How much does a shower insert cost?
How much does a shower insert cost?
$400 – $4,100 average cost (materials only)
$1,000 – $8,000 average installed cost
Average cost of a shower insert
A prefabricated shower insert costs $400 to $4,100 on average for the materials alone or $1,000 to $8,000 with professional installation from a plumber or contractor. Final costs vary widely depending on the material you choose, your shower's size, what the kit includes, and whether you customize anything.
| Insert material | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $400 – $2,000 |
| Acrylic | $550 – $2,000 |
| Composite | $700 – $2,400 |
| Cultured marble | $1,900 – $3,700 |
| Barrier-free | $2,000 – $4,100 |
*Not including installation
Fiberglass inserts are the least expensive option but are also the least durable.
Acrylic inserts are affordable, scratch-resistant, and more durable than fiberglass.
Composite or solid surface inserts are more expensive than fiberglass and acrylic but are more durable.
Cultured marble inserts are a man-made stone made of marble dust, resin, and pigments. It mimics real marble but costs less and is easy to clean.
Barrier-free inserts, also called curbless or zero-entry showers, do not have a raised curb or lip at the shower entry. This option is sleek, modern, and an excellent choice for people with mobility issues.
Shower insert cost factors
Installing a prefabricated shower insert costs less than building a tile shower from scratch. However, the process is still difficult and time-consuming, so labor costs make up a good portion of the total cost.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $400 – $4,100 |
| Installation labor | $600 – $3,900 |
| Average total cost | $1,000 – $8,000 |
Several other factors influence the cost of installing a shower insert:
Labor fees: Professional plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience level and the local cost of living.
Installation complexity: The time it takes to install a shower insert varies based on the complexity of the installation. Some plumbers charge more in labor fees to work in smaller, harder-to-access areas.
Door: Some shower insert kits come with a door, while others don't. Glass shower doors cost $600 to $1,900 with professional installation or $400 to $1,100 for materials alone.
Shower pan: Like shower doors, some insert kits do not come with shower pans or floors. A prefabricated shower pan costs $500 to $1,550 installed.
Extra features: Shower inserts with add-ons like a seat, grab bar, or shelving cost more than average. Premium features like frameless glass or rolling doors also cost more.
Repairs: If the plumber needs to fix anything before they install the insert, shower repair costs $70 to $150 or more for replacing parts.
The average shower remodel costs $400 to $3,000 for partial fixes or $3,500 to $15,000 for a large or custom walk-in project. Using a prefab shower insert can help save money on remodeling projects.
Popular shower insert companies
There are several companies that install shower and bathtub inserts, often in as little as one day. However, they charge more than average due to quick turnaround times, custom options, and brand recognition.
| Company | Average total cost |
|---|---|
| Bath Fitter cost | $3,000 – $7,500 |
| Re-Bath cost | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Bath Planet cost | $6,000 – $17,000 |
Cost of tile shower vs. insert
A new shower costs anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the type, size, and whether it's prefabricated or custom. A standard stand-up tile shower costs $800 to $3,000 on average and up to $10,000 for a large walk-in shower and high-end tile.
The cost to remove a shower insert and replace it with tile is $800 to $2,600 for the walls alone, not including the shower pan or floor.
| Factor | Shower insert | Tile shower |
|---|---|---|
| Cost with installation | $1,000 – $8,000 | $800 – $10,000 |
| Lifespan | 10 – 25 years | 40 – 50+ years |
| Installation timeline | 1 – 2 days | 3 – 4 days |
| Style options | Minimal customization options | Customizable but costly |
| Maintenance | Easy; no grout lines | Grout requires cleaning & sealing. |
Shower insert FAQs
Can you paint a shower insert?
Experts don't recommend painting a shower insert, as inserts often made from materials like fiberglass or acrylic that paint doesn't adhere to well. However, you may be able to use specialized epoxy paint designed for tubs and showers.
If you decide to paint it yourself, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and ventilate properly. Painting may not be as durable as replacing the insert altogether, so consider this before proceeding.
What are shower inserts made of?
Shower inserts are made of materials like fiberglass, acrylic, and composite. Fiberglass is cost-effective but prone to scratches. Acrylic is a little more durable and scratch resistant.
Composite or solid surface materials are non-porous, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Cultured marble is a pricier option but offers durability and water resistance.
Can you install a shower insert over tile?
Yes, you can install a shower surround over existing tile. Gluing the insert directly over the tile using a strong adhesive is a common practice for cosmetic renovations when the tile is in good condition but aesthetically outdated. However, if the tile is damaged or not securely attached, it may be better to remove it before installing the insert.
Can you tile over a shower insert?
Experts do not recommend installing tile over a shower insert because it can create issues with water leakage and structural integrity. If you want to enhance the area around the insert, consider tiling the walls beside or above it.
Getting estimates from shower installers
Follow these tips to get accurate estimates from qualified plumbers or shower installers near you:
Reach out to multiple contractors to compare quotes, services, and pricing.
Provide detailed information about the project to ensure an accurate estimate.
Check reviews on HomeGuide and Google to gauge their reliability and quality of work.
Ask about their experience with shower inserts and request references or examples of similar projects they've completed.
Clarify whether the plumber charges a flat fee or an hourly rate, and inquire about any potential extra costs, like service charges or materials, to avoid unexpected expenses.
Questions to ask about shower inserts
An experienced plumber or service provider should be able to answer these questions before they start:
What are the dimensions of the shower insert? Will it fit my existing space?
What shower insert materials do you recommend? How durable are they?
What is the total cost of the installation, including materials and labor?
How long will the installation process take?
What kind of waterproofing do you use to prevent leaks?
Are there any specific plumbing requirements or adjustments needed for the shower insert?
What kind of maintenance does the insert require to keep the shower clean and functional?
Do you provide any warranties or guarantees for the installation and materials?
Can you give any references or examples of similar installations you have completed?
Are you properly licensed and insured?
What are the payment terms? Do you offer financing?
How will you protect the surrounding bathroom area during installation?
Do any local building codes or regulations apply to this installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.