A shower remodel typically costs around $7,100 for a standard large setup, although prices can range from $1,000–$15,000, depending on the materials chosen and the scope of the renovation.
Upgrading an outdated shower is a smart investment that can enhance your bathroom’s style, comfort, and functionality. Features such as modern fixtures, custom tile, and luxury details can significantly influence the cost of a shower remodel. This guide explores these factors and other cost considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Labor costs account for 40%–60% of the total price of a shower remodel.
- A new backsplash costs about $2,000 and is one of the most costly elements of a full shower remodel project.
- Additional expenses, such as mold remediation and water damage repair, can significantly increase the cost of remodeling a shower.
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Average Shower Remodel Cost
The cost of a shower remodel doesn’t differ much between small, medium, and large jobs, based on our analysis of cost data produced by Homewyse. In fact, our research found a cost spread of $32 for small to large shower remodels, as shown in the table below.
Shower Installation Cost by Size
| Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard small (36-by-36 inches) | $7,057 |
| Standard medium (48-by-36 inches) | $7,071 |
| Standard large (60-by-36 inches) | $7,089 |
The biggest cost differentiator for a shower remodel is the quality of materials and the type of shower you choose. For instance, a tub-shower combination might cost about $3,000, whereas a large walk-in shower might cost $10,000 or more.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Shower Remodel?
Shower remodel costs vary depending on the scope of your project and the materials you select. The national average cost is around $7,100 for a standard large shower measuring 60-by-36 inches, but key factors can swing that total up or down:
- Age and current condition: Older showers might have hidden issues that require extensive repairs or replacement, increasing the project cost.
- Fixtures and features: The more high-end upgrades you include, the higher the price tag will be.
- Labor: Labor costs can fluctuate by season, region, project complexity, and contractor experience.
- Materials: The choice between premium materials or prefabricated kits can change the overall cost.
- Project scope: A simple retiling project or fixture replacement differs significantly in cost from a full-blown shower overhaul.
- Shower size: The size of your shower can impact how much time and how many materials your remodel requires.
- Shower type: Different types of showers have different price ranges and labor costs.
Shower Remodel Costs by Component
| Component | Labor Hours | Labor Cost | Materials Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backsplash | 19.9 | $1,095 | $951 | $2,046 |
| Shower base | 3 | $189 | $322 | $511 |
| Shower basin | 3 | $191 | $21 | $212 |
| Shower door | 2.5 | $157 | $390 | $547 |
| Shower drain | 1.9 | $116 | $89 | $205 |
| Shower head | 0.6 | $39 | $68 | $107 |
| Shower liner | 4.3 | $271 | $1,289 | $1,560 |
| Shower pan | 3.5 | $219 | $950 | $1,169 |
| Shower surround | 2.4 | $154 | $324 | $478 |
| Tile floor | 9.4 | $517 | $83 | $600 |
Age and Current Condition
You may discover water damage, rusty pipes, mold, or antiquated plumbing while remodeling an older shower. Remedying these items can make your shower remodel pricier, especially if the repairs require multiple trades, such as carpenters and plumbers.
Fixtures and Features
Investing in high-end fixtures, such as multiple shower heads or steam units, can make your daily routine feel like a luxurious spa experience. These upgrades have a higher price tag, so account for every detail, from the shower enclosure to the type of faucet.
Labor
Your contractor will need to remove existing plumbing fixtures, the tub or shower wall material, and the shower base or bathtub tiles before beginning a shower remodel. Once the contractor has stripped away the old setup, they can address issues with plumbing or subfloor to prepare your new shower’s construction.
Quick Tip
- The cost of remodeling services will vary based on your location and the complexity of the project. A custom tile shower, for instance, will take more time and cost more than installing a prefab shower kit. You can expect labor to account for 40%–60% of the overall cost.
Materials
The aesthetic materials homeowners select for the shower walls will play a big role in the longevity and cost of the new shower. One budget-friendly option is a prefab shower stall made from acrylic or fiberglass. More expensive choices include prefabricated marble showers, stone tiles or slabs, or other solid surfaces.
Project Scope
The scope of a shower remodel can range from a few simple improvements to a full-scale bathroom renovation. A small-scale shower remodel may involve replacing fixture trims or just replacing the walls around the bathtub. More complicated projects include tub-to-shower conversions, expanding the size of the shower, or building a custom walk-in shower with bench seats and glass block walls.
Shower Size
Shower size changes the material and labor costs associated with your home remodeling project. A palatial walk-in shower costs more than a basic 32×32-inch shower stall, for example.
The size of the bathroom also matters. Installing a shower in a small bathroom may limit your design options, while a larger room will give you additional choices.
Shower Type
The total cost of remodeling your shower depends on the type of shower you currently have, the type of shower you want, and how closely the two match up.
Three of the most popular styles are prefabricated showers, tub-shower combinations, and walk-in showers.
Prefabricated Showers
Prefabricated shower kits come ready-made from the manufacturer and are typically made of acrylic or fiberglass. They come in one-piece units or with the base and wall sections as individual pieces. Prefabricated shower kits are the least expensive choice and are relatively easy to install, making them a good choice for homeowners on a tight budget or timeline.
Tub and Shower Combinations
Tub-shower combos merge the functionality of a bathtub and a shower. This type of shower works especially well in homes with limited bathroom space or for homeowners who want the luxury of both options without a hefty price tag.
Oftentimes, homes with children need the functionality of both. When the children become old enough to transition from bathing to showering, you can add a glass shower enclosure to complete the renovation.
Walk-In Showers
Walk-in showers offer minimalist appeal and accessibility, as they’re easier to enter and exit than a tub-shower combination. Many homeowners choose to upgrade their walk-in showers with benches, hand-held spray units, and multiple shower heads.
Additional Shower Remodel Costs
Additional costs could emerge during your shower remodel.
Permits
Local municipalities often require permits for a bathroom remodel, especially if you’re making major plumbing or structural changes, so plan accordingly. Permits for a shower remodel can cost $50–$2,000 or more, depending on the specifics of your project.
Mold Remediation
Homeowners may find mold as they strip away the pieces of an old or poorly ventilated bathroom, and addressing the growth is paramount to a healthy household. Best left to professionals, mold and mildew remediation can cost an additional $1,500–$9,000.
Unexpected Repairs
Bathrooms are prime candidates for hidden water damage, and your remodeling project might uncover spongy, rotting subfloors or rusted, leaky pipes. A licensed plumber or contractor is best equipped to handle these issues before continuing with your renovation. Repairing water damage can cost $1,300–$5,500.
Disposal
Remodeling often means discarding old materials that cannot be tossed in your normal garbage bin. Disposing of tubs, tiles, and fixtures may require renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company, which will add to the cost of the project. Removing and hauling away an old tub, for instance, can cost $150–$300.
If your existing bathroom was built before 1978, you may encounter asbestos in the drywall and possibly the flooring, as well as lead in the plumbing or tile glazing. During removal, these materials can become hazardous dust which should only be handled and disposed of by properly certified remediation contractors.
Surface Prep
Before installing new shower tiles or a prefab shower stall, surfaces must be flat, clean, and clear of debris or old adhesive. The underlying structure should also be waterproofed to prevent mold, mildew, and water damage. You can expect to pay $1 per square foot to have a professional install a waterproof membrane.
How Do You Choose a Contractor for a Shower Remodel?
Hiring the right contractor can mean the difference between your dream bathroom and a renovation nightmare. Consider these factors to make an informed decision:
- Research and referrals: Identify your area’s top bathroom remodeling companies and contractors. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or browse reviews on sites such as Yelp and Google.
- Quotes and contracts: Have a plan and material scope so that you can request quotes from at least three different professionals. Compare the total estimates as well as the cost breakdowns for materials, labor, and permit fees. Make sure that you receive an all-inclusive signed contract before beginning the project.
- Credentials and references: Ask each company about their license, liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and past work. Verify their credentials and ask if they have any references you can contact.
- Permits and warranties: Confirm that the contractor is familiar with local building codes and can handle the necessary permits. Find out whether the contractor offers any warranties or guarantees for their work.
- Contract and customer service: Pay attention to each company’s approach to customer service. Make sure you have a written contract and review the terms carefully before signing.
Ways To Save on a Shower Remodel Cost
A shower remodel doesn’t have to break the bank. A few strategic choices can help you cut costs without compromising the end result.
- Choose budget-friendly materials: Choose a prefab shower or ceramic bathroom tiles instead of springing for natural stone or handmade tiles.
- Handle simpler tasks yourself: Some tasks may require professional intervention, but you can undertake simpler ones, such as removing old tiles or painting.
- Keep the same layout: Avoid making big changes to the size of your shower or the bathroom layout to minimize the amount of work required.
- Look for deals: Look for overstock sales, discounts, and specials on the materials you need. For professional services, gather multiple quotes and compare prices.
- Opt for cheaper fixtures: Shop around for fixtures that fit your budget and earn consistently high customer ratings.
- Reuse your old fixtures: Reuse your existing fixtures if they are in good condition and still match the rest of the bathroom.
- Tackle multiple projects simultaneously: Consider remodeling the entire bathroom at once to save money and reduce downtime.
DIY vs. Professional Shower Remodeling
You can choose to go the do-it-yourself (DIY) route or call in professional reinforcements to complete your shower remodel. Both options have their merits and cost implications.
DIY Shower Remodeling
The DIY approach works best for simple tasks, such as replacing the showerhead or touching up the grout between tiles. Before undertaking a DIY shower remodel project, make sure you have a clear vision of what you want to accomplish and a realistic understanding of your skills.
You should also consider whether you have the tools, time, and know-how to efficiently complete the project.
A Few Questions To Ask Yourself
- Do you have a vehicle large enough to transport all the materials you need? If not, how much will it cost to rent a vehicle or have the materials delivered?
- Do you have all the tools you need? Will you need to buy or rent any equipment?
- How long will the project take from start to finish, and can you afford to have your bathroom out of commission for that long?
- How much experience do you have with plumbing, tile work, and other aspects of the project?
- What will you do if you run into unexpected issues such as leaky pipes or a water-damaged subfloor?
You can save money on labor costs by doing all or some of the work yourself, but make sure you can do it properly. Mistakes can lead to costly repairs, mildew growth, and water damage in the future. A poorly installed shower can even negatively impact your home value.
Professional Shower Remodeling
Hiring a professional to remodel your shower costs more upfront than the DIY approach, but it can save you time and money in the long run. An experienced contractor can replace or upgrade your shower more quickly and capably than the average homeowner.
The benefits of hiring a professional include:
- Convenience: A professional team can handle every facet of your bathroom remodel, from interior design services to plumbing and electrical work.
- Expertise: Contractors with years of experience can anticipate problems, offer design insights, secure permits, and ensure a polished finish.
- Peace of mind: Most professionals offer a warranty on their work, guaranteeing a certain standard and quick resolution if issues arise.
- Potential savings: Professional contractors also have access to material discounts and specialized tools that can streamline the project, potentially saving you money.
Is the Cost of a Shower Remodel Worth It?
Whether your shower remodel is part of a larger bathroom renovation or an isolated project, it can transform the look and feel of your bathroom. If you’re on a tight budget, look for small tasks you can handle yourself and opt for budget-friendly materials rather than high-end fixtures and custom designs.
FAQs About Shower Remodel Costs
What are the pros and cons of upgrading a shower?
On one hand, upgrading a shower can boost home value, improve aesthetics, and enhance functionality. It can also be an expensive and time-intensive project that keeps part of your bathroom out of order for weeks.
What is the cheapest way to redo a shower
The least expensive way to redo a shower is to handle the renovation yourself using a prefabricated shower kit. You can also install a custom acrylic liner over your existing shower or tub to save money.
How much does it cost to replace a shower door?
According to Homewyse construction project cost data, a new shower door costs an average of $547 for a standard, large shower remodel. That breaks down to $390 for materials and $157 for 2.5 hours of labor costs. A custom, frameless shower door typically costs $600–$1,900 to install.
How We Determined Shower Remodel Costs
To provide accurate and current pricing for the cost of a shower remodel, we collected price averages from Homewyse, Angi, and the 2024 Journal of Light Construction’s Cost vs. Value Report. Our research also included analyzing insights from a nationwide homeowner survey we conducted in January 2025, with participants from all age ranges and demographics to ensure a comprehensive view of home improvement project preferences. This enables our cost averages to reflect the diverse needs of homeowners, encompassing both local and nationwide markets.
Note that the pricing shared in this guide represents cost ranges and averages based on our research at the time of publication. Actual costs may vary depending on factors such as your location, chosen contractor, shower and bathroom specifics, material quality, and overall project scope.
