Shower remodel cost depends on a bunch of factors, materials, labor, size of the shower, plumbing changes, tile vs fiberglass, demolition, upgrades, you name it. And this stuff adds up fast if you’re not careful.
If you’re planning to remodel your shower, don’t just Google “average price” and run with it. That’s a good way to either blow your budget or end up stuck with a low-end job you regret six months later.
Here’s what matters: when you should do it, what can go wrong, and how we, T and J Remodeling, handle this the right way.
What’s the Average Shower Remodel Cost?
| Remodel Type | Approximate Cost Range |
| Basic Shower Replacement | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Mid-Range Tile Shower Remodel | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| High-End Custom Shower Remodel | $12,000 – $20,000+ |
Walk-in showers with full tile? That’s usually in the $10K+ range, easy, especially with glass doors, custom niches, rainheads, etc.
One-day shower remodels? If someone tells you $1,500, there’s a catch. You’re paying for speed and surface, not long-term durability.
What Drives Up Shower Remodel Cost?
This is where most people go wrong; they think it’s just “ripping out the old and installing new.” Nope. Here’s what affects price:
- Demo & disposal: Removing old tile, fiberglass, moldy drywall. Sometimes there’s rot. Sometimes, plumbing was rigged years ago.
- Plumbing work: If your valves are old, or you’re changing layout (moving the drain, adding handhelds), that’s extra.
- Tile & materials: Basic subway tile is cheap. Marble slabs or mosaic glass? Big jump.
- Custom work: Niches, benches, heated floors (yes, people do that), and curbless entries all add labor and material time.
- Glass doors: Frameless glass isn’t cheap. And it’s custom-cut. Budget $1,000–$2,500 just for that.
- Permits and inspections: Depending on your area, you might need them. We pull permits on everything that requires it.
When Should You Remodel Your Shower?
Here’s the rule of thumb: if you’re seeing water damage, mold, cracks, or leaks, it’s time. If you’re just tired of the look, that’s valid too. But don’t wait until the drywall is soft or there’s black mold behind your surround.
Also, if you’re already doing a bathroom remodel, just do the shower too. Trying to piece it out later ends up being more expensive and more hassle.
How Is a Shower Remodel Done, Step-by-Step?
- Planning + Design
- We look at what’s there, what’s possible, what you want, and how it’ll work with your plumbing.
- Pick out materials: tile, fixtures, doors, grout colors, all of it.
- Demo
- Tear out the old unit, down to studs if needed. We inspect the subfloor, the framing, and the plumbing.
- If there’s mold or water damage, we fix it. Period.
- Rough-In Plumbing
- New valve install, adjust drain height if needed, prep for multiple heads or handhelds.
- New valve install, adjust drain height if needed, prep for multiple heads or handhelds.
- Wall Prep
- Cement board or foam panels go in.
- Waterproofing is non-negotiable. RedGard, Schluter, whatever system we’re using, we don’t skip steps.
- Tile Work or Unit Install
- Tile goes in clean, with real layout planning.
- If it’s a prefab unit, we make sure it fits tight and clean, sealed right.
- Glass Door Install
- Usually custom-measured after the tile is done. Takes a few days for the glass to be made.
- Then install and final sealing.
- Final Clean-Up and Walkthrough
- We check everything, test the valves, seal the grout, and make sure you’re happy.
- We check everything, test the valves, seal the grout, and make sure you’re happy.
Common Mistakes People Make With Shower Remodels
- Cheap out on waterproofing. Bad idea. That’s what leads to leaks and rot inside your walls.
- Hiring a “cheap guy.” If someone quotes you half of what others do, ask why. Usually, they’re cutting corners or skipping steps.
- Skipping permits. Might save you time now, but it’ll bite you when you go to sell.
- Bad tile layout. If your tile doesn’t line up right, your eye sees it every day. Tilework is a skill. Not a “handyman” job.
What Happens If It’s Done Wrong?
Leaks. Mold. Failed tile. Cracked grout. Warped subfloors. Showers that drain the wrong way. Plumbing that makes noise or doesn’t meet code. We’ve fixed all of it.
And trust me, it costs more to rip out and redo someone else’s bad work than to just do it right the first time.
Final Thought: Shower Remodel Cost Is Worth It If You Do It Right
Look, this isn’t just about having a pretty bathroom. It’s about function, health, and long-term value. You use your shower every day. If it’s outdated, leaking, or just not working for you, then yeah, it’s worth remodeling. Just be smart about how you budget and who you hire.
At T&J All In Remodeling, we don’t guess or rush. We build it like it’s our own house. No surprises, no shortcuts. And we’re local, family-owned, and actually show up when we say we will. (I’m Telli, you’ll probably talk to me directly.)
If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom shower the right way, we’re ready to help.
