Get matched with top tub and shower conversion pros in Fancy Gap, VA

Yes, most bathrooms can be converted into a wet room, but the process often involves extensive renovations. Key requirements include having proper plumbing and the ability to slope the floor slightly for drainage. The conversion process typically requires removing the existing floors to install drainage, replacing drywall with waterproofed cement backer board, waterproofing the walls, and installing new fixtures to create an open, curbless shower space. A skilled home renovation professional can evaluate your bathroom to determine if it's a suitable candidate. It's also worth considering resale value; if you only have one bathroom, converting it to a wet room might not be ideal as many homebuyers prefer to have at least one bathtub.

It is possible to install a two-in-one unit that has both a shower and a walk-in tub so you can still have both in smaller bathrooms or provide a showerhead for those in the household who prefer taking showers. You’ll hear these referred to as walk-in tub and shower combo units. Keep in mind that these combo units can take up more space than a standard shower or tub, and you’ll most likely need to hire a pro to install one.

You should replace your shower cartridge if it’s still dripping water after you turn off the shower. This is the most common way to know when the cartridge is past its prime, but there are other signs. If you have a hard time turning the shower handle, as though it's "stuck," it may be time to replace it. On the flip side, if it turns way too easily as though it's slipping, but water isn't coming out of the showerhead, you may need a new one.

You can find out what type of shower valve you have by checking the manufacturer’s name and the valve’s serial number or model number. That information should be located on the back of the shower trim. You can use the name and number to do a quick online search to figure out which type of shower valve you have.