Get matched with top bathtub replacement pros in Martin, SC

You should consider replacing your bathtub if the tub—or any potential refinishing—is older than about 20 years old. However, acrylic and fiberglass bathtubs have a shorter lifespan (about 10 to 15 years). You may decide to replace your bathtub sooner if there are stains or mold you can’t get rid of, no matter how much you clean it, or if you find leaks and cracks that could lead to costly water damage.

Whether converting a tub to a shower is worth it depends on your personal circumstances and priorities. For many, a shower is a safer option that reduces the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, making it a valuable upgrade. It can also be a worthwhile conversion if a shower is more practical for your lifestyle and you rarely use the tub. However, there are potential downsides to consider. The cost, which can range from $1,200 to $8,000, can be a deterrent. Additionally, if you have young children, a bathtub is often easier for bathing them. Finally, removing the only bathtub in a home can potentially lower its resale value in the eyes of some buyers.

There are several ways to save money on a bathroom remodel through proper planning and savvy design strategies. To reduce costs, consider the following:

• Purchase your own materials: Buy your own bathroom fixtures, hardware, and other materials to avoid contractor upcharges and delivery fees.

• Shop smart for big-ticket items: Save on pricey items like tiles and tubs by shopping sales and at discount stores.

• Avoid major layout changes: Keep plumbing in its current location. Opt to replace fixtures rather than moving them to avoid significant renovation work.

• Focus on high-impact, low-cost updates: Make affordable but impactful smaller changes, such as upgrading hardware, installing new lighting, and adding stylish but economical accessories.

• DIY where possible: Handle easier parts of the remodel yourself, like painting or installing light fixtures, to save on labor costs.

• Time your remodel strategically: Consider remodeling in the spring, which tends to be a lower-demand time of year and may result in lower costs.

The cost to install a shower or a tub is roughly the same. Shower installation costs range from $2,400 to $8,800 and vary depending on the type and size, materials used, and the complexity of the features. For similar reasons, the average bathtub cost can range from $2,000 to $9,400.