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Different bathtub materials have various advantages and disadvantages. Cast iron and copper are considered the most durable materials because they are dense and resistant to damage from scratches or dents. However, cast-iron tubs are heavy, expensive, and may not be suitable for upper floors. Copper offers unique benefits but requires regular chemical treatment to prevent a patina from forming, making cast iron a less maintenance-intensive option. Porcelain is a good second choice for durability. For those on a budget, acrylic is a popular option, though it is less durable.

An alcove tub is designed to fit into a three-walled enclosure in a bathroom. A drop-in tub, on the other hand, is placed into a custom-built frame or enclosure. This frame can be fitted to an alcove, making a drop-in tub a viable alternative if you want a more custom or spa-like look. Because the frame is custom, drop-in tubs offer more design flexibility and a wider range of materials, such as cultured marble or tile, compared to the simpler acrylic or fiberglass of a typical alcove tub. The frame for a drop-in tub can also be placed anywhere in the bathroom it fits, not just in an alcove.

The average cost to convert a tub to a shower is around $3,000, but prices can range from $1,000 to as high as $15,000. A more typical range is between $1,200 and $8,000. The final cost depends on several factors, including the amount of plumbing work required, the size of the shower, and the type of materials and fixtures chosen. A prefabricated shower stall is a more budget-friendly option, while a custom shower with features like luxury tiles, unique tiling, smart technology, or accessibility features will be at the higher end of the cost spectrum.

You can put a structure under your bathtub for support. Many modern tubs come with a built-in support structure underneath. Almost any type of mortar or floor-leveling compound is acceptable for new bathtubs that don’t include a support structure.

You can also install spray foam under an existing bathtub to eliminate or reduce squeaking or sagging. However, spray foam isn’t rigid enough for primary tub support.