How much does a shower remodel cost?
How much does a shower remodel cost?
$1,500 – $3,000 cost for basic shower refresh
$3,000 – $8,000 mid-range shower renovation cost
$8,000 – $20,000+ high-end shower remodel cost
Average shower remodel cost
A shower remodel costs $3,000 to $8,000 on average, though projects can range from $1,500 for basic updates to $20,000or more for luxury installations. The cost of remodeling a shower varies significantly based on your location, the project size and scope, and the materials and fixtures you choose.
| Shower remodel type | Average cost | Typical features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic shower refresh | $1,500 – $3,000 | New fixtures; shower head; basic tile repair; some prefab units |
| Mid-range renovation | $3,000 – $8,000 | Ceramic tile or quality prefab unit; framed glass door; standard plumbing fixtures |
| High-end custom remodel | $8,000 – $15,000 | Premium tile; frameless glass; custom features; luxury fixtures |
| Luxury spa-style renovation | $15,000 – $20,000+ | Natural stone; steam systems; multiple shower heads; built-in seating |
Cost of remodeling a shower by type
Different shower renovation approaches come with distinct price points and benefits. Use the table below to help you choose the best solution for your budget and needs.
| Shower remodel type | Average cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Prefab shower stall | $1,000 – $8,000 | Budget-conscious homeowners; quick updates |
| Walk-in shower renovation | $1,000 – $15,000+ | Modern aesthetic; accessibility needs; custom design flexibility |
| Shower and tub combo | $2,000 – $9,000 | Family bathrooms; space efficiency |
| Tub-to-shower conversion | $2,000 – $12,000 | Accessibility; modern lifestyle preferences |
| Steam shower installation | $3,000 – $10,000 | Spa experience; health benefits |
Prefab shower stall replacement
Replacing a prefab shower stall costs $1,000 to $8,000 with professional installation. Before labor, the prefabricated insert alone costs $400 to $4,000, depending on the size, material, and what the kit includes. Prefabricated shower unit kits offer quick installation and reliable waterproofing at budget-friendly prices.
Walk-in shower remodel cost
A walk-in shower remodel costs anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the size, type, materials, and features. Prefab walk-in units fall at the low end of the price range, while custom tiling costs, features like built-in benches and shelving, and premium fixtures push costs higher.
Tub-to-shower conversion
Converting a tub to a shower stall costs $2,000 to $12,000 on average, depending on the shower size, type, and material selected. This popular renovation involves demolition, plumbing modifications, and waterproofing. Many homeowners choose a tub-to-shower conversion to improve accessibility or create a more modern bathroom aesthetic that better suits their lifestyle needs.
Steam shower installation
A steam shower costs $3,000 to $10,000 installed on average, transforming your bathroom into a personal spa retreat. Steam showers provide therapeutic benefits while functioning as regular showers for daily use. Custom-built steam showers can range from $4,000 to $16,500+ depending on the features and materials selected.
Shower remodel price factors
Besides the specific type of shower, several factors influence your final shower installation cost:
Labor costs
Labor accounts for 40% to 60% of the total cost to redo a shower. Professionals charge $50 to $150+ per hour to ensure proper waterproofing, plumbing connections, and building code compliance. The scope of the remodel significantly impacts labor expenses and the type of professionals involved:
Demolition and debris removal
Plumbing modifications
Electrical work for lighting and ventilation
Tile removal, installation, and grouting
Fixture installation and testing
Waterproofing and finishing work
Complex projects requiring specialized skills may cost more per hour.
Permits
Permit requirements for a shower remodel vary by location and project scope. Fees can range anywhere from $50 to $2,000+. Simple fixture replacements often don't require permits, while structural changes and plumbing modifications usually do.
Material selection
Your material choices dramatically affect your shower remodel price. Premium materials increase costs but often provide better durability and aesthetics.
| Type | Tile material cost per square foot | Total cost per square foot installed |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic tile | $2 – $20 | $12 – $40 |
| Porcelain tile | $4 – $20 | $15 – $50 |
| Glass tile | $5 – $25 | $20 – $100 |
| Subway tile | $2 – $15 | $7 – $35 |
| Mosaic tile | $3 – $25 | $10 – $50 |
| Natural stone tile | $3 – $15 | $10 – $50 |
| Marble tile | $5 – $25 | $20 – $65 |
| Granite tile | $6 – $15 | $20 – $65 |
| Limestone tile | $8 – $25 | $25 – $60 |
| Slate tile | $4 – $10 | $10 – $40 |
| Travertine tile | $7 – $15 | $17 – $35 |
*Most tile setters charge a $500 to $750 minimum.
Plumbing and electrical modifications
Updating plumbing and electrical systems adds significant expense to your project. New plumbing costs $1,500 to $3,500 on average for shower renovation. Keeping the existing plumbing connections saves substantial money compared to relocating fixtures.
Shower size and layout
Larger showers require more materials and labor, increasing overall costs. Changing your shower's footprint involves additional plumbing and framing work. The table below shows standard shower sizes and their typical costs:
| Shower size | Average remodel cost |
|---|---|
| 32" x 32" compact shower | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| 36" x 48" standard shower | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| 48" x 60" large shower | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Custom oversized shower | $5,000 – $15,000+ |
Hidden issues and repairs
Older showers often conceal problems that increase renovation costs. Additional expenses, such as mold remediation and water damage repair, can significantly increase the cost of remodeling a shower.
Common hidden issues include:
Water damage behind walls
Mold and mildew remediation
Structural repairs
Outdated plumbing that needs replacement
Electrical upgrades for modern fixtures
Individual component costs
Breaking down your shower renovation cost by component can help you understand where your money goes and identify potential savings opportunities. The table below shows the average cost for various shower components.
| Component | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Shower doors & enclosures | |
| Standard framed door | $400 – $1,100 |
| Semi-frameless door | $500 – $1,600 |
| Frameless glass door | $600 – $1,900 |
| Custom frameless door | $1,400 – $3,300+ |
| Fixtures & features | |
| Basic shower head | $200 – $900 |
| High-end shower head / luxury fixtures | $650 – $1,500+ |
| Digital shower controls | $500 – $2,000 |
| Steam shower system | $2,900 – $16,500 |
| Shower pan | $500 – $3,500 |
| Grab bars | $100 – $350+ each |
| Bath exhaust fan | $150 – $950 |
| Built-in seating or shelving | $250 - $1,000 |
Shower remodel FAQs
Are one-day shower remodels worth it?
One-day shower remodels may be worth it for homeowners wanting a quick update with minimal disruption. These services install prefab units or acrylic liners over existing showers. While convenient, they provide fewer customization options and may not address underlying issues like water damage or outdated plumbing.
How long does a shower remodel take?
Remodeling a shower takes 3 to 7 days on average once the materials are ordered and delivered. Material availability, contractor schedules, and project complexity all affect the completion time. Custom tile work also requires additional curing that may extend the timeline.
Factors affecting the project duration include:
Permit approval process
Material delivery schedules
Shower demolition and surface prep
Hidden repairs discovered during demolition
Custom fabrication requirements
Weather conditions for ventilation
What's included in a typical shower remodel cost?
Most shower remodel estimates include demolition, materials, labor, basic plumbing connections, and cleanup. Additional costs may include permits, electrical work, and unexpected repairs.
Getting estimates for a shower remodel
When searching for bathroom remodelers near you for your shower remodel, be sure to:
Contact at least three licensed bathroom remodeling contractors.
Request detailed written estimates breaking down materials and labor.
Verify each contractor's licenses, insurance, and references.
Ask about warranty coverage on workmanship and materials.
Inquire about the project timeline and payment schedules.
Check remodeling contractor reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Visit showrooms to see your material options and quality levels.
Discuss potential additional costs for hidden issues.
Questions to ask a shower remodel pro
Asking the right questions helps you evaluate contractors and avoid potential problems during your renovation:
How many shower remodels have you completed this year?
Can you provide references from recent shower renovation projects?
What permits will be required, and who will obtain them?
How do you handle unexpected issues like water damage or mold?
What warranty do you provide on workmanship and materials?
Who performs the plumbing and electrical work?
How do you protect the rest of my home during demolition?
What happens if project timelines extend beyond the estimate?
Do you carry liability insurance and worker's compensation?
How do you handle change orders and additional costs?
What payment schedule do you require?
Can you provide a detailed timeline for project completion?
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.