A walk-in shower offers a sleek, modern look for your bathroom while providing easy accessibility and low maintenance. But before installing this stylish upgrade, it’s important to understand the costs involved so you can budget accordingly. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into a walk-in shower installation and how much you can expect to pay.
What is a Walk-in Shower?
A walk-in shower, also known as a barrier-free or curbless shower, has no door or curtain and is designed to be easily accessible. The shower floor is flush with the bathroom floor, allowing you to simply walk into the shower area without having to step over a raised threshold.
Walk-in showers offer a clean, contemporary style that works well with tile, glass, and other modern materials. The open layout provides more space than a traditional tub/shower combo. Walk-in showers are also often easier to clean and maintain than conventional showers.
Key Components of a Walk-In Shower
When budgeting for a new walk-in shower, it helps to understand the key components involved:
- Shower base – This is the flooring of the shower. Options include tile, solid surfacing, or preformed bases.
- Shower walls – Tile, glass, or solid surface panels typically form the walls. Frameless glass offers a very open look.
- Shower door – A glass shower door maintains the clean look. Alternatives are a shower curtain or no enclosure.
- Shower drain – Most feature low-profile drains that sit flush with the flooring.
- Plumbing fixtures – These include the showerhead, control valves, body sprays, and any other water fixtures.
- Lighting – Overhead lighting, lit niches, or natural light sources add style and function.
- Bench – Built-in benches offer seating and storage options.
- Grab bars – Useful for accessibility and can double as towel bars.
- Curb – A low curb can prevent water from escaping while still maintaining accessibility.
How Much Does a Walk-in Shower Cost?
The cost of a walk-in shower depends on the size, materials used, special features, and whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor. Here is a breakdown of typical pricing:
- Prefabricated shower kits – $300 to $2,500
- Tile shower pan or base – $1,000 to $4,000
- Tiled walk-in shower walls – $5 to $15 per square foot
- Glass shower walls or doors – $200 to $2,500
- Plumbing fixtures – $200 to $600 each
- Built-in seating – $500 to $2,000
- Lighting – $100 to $500
- Labor costs – $3,000 to $8,000
In total, expect to spend $6,000 to $12,000 or more for a professionally installed, high-end walk-in shower with all the bells and whistles. On the more affordable end, prefab shower kits start around $1,000 but may lack the custom look and feel.
The finished bathroom size, layout, and materials make the biggest impact on the bottom line. Going with a larger shower, upgrading to premium tiles and fixtures, adding special features like lighting or steam, and hiring professional installers will increase costs. Smaller, simpler designs with DIY installation can cost less than $2,000.
Key Factors That Affect Walk-In Shower Cost
Several variables affect the total installation price. Review these key factors as you plan and budget for a new walk-in shower:
Location
Where you live can significantly impact labor costs. According to HomeAdvisor, nationwide installation rates range from $3,000 to $6,000 but high-cost areas like New York City may exceed $8,000 while more affordable regions average $3,000 to $5,000.
Size
A larger shower will require more building materials and take longer to install, increasing pricing. Standard sizes range from 32 to 48 inches deep and 48 to 60 inches wide. Larger showers may run 60 to 72 inches deep and up to 5 feet wide.
Layout
The shower layout also affects cost. A simple alcove configuration will cost less than building out a portion of the room or doing a complete bathroom remodel. Freestanding showers away from existing walls add even more labor and expenses.
Materials
Premium porcelain, ceramic, marble, and glass tile will add a significant cost over standard ceramic tile. Natural stone and mosaic patterns also boost pricing. The type of shower base used (mortar, acrylic, tile, Solid Surface) impacts cost as well.
Features
Adding extra features like built-in seating, tile patterns, lighting, glass block accents, steam generators, and water fixtures will increase your total price tag.
Accessibility Needs
Including grab bars, curbless designs, and non-slip shower floors to meet ADA requirements will also raise costs slightly.
Doors vs No Doors
Frameless glass shower doors look upscale but cost $800 to $2,500 installed. Shower curtains save money but reduce the luxurious appeal. No door or curtain provides an open bathroom concept.
Plumber Costs
Hiring a professional plumber at $45 to $150 per hour rather than doing it yourself will add to your bottom line. Many choose to save on labor by handling demo then hiring a plumber for necessary wiring and plumbing only.
Cost to Install a Walk-in Shower by Type
There are a few popular options when it comes to choosing your walk-in shower design. Here is a breakdown of estimated costs by type:
Tile Shower
Tiling the walls and floor offers the most custom look at an installed cost of $5,000 to $12,000. Hand-laid ceramic, porcelain, or glass tile covers the shower pan foundation and continues up the walls. Mosaic tiles, borders, patterns, and natural stone tile can increase costs.
Acrylic or Fiberglass Showers
For $1,000 to $5,000, you can install a prefab acrylic or gelcoat fiberglass shower unit. The molded shower floor and walls are lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable. Though, the look isn’t as high-end as tile.
Glass Block Shower
For a unique appearance, glass block walk-in showers cost $5,000 to $10,000 installed. The glass brick walls let in natural light. These showers require specialized installation and leak prevention measures.
Frameless Glass Shower
These sleek contemporary showers feature floor-to-ceiling glass panels. Installation runs $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the glass area and thickness. An enclosure-free opening maintains visibility.
Should You Install a Walk-in Shower?
Here are some pros and cons to help decide if a walk-in shower is right for your bathroom:
Pros
- Contemporary, clean look
- Increased accessibility
- Easier to clean than a tub
- More open feel than curtained stalls
- Resale value boost
Cons
- No tub for soaking available
- Can feel cold in winter
- Potential for leaks if poorly installed
- Higher cost than standard tub surrounds
- Glass requires vigilant cleaning
For homeowners wanting more space, easier access, and a modern style, a walk-in delivers. Families with young children or homeowners who prefer baths may stick with a tub. However, there are creative ways to add a separate soaking tub while still gaining the benefits of a barrier-free shower area.
Maintaining Your Walk-In Shower
A walk-in shower requires some simple maintenance to keep it looking fresh and prevent issues like leaks and mildew. Here are a few tips:
- Squeegee the walls and glass after showering to minimize soap scum and mineral deposits.
- Use a gentle cleaner like vinegar or pH-neutral soap to clean tile and glass as needed.
- Re-caulk joints annually to prevent moisture issues and leaks.
- Install a bathroom vent fan if the shower area lacks sufficient airflow.
- Keep grout clean with periodic grout brushing and hydrogen peroxide cleaning.
- Use a bathroom-rated silicone sealant if you notice any cracks or failing caulk.
- Monitor for leaks and immediately fix any drips or moisture intrusion.
With proper care, your walk-in shower can stay looking like new for years. Cleaning promptly after use and resealing when needed are the best preventative measures.
Alternatives to a Walk-In Shower
There are a few other options to consider if you want to upgrade your shower area but a walk-in doesn’t fit your needs or budget:
- Tub to shower conversion – Replace a standard bathtub with a new shower insert starting at $2,000.
- Curb-less shower – Enjoy step-free access while retaining some framing around the shower area for $4,000 to $7,000.
- Neo-angle shower – Angled walls create more interior space starting at about $3,000 installed.
- Shower niche – Built-in shelves offer storage for bath products. Costs about $500 to add.
- Grab bars – Improves accessibility for $75 to $200 per bar installed.
While these adaptations don’t provide the same minimalist style and open layout, they offer some of the same benefits at a lower cost.
Finding a Shower Installer
Bathroom renovation projects like installing a walk-in shower often require professional expertise. Be sure to hire qualified shower installers to ensure proper functionality and waterproofing.
When hiring a contractor, ask the following questions:
- Are you licensed for plumbing and bathroom remodeling work?
- Can you provide references from recent shower installation jobs?
- Do you carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
- Will you pull the required permits before starting work?
- Do you warranty your labor for defects or leaks?
Read reviews and compare detailed bids rather than focusing on the lowest upfront cost. A few hundred dollars saved can turn into a much pricier repair job if the work is subpar. Investing in quality professional installation provides peace of mind your new shower won’t run into problems down the road.
DIY Walk-In Shower Installation
Doing a DIY walk-in shower installation can save thousands of dollars in labor costs. However, this is still a complex project involving plumbing, waterproofing, tiling, and potentially moving walls.
If taking on a DIY walk-in shower:
- Research the process thoroughly before beginning demolition.
- Allow plenty of time to complete the work. Projects often take 20+ hours spread over a week or two.
- Stick with standard sizes and spare finishes to simplify.
- Have an electrician handle wiring needs and call a plumber for final hook-ups.
- Follow waterproofing instructions precisely to avoid leaks.
While an experienced DIYer can handle this project and save money, it’s smart to still get professional help with the critical plumbing, waterproofing, and tile prep phases.
Cost to Upgrade an Existing Shower to Walk-In
Looking to convert your dated shower to a fresh walk-in style? Here are typical costs:
- Remove old tub or shower enclosure – $200-$500
- Install new prefab shower base – $500-$1,500
- Install waterproof shower walls – $1,000-$2,000
- Install tile, glass, or solid surface surround – $2,000-$4,000
- Update fixtures and lighting – $500-$1,500
- New flooring – $500-$2,000
Total: $4,000 to $12,000, depending on finishes and complexity.
This offers a budget-friendly way to gain a walk-in shower’s aesthetics and accessibility without a full bathroom remodel.
Hire a Professional for Your Walk-In Shower Installation
While it’s tempting to DIY a walk-in shower remodel, the complexity of the job and need for specialty skills makes hiring a professional installer smart for most homeowners.
Professional installers have the expertise to:
- Design and build a customized shower layout
- Correctly slope the shower floor for drainage
- Install waterproofing to prevent leaks
- Handle plumbing needs like new valves and drains
- Tile or install shower walls cleanly
- Avoid rookie mistakes that can lead to problems
Paying a little more upfront brings peace of mind that your new walk-in shower will look beautiful while operating reliably for years. Trying to cut corners with DIY risks getting shoddy results and having to re-do the job.
Invest in your home’s value and your family’s enjoyment by hiring professional walk-in shower installers to get the job done right. The results will be well worth the investment!
FAQs About Walk-In Shower Costs
If you’re wondering how much it costs to add a walk-in shower, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How much does a 4×4 walk-in shower cost?
A basic 4×4 feet walk-in shower costs $4,000 to $8,000. This provides adequate room for one person. Costs rise for larger showers. High-end materials can also increase price.
How much does a 5×5 walk-in shower cost?
A 5×5 feet walk-in shower averages $5,000 to $10,000. The larger size accommodates two people and offers more legroom. Prices are higher for curbless, customized designs.
What is cheaper, a walk-in shower or a bathtub?
A standard bathtub is cheaper at about $1,000 to $4,000 installed. Walk-in showers start around $4,000 and have higher costs for tile, glass, and custom sizes. Fiberglass tub surrounds can actually be more affordable than many prefab showers.
Should I get a walk-in shower or tub?
The choice depends on your needs. For mobility and aging in place, walk-in showers are ideal. Families with young kids often favor a tub. Some bathrooms accommodate both a walk-in shower and separate soaking tub.
How much does it cost to install a shower in a small bathroom?
Converting a small bathroom to add a shower costs $4,000 to $12,000. A tighter space may require plumbing changes. Sticking with a tub/shower combo costs less at $1,500 to $5,000.
Can I install a walk-in shower myself?
A DIY installation is possible but challenging. Tasks like installing shower pans, waterproofing, tiling, and plumbing should be left to experts. DIY electrical and finish trims to save costs.
How do I choose a walk-in shower?
Consider the space, budget, aesthetics, features, and accessibility needed. Measure carefully and opt for waterproof materials like porcelain tile or glass. Focus on easy maintenance and safety.
Conclusion
While adding a walk-in shower is a significant investment, the benefits can make it worthwhile if your bathroom needs a functional and style upgrade. Carefully weigh the costs and value for your home. With proper planning and professional installation, you can create a beautiful new spa-like shower space to enjoy for years to come.