factors that affect the overall price of the remodel. Some of these factors have to do with the quality of the materials (if you go for affordable or luxury ones) and the previous layout of your bathroom.

Prefabricated shower. Prefab showers have an average price between $200 and $8,000. These models are prefabricated kits that include the shower and fixtures. They are an excellent option for low-budget remodels and are available in various styles.Walk-in shower. The walk-in shower cost is around $400 and $8,500. They are easy to navigate in and out, which makes them friendly to people with mobility issues. The average price ranges from low to high because customization options allow one to choose affordable materials.Tub-and-shower combo. Tub-and-shower combinations have an average price of $3000. A factor that can elevate their price would be the tub’s location. Also, the price increases if you start from scratch, adding waterproof drywall and plumbing costs.Bathtub-to-shower conversion. A tub-to-shower conversion has an average cost of $1,200 and $3,600. These prices can increase because of the demolition of the old bathtub.

Bathroom Condition

The installers will take into consideration the bathroom condition when budgeting the remodel. Older bathrooms deteriorate and show outdated galvanized or lead pipes, water damage or mold behind the walls. Considering these repairs will elevate the total price if you live in a house 30 years and older.

Materials

The market offers a wide range of materials for bathroom shower remodeling, each varying in price. The selection made by homeowners depends on their specific bathroom project and the particular needs of their showers. Here are some shower remodel materials prices:

A shower head – $20 to $500A shower door – $475 to $1,359Shower tiles – $315 to $6,000

Labor

The average labor cost for a custom shower installation ranges between $4,000 and $8,000. The total cost will depend on the scope of the project and any add-ons considered for the project. Many professionals, such as tile installers, contractors, plumbers, and electricians, can be involved in shower remodeling. The price of their labor hour will vary.

Scope of Work

The remodeling of a shower has many factors that depend on the project’s scope. This scope ranges from changing the curtains to doors to expand the size of the shower, inserting a tub or even starting a bathroom from scratch. When scoping a complete bathroom remodel, the shower takes about 5% to 25% of the total budget.

Additional Costs to Consider

The main factors determining a shower remodel’s price are the size, materials, and labor costs. Additional features and customizations can also impact the final cost.

Permits

When remodeling a shower, some municipalities have their particular policies with permits. The permits for a bathroom remodel can cost between $175 and $2,000.

Repairs

Any repairs that need to be done before installing the new shower will elevate the overall price. Here are the most common ones found when uninstalling an old shower:

Plumbing – $600 to $1,600Mold problems – $1,100 to $3,400Water heater – $1,300 to $5,500Electrical issues – $100 to $700

Fixtures and Accessories

Adding features and accessories is an option when remodeling the shower. The most common shower add-ons are the following:

Steam shower – $4,000 to $10,000Rainfall showerhead – $25 to $250Bi-fold glass shower doors – $800 to $2,000Frameless shower door – $900 to $2,300Dual showerheads – $100 to $1,000

Old Shower Removal

Removing and disposing of the existing shower can cost around $70 and $800. This process includes striping out the old shower, renting a dumpster and paying for the disposal. Sometimes, contractors remove the tiles carefully so they can be reused or resold. The same goes for solid cast-iron tubes that can be reused.

Layout Changes

Different layout changes may be necessary for the installation of the new shower. One is wall removal, which averages between $500 to $2,000. The wiring can cost $50 to $130 per labor hour if installing lights or electricals. All these changes increase the budget by adding materials, labor hours, and days to the project.

Customizations

Customizing showers has an average price of $4,000 and $8,000. The costs can go higher when adding more features or choosing luxury materials.

You can customize almost everything in a shower remodel. The material of the tiles ranges from ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone to glass tiles. Depending on the bathroom’s aesthetics, the prices of the shower fixture you need to match it with can vary. You can also add storage solutions like built-in niches or shelves.

Shower Remodel Cost: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

There are many small DIY features you can work on for DIY shower removal. For example, installing new tile for your shower or swapping out your tub and shower fixtures. However, they require knowledge and skills. Otherwise, you may be prone to leaks or plumbing problems.

When hiring professional contractors for shower remodeling, you ensure the remodel work will last for years. Professional contractors have the expertise and knowledge to handle and install the materials. Also, they are familiar with the latest industry standards and building codes. This guarantees that your remodel will meet all necessary regulations and safety requirements.

Bottom Line

Whether you are remodeling your shower or starting a bathroom from scratch, the project’s overall price will depend on its scope, materials and add-ons. It may seem like a lot, but flexible options exist to set an affordable budget. A shower remodel can increase your home’s value and improve the safety of your bathroom.

FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a whole shower?

The average price of shower remodels is $3,100 to $10,000. If you’re replacing a whole shower, you can expect a cost closer to the higher one. Replacing an entire shower includes removing and disposing of the old shower, which can cost around $70 and $800. Also, any plumbing modifications can cost around $600 and $1,600. Also, consider any needed repairs or new features or add-ons.

What is the least expensive way to redo a shower?

The least expensive way to redo a shower is by chasing the materials with the lowest costs. However, this doesn’t mean you have to opt for low-quality materials. You can balance your budget with luxury fixtures and mid-quality ones. The materials are the most flexible items to save money while remodeling your shower.

The most affordable type of shower in the market is the prefabricated shower, with an average price between $200 and $8,000. Another way to lower the costs is to determine what tasks you can DIY in your bathroom remodel.

What is the average cost for a custom shower?

Custom showers have an average price of $4,000 and $8,000. Considering almost anything is customizable on a shower remodel, the costs can go higher when adding more features or choosing luxury materials.

Why is shower remodeling so expensive?

Shower remodeling can be expensive when many factors are in play. For example, if the plumbing or the walls need repairs, you’ll need more materials and be paying more labor hours. If you choose high-quality or luxury materials and consider features like steam or bi-fold glass shower doors, expect the price to increase. However, there are ways to lower your bathroom remodel cost.