Cost Breakdown: Tub-to-Shower Conversions in Connecticut
What Homeowners Typically Pay and Why Quotes Vary So Much
Tub-to-shower conversions are one of the most common bathroom upgrades in Connecticut, especially in homes built from the 1950s through the 1990s. Many homeowners like these projects because they can improve safety, reduce maintenance, and often be completed faster than a full bathroom remodel.
But pricing in Connecticut varies widely. Two estimates for what appears to be the same project can differ by thousands of dollars — and the difference usually comes down to scope, materials, home condition, and what’s included (or excluded).
This guide breaks down typical Connecticut price ranges, what drives the cost, and how to compare quotes intelligently.
Typical Price Ranges in Connecticut
These ranges assume a standard tub alcove conversion (commonly 60" wide) and typical labor conditions across Connecticut.
1) Basic Conversion (Simple Swap)
Typical range: $6,500 – $11,000
Often includes:
Tub removal and disposal
Prefabricated shower base (acrylic/composite)
Wall panels or surround system
Standard fixtures (valve + showerhead)
Basic finishing and trim
Best for:
Secondary bathrooms
Homeowners prioritizing speed and easy cleaning
Minimal upgrades and few add-ons
2) Mid-Range Conversion (Most Common in CT)
Typical range: $11,000 – $18,000
Typically adds:
Higher-quality wall system or upgraded acrylic/composite materials
Better fixtures (handheld option, upgraded valve, improved finish)
Glass doors/enclosure (instead of curtain)
Built-in storage (shelves/niche style)
More carpentry repair (common in older CT homes)
Best for:
Primary bathrooms
Homeowners who want a durable, finished look without a full gut remodel
3) Premium / Custom Conversion (Tile or High-End Custom)
Typical range: $18,000 – $30,000+
Often includes:
Tile walls with a full waterproofing system
Custom niches, benches, upgraded layouts
Plumbing relocation (valve height, drain changes)
Higher-end glass enclosure
Electrical or ventilation improvements
Best for:
Design-driven remodels
Homeowners comfortable with longer timelines and higher maintenance
👉 Acrylic vs Tile Showers for Connecticut Homes
The Biggest Cost Drivers in Connecticut Homes
Connecticut housing stock often creates cost variables that don’t show up in national averages.
1) Water Damage or Mold Behind the Tub
Possible added cost: $500 – $5,000+
Common findings in older CT homes:
Soft or rotted subfloor near tub edge
Damaged studs or insulation
Hidden leaks from old plumbing connections
What to ask:
“What happens if you find water damage? How do you document it and price repairs?”
2) Plumbing Age and Updates
Possible added cost: $500 – $4,000+
Older homes may have:
Galvanized lines
Older valves
Drain issues
Shutoffs that need updating
What to ask:
“Are you replacing the shower valve? What’s included in the plumbing portion of the quote?”
3) Permits and Inspection (Scope-Dependent)
Typical added cost: $0 – $800+ (varies by town and project scope)
Permits are more common when:
Plumbing is moved
Electrical work is done
Structural changes occur
A professional should explain when permits are required and when they’re not.
4) Wall System Quality and Waterproofing Method
Acrylic/composite systems tend to be:
Faster to install
More consistent and lower-maintenance
Tile systems depend heavily on:
Waterproofing system quality
Installer skill
This is one reason quotes vary dramatically.
5) Glass Doors vs Curtains
Typical added cost: $900 – $2,500+
Depends on:
Sliding vs hinged doors
Glass thickness and hardware
Custom sizing
6) Safety Upgrades (Often Worth It)
Add-ons that may increase cost:
Grab bars (installed properly): $150 – $600+
Built-in niche/storage: $250 – $800
Bench or seating: $400 – $1,500
Slip-resistant base upgrade: varies by system
👉 Bathroom Safety & Aging-in-Place in Connecticut
A Realistic Mid-Range “Line Item” Example (CT)
A typical mid-range CT conversion often includes:
Demo + disposal: $800 – $2,000
Shower base: $600 – $1,800
Wall system (acrylic/composite): $1,200 – $5,000
Fixtures/valve: $400 – $1,500
Labor (install, carpentry, finishing): $5,000 – $10,000
Glass enclosure: $900 – $2,500
Repairs/contingency: $500 – $2,500
This is how many projects land in the $11k–$18k range.
How to Compare Connecticut Quotes Without Getting Tricked
Don’t compare only the total price. Compare scope and assumptions.
Ask every remodeler:
What materials are included (wall system, base, fixtures)?
Is the plumbing valve being replaced?
What happens if damage is found behind the walls?
Is disposal and finishing included?
Are permits required in my town for this scope?
Is glass included or optional?
If a quote is dramatically cheaper, something is often missing.
👉 How to Compare Bathroom Remodelers in Connecticut
How “1–2 Day” Projects Fit Into Cost
Many Connecticut tub-to-shower conversions can be completed in 1–2 days, especially with acrylic systems and standard alcoves. But speed does not automatically mean cheap.
Fast projects are more realistic when:
No layout changes are needed
Materials are pre-manufactured
Conditions behind walls are sound
👉 Can Bathroom Remodels Really Be Done in 1–2 Days in Connecticut?
Final Thoughts
Most Connecticut homeowners should plan for $11,000 – $18,000 for a common mid-range tub-to-shower conversion, with simpler swaps sometimes landing lower and custom tile systems running significantly higher.
The best way to avoid surprises is to focus on:
scope clarity
waterproofing method
plumbing assumptions
how repairs are handled
This guide is meant to help Connecticut homeowners understand what drives pricing and compare quotes with confidence.
If you’re comparing quotes and want help understanding what’s included, what’s missing, or what questions to ask, you can reach out through our Contact page.