Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Lakewood, CO (2026 Pricing Guide)
A tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood CO costs between $4,000 and $15,000 — depending on whether you go with a prefab insert or a fully custom tile walk-in shower. It's one of the most popular bathroom upgrades we complete, and for good reason: most Lakewood homeowners use their shower daily and their tub almost never.
After completing over 200 bathroom projects across Lakewood — including dozens of tub-to-shower conversions in neighborhoods from Eiber to Applewood — we've seen every configuration and price point. The most common conversion we complete is a custom tile walk-in shower with frameless glass, and it typically runs $6,000–$10,000.
Lakewood pricing for shower conversions runs 5–15% lower than central Denver. Shorter drive times for crews, easier delivery access, and strong trade availability in Jefferson County keep costs reasonable. This guide covers every price tier, what drives your cost up or down, and how to get an accurate quote for your specific bathroom.
If you're considering a tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood CO, here's what it actually costs.
Want an exact price for your conversion?
We offer free in-home estimates with a written, itemized quote delivered within 24 hours. We'll measure your tub alcove, discuss your options, and give you real numbers — not a ballpark.
Request your free estimate →Average Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Lakewood, CO
The tub-to-shower conversion cost in Lakewood CO breaks down into three tiers based on materials and complexity. Here's what each level costs in 2026:
| Conversion Type | Cost Range | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (Prefab Insert) | $4,000 – $6,000 | 3–5 days | Guest baths, rentals, budget projects |
| Standard (Custom Tile) | $6,000 – $10,000 | 5–7 days | Primary baths, most homeowners |
| Premium (Luxury / Curbless) | $10,000 – $15,000+ | 7–10 days | Master suites, accessibility, spa-style |
The most popular option for Lakewood homeowners is the standard custom tile conversion at $6,000–$10,000. You get a porcelain tile shower with a built-in niche, frameless glass door, and modern fixtures — a significant upgrade that transforms the entire bathroom.
💡 Good to Know
A tub-to-shower conversion uses the same footprint as your existing tub. The standard 30x60-inch alcove fits a comfortable walk-in shower without any wall modifications. You're not adding space — you're using the same space better.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost by Type
Each conversion type has a different scope, timeline, and price. Here's what you get at each level — and which Lakewood homeowners typically choose each one.
Basic Prefab Conversion — $4,000 to $6,000
A basic conversion removes your old bathtub and installs a prefab acrylic or fiberglass shower unit. It's the fastest and most affordable option — functional, clean, and no-fuss.
What's included:
- Bathtub removal and disposal
- One-piece or three-piece acrylic shower surround
- Drain line modification (tub drain to shower drain)
- New shower valve and trim kit
- Basic glass door or shower curtain rod
- Jefferson County plumbing permit
Timeline is 3–5 days. This tier works well for guest bathrooms, rental properties, and homeowners in Eiber and Alameda who want a functional upgrade without a big investment. The visual difference is significant — even a basic prefab shower looks better than a stained, dated bathtub.
The trade-off: limited design options. Prefab units come in standard colors (white, off-white, gray) with basic configurations. You won't get custom tile patterns or frameless glass at this price point.
Standard Custom Tile Conversion — $6,000 to $10,000
This is the most popular tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood — and the one we recommend for most primary bathrooms. You get a fully tiled walk-in shower built on-site with the materials and layout you choose.
What's included:
- Bathtub removal, disposal, and subfloor inspection
- Custom tile shower pan with waterproof membrane
- Porcelain or ceramic wall tile (full height)
- Built-in niche for shampoo and soap
- Frameless glass door or panel ($800–$2,000)
- New shower valve, trim, and showerhead
- Proper waterproofing (Schluter Kerdi or equivalent)
- All Jefferson County permits and inspections
Timeline is 5–7 days. Most homeowners in Green Mountain, Bear Creek, and Kendrick Lake choose this level. It's a real transformation — the kind of upgrade that makes your bathroom feel completely new.
Contractor Tip
What pushes a standard conversion from $6k toward $10k? Three things: tile selection (porcelain at $6–$15/sq ft vs. natural stone at $15–$30/sq ft), frameless glass door quality ($800–$2,000), and fixture grade (basic vs. premium shower systems). Keep your tile selection in the porcelain range and you'll stay closer to $6,000–$7,500.
Premium Luxury Conversion — $10,000 to $15,000+
Premium conversions go beyond a basic tub replacement. You get spa-level features, accessibility options, and high-end materials that turn your shower into the best part of your morning.
What's included:
- Everything in the standard tier, plus:
- Curbless (zero-threshold) entry with linear drain ($300–$800 for drain)
- Heated tile floor — electric radiant system ($500–$1,200)
- Built-in bench seat (tiled or solid surface)
- Multiple showerheads or body spray system
- Premium tile — large-format porcelain, natural stone accents, or mosaic feature wall
- Frameless glass enclosure (fixed panel or door)
- Grab bars integrated into the design
Timeline is 7–10 days. Applewood homeowners and anyone planning accessibility modifications in Morse Park typically choose this level. A curbless shower with a bench seat is the gold standard for aging-in-place bathrooms, and it looks stunning in any home.
| Feature | Added Cost |
|---|---|
| Curbless entry + linear drain | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Heated tile floor | $500–$1,200 |
| Built-in bench seat | $400–$800 |
| Rain showerhead + handheld combo | $300–$800 |
| Body spray system (4–6 jets) | $800–$2,000 |
| Natural stone accent wall | $500–$1,500 |
Which Conversion Type Is Right for Your Bathroom?
We'll measure your tub alcove, walk you through material options, and deliver a written, itemized quote within 24 hours. No obligation — just real numbers.
What Affects Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost in Lakewood?
Six factors determine where your project lands within the $4,000–$15,000 range. Understanding these helps you make choices that match your budget.
1. Tile Selection
Tile is the biggest variable after the basic conversion scope. The difference between ceramic tile and natural stone can swing your total by $2,000–$5,000.
| Tile Material | Cost per Sq Ft | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $3–$6 | Budget conversions, walls |
| Porcelain | $6–$15 | Shower floors, walls, high-moisture areas |
| Glass mosaic | $10–$25 | Accent walls, niches |
| Natural stone | $15–$30+ | Premium feature walls, luxury conversions |
We recommend porcelain tile for most Lakewood shower conversions. Its water absorption rate is under 0.5%, which prevents cracking in Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles on exterior-wall-adjacent installations. And it handles Lakewood's hard water better than natural stone — no annual sealing needed.
2. Glass Enclosure
The glass door or panel is the second biggest cost variable:
- Shower curtain + rod: $30–$100 — cheapest option, least visual impact
- Framed glass door: $300–$600 — functional, basic look
- Semi-frameless door: $500–$1,000 — cleaner lines, mid-range
- Frameless glass door: $800–$1,500 — modern, premium look
- Frameless fixed panel: $600–$1,200 — open feel, easy to clean
Frameless glass is the most popular choice in Lakewood conversions. The clean lines make a standard-size shower look bigger, and there are fewer metal tracks to collect soap scum and hard water buildup.
3. Plumbing Modifications
Every tub-to-shower conversion requires drain modification — the tub drain is relocated to a shower drain position. This is standard and included in all quotes. Additional plumbing adds cost:
- Standard drain relocation: included in base price
- Linear drain installation: add $300–$800
- Additional showerhead (handheld): add $200–$500
- Body spray system: add $800–$2,000
- Moving the valve to a different wall: add $500–$1,500
4. Waterproofing
This is the most critical step in any shower conversion. A properly waterproofed shower lasts decades. Failed waterproofing costs $3,000–$8,000 to repair. There's no place to cut corners here.
We use Schluter Kerdi membrane or Laticrete Hydro Ban on every conversion. The material cost is $200–$400 — a small fraction of the project that protects the entire investment.
Watch Out
If a contractor doesn't mention waterproofing in their quote or uses terms like "tar paper" or "plastic sheeting" instead of a proper membrane system, that's a red flag. Modern shower waterproofing uses bonded membrane systems — not the methods from 30 years ago. Ask what product they use and verify it's a recognized system.
5. Jefferson County Permits
Every tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood requires at least a plumbing permit because you're modifying drain lines. Permit costs:
- Plumbing permit: $200–$500
- Electrical permit (if adding outlets or fan): $150–$400
- Typical total: $200–$600
We pull all permits and include the cost in our quotes. Jefferson County permit approval typically takes 3–5 business days.
6. Existing Conditions
What's behind your tub walls affects cost. Older Lakewood homes often have surprises:
- Water damage behind tub surround: add $500–$2,000 for drywall and framing repair
- Galvanized supply lines (common in pre-1980 Eiber and Alameda homes): add $800–$2,500 to replace with copper or PEX
- Subfloor damage: add $300–$1,000 for subfloor replacement
- Inadequate ventilation: add $200–$500 for exhaust fan installation
About 1 in 4 tub removals in older Lakewood neighborhoods reveals some level of hidden damage. A good contractor builds 10–15% contingency into the quote. We include contingency in every estimate and refund what we don't use.
Hidden Costs in Tub-to-Shower Conversions
Beyond the conversion itself, a few costs catch homeowners off guard. Here's what to budget for:
Common Surprise Costs
- Mold behind tub surround — $500–$2,000 for remediation. Most common in bathrooms with poor ventilation.
- Outdated plumbing — galvanized pipes in 1960s–1970s homes need replacing. $800–$2,500.
- Drywall replacement — old greenboard behind tubs often needs replacing with cement board. $200–$600.
- Electrical upgrades — adding GFCI outlets or upgrading the exhaust fan to meet current code. $300–$800.
- Floor-level differences — if the existing tub sat on a platform or the floor isn't level, leveling work adds $200–$500.
These surprises show up once the tub is pulled — there's no way to see them beforehand. Experienced contractors know where to look during the estimate visit and can flag probable issues. We inspect the caulk lines, probe for soft spots, and check ventilation during every estimate.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion: Is It Worth the Investment?
A tub-to-shower conversion is one of the highest-ROI bathroom upgrades you can make — especially in the primary bathroom. Here's why:
| Conversion Level | Cost | Added Home Value | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Prefab | $4,000–$6,000 | $3,000–$4,500 | 65–75% |
| Standard Custom Tile | $6,000–$10,000 | $5,000–$8,000 | 65–80% |
| Premium Curbless | $10,000–$15,000 | $7,000–$10,000 | 60–70% |
Homes with a walk-in shower in the primary bath sell 15–25 days faster in the Denver metro market than homes with a dated tub-only setup. In Lakewood neighborhoods like Green Mountain and Applewood where median home values run $500,000–$550,000, buyers expect a modern shower in the primary bathroom.
But here's the honest caveat: if your home has only one bathroom, think carefully about removing the only tub. Families with young children and some buyers still want a bathtub option. The safer play for single-bathroom homes is to keep a tub in a secondary bath or consider a shower and tub combo approach.
Good to Know
The best ROI strategy: convert your primary bathroom tub to a walk-in shower, and keep a tub in the secondary or kids' bathroom. This gives you the daily convenience of a shower where you actually use it, and the resale safety net of having at least one tub in the home.
Get Your Free Tub-to-Shower Conversion Estimate
We visit your home, measure your tub alcove, and deliver a written, itemized quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure — just real numbers.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Timeline in Lakewood
One of the biggest advantages of a tub-to-shower conversion over a full bathroom remodel is the speed. Most conversions take under a week.
| Phase | Basic | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tub removal & prep | 1 day | 1 day | 1 day |
| Plumbing modifications | ½ day | 1 day | 1–2 days |
| Waterproofing + cure | N/A (prefab) | 1 day + 24hr | 1 day + 24hr |
| Tile / surround install | 1 day | 2–3 days | 3–4 days |
| Glass & fixtures | ½ day | 1 day | 1 day |
| Total | 3–5 days | 5–7 days | 7–10 days |
Contractor Tip
Winter months (November through February) offer better scheduling availability for Lakewood contractors. Tub-to-shower conversions are interior work, so weather doesn't affect the timeline. If flexibility matters more than a specific date, winter scheduling can sometimes save you a few hundred dollars.
How to Save Money on Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Five ways to keep your conversion cost closer to the low end of the range without sacrificing quality:
- Choose Porcelain Over Natural Stone— Porcelain at $6–$15 per square foot looks excellent, lasts decades, and handles Lakewood's hard water without annual sealing. Natural stone at $15–$30+ doubles your tile budget without a proportional quality increase for most homeowners.
- Keep the Standard Drain Position — Center-drain showers use the existing tub drain location with minimal plumbing changes. Moving the drain to the wall (for a linear drain) adds $500–$1,200 in extra labor.
- Choose a Fixed Glass Panel Over a Door — A fixed frameless panel ($600–$1,200) gives a clean, modern look at 30–50% less than a frameless glass door ($800–$1,500). It also creates a more open feel in compact bathrooms.
- Bundle With Other Bathroom Work— If you're also updating the vanity, flooring, or fixtures, doing everything together saves on mobilization costs. Bundling typically saves $500–$1,500 compared to separate projects.
- Schedule in Winter — Contractor availability is higher November through February. Better availability can mean slightly lower pricing and faster scheduling.
How to Get an Accurate Tub-to-Shower Conversion Quote
Online estimates give you a range. An in-home visit gives you a real number. Here's why: your tub alcove dimensions, plumbing configuration, wall condition, and electrical setup all affect the price. No two bathrooms are identical.
What a Good Quote Should Include
- Itemized materials — tile, glass, fixtures, hardware (by brand and model)
- Labor broken down by trade — plumber, tile setter, glass installer
- All permit fees listed separately
- Timeline with start and completion dates
- Contingency allowance (10–15%) for hidden conditions
- Payment schedule — never more than 20–30% upfront
- Warranty terms in writing
Questions to Ask Your Contractor
- What waterproofing system do you use? (Accept only named products — Schluter, Laticrete, or equivalent.)
- Do you pull Jefferson County permits, or do I?
- What happens if you find damage behind the tub?
- What's your workmanship warranty, and is it in writing?
- Can I see photos of recent tub-to-shower conversions you've completed?
Our process: schedule a free visit. We'll measure your tub alcove, check the plumbing access, inspect the walls for signs of moisture, and walk you through material options. You get a written, itemized quote within 24 hours with no obligation. Learn more about our shower installation services or full bathroom remodeling in Lakewood.
Which Conversion Type for Your Lakewood Neighborhood?
Your neighborhood and home profile affect which conversion makes the most sense. Here's what we've seen across Lakewood:
| Neighborhood | Typical Home | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Eiber / Alameda | 1960s–1970s, compact baths | Basic–Standard. Budget-friendly conversion maximizes impact in small spaces. |
| Green Mountain / Bear Creek | 1970s–1990s, family homes | Standard custom tile. Best ROI for the most common home profile in Lakewood. |
| Applewood | Upscale, higher resale | Premium. Buyers expect spa-level primary showers in this price range. |
| Morse Park | Aging-in-place population | Premium curbless. Zero-threshold entry, grab bars, and bench seat for safety. |
| Belmar / Kendrick Lake | Condos, townhomes | Standard. Modern aesthetic to match newer area developments. |
Frequently Asked Questions — Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Lakewood CO?
A tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood CO costs between $4,000 and $15,000 depending on scope. A basic prefab insert runs $4,000–$6,000. A standard custom tile walk-in shower costs $6,000–$10,000. A premium conversion with frameless glass, heated floors, and luxury tile runs $10,000–$15,000+. We include all Jefferson County permits in our quotes.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take in Lakewood?
A basic tub-to-shower conversion takes 3–5 days. A standard conversion with custom tile takes 5–7 days. Premium conversions with layout changes or structural work take 7–10 days. These timelines include Jefferson County permit inspections. Your bathroom is typically out of commission for the full duration.
Do I need a permit for a tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood, Colorado?
Yes. Jefferson County requires a plumbing permit ($200–$500) for any tub-to-shower conversion because you are modifying drain lines. If electrical work is involved — such as adding a GFCI outlet or exhaust fan — you'll need an electrical permit ($150–$400) as well. We pull all permits and include the cost in our quotes.
Will removing my only bathtub hurt resale value?
If your Lakewood home has at least two full bathrooms, removing one tub and adding a walk-in shower typically helps resale value — especially in the primary bathroom. Homes with a tub in a secondary bath and a walk-in shower in the primary sell faster in the Denver metro market. If you have only one bathroom, keep the tub or install a tub-shower combo.
What is the cheapest tub-to-shower conversion option?
The most affordable option is a prefab acrylic shower insert at $4,000–$6,000 installed. This includes removing the old tub, adjusting the drain and valve, installing the one-piece or three-piece surround, and a basic glass door or curtain rod. It's functional and clean, but offers limited design options compared to custom tile.
Is a walk-in shower safer than a bathtub?
Yes. Walk-in showers with a low or zero-threshold entry, non-slip tile, and grab bars significantly reduce fall risk. The CDC reports bathroom falls are a leading cause of injury for adults over 65. A curbless shower with a bench seat is the safest option for aging-in-place modifications, which we commonly install in Morse Park.
Can I convert a tub to a shower in a small Lakewood bathroom?
Absolutely. Most standard bathtubs sit in a 30x60-inch alcove. A walk-in shower fits the same footprint. You don't need extra space — the shower replaces the tub in the same location. For compact bathrooms in Eiber and Alameda, this is one of the highest-impact renovations you can make.
What type of shower base is best for a tub-to-shower conversion?
A custom tile shower pan with a waterproof membrane (like Schluter Kerdi or Laticrete Hydro Ban) is the most durable and customizable option. Prefab acrylic bases are more affordable ($200–$500 vs $800–$2,000 for custom) but limit your design choices. For Lakewood's hard water, porcelain tile with a protective glass coating is easier to maintain long term.
How much does a curbless shower conversion cost?
A curbless (zero-threshold) shower conversion in Lakewood costs $8,000–$15,000. The higher price compared to a standard conversion is due to additional waterproofing, a linear drain system ($300–$800), floor slope modifications, and more labor-intensive tile work. It's the best option for accessibility and has a clean, modern look.
Should I get a prefab shower or custom tile for my conversion?
Prefab shower kits ($4,000–$6,000 installed) are faster and cheaper. Custom tile showers ($6,000–$15,000) offer unlimited design options, better durability, and higher resale value. For most Lakewood homeowners doing a primary bathroom conversion, custom tile adds more long-term value. Prefab works well for secondary bathrooms or rental properties.
Your Next Step: Get a Real Price for Your Conversion
A tub-to-shower conversion cost in Lakewood CO ranges from $4,000 to $15,000+ depending on materials, features, and existing conditions. Most homeowners spend $6,000–$10,000 for a custom tile walk-in shower with frameless glass — the most popular conversion we complete.
Every tub alcove is different. Wall condition, plumbing configuration, and your material preferences all affect the final number. This guide gives you a solid starting point, but a 20-minute in-home visit gives you the real number.
We've completed dozens of tub-to-shower conversions across Lakewood — from basic prefab installs in Eiber to premium curbless showers in Applewood. The process starts with a free visit and ends with a written, itemized quote you can plan around.
Ready to Replace Your Tub with a Walk-In Shower?
Join Lakewood homeowners who made the switch. Here's what you get:
- ✓ Written, itemized quote within 24 hours
- ✓ No-obligation in-home consultation
- ✓ Licensed, insured contractor (4.9 stars, 127 Google reviews)
- ✓ 10-year workmanship warranty on all projects
- ✓ All Jefferson County permits included
Or call us directly: (720) 555-0100
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