Tub to Shower Conversion Future

The Question

One of the biggest questions we get during a master bath design is whether to remove the tub. Ultimately it comes down to how you live: do you actually soak, or would a larger, safer, low-threshold shower serve you better? Houzz polling suggests roughly 50% of homeowners replace the tub with a shower, and we see the same in both remodels and new construction—many builders now offer a larger primary shower in place of a deck tub.

Is Removing the Bathtub a Trend?

If it is, it’s not going away. Among the thousands of consults we’ve done, the most common refrain is: “We never use the tub—we just shower in it.” Most realtors we speak with agree: as long as you keep one bathtub somewhere in the home, you’re free to choose a shower in the primary bath without hurting appeal. Families with young children typically use the home’s remaining tub; everyone else prefers the convenience (and space) of a true shower.

Benefits of Replacing Your Tub With a Shower

• Safety first. Stepping over a 15–18″ tub wall is where many accidents happen. A low-threshold shower lowers that step and supports grab bars and a bench for safer daily use. If accessibility is a goal, a tub-to-shower conversion is one of the highest-impact upgrades you can make.
• More usable space. Tubs have sloped sides and thick rims that steal standing room. A properly sized shower pan increases both width and depth, so two people can move comfortably. (Notice how most modern hotels prioritize showers for this exact reason.)
• Cleaner, faster, easier. No tub ledge to collect grime, easier glass to squeegee, and fewer hard-to-reach corners. Daily maintenance goes way down.
• Design freedom. Go frameless glass for an airy feel, add niches, a corner bench, or a floating teak seat. Finish the walls in solid surface for no-grout convenience or tile for a tailored look—your call.
• Future-proofing. Planning to age in place? A curbless or low-curb shower with blocking for future grab bars lets your bath adapt as needs change.

Smart Considerations Before You Pull the Tub

• Keep one tub in the home. If you have only one bathroom and small children, consider keeping a tub elsewhere for versatility and resale.
• Drain sizing & plumbing. Showers typically require a 2″ drain for proper flow. Conversions often include upsizing from a 1.5″ tub drain—budget for that rough-in.
• Waterproofing matters. Ask your contractor about the membrane system, flood testing, and pan slope. Proper details prevent leaks and protect your home.
• Glass & privacy. Doorless designs are sleek but can feel drafty; partial glass returns or low sills balance openness and splash control.
• Timeline & scope. A straightforward conversion is often 1–2 weeks; add time for plumbing relocation or a larger full remodel.

Popular Design Upgrades We Recommend

• Built-in bench or floating seat for comfort and accessibility
• Recessed niches sized for tall bottles, with accent tile
• Dual showering (rain + handheld on a slide bar for daily practicality)
• Low-iron frameless glass for a bright, open look
• Solid-surface surrounds for no-grout maintenance or large-format tile for a luxury vibe

Bottom Line

If you don’t soak, a larger, safer shower will serve you every single day. Keep one tub elsewhere if you can, then make your primary bath the retreat you’ll actually use. Browse real transformations in our before-and-after gallery, or start a quick plan for your space with our tub-to-shower conversion team.

FAQ: Removing the Tub for a Larger Shower

Q: Will removing my primary tub hurt resale?
A: Not if you keep at least one bathtub elsewhere in the home. Most buyers value a modern primary shower; families with small children want a tub somewhere.

Q: How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost?
A: Typical projects run $7,500–$15,000 depending on size, surround, glass, and features like a bench or niches.

Q: How long does it take?
A: A straightforward conversion is usually 1–2 weeks; add time for plumbing relocation or a full primary bath remodel.

Q: What makes the shower safer than a tub?
A: Lower step-in, flat standing surface, and the ability to add grab bars and a seat reduce fall risk compared with stepping over a high tub wall.

Q: Can I see examples before I decide?
A: Yes—check our before & after gallery for layouts, finishes, and real-world conversions.