Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost Guide

Converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower is one of the most requested bathroom upgrades in Northern California, and for good reason. Showers consume less water, take up less visual mass, and better serve aging-in-place needs. But unlike a simple fixture swap, a tub-to-shower conversion involves structural, plumbing, and waterproofing work that must be scoped carefully to avoid cost surprises.

At Oakwood Remodeling Group, tub-to-shower conversions are one of our core specialties. We complete dozens of these projects every year across the Sacramento metro, and our pricing reflects the efficiency that comes with repetition. This guide breaks down what each component actually costs, where the pricing variables live, and how to allocate your budget for the best possible outcome.

What Drives the Total Price

No two tub-to-shower conversions cost exactly the same. The final figure depends on a handful of key variables that interact with each other. Understanding these variables before you request bids prevents sticker shock and helps you compare proposals on equal terms.

• Drain relocation complexity: Moving the drain from the tub position to the shower position is the single most common plumbing expense. Slab foundations cost more than raised foundations because concrete must be cut and patched.
• Curb vs. curbless threshold: Curbless (zero-entry) showers require the shower floor to be recessed below the bathroom floor level, which means modifying the subfloor structure and using a different waterproofing approach.
• Glass enclosure type: A single fixed panel is the most economical option. Full frameless door-and-panel systems cost two to three times more.
• Tile selection and coverage area: Standard porcelain on three walls to 72 inches is the baseline. Full floor-to-ceiling tile, accent bands, or natural stone all increase material and labor costs.
• Fixture grade: A basic single-function shower valve and head versus a thermostatic valve with diverter, rain head, and handheld can differ by $400 to $1,800 in fixture cost alone.

Three Budget Tiers: Line-Item Breakdown

Standard Alcove Conversion: $6,800 - $14,000

This tier covers a straightforward swap in a standard 60-inch x 30-inch alcove. The existing footprint is preserved, and the scope focuses on function over luxury.

• Tub demolition and haul-off: $600 - $1,200
• Drain repositioning and shower valve rough-in: $1,200 - $2,800
• Subfloor inspection and repair (if needed): $400 - $1,200
• Waterproofing (liquid membrane or sheet system): $600 - $1,200
• Standard porcelain tile (walls to 72 inches, floor): $1,800 - $3,200
• Shower base (prefab acrylic or tiled mortar bed): $500 - $1,400
• Single fixed glass panel or curtain rod: $400 - $1,200
• Standard shower valve, head, and trim: $300 - $800
• Permits and disposal: $300 - $700

This tier makes financial sense for guest bathrooms, secondary baths, or rental properties where the goal is a clean, functional shower without high-end finishes.

Mid-Range Conversion: $14,000 - $22,000

The most popular tier for primary bathrooms. You get upgraded materials, a frameless glass enclosure, and design details that elevate the finished product.

• Tub demolition and disposal: $600 - $1,200
• Drain relocation with new P-trap and vent tie-in: $1,400 - $3,000
• Subfloor reinforcement or replacement: $600 - $2,000
• Schluter or Laticrete waterproofing membrane system: $1,200 - $2,200
• Large-format porcelain tile (walls floor-to-ceiling, floor): $3,200 - $5,500
• Tiled shower base with linear or center drain: $1,000 - $2,200
• Frameless glass panel or door-and-panel enclosure: $1,800 - $3,500
• Thermostatic valve with rain head and handheld: $700 - $1,600
• Built-in niche (tiled, recessed): $350 - $700
• Permits, project management, and disposal: $500 - $900

At this investment level, you should expect bonded waterproofing, properly sloped mortar beds, and tile work with consistent grout lines and no lippage. These are the details that separate a professional conversion from a handyman job.

Premium Curbless Conversion: $22,000 - $38,000+

This tier includes curbless entry, premium materials, and spa-level fixtures. It is common in primary suites and aging-in-place projects where accessibility and aesthetics both matter.

• Tub demolition and structural assessment: $800 - $1,500
• Subfloor modification for recessed shower pan: $1,500 - $3,500
• Complete drain relocation with linear drain system: $1,800 - $3,200
• Full bonded waterproofing system with pre-sloped panels: $2,000 - $3,500
• Natural stone or premium large-format tile (full coverage): $5,000 - $9,500
• Curbless tiled shower floor with integrated slope: $1,800 - $3,000
• Custom frameless glass enclosure (door + fixed panels): $3,200 - $5,500
• Premium thermostatic system with body sprays or steam: $1,500 - $4,000
• Built-in bench, multiple niches, grab bars: $800 - $2,200
• Permits, project management, and disposal: $600 - $1,100

Curbless builds require experienced tile setters who understand slope tolerances (typically 1/4 inch per foot minimum) and waterproofing contractors who can integrate the membrane with the bathroom floor seamlessly. This is not a project for generalist contractors.

Plumbing: The Cost Variable Most Homeowners Underestimate

Plumbing is the single largest source of cost variation in tub-to-shower conversions. Here is why:

• Drain repositioning: The tub drain is at one end of the alcove; the shower drain must be centered or offset. This requires cutting into the subfloor, extending or rerouting the drain line, and reconnecting the P-trap. On slab foundations, the concrete must be saw-cut and patched, adding $800 to $1,500 to the plumbing line item.
• Shower valve relocation: Tub faucets are mounted low on the wall. Shower valves sit roughly 48 inches above the floor. New supply lines must be run, the valve mounted, and wall blocking installed to support the valve and any accessories.
• Vent stack compliance: California plumbing code requires proper venting for all drain fixtures. If the existing vent configuration does not serve the new drain location, adding or extending a vent line can cost $500 to $1,200.
• Old pipe materials: Homes built before 1985 may have galvanized steel supply lines or cast iron drain lines. If these are corroded or undersized, upgrading to copper or PEX (supply) and ABS (drain) is strongly recommended while the walls are open.

Glass Enclosure Options and Their Price Points

The glass enclosure is often the most visible element of a converted shower, and it carries a wide price range:

• Shower curtain with rod: $50 - $200 (functional, but does not deliver the open, modern feel most homeowners want from a conversion)
• Single fixed glass panel (3/8-inch tempered): $1,400 - $2,200 (the most popular choice for alcove conversions -- clean lines, easy to maintain, no moving parts)
• Semi-frameless sliding door: $1,600 - $2,800 (good for tight spaces where a swinging door would interfere with other fixtures)
• Frameless hinged door with return panel: $2,800 - $4,200 (the premium option -- fully frameless with heavy 3/8 or 1/2-inch glass)
• Custom neo-angle or curved glass: $3,500 - $5,500 (for non-standard openings or design-forward projects)

All glass pricing includes professional measurement, fabrication to size, and installation with proper anchoring. We strongly recommend 3/8-inch tempered glass minimum for any frameless application.

Tile Costs by Material Type

For a standard 60-inch alcove conversion with three tiled walls (approximately 100-130 square feet of tile surface), here is what to expect for materials and installation combined:

• Standard ceramic (4x4, 6x6): $6 - $10 per sq ft installed -- $780 - $1,300 total
• Standard porcelain (12x24): $8 - $14 per sq ft installed -- $1,040 - $1,820 total
• Large-format rectified porcelain (24x48): $14 - $22 per sq ft installed -- $1,820 - $2,860 total
• Porcelain mosaic (2x2 hex, penny round): $12 - $20 per sq ft installed -- $1,560 - $2,600 total (higher labor due to more grout lines)
• Natural marble: $22 - $40 per sq ft installed -- $2,860 - $5,200 total
• Quartzite or premium natural stone: $28 - $50 per sq ft installed -- $3,640 - $6,500 total

These figures cover material, thinset, grout, backer board, and setter labor. They do not include the waterproofing membrane, which is a separate line item.

How to Allocate Your Budget Wisely

Based on hundreds of completed conversions, here is where your money delivers the most long-term value:

• Spend on waterproofing: A $1,200-$2,200 bonded membrane system protects a $15,000+ investment. Cutting corners here risks catastrophic water damage within 5-10 years.
• Spend on the shower valve: A quality thermostatic valve ($300-$600 for the rough) prevents scalding, maintains consistent temperature, and lasts decades. Budget pressure-balance valves are the first component homeowners wish they had upgraded.
• Save on decorative tile accents: A single accent band or niche liner in a contrasting material delivers visual impact at a fraction of the cost of tiling entire walls in premium stone.
• Save on fixtures you can upgrade later: Showerheads and handheld units are easy to swap. Start with a quality mid-range option and upgrade later if desired.

Sacramento vs. National Conversion Costs: Why You Will Pay More Here

If you have researched tub-to-shower conversion costs on national sites like Angi, HomeAdvisor, or Fixr, you have probably seen figures in the $4,000 to $10,000 range for a standard conversion. Those numbers reflect national averages that are heavily weighted by markets in the Midwest, Southeast, and smaller metropolitan areas where labor rates, material costs, and regulatory overhead are significantly lower than in Northern California. In the Sacramento metro and the Roseville-Rocklin corridor, expect to pay 15-25% more than those national benchmarks -- and understanding why helps you evaluate bids more critically.

Labor Rates: The Biggest Differential

Licensed plumbers in the Sacramento area charge $85 to $130 per hour, compared to $60 to $90 in most national markets. Tile setters command $70 to $110 per hour locally versus $50 to $75 nationally. These rates reflect California's higher cost of living, workers' compensation insurance premiums that are among the highest in the country, and strong demand for skilled trades in a region with continuous residential construction activity. Labor typically accounts for 40-50% of a conversion project, so even a 20% labor rate premium translates directly into a meaningfully higher total.

California Title 24 Compliance Costs

California's Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards impose requirements that do not exist in most other states. For bathroom remodels, Title 24 mandates low-flow showerheads (maximum 1.8 GPM in the latest code cycle), high-efficacy lighting, and in some cases HERS (Home Energy Rating System) testing to verify that the completed work meets energy performance targets. Compliant fixtures cost $50 to $200 more than their unrestricted counterparts. When HERS testing is triggered, that adds $200 to $400 for the test itself plus any corrections required to pass. The combined Title 24 compliance premium on a conversion project ranges from $200 to $600 -- a cost that simply does not appear in bids from contractors in states without equivalent energy codes.

Permit Fees and Processing Overhead

Sacramento and Placer County jurisdictions charge $350 to $900 for building and plumbing permits, compared to $100 to $400 in many other metro areas. Beyond the dollar amount, the administrative time involved in preparing permit applications, scheduling inspections, and addressing plan review comments adds project management overhead that contractors must account for in their pricing. In some jurisdictions, permit processing alone takes 2 to 3 weeks, which extends the overall project timeline and ties up scheduling resources.

Material Logistics and Availability

Northern California's distance from major distribution hubs means certain specialty materials -- imported tile, custom glass, specific fixture lines -- carry higher shipping costs and longer lead times than in markets closer to coastal ports or manufacturing centers. While standard materials are competitively priced at local supply houses like Floor & Decor, The Tile Shop, and Ferguson, anything requiring special order typically costs 5-15% more delivered to a Sacramento-area jobsite than the same item delivered to a Dallas or Atlanta worksite.

Cost Impact of the Tub Type Being Removed

Not all tub removals cost the same. The material your existing tub is made from directly affects demolition labor, disposal costs, and sometimes even structural requirements for the new shower. Here is what to expect based on the most common tub types found in Sacramento-area homes.

Cast Iron Tubs: The Heaviest Lift

Cast iron tubs with porcelain enamel coating are the standard in Sacramento-area ranch homes built from the late 1950s through the mid-1970s. A standard 60-inch cast iron alcove tub weighs 300 to 450 pounds -- far too heavy for two workers to carry intact through a standard 30-inch doorway, and often too heavy to maneuver through hallways even with additional crew.

The solution is cutting the tub in place using a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade. This process takes 1 to 2 hours and generates significant noise, vibration, and iron dust that must be contained. The cut sections (typically 3 to 4 pieces) are then carried out individually. Cast iron tub demolition typically adds $500 to $800 to the project versus a fiberglass removal, accounting for the extra labor hours, specialized blades, and the heavier disposal weight (cast iron is charged by weight at most transfer stations).

There is an upside to cast iron removal, however. Cast iron tubs are extremely rigid and were often set in a full mortar bed, which means the subfloor beneath them was heavily supported and is sometimes in better condition than subfloors under lighter tubs that flexed over the decades.

Fiberglass and Acrylic Tubs: Standard Removal

Fiberglass tub-and-shower units became dominant in Sacramento-area tract homes from the late 1970s through the 1990s. These one-piece or multi-piece units weigh 60 to 100 pounds and can often be removed intact or with minimal cutting. Single-piece fiberglass surrounds that extend to the ceiling may need to be cut into sections for removal through a standard doorway, but this is quick work with a standard oscillating tool or jigsaw.

Acrylic tubs (common in homes from the 1990s onward, including many Roseville and Rocklin subdivisions) are similarly lightweight and easy to remove. Demolition for fiberglass and acrylic tubs falls within the standard $600 to $1,200 demolition line item with no premium.

Steel Tubs: The Middle Ground

Pressed steel tubs with enamel coating are lighter than cast iron (typically 80 to 120 pounds for a 60-inch model) but heavier and more rigid than fiberglass. They were common in mid-grade construction from the 1960s through the 1980s. Steel tubs can usually be removed intact with two workers, though tight hallways or small bathroom doorways may require cutting. When cutting is needed, the thinner steel is faster to cut than cast iron. Expect a modest premium of $200 to $400 over fiberglass removal if cutting and additional labor are required.

Oversized Soaker and Garden Tubs

Many Roseville, Rocklin, and Lincoln homes built from the late 1990s through the 2010s feature oversized soaker tubs or corner garden tubs in the primary bathroom. These tubs -- typically 66 to 72 inches long and 36 to 42 inches wide -- occupy a larger footprint than standard alcove tubs and are often platform-mounted. Removing a platform tub involves demolishing the surrounding deck structure (usually framed with 2x4s and covered in tile or solid surface), which adds 2 to 4 hours of labor. The larger footprint also means more subfloor area to inspect, repair, and prepare for the new shower. Budget an additional $800 to $1,500 for oversized tub demo and platform removal versus a standard alcove tub.

Plumbing Modification Cost Variables: A Deeper Look

We covered plumbing as a major cost driver earlier in this guide, but because it is the single largest source of bid variation between contractors, it deserves a more detailed breakdown. The plumbing scope of a conversion can range from $1,200 for a simple valve-and-drain swap to $6,000 or more when pipe upgrades and complex rerouting are involved.

Drain Repositioning: $800 - $2,500

The tub drain sits at one end of the alcove (usually the end opposite the faucet), while a shower drain needs to be centered or positioned according to the shower pan design. Repositioning involves cutting the subfloor, extending the drain line from the old location to the new one, installing a new P-trap at the correct depth, and reconnecting to the existing waste line. The cost variables within this range are:

• Foundation type: Raised foundations with crawl space access allow the plumber to work from below, which is faster and less disruptive. Slab-on-grade foundations require saw-cutting the concrete, excavating the soil beneath, laying new drain pipe, and patching the concrete -- adding $800 to $1,500 to the drain work alone.
• Distance of relocation: Moving the drain 18 to 24 inches (typical for centering) is straightforward. Moving it 36 to 48 inches or routing around obstacles pushes toward the upper end of the range.
• Drain line material: If the existing drain is cast iron (common in pre-1975 Sacramento homes), transitioning to ABS requires a fernco coupling or lead-and-oakum joint, and the plumber must assess whether the existing cast iron is sound enough to connect to or needs replacement back to the main stack.

Shower Valve Relocation: $400 - $1,200

Tub faucets sit approximately 12 to 16 inches above the floor. Shower valves sit at 44 to 48 inches. This means running new hot and cold supply lines vertically through the wall cavity, mounting the valve body on blocking between studs, and connecting the showerhead outlet above. The cost depends on the distance from existing supply lines, the pipe material being used (PEX is faster and cheaper to install than copper), and whether the valve location is moving laterally as well as vertically.

Adding a Handheld on a Slide Bar: $200 - $500

A handheld showerhead on a vertical slide bar is one of the most popular add-ons to a conversion, especially for aging-in-place flexibility. If the shower valve already includes a diverter outlet for a handheld (most thermostatic valves do), the cost is primarily the slide bar hardware ($80 to $200), the flexible hose ($30 to $60), and installation labor (1 to 2 hours). If the valve does not have a diverter, a separate diverter valve or a valve upgrade is required, pushing the cost toward the upper end.

Upgrading Supply Lines from Galvanized to PEX: $1,000 - $3,000

Galvanized steel supply pipes were standard in Sacramento homes built before 1975 and are still found in many 1970s and 1980s homes. Over 40 to 60 years, galvanized pipes corrode internally, restricting water flow and contaminating water with rust particles. If your tub conversion reveals galvanized supply lines in the wall, upgrading to PEX while the wall cavity is open is strongly recommended.

The cost depends on scope: replacing just the lines within the bathroom runs $1,000 to $1,500. Extending the PEX replacement to the main manifold or water heater connection (recommended for the best long-term result) runs $2,000 to $3,000. The key advantage of doing this work during a conversion is that the wall is already open -- there is no additional demolition or patching cost. Deferring the replacement to a future date means cutting into finished walls, which typically doubles the total expense.

Permit Cost Comparison by Sacramento-Area Jurisdiction

Permit requirements and fees vary meaningfully across the cities and counties in the Sacramento metro area. Because we work across all of these jurisdictions regularly, we can provide a realistic comparison of what to expect.

City of Sacramento

The City of Sacramento Department of Community Development charges a combination building and plumbing permit fee of approximately $350 to $550 for a tub-to-shower conversion, depending on the declared project valuation. Plan review for residential alterations is typically over-the-counter or processed within 5 to 10 business days for straightforward projects. Inspections (rough plumbing and final) are usually available within 2 to 3 business days of request. Total permit processing timeline from application to approval: 2 to 3 weeks.

Placer County (Unincorporated Areas)

Placer County Building Services charges higher base fees than most cities in the region, with combination permits running $400 to $700. The county also requires a California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (SMIP) fee and a building standards fee that add $20 to $50 to the total. Plan review is generally completed within 5 to 10 business days. Inspection scheduling is efficient, with most inspections available next business day. Total processing timeline: 1 to 2 weeks, making Placer County one of the faster jurisdictions in the region.

City of Roseville

Roseville's Development Services Department charges $450 to $650 for a combination permit covering a tub-to-shower conversion. Roseville has invested in online permitting systems that streamline the application process, but plan review for plumbing modifications typically takes 10 to 15 business days. Roseville also enforces Title 24 compliance documentation more rigorously than some neighboring jurisdictions, which may require additional paperwork from your contractor. Total processing timeline: 2 to 3 weeks.

City of Rocklin

Rocklin's permit fees for bathroom conversions range from $350 to $600, placing it in the middle of the regional spectrum. The city's building department is smaller than Sacramento or Roseville, which can mean faster personalized service but occasionally longer wait times during peak construction season (spring through early fall). Plan review typically takes 5 to 10 business days. Total processing timeline: 1 to 2 weeks during off-peak, 2 to 3 weeks during peak season.

What Permit Fees Actually Cover

Regardless of jurisdiction, your permit fee covers the plan review, the permit document itself, and typically two inspections: a rough plumbing inspection (after pipes are installed but before walls are closed) and a final inspection (after all work is complete). Some jurisdictions include a separate electrical inspection fee if the project involves fan, lighting, or GFCI work. Re-inspection fees ($75 to $150 per visit) apply if work fails an inspection and must be corrected and re-inspected.

At Oakwood Remodeling Group, we handle the entire permit process -- application preparation, fee payment, inspection scheduling, and any required corrections -- as part of our standard project scope. The permit cost is always included as a line item in our proposals so there are no surprises.

Seasonal Pricing Patterns in the Sacramento Market

Conversion costs are not static throughout the year. Sacramento's construction market follows seasonal demand patterns that affect both pricing and scheduling availability. Understanding these patterns helps you time your project for the best combination of price, timeline, and contractor availability.

Peak Season: March Through June

Spring is the busiest season for bathroom remodeling in the Sacramento metro. Homeowners emerge from winter motivated to start projects, tax refunds provide budget flexibility, and the weather makes construction comfortable for crews working in non-climate-controlled spaces. During peak season, lead times for project start dates extend to 3 to 6 weeks (compared to 1 to 3 weeks in slower months), and some contractors add seasonal premiums of 5-10% to their pricing. Material availability can also tighten -- popular tile lines at Floor & Decor and local distributors may have limited stock as demand surges across the region.

Shoulder Season: July Through September

Sacramento's extreme summer heat (regularly exceeding 105°F from June through September) slows exterior construction but has minimal impact on interior bathroom projects. Many homeowners assume summer is too hot for remodeling and delay their projects, which creates a scheduling window that works in your favor. Crews working indoors on bathroom conversions are unaffected by outdoor temperatures, and reduced overall demand means shorter lead times and potentially more flexibility on scheduling. Tile and fixture suppliers also run summer promotions to move inventory before fall product line transitions.

Value Season: October Through February

Late fall and winter offer the best combination of scheduling availability and pricing in the Sacramento market. Construction demand drops as the holiday season approaches, and contractors who maintain year-round crews actively seek projects to keep their teams busy. This is the window where you are most likely to receive competitive bids, have the widest choice of start dates, and experience minimal wait times for permit processing (building departments are less backlogged). Sacramento's mild winters (daytime temperatures typically 50-65°F) do not affect indoor bathroom work at all -- the only weather consideration is ensuring material deliveries are not exposed to rain during transport from the truck to the home.

What to Watch for When Comparing Contractor Bids

Most homeowners collect 2 to 4 bids for a tub-to-shower conversion. Comparing these bids accurately requires understanding what should -- and what often does not -- appear in a professional proposal. Here are the specific red flags and quality indicators to evaluate.

Line-Item Detail vs. Lump-Sum Pricing

A professional conversion bid should break the project into discrete line items: demolition, plumbing rough-in, subfloor repair (if applicable), waterproofing, tile material, tile labor, glass enclosure, fixtures, permits, and disposal. This level of detail allows you to compare bids component by component and identify where one contractor is significantly higher or lower on a specific trade. Lump-sum bids that provide a single total without breakdown make meaningful comparison impossible and often conceal areas where the scope is incomplete or the quality is lower.

Waterproofing Specification

The bid should name the waterproofing system being used (Schluter KERDI, Laticrete Hydro Ban, RedGard, Custom Building Products HydroDefense, etc.). If the bid says "waterproof shower" without specifying the product and method, the contractor may be using a lower-quality approach -- or may not have a defined waterproofing protocol at all. Ask specifically whether the system is a bonded sheet membrane, a liquid-applied membrane, or a hot-mop (the latter is outdated and not recommended for residential shower conversions). The waterproofing line item should range from $600 to $2,200 for a standard alcove conversion; if it is significantly less, the scope may be inadequate.

Permit Inclusion

Some contractors omit permits from their bids to appear more price-competitive, leaving the homeowner to handle permit applications, fees, and inspection scheduling independently. In Sacramento and Placer County jurisdictions, pulling a permit without a licensed contractor's involvement creates complications -- the homeowner becomes the responsible party for code compliance. A complete bid includes permit fees, application preparation, and inspection coordination as a line item. If permits are excluded, add $350 to $900 to the bid total for an accurate comparison.

Contingency and Change Order Policies

Every conversion has the potential for hidden conditions discovered during demolition. A trustworthy contractor addresses this in the bid by either building a contingency allowance into the total (typically 10-15%) or by clearly stating their change order process: how discoveries are documented, how additional costs are presented and approved, and whether work pauses until written approval is received. Contractors who claim "no hidden costs" without explaining their process for unforeseen conditions are either inexperienced or being evasive. The question is not whether hidden conditions might exist -- it is how they are handled when they appear.

Financing a Tub-to-Shower Conversion

A conversion is a significant investment, and paying for it does not require draining your savings account or emergency fund. Several financing approaches are commonly used by Sacramento-area homeowners for projects in the $8,000 to $35,000 range.

• Home equity line of credit (HELOC): HELOCs offer the lowest interest rates for home improvement projects (typically 7-10% APR as of early 2026) because they are secured by your home equity. Sacramento-area credit unions like Golden 1, SAFE, and Schools Financial offer competitive HELOC products with low or no closing costs. The draw period allows you to fund the project and repay over time. Best for homeowners with significant equity and a strong credit profile.
• Personal home improvement loan: Unsecured loans from lenders like LightStream, SoFi, and local credit unions provide fixed-rate financing without using your home as collateral. Rates are higher than HELOCs (typically 8-15% APR) but approval is faster and there are no closing costs or appraisal requirements. Loan amounts of $5,000 to $50,000 with terms of 3 to 7 years cover the full range of conversion budgets.
• Contractor financing: Some remodeling companies offer in-house financing or partnerships with third-party lenders. These programs often feature promotional 0% APR periods (12 to 18 months) that allow you to pay off the project interest-free if the balance is cleared within the promotional window. Read the terms carefully -- deferred interest programs charge retroactive interest on the entire original balance if the promotional period expires with a remaining balance.
• Cash savings: Paying cash eliminates interest costs entirely and often puts you in a stronger negotiating position. Some contractors offer a small cash discount (2-3%) because they avoid credit card processing fees and receive immediate payment.

Regardless of financing method, the return on investment for a well-executed conversion is strong. A tub-to-shower conversion in a secondary bathroom typically recovers 65-75% of project cost at resale, while conversions in primary bathrooms -- especially premium curbless builds -- can recover 70-85% in Sacramento's competitive housing market. The functional benefit (daily shower comfort, water savings, reduced maintenance) delivers value from day one, independent of resale considerations.

Getting Your Conversion Priced Accurately

Online calculators cannot account for your specific plumbing layout, foundation type, subfloor condition, or local permit requirements. The only reliable way to get an accurate conversion price is an in-home assessment where a contractor evaluates the existing conditions firsthand.

Oakwood Remodeling Group provides free in-home assessments throughout the Sacramento region. Because we specialize exclusively in bathrooms, our conversion pricing is precise and our proposals include every line item. Request your free assessment to get a fixed-price proposal tailored to your bathroom.