Walk-In Shower Remodeling

Most modern showers have a prefabricated base made from fiberglass or plastic, such as acrylic or polyurethane. Nonetheless, concrete mortar is still the traditional, go-to base for a custom walk-in shower.

You’ll need to add a waterproofing liner or membrane between the layers of mortar to keep moisture out. From there, you can top it with whatever type of tile you like to create a spa-like custom look. Be sure to include these considerations in your budget for the cost of a walk-in shower.

Medicare does not typically cover the cost of a walk-in shower. The federal health insurance program considers a walk-in shower to be a home alteration rather than a medical necessity, even though walk-in showers would assist many people who are eligible for Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicaid are more likely to cover the cost of a walk-in shower. It’s not a guarantee, even with a letter from a physician, and if reimbursement is authorized, it usually comes after the individual pays the upfront installation fee.

A walk-in shower without a door is referred to as a barrier-free shower or doorless walk-in shower. This feature makes the shower more accessible for people with disabilities, but it can also be attractive for minimalist designs because of the clean lines. A doorless walk-in shower also means one less surface to clean, but they can have downsides like splashing water and a lack of privacy, so do your research first.

Converting a tub to a walk-in shower typically takes one to three days. The exact timeline depends on several factors, including the size of the new shower, the number of features and customizations, and the condition of your existing tub and plumbing. A standard conversion using a prefabricated shower is quicker, while projects involving new plumbing or custom tiling can take longer. For example, elaborate tile designs can extend the project to three or four days. For a precise timeline, consult with your contractor, who can also advise on how to prepare the space to potentially speed up the process.