Tub-to-Shower Conversion Guide for Sacramento Homeowners (2026)

Why Sacramento Homeowners Are Converting Tubs to Showers

The tub-to-shower conversion has become one of the most popular bathroom upgrades in the Sacramento region in 2026. Homeowners across Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, Elk Grove, Citrus Heights, and greater Sacramento are replacing underused bathtubs with modern, spacious showers that better match how they actually use their bathrooms. If you are considering a tub-to-shower conversion, you are not alone--it is one of the most requested services we perform at Oakwood Remodeling Group.

The reasons driving this trend are practical. Most Sacramento homes built between the 1970s and 2000s feature a standard 60-inch alcove tub-shower combo in both the master and hall bathrooms. For the majority of adults, these tubs go unused for bathing. Studies consistently show that over 70% of adults shower rather than bathe, yet the bathtub occupies the largest fixture footprint in the bathroom. A tub-to-shower conversion reclaims that space and transforms it into a shower that is more comfortable, easier to access, simpler to clean, and more visually appealing.

Beyond daily convenience, the conversion delivers strong aesthetic and financial returns. A dated tub-shower combo with worn fiberglass surrounds and old fixtures is one of the first things buyers notice in an older Sacramento home. Replacing it with a tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass immediately modernizes the bathroom and signals that the home has been well maintained. Sacramento real estate agents consistently rank walk-in showers among the top features buyers look for.

This guide walks you through every aspect of a tub-to-shower conversion in the Sacramento area: realistic costs, the step-by-step process, plumbing implications, material choices, local permit requirements, resale value impact, mistakes to avoid, and how to choose the right contractor. Whether you are in the research phase or ready to get started, you will find the information you need to make confident decisions.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost Breakdown ($6K-$20K+)

Tub-to-shower conversion costs in Sacramento vary based on three main factors: the finish materials you choose (tile type, glass, fixtures), the complexity of the plumbing modifications required, and the size and features of the new shower. Here is a realistic breakdown of what Sacramento homeowners are paying in 2026:

Cost by Conversion Tier

Line-Item Cost Breakdown

Here is what each component of a tub-to-shower conversion typically costs in the Sacramento market:

The Conversion Process: Step by Step

Understanding what happens during a tub-to-shower conversion helps you plan around the disruption and set realistic expectations. Here is the typical process from start to finish:

Step 1: Design Consultation and Planning (1-2 Weeks)

The project begins with an in-home consultation where your contractor assesses the existing bathroom, takes measurements, inspects the plumbing access, and discusses your design preferences and budget. During this phase you will select tile, fixtures, glass style, and any built-in features like benches and niches. A good contractor will walk you through material samples and help you understand how different choices affect cost.

Step 2: Material Ordering and Permit (1-3 Weeks)

Once the design is finalized, your contractor orders tile, fixtures, backer board, waterproofing materials, and the shower valve. If the project involves plumbing modifications (which nearly all tub-to-shower conversions do), a plumbing permit is submitted to the local building department. Standard tile is usually available within a week; specialty tile or imported materials may take 2-4 weeks. Glass panels are not ordered until after tile installation is complete and final measurements can be taken.

Step 3: Tub Demolition and Removal (1-2 Days)

The existing tub and surrounding walls (tile, fiberglass surround, or drywall) are carefully removed. Your contractor disconnects the plumbing, removes the tub, and hauls away the debris. This is also when the area behind the tub is inspected for water damage, mold, or deteriorated framing. In Sacramento homes built before 1990, it is not uncommon to find moisture damage or outdated plumbing that needs to be addressed before the new shower is built.

Mid-conversion: new plumbing and waterproofing in place before tile installation begins

Step 4: Plumbing Rough-In (1-2 Days)

The plumber installs or modifies the shower valve, reroutes the drain from the tub position to the new shower drain location, and adjusts supply lines as needed. If the permit requires it, a rough plumbing inspection is scheduled before the walls are closed up. This is one of the most critical phases of the conversion--proper drain slope, vent connections, and valve placement must be correct before anything is covered up.

Step 5: Subfloor, Backer Board, and Waterproofing (2-3 Days)

The subfloor is repaired or reinforced where the tub sat. The shower pan is built (either a prefabricated pan or a custom mortar bed) and the drain connection is tested for leaks. Cement backer board or waterproof foam board is installed on all shower walls. Then the entire shower interior--floor, walls, curb, niches, and bench--receives a continuous waterproofing membrane. This is the most important step in the entire project.

Step 6: Tile Installation (3-5 Days)

Tile installation is the longest phase and the one that determines the visual quality of your finished shower. The floor tile is set first, followed by wall tile (working from the bottom up), then niche tile, bench tile, and any accent tile. After the tile has set (typically 24 hours), grout is applied, cleaned, and allowed to cure. Grout sealer is applied as a final protective step. The quality of tile layout, cutting, and grouting is where skilled craftsmanship shows--and where inexperienced installers fall short.

Step 7: Glass Installation (1 Day)

After tile and grout are complete, precise measurements are taken for the glass panel or enclosure. The glass fabricator produces the custom-cut tempered glass (1-2 weeks lead time), and a glass installer mounts the panel or enclosure with appropriate hardware and silicone sealant. Your shower is usable during the glass fabrication wait--just without the glass splash guard.

Step 8: Fixtures, Final Details, and Cleanup (1 Day)

The shower trim kit (handle, escutcheon plate), shower heads, handheld unit, and any accessories are installed. All joints between tile, glass, and fixtures are caulked with mildew-resistant silicone. The shower is tested for proper drainage, water pressure, and temperature control. A final cleaning and walk-through ensures everything meets your expectations.

Conversion Timeline Summary

Total project timeline: 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to completed shower. Active construction time (when workers are in your home) is typically 7-14 days for a standard tiled conversion. During construction, the bathroom is out of service--plan to use another bathroom in the home. If you have only one bathroom, discuss the timeline in detail with your contractor to minimize downtime.

Plumbing Considerations for Tub-to-Shower Conversions

Plumbing is the aspect of a tub-to-shower conversion that surprises most homeowners. A bathtub and a shower have fundamentally different plumbing configurations, and converting from one to the other always requires some level of plumbing modification. Understanding these differences helps you anticipate costs and avoid surprises.

Drain Relocation

This is the single biggest plumbing difference between a tub and a shower. A standard bathtub drain is located at one end of the tub (near the foot), connected to an overflow drain higher on the wall. A shower drain is positioned in the center of the shower floor (or along one edge for a linear drain). The drain line under the subfloor must be rerouted from the tub drain position to the new shower drain position. This involves cutting into the subfloor, extending or rerouting the drain pipe, and connecting the new shower drain at the correct height for proper slope. Cost: $500- $1,500 depending on accessibility and distance.

Valve and Supply Lines

Most tub-shower combos use a single valve that controls both the tub spout and the shower head. When the tub is removed, the tub spout is no longer needed, and many homeowners choose to upgrade to a modern shower valve at a different height or position. If you are adding features like a rain head, handheld, or body sprays, additional supply lines and valves may be needed. Moving the valve position or adding outlets costs $300-$800 in additional plumbing work.

Vent Requirements

Shower drains, like all plumbing fixtures, require proper venting to prevent slow drainage and sewer gas entry. The existing tub drain vent usually works for the new shower drain, but if the drain is relocated a significant distance, a new vent connection may be needed. Your plumber will assess this during the rough-in phase. In homes on concrete slab foundations (common in some Sacramento neighborhoods), drain relocation is more complex and expensive because it requires cutting and patching the concrete slab ($1,500- $3,000 additional).

Water Heater Capacity

A standard shower head uses 2.0-2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). If your conversion includes a rain head plus a handheld (3.5-4.5 GPM combined) or body sprays (adding 2-4 GPM), your existing water heater may need to be evaluated. A standard 40-50 gallon tank water heater typically handles a dual-head setup without issue. For multi-head luxury setups (5+ GPM), consider a tankless water heater or a 75+ gallon tank to avoid running out of hot water. This is especially relevant for larger Sacramento homes where multiple bathrooms may be in use simultaneously.

Tile, Glass, and Fixture Options

The finish materials you choose define the look, feel, and longevity of your new shower. Here is what Sacramento homeowners are selecting for tub-to-shower conversions in 2026:

Tile Options

Large-format porcelain (12x24 or larger): The most popular choice for Sacramento tub-to-shower conversions. Fewer grout lines mean a cleaner, more contemporary look and less maintenance. Marble-look and concrete-look finishes dominate. Installed cost: $13-$22 per square foot. For a 60-inch alcove shower, expect roughly 80-110 square feet of wall tile and 15-20 square feet of floor tile.

Subway tile (3x12 or 4x12): A classic choice that works with any design style. Modern elongated subway tile in stacked or herringbone patterns feels more current than traditional 3x6 brick lay. Installed cost: $8-$15 per square foot.

Natural stone (marble, travertine, slate): Premium option that adds warmth and character. Requires sealing and more maintenance than porcelain. Installed cost: $20-$40 per square foot. Best suited for high-end conversions where the stone look cannot be replicated by porcelain.

Mosaic tile (1x1 or 2x2): Most commonly used on shower floors where the small size conforms to the sloped surface and the grout lines provide slip resistance. Also used as accent tile in niches or feature walls. Installed cost: $15-$30 per square foot.

A finished tub-to-shower conversion showing the transformation from a dated tub-shower combo to a modern tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass

Glass Options

Glass is what gives your new shower its open, modern feel. The three main options for tub-to-shower conversions are:

Clear tempered glass (3/8-inch or 1/2-inch thick) is the standard for all three options. For privacy, frosted glass, rain glass, or tinted glass are available at minimal additional cost. Consider adding a nano-coating like EnduroShield ($150-$300) that repels water and reduces mineral buildup, keeping your glass cleaner longer-- especially beneficial in Sacramento where water hardness varies by neighborhood.

Fixture Options

Your new shower valve and heads are a major upgrade opportunity. Most tub-shower combos have a basic diverter valve with a single shower head. The conversion is the perfect time to install modern fixtures:

• Standard setup ($250-$600): Pressure-balanced valve with an 8-10 inch wall-mounted rain head and a handheld on a slide bar. Covers all daily needs. Brands like Kohler, Delta, and Moen offer excellent mid-range options in chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black.
• Upgraded setup ($600-$1,500): Thermostatic valve with diverter controlling a 10-12 inch ceiling-mounted rain head and a wall-mounted handheld. Precise temperature control and a more immersive experience.
• Luxury setup ($1,500-$4,000+): Thermostatic system with multiple diverters, ceiling rain head, wall handheld, and 2-4 body spray jets. May include steam capability. Requires adequate water heater capacity and a larger valve body.

Matte black fixtures are the trending choice for Sacramento tub-to-shower conversions in 2026, followed by brushed nickel and brushed gold. Chrome remains a reliable, budget-friendly option. Whichever finish you choose, keep all fixtures, glass hardware, and accessories in the same finish family for a cohesive look. For more details on shower remodeling materials and costs, visit our dedicated service page.

Sacramento-Specific Factors: Permits, Labor, Housing Age

Several factors unique to the Sacramento region affect tub-to-shower conversion costs and planning. Understanding these local factors helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.

Permit Requirements by Jurisdiction

The Sacramento metro area spans multiple jurisdictions, each with its own building department and permit process. Here is what to expect:

Your licensed contractor should handle the entire permit process: application, fees, scheduling inspections, and obtaining the sign-off. Never allow an unlicensed contractor to pull a permit under a homeowner-owner permit--this exposes you to liability and may void your warranty coverage.

Sacramento Labor Rates

Labor costs in the Sacramento metro area are moderate compared to coastal California markets (San Francisco, Los Angeles) but higher than Central Valley and rural markets. Here are typical labor rates for the trades involved in a tub-to-shower conversion:

• Licensed plumber: $90-$150 per hour. A tub-to-shower conversion typically requires 6-12 hours of plumbing labor ($540-$1,800).
• Tile installer: $65-$110 per hour or $13-$22 per square foot installed (including thin-set and grout). A 60-inch alcove shower requires 30-50 hours of tile labor.
• General contractor / project manager: 10-20% of total project cost as overhead and profit. This covers scheduling, coordination, quality control, and warranty.
• Glass installer: $200-$500 for installation labor (separate from glass material cost).

Labor accounts for approximately 40-55% of a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Sacramento. The remaining 45-60% covers materials, permits, and overhead. Sacramento's remodeling market is competitive, so getting three quotes from licensed contractors is recommended--but be cautious of bids significantly below market rate, as they often indicate unlicensed labor, skipped waterproofing, or corner-cutting that leads to problems.

Housing Age and What to Expect Behind the Tub

The age of your Sacramento-area home significantly affects what your contractor will find behind the existing tub and how much additional work may be needed:

• Pre-1960s homes (Sacramento, Oak Park, Land Park, East Sacramento): Often have galvanized steel drain pipes that should be replaced with ABS or PVC during the conversion. Plaster walls behind the tub area. Possible lead paint on old plaster (requires safe removal). Budget an extra $500- $1,500 for plumbing updates and wall repair.
• 1960s-1980s homes (Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Orangevale, Elk Grove): The most common era for Sacramento-area homes. Expect fiberglass or cast iron tubs, basic drywall or greenboard behind surrounds (not waterproof), and possibly polybutylene (gray plastic) supply pipes that should be replaced. Budget an extra $300-$1,000 for substrate and plumbing updates.
• 1990s-2000s homes (Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, Natomas, Elk Grove): Typically have acrylic or fiberglass tub-shower combos, copper supply lines, and ABS drain pipes in good condition. These are the simplest conversions with minimal surprise costs. Greenboard (moisture-resistant drywall) behind the surround will be replaced with cement backer board.
• 2010s-present homes (West Roseville, North Natomas, Rancho Cordova, Lincoln): Modern plumbing and construction. PEX supply lines, ABS drains, and often better framing. Straightforward conversions. These homes are good candidates for higher-end conversions since the infrastructure is sound.

Should You Keep or Remove Your Only Bathtub?

This is one of the most important strategic decisions in a tub-to-shower conversion, and the answer depends on your home's bathroom configuration and your buyer profile. Here is the straightforward guidance:

The One-Tub Rule

Every home should have at least one bathtub. This is a near-universal recommendation from Sacramento real estate agents, appraisers, and remodeling professionals. Families with young children need a tub for bathing, and buyers in the family-friendly Sacramento market will often pass on homes without one. Removing the only tub in a home can reduce resale value by $5,000-$15,000 and narrow your buyer pool significantly.

When to Convert the Master Tub

If your home has two or more bathrooms with tubs, converting the master bathroom tub to a shower is almost always a strong move. The master bathroom is where you want the best shower experience, and keeping the hall bathroom tub satisfies the tub requirement for families. This is the most common tub-to-shower conversion scenario in Sacramento homes and delivers the best return on investment.

When You Have Only One Bathroom

If your home has only one bathroom (common in older Sacramento bungalows and smaller homes), think carefully before removing the tub. Consider a bathroom remodel that replaces the tub-shower combo with a larger shower and keeps a small soaking tub if space allows, or explore adding a second bathroom. If you are confident you will not sell the home for 10+ years and you never use the tub, converting to a shower is reasonable for your personal enjoyment--just understand the resale implications.

ROI and Resale Value Data

Tub-to-shower conversions consistently deliver strong returns in the Sacramento real estate market. Here is what the data shows for 2026:

The mid-range tiled conversion delivers the best ROI because it hits the sweet spot between visual impact and cost. Porcelain tile with frameless glass reads as a high-quality upgrade to buyers without the premium price of natural stone and luxury fixtures. For Sacramento homes valued at $400,000-$700,000 (the core of the market), a mid-range conversion is the ideal investment.

Beyond the direct cost recoupment, tub-to-shower conversions deliver indirect value that is harder to quantify but equally important:

• Faster sale time: Sacramento homes with updated master bathrooms featuring walk-in showers sell an average of 8-14 days faster than comparable homes with dated tub-shower combos.
• Stronger offers: Buyers are less likely to negotiate down on price when the master bathroom is modern and move-in ready. Updated bathrooms reduce the "project list" that buyers factor into their offer.
• Broader appeal: Walk-in showers appeal to a wider range of buyers than tub-shower combos, including empty nesters, young professionals, and anyone prioritizing low-maintenance living.
• Daily enjoyment: While not a financial metric, the daily comfort and convenience of a modern shower is the primary reason most Sacramento homeowners make the conversion. You benefit from the upgrade every day you live in the home.

For a broader look at bathroom remodeling returns, see our complete bathroom remodel cost guide for Sacramento.

Common Tub-to-Shower Conversion Mistakes

After completing hundreds of tub-to-shower conversions across the Sacramento area, we have seen homeowners (and less experienced contractors) make the same mistakes repeatedly. Avoid these to protect your investment:

1. Skipping or Shortcutting Waterproofing

This is the number-one mistake and the most costly. Tile and grout are not waterproof--water passes through grout and reaches the substrate behind. Without a continuous waterproofing membrane on every surface (floor, walls, curb, niche, bench), water will infiltrate the wall cavity and cause mold, rot, and structural damage. Proper waterproofing costs $600-$1,500. Repairing water damage from failed waterproofing costs $5,000-$15,000+. This is the area where cheap contractors cut corners most often.

2. Removing the Only Tub in the Home

As discussed above, removing the only bathtub in your home narrows your buyer pool and can reduce resale value by $5,000-$15,000. Always keep at least one tub in the home. If you must convert the only tub, consider a master bathroom remodel that incorporates both a walk-in shower and a freestanding soaking tub if space allows.

3. Choosing the Wrong Drain Location

The shower drain position must be carefully planned based on the shower size, the location of existing plumbing, and whether you want a center drain or a linear drain. A poorly positioned drain creates standing water, inconsistent floor slope, or inadequate drainage. Experienced contractors plan drain placement before any demolition begins.

4. Using Drywall or Greenboard in the Shower

Standard drywall and even moisture-resistant greenboard are not suitable substrates for shower tile. Cement backer board (Durock, HardieBacker) or waterproof foam board (Schluter Kerdi Board) must be used on all shower walls. This is a building code requirement, and any contractor who installs tile over drywall in a shower area is performing substandard work that will fail.

5. Skipping the Permit

Unpermitted plumbing work can create problems when you sell the home. Savvy buyers and home inspectors check permit records, and unpermitted work can kill a sale or require costly corrections. The permit cost ($130-$350) is a tiny fraction of the project budget and ensures the plumbing meets code and is inspected by a qualified inspector.

6. Hiring Based Solely on the Lowest Bid

In Sacramento's competitive remodeling market, there is always someone willing to undercut on price. The lowest bid typically comes at the expense of proper waterproofing, quality materials, licensed labor, permits, and warranty coverage. A tub-to-shower conversion is a permanent modification to your home's plumbing and structure--it needs to be done right the first time. Focus on value (quality + price) rather than price alone.

7. Not Planning for Adequate Ventilation

A walk-in shower generates more steam and humidity than a tub-shower combo because the shower area is more open to the bathroom. Ensure your bathroom has a properly sized exhaust fan (minimum 50 CFM for small bathrooms, 1 CFM per square foot for larger bathrooms) and run it during and for 20-30 minutes after every shower. If your existing fan is undersized or noisy, replace it during the conversion--it is far easier to run a new vent when the walls are open.

How to Hire the Right Contractor in Sacramento

Choosing the right contractor is the single most important decision in your tub-to-shower conversion. The quality of the finished product depends almost entirely on the skill of the people doing the work. Here is how to vet contractors in the Sacramento area:

Verify Licensing

California requires a contractor's license for any project over $500 (which includes all tub-to-shower conversions). Verify the contractor's license at the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website. Look for an active license in good standing with no unresolved complaints. The contractor should hold a B (General Building) or C-36 (Plumbing) license. Plumbing work should be performed by or under the supervision of a licensed plumber.

Check Insurance

The contractor must carry general liability insurance (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance and verify it is current. Without proper insurance, you are personally liable for injuries or property damage that occur during the project.

Review Relevant Work

Ask to see photos of completed tub-to-shower conversions specifically--not just general remodeling work. Look for clean tile lines, consistent grout joints, properly aligned patterns, neat glass installation, and professional fixture placement. If possible, visit a recently completed project in person.

Ask About Waterproofing

Ask the contractor to explain their waterproofing system and process. A qualified contractor will name the specific system they use (Schluter Kerdi, Laticrete Hydro Ban, Custom Building Products RedGard, etc.), explain how they waterproof corners, curbs, niches, and bench tops, and be willing to show you the waterproofing at the inspection stage before tile is installed. If a contractor cannot clearly explain their waterproofing approach, move on.

Get a Detailed Written Contract

Your contract should specify: the complete scope of work, all materials by brand and model, the total price with a payment schedule, the estimated timeline, the warranty terms, how change orders are handled, and the permit responsibility. In California, home improvement contracts over $500 must comply with Business and Professions Code requirements. Never pay more than 10% or $1,000 (whichever is less) as a down payment--this is California law for home improvement contracts.

Red Flags to Watch For

• No license or expired license: Walk away immediately. Unlicensed contracting is illegal in California.
• Requesting large upfront payment: California law limits the down payment to $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less.
• No written estimate or contract: Verbal agreements offer no protection. Everything must be in writing.
• Vague waterproofing plan: If they cannot name the waterproofing system and explain the process, they likely shortcut it.
• Significantly below-market pricing: Extremely low bids usually mean unlicensed labor, skipped permits, or inadequate materials.
• Pressure to decide immediately: A reputable contractor gives you time to compare quotes and make informed decisions.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion vs. Full Bathroom Remodel

One of the first decisions Sacramento homeowners face is whether to do a standalone tub-to-shower conversion or a full bathroom remodel that includes the shower conversion. The right answer depends on the overall condition of your bathroom.

Our recommendation: If your bathroom's vanity, flooring, toilet, and lighting are all in good condition and you simply want a better shower, a standalone tub-to-shower conversion is the right call. If two or more of those elements need updating, a full bathroom remodel often makes more financial sense because you save on duplicate mobilization, demolition, and contractor overhead costs. The incremental cost to add vanity, flooring, and toilet replacement to a conversion is typically $5,000- $12,000--less than doing those items as a separate project later.

Learn more about our walk-in shower installations and master bathroom remodeling services to see how Oakwood Remodeling Group can help with your project, whether it is a focused conversion or a complete renovation.

Ready to Convert Your Tub to a Shower?

A tub-to-shower conversion is one of the most impactful bathroom upgrades you can make in your Sacramento-area home. It replaces an underused fixture with a modern, comfortable shower that you will enjoy every day, while adding measurable value to your home. Whether you are in Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, Elk Grove, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Rancho Cordova, or anywhere in the greater Sacramento region, the conversion process is straightforward when handled by an experienced, licensed contractor.

At Oakwood Remodeling Group, we specialize exclusively in bathroom remodeling and have completed hundreds of tub-to-shower conversions across the Sacramento area. Every conversion we perform includes proper waterproofing with proven systems, quality materials selected with you, skilled craftsmanship, all permits and inspections, and a comprehensive warranty on both labor and materials.