How to Add a Shower to Your Existing Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Add a Shower to Your Bathtub

A bathtub is a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. But what if you want to take a shower instead? If your bathtub doesn’t have a showerhead, you can easily add one yourself. This project is relatively simple and can be completed in a few hours.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of adding a shower to your bathtub. We’ll provide detailed instructions and tips, so you can be sure that the job is done right.

So if you’re ready to upgrade your bathtub with a shower, read on!

Step Instructions Image
1 Measure the dimensions of your bathtub and shower.
2 Cut a piece of plywood to the same dimensions as your bathtub.
3 Attach the plywood to the bottom of your bathtub using screws or nails.
4 Install a shower head and faucet on the plywood.
5 Install a shower curtain rod and curtain.

How to Add a Shower to a Bathtub

Tools and materials you will need

To add a shower to a bathtub, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A bathtub with a drain
  • A shower pan
  • A shower valve
  • A shower head
  • A shower arm
  • A shower diverter
  • A shower hose
  • A shower curtain
  • A shower curtain rod
  • A plumber’s putty
  • A hacksaw
  • A drill
  • A screwdriver
  • A tape measure
  • A level
  • A pencil
  • A utility knife

Step-by-step instructions

1. Measure the bathtub and the shower pan. The shower pan should be the same width as the bathtub, but it can be longer or shorter. The shower pan should also be at least 3 inches higher than the bathtub.
2. Cut the shower pan to size. If the shower pan is not the same size as the bathtub, you will need to cut it to size. Use a hacksaw to cut the shower pan.
3. Install the shower pan. Place the shower pan in the bathtub and secure it with plumber’s putty.
4. Install the shower valve. The shower valve should be installed on the wall behind the bathtub. The shower valve should be at least 3 inches above the shower pan.
5. Install the shower head. The shower head should be installed on the shower arm. The shower head should be at least 6 inches above the shower pan.
6. Install the shower arm. The shower arm should be installed on the shower valve. The shower arm should be at least 12 inches long.
7. Install the shower diverter. The shower diverter should be installed on the shower valve. The shower diverter allows you to switch between the shower head and the bathtub faucet.
8. Install the shower hose. The shower hose should be connected to the shower head and the shower arm.
9. Install the shower curtain. The shower curtain should be hung on the shower curtain rod.
10. Test the shower. Turn on the water to the shower valve and check for leaks.

Adding a shower to a bathtub is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can add a new shower to your bathroom and enjoy a more convenient bathing experience.

How to Add a Shower to a Bathtub

Adding a shower to your bathtub is a great way to get more use out of your bathroom. It can also be a relatively inexpensive and easy project to do yourself. Here are the steps involved:

1. Measure your bathtub and shower stall. You will need to know the dimensions of your bathtub and shower stall in order to purchase the correct size of shower enclosure and other materials.
2. Remove the old bathtub faucet. If your bathtub has a faucet, you will need to remove it before you can install the shower. This is a relatively simple task that can be done with a few tools.
3. Install the shower pan. The shower pan is the base of the shower and it will collect the water that drains from the showerhead. You will need to install the shower pan before you can install the shower enclosure.
4. Install the shower enclosure. The shower enclosure is the walls and door of the shower. It will keep the water inside the shower and protect the rest of your bathroom from getting wet.
5. Install the showerhead and shower controls. The showerhead and shower controls are the final pieces of the shower that you will need to install.

Here are some additional tips for adding a shower to your bathtub:

  • Make sure that you have enough space for the shower. The shower should be at least 3 feet wide and 3 feet deep.
  • Choose a shower enclosure that is the right size for your bathtub. The shower enclosure should be large enough to allow you to move around comfortably, but it should not be so large that it takes up too much space in your bathroom.
  • Make sure that the shower pan is installed correctly. The shower pan should be level and it should be sloped towards the drain.
  • Install the shower enclosure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The shower enclosure should be installed securely so that it does not leak.
  • Choose a showerhead and shower controls that are easy to use. The showerhead should be adjustable so that you can control the water pressure and temperature. The shower controls should be located in a convenient location so that you can easily access them.

Troubleshooting tips

If you are having trouble installing a shower to your bathtub, here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure that you have the correct tools and materials.
  • Follow the instructions carefully.
  • If you are still having trouble, contact a professional for help.

Here are some common problems that you may encounter when installing a shower to your bathtub:

  • The shower pan leaks.
  • The shower enclosure is not installed correctly.
  • The showerhead or shower controls do not work properly.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, here are some solutions:

  • If the shower pan is leaking, you may need to reseal the pan or replace the pan altogether.
  • If the shower enclosure is not installed correctly, you may need to remove the enclosure and reinstall it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • If the showerhead or shower controls do not work properly, you may need to replace them.

Safety considerations

When adding a shower to your bathtub, there are a few safety considerations that you should keep in mind:

  • Make sure that the shower is installed correctly so that it does not leak.
  • Make sure that the shower enclosure is strong enough to support your weight.
  • Make sure that the showerhead and shower controls are installed correctly so that they do not pose a safety hazard.
  • Use caution when using the shower. Do not slip or fall in the shower.
  • Keep children away from the shower when it is not in use.

By following these safety considerations, you can help to ensure that your shower is safe to use.

Adding a shower to your bathtub is a great way to get more use out of your bathroom. It can also be a relatively inexpensive and easy project to do yourself. By following the steps in this guide, you can add a shower to your bathtub in no time.

How To Add Shower To Bathtub?

Q: What are the steps involved in adding a shower to a bathtub?

A: The steps involved in adding a shower to a bathtub are as follows:

1. Measure the area where you want to install the shower. This will help you determine the size of the shower enclosure and the type of showerhead you need.
2. Remove the old bathtub faucet and drain. This will give you access to the plumbing behind the bathtub.
3. Install a new shower valve. The shower valve is the main control for the shower water. It is important to choose a valve that is compatible with your existing plumbing.
4. Install the shower pan. The shower pan is the base of the shower enclosure. It is important to make sure that the shower pan is level and waterproof.
5. Install the shower walls. The shower walls can be made of a variety of materials, such as glass, acrylic, or tile.
6. Install the shower door. The shower door can be a sliding door, a hinged door, or a barn door.
7. Install the showerhead. The showerhead is the final piece of the shower installation. It is important to choose a showerhead that is the right size and type for your shower.

Q: What are some things to consider before adding a shower to a bathtub?

A: There are a few things to consider before adding a shower to a bathtub, including:

  • The size of the bathroom. If the bathroom is small, you may not have enough space for a full-size shower.
  • The type of bathtub you have. If you have a clawfoot bathtub, you may need to install a special shower kit.
  • The plumbing in your bathroom. You will need to make sure that you have enough water pressure and drainage for a shower.
  • Your budget. Adding a shower to a bathtub can be a relatively inexpensive project, but it can also be more expensive if you choose high-end materials.

Q: What are some of the benefits of adding a shower to a bathtub?

A: There are a number of benefits to adding a shower to a bathtub, including:

  • Convenience. A shower is a more convenient way to bathe than a bathtub, especially for people who have limited mobility.
  • Flexibility. A shower can be used for a variety of purposes, such as bathing, washing dishes, or cleaning the dog.
  • Water conservation. A shower uses less water than a bathtub, which can save you money on your water bill.
  • Style. A shower can add a modern touch to your bathroom.

Q: What are some of the drawbacks of adding a shower to a bathtub?

A: There are a few drawbacks to adding a shower to a bathtub, including:

  • Cost. Adding a shower to a bathtub can be a relatively expensive project.
  • Time. Installing a shower can take a few days, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
  • Disruption. Installing a shower can disrupt your daily routine, as you may need to move furniture and use other bathrooms while the work is being done.

Q: How do I choose the right shower for my bathtub?

A: There are a few factors to consider when choosing a shower for your bathtub, including:

  • The size of the shower. You will need to make sure that the shower is big enough for you to comfortably use.
  • The type of showerhead. There are a variety of showerheads available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
  • The material of the shower. The shower can be made of a variety of materials, such as glass, acrylic, or tile.
  • The style of the shower. The shower can be designed to match the style of your bathroom.

Q: How do I install a shower to a bathtub?

Installing a shower to a bathtub can be a relatively simple project, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the shower is installed correctly.

1. Measure the area where you want to install the shower. This will help you determine the size of the shower enclosure and the type of showerhead you need.
2. Remove the old bathtub faucet and drain. This will give you access to the plumbing behind the bathtub.
3. Install a new shower valve. The shower valve is the main control for the shower water. It is important to choose a valve that is compatible with your existing plumbing.
4. Install the shower pan. The shower pan is the base of the shower enclosure. It is important to make sure that the shower pan is level and waterproof.
5. Install the shower walls. The shower walls can

In this blog post, we have discussed how to add a shower to your bathtub. We have covered the different types of shower kits available, as well as the steps involved in installing a shower kit. We have also provided tips on how to choose the right shower kit for your needs and how to install it correctly.

We hope that this blog post has been helpful and that you now have a better understanding of how to add a shower to your bathtub. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.