Tub-to-shower conversions are one of the most requested bathroom jobs, and one of the easiest to underquote if you walk in without a complete materials list. This checklist covers what pros bring to a standard alcove conversion so the job runs in days, not weeks.
Phase 1: Demo and What You Find Behind It
Pull the tub, the surround and the wall material down to studs. Budget time for surprises: rot at the tub apron, undersized blocking, or a trap that sits too high for the new drain. Inspect before you promise a schedule.
Phase 2: Drain and Plumbing Changes
A tub drain and a shower drain are rarely in the same spot. Decide the new drain position first, because it drives the pan choice. A linear drain against the back wall lets the whole floor slope one direction, which pairs well with large format tile. A square drain keeps the classic center layout.
Phase 3: Pan, Boards and Waterproofing
The fastest route is a complete kit: pre-sloped pan, drain, boards, sealant and banding in one box. Browse the GURU shower systems collection for kits sized to common alcove footprints. Buying the system as a kit means every component is designed to seal to the next one, which is exactly what you want in a wet area that used to be a tub.
- Pre-sloped foam pan sized to the alcove
- Drain assembly matched to the pan
- Foam wall boards and a niche to replace the surround
- Sealant, band, inside and outside corners
- Thinset, trowels and a level
Phase 4: Tile and Finish Work
Cut and set your tile with the right cutting tools for the material, from the tile cutting tools collection. Finish edges with metal trim profiles for a clean, professional look, then grout, seal the changes of plane, and flood test before the final walkthrough.
Tub to Shower Conversion FAQ
Do I need to move the drain for a conversion?
Usually yes. Tub drains sit at one end; most shower layouts want the drain centered or at a wall. Plan the plumbing change before ordering the pan.
What is the fastest way to waterproof the new walls?
Foam wall boards. They replace the backer board and the waterproofing membrane in one step: hang the boards, seal seams and fasteners, and tile.
Can a curbless entry work in a conversion?
Often, if the joist depth allows recessing the pan. See the curbless shower waterproofing guide for the requirements.
The job pays twice. Contractors earn points on every order through the PlaceForPros Contractors Program, so the materials list above works for you twice: once from the client, once in points.