Arthur Baths / Tub-to-shower conversion in Kansas City

Tub-to-shower conversion in Kansas City

A tub-to-shower conversion removes a bathtub and replaces it with a walk-in shower in roughly the same space. It is one of the most requested bathroom projects in the KC metro, especially in older homes where the original tub rarely gets used.

Why homeowners convert

• Easier, safer access - stepping over a tub wall is a common source of slips. A low-threshold or curbless shower removes it.
• More usable space - a walk-in shower with clear glass makes a small KC bathroom feel bigger.
• Updating an older bathroom - much of the KC metro's housing dates to around 1980 or earlier, and original tub-shower combos are due for replacement.
• Aging in place - grab bars, a bench and a handheld shower head make the bathroom workable for longer.

What it costs

A 2026 This Old House survey of 1,000 homeowners who recently completed bathroom renovations found most tub-to-shower conversions cost between $2,000 and $12,000, driven by shower type, materials and plumbing changes:

Source: This Old House, 2026 survey of 1,000 homeowners plus contractor database and retail pricing.

In that survey, 70% of homeowners named materials (tile, fixtures, glass) as their biggest expense, followed by labor and plumbing. About 37% went over budget, so a 10-20% contingency for hidden water damage is a sensible buffer.

What the process looks like

1. Measure and design - the remodeler confirms the footprint, drain location and wall condition.
2. Demolition - the old tub and surround come out.
3. Plumbing - the drain and supply lines are adjusted for the new shower layout.
4. Base and walls - a shower pan or tiled base goes in, then wall surrounds or tile.
5. Fixtures and glass - valve, shower head, grab bars, bench, and the door or enclosure.

A prefab conversion can be done in a few days; custom tile work usually takes one to two weeks.

Keeping one tub

Real estate agents often suggest keeping at least one bathtub somewhere in the home for resale, especially for families with small children. If this is your only tub, ask the remodelers who quote you how a conversion could affect resale in your neighborhood.

How Arthur Baths fits in

Arthur Baths is a referral service, not a contractor. Tell us about your conversion and we pass the details to independent local remodelers serving the Kansas City metro. They contact you with quotes, free and with no obligation.