The installation sequence
Process for removing a tub and installing a shower
Understanding the construction phases helps in planning the timeline for your bathroom renovation.
- 1
Demolition and preparation
Existing fixtures are removed, and the wall cavity is inspected for moisture damage to the subfloor or wall studs.
- 2
Plumbing and drainage
Because showers require different drain sizes than standard bathtubs, the waste pipe is often relocated or resized.
- 3
Waterproofing and installation
A waterproof membrane is applied to the shower pan and wall substrate before installing tile or prefabricated panels.
Choosing your materials
Prefabricated kits versus custom tile
Material choice significantly impacts the labor requirements and final appearance of your new shower.
- ComplexityPrefabricated Kits:LowCustom Tile:High
- UpkeepPrefabricated Kits:MinimalCustom Tile:Frequent
- Cost RangePrefabricated Kits:$1,200–$2,500Custom Tile:$3,500–$7,000
Project costs
Typical investment ranges
Costs for bathroom updates vary based on material selection and the extent of plumbing modifications needed.
Installation
Includes basic labor and materials for replacing a bathtub with a standard shower configuration.
$1,000–$8,000per project
Source: [Revive Real Estate](https://www.revive.realestate/post/guide-on-how-much-it-costs-to-renovate-a-bathroom-in-orange-county-california-2).
Planning your renovation
Key factors affecting your project
Several technical elements influence the success and cost of a bathroom conversion.
Drainage requirements
Showers require a 2-inch drain pipe, whereas many older bathtubs utilize 1.5-inch pipes, necessitating plumbing upgrades.
Subfloor integrity
Once the tub is removed, the subfloor must be inspected for rot caused by past water leaks or improper seals.
Related pages
More other help in Orange
Jump to a related page for more detail.
All other services in Orange
Compare the other options available in Orange and see what each one covers.
Read moreBathroom Remodeling in Orange
What bathroom remodeling involves in Orange, what affects the cost, and how to request a quote.
Read moreSafe Showers in Orange
What safe showers involves in Orange, what affects the cost, and how to request a quote.
Read moreBathroom Contractor in Orange
What bathroom contractor involves in Orange, what affects the cost, and how to request a quote.
Read moreFAQs
Common questions about tub to shower conversions in Orange
Service area
Areas we cover for Tub to Shower Conversions
Every area below has published coverage. Your request is matched by ZIP code to the professional whose confirmed service territory covers your address.
- Orange, CA
Areas outside this list are not covered yet — coverage grows as new local professionals join. Submit your ZIP code and we'll match your request to the closest available coverage.
Sources and further reading
Published sources behind the facts and cost ranges on this page.
- Guide On How Much It Costs To Renovate a Bathroom In Orange County, California — Revive Real Estate
