Before planning and picking out materials, here are some common shower conversion mistakes to avoid.

Drains, Steam, and Lighting

There are a few plumbing and design issues that can come up when converting your tub to a shower.

Too often, the small details and everyday logistics that can cause problems when doing a shower conversion get overlooked. These details make the difference between getting the shower you wanted or getting the shower you’re stuck with. The devil is in the details, and the details can make or break your project.

Drains

One of the first things you need to test out is your drainage system. In a tub, you aren’t worried about water draining quickly, but it matters with a walk-in shower.

An inadequate drain can ruin the otherwise perfect shower experience. An ineffective drain means dangerous puddles and slippery floors. If the drain doesn’t work properly, the shower can quickly become a safety hazard.

Steam

Steam poses a potential problem you may not have encountered with your tub.

Long, hot, luxurious showers are exactly what you want from your new space. But if the steam has nowhere to go, it quickly becomes an issue that can cause unwanted moisture buildup.

Unchecked humidity can lead to:

• Water damage
• Mold growth
• Bacteria growth

Ensure that your bathroom has an adequate fan—or even a window—to keep the steam at bay and prevent these problems before they ever arise.

Lighting

Adding a floor-to-ceiling shower impacts the way light works in your space. Lighting is also naturally dimmed by shower steam, which can make this even more of a challenge.

A poorly lit bathroom can cause injuries, accidents, as well as creating the feeling that your shower is a gloomy place. It’s important to take this into account right from the beginning by determining whether you need additional lighting based on the design of your new bathroom.

Choose the Right Contractor

Choosing the wrong contractor can be an incredibly costly mistake in your shower conversion project (or any kind of bathroom remodel). Making this choice can be an overwhelming process, but it doesn’t need to be. 

There are 6 things to look for when choosing a contractor.

1. License and insurance 
2. Warranties 
3. Past work 
4. Years in business
5. Reviews/testimonials
6. Suppliers

Know What You Want

Ultimately, the best way to avoid mistakes and mishaps is by planning thoroughly before starting your shower conversion project:

• What is the smartest way to approach your space?
• What do you want when it comes to design?
• How can you maximize safety?
• How should accessibility concerns be taken into account?

When you take the time to answer these important questions, it will be easier to find the right contractor for your bathroom. A little pre-work will allow you to move forward confidently with every decision. 

The renovation process will go smoothly with a clear plan. 

Knowing what you are looking for and what you want will influence your project from start to finish.

Technicians at Five Star Bath Solutions

We work to check off every box. Here’s what you get with all Five Star Bath Solutions technicians:

• Fully licensed and insured
• Transferable, lifetime warranty
• Before and after photos of past work
• Combined 50 years of experience
• An average customer rating of 4.9 stars based on tens of thousands of reviews
• Access to the best materials money can buy
• Trained and certified by Five Star Bath Solutions
• Drug screens and background checks

In Summary

Converting your old tub into a luxurious new shower can be the best thing you’ve ever done for your bathroom. Contrary to commonly-held beliefs, it doesn’t need to be hard!

After reading this guide, you know where to start and what the next step is for every part of the process.

You’re even armed with a few pro tips and tricks to make sure your project goes smoothly!