Bathroom Remodeling: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Build a Walk-In Shower

Bathroom Remodeling: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you find yourself deep-diving into home improvement shows, blogs, and magazines that have you dreaming of a new bathroom design, it’s time to consider a bathroom renovation. A home bathroom remodel is a great opportunity to create the perfect space that suits your taste and needs. Ideally, your bathroom design should reflect your lifestyle. If you prefer the convenience of a quick shower over a time-consuming bath, a tub-to-shower conversion might be the right bathroom remodeling project for you. Converting an unused bathtub to a luxurious walk-in shower will not only enhance the beauty and functionality of your bathroom, but also increase the value of your home.

Of course, building a walk-in shower will provide many benefits—but it is also a fairly extensive bathroom renovation. Like most home improvement projects, it’s important to consider what you’re looking for and whether a bit of expert help might be needed. If you’re wondering whether this is a DIY project or one that is best left to a professional bathroom remodeler, here are some factors to consider:

Your Skill Level

A tub-to-shower conversion may be a viable DIY option if you are comfortable working with plumbing and framing walls. For instance, you’ll need the skills and expertise to:

  • Remove walls to access the plumbing system
  • Apply waterproof sheeting to walls and floors
  • Rebuild walls will moisture-resistant drywall
  • Install a drain
  • Pour mortar to build a shower pan
  • Relocate plumbing pipes, if necessary
  • Cover the shower walls with a waterproof material

Your Familiarity With Building Codes

Did you know that your new shower will need to be built in accordance with certain building codes, which vary by locality? For instance, there must be adequate space—a minimum of 30 inches—between bathroom fixtures. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) suggests a minimum size of 36 inches by 36 inches for a walk-in shower. What’s more, to create the necessary drainage slope for a barrier-free shower, you’ll need to raise the level of the surrounding floor or lower the shower pan. The latter may require a permit from your city’s building department.

Professional bathroom remodelers are well-versed in these requirements. If you’re going to go it alone, you’ll need to become familiar with them, too.

The Warranty Coverage

Many manufacturers honor their warranties only on products installed by a certified professional. This is an important consideration because repairing or replacing a walk-in shower can be a costly endeavor. A high-quality bathroom remodel contractor will be able to provide a warranty and explain what it covers to make sure you get the peace of mind you need.

Turn to the Professionals

When it comes to making the best possible investment in your home, a professional job really is the best option for your bathroom remodel. If you’ve concluded that hiring a professional bathroom remodeling company is the right decision for you, entrust your project to BathWraps! Our bathroom remodel solutions help you create your ideal bathroom space without the inconvenience of a traditional renovation. Our acrylic walk-in showers:

  • Are easy to maintain and will never crack or fade
  • Contain built-in antimicrobial protection to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria
  • Can be customized with your choice of tile colors and patterns for a look that is unique to your home
  • Are available with additional accessories for storage space
  • Can be built with added safety and accessibility features like grab bars and built-in seating for any elderly or mobility-impaired individuals within your home

The best part about a BathWraps shower installation? We can complete a tub-to-shower conversion in as little as one day! Forget about having to give up the use of your bathroom for an extended period of time as you would with a full bathroom remodel and get to enjoying your luxurious bathroom more quickly, without any major interruptions to your routine. What’s more, we will guarantee your new shower for as long as you own your current home.

Ready to begin? Click here to find an authorized BathWraps dealer near you.