Adding a shower to a garden tub increases the bathroom's functionality.
This requires checking the plumbing system and choosing the right fixtures, like a diverter valve and shower head.
The installation needs to be waterproof, with options for wall surrounds and either a curtain or glass enclosure.
It's important to ensure the bathroom structure and design can accommodate the addition.
For proper function and safety, professional installation is recommended.
Assessing Your Garden Tub
Before adding a shower to your garden tub, check the tub's structure and plumbing for compatibility with new fixtures. Many garden tubs are made for soaking and may need significant changes for a shower-tub combo. The tub's material and condition will affect its ability to handle the stress of a new shower without damage.
The area around the tub should be spacious enough for a shower and should protect against water spray. If the tub is not next to a wall, a full enclosure might be necessary to install a showerhead and manage water flow.
Plumbing considerations are crucial. You might need to alter or extend the existing plumbing to fit a showerhead and controls, following building regulations. A professional, like one from Mr. Rooter Plumbing, can determine if the plumbing can be adjusted or needs a major update.
Finally, consider the weight of the new shower fixtures, especially if the installation involves wall modifications. The structure must support the extra weight.
These considerations ensure the installation is possible, safe, and durable.
Plumbing Considerations
When adding a shower to a garden tub, it's crucial to assess the existing plumbing system's ability to support new shower fixtures. This typically requires rerouting or extending water supply lines, such as connecting to a former laundry hookup to provide a steady flow of hot and cold water.
A plumber may need to access the wall near the tub to install new pipes and make connections. This will likely involve cutting into current pipes to attach the shower fixtures. It's important to ensure that these changes will work with the existing tub faucet and plumbing system.
The garden tub's drain might be adequate for a shower, but the drainage capacity and the slope of the tub floor need evaluation to ensure proper water flow to the drain, which helps prevent water pooling and damage.
Proper ventilation is also necessary to prevent mold and mildew due to increased moisture from the shower. The existing ventilation should be evaluated and upgraded if required.
Maintenance considerations include routine cleaning of the shower components and regular plumbing inspections to fix any leaks or drips, ensuring the durability and proper function of the new shower and tub combination.
Shower Head Selection
Choosing the right shower head is important for the function and look of your garden tub shower conversion. Your personal taste, current bathroom design, and tub setup should influence your decision.
A diverter tub spout with a built-in shower head is a simple choice. It switches water flow between the faucet and shower head easily, suitable for those who want a straightforward option without major plumbing changes. Make sure to consider the water pressure and mounting height for a good shower experience.
A Roman tub faucet with a hand shower adds sophistication and offers the convenience of a handheld unit, which is great for a luxurious look and the ability to control water direction.
For more customizability, you might install a separate shower head and valve on the wall. This traditional approach comes with various styles and features, such as rain shower heads or adjustable models. This requires more complex plumbing work and should be done by a professional to meet building codes.
When on a budget, look for affordable shower heads and compare prices, but don't sacrifice quality, as safety and long-lasting use are important. Getting professional advice can help you find a balance between cost and quality.
Diverter Valve Installation
Installing a diverter valve is necessary for switching water flow from a tub spout to a shower head when converting a garden tub into a shower. It is also crucial for directing water to a handheld shower. A technician will access the plumbing behind the tub, cut the pipes, and install the valve. The valve's placement is important for both design and functionality, and it is connected to the hot and cold water lines.
Adding a diverter tub spout with a shower head is a common method for incorporating a shower into a garden tub. Professional installation by a company like Mr. Rooter Plumbing ensures the system is leak-free and reliable. The technician will evaluate the plumbing, possibly rerouting it to fit the new shower.
The diverter valve and handheld shower should be installed at heights that are convenient for users, which improves both the look and the utility of the bathroom. With professional installation, the bathroom will be equipped for both baths and showers.
Wall Surround Options
When converting a garden tub into a shower, it's important to select water-resistant wall surrounds to prevent moisture damage and mold. Common materials include tile, acrylic, and fiberglass.
Tile provides a variety of design options but needs regular grout maintenance to avoid leaks. Acrylic and fiberglass are easier to install and maintain, often available in one or more pieces for easy wall application.
A shower curtain is necessary to keep water inside the tub area. It can be supported by either a tension-mounted or permanently fixed rod. The curtain should match the wall surrounds for a unified bathroom appearance.
Curtain Vs. Glass Enclosure
Homeowners adding a shower to a garden tub must choose between a shower curtain and a glass enclosure.
A shower curtain is affordable and can easily be swapped out to fit bathroom decor changes. It effectively keeps water in the shower area, particularly when used with tiled walls, but requires frequent cleaning to avoid mildew.
Glass enclosures, on the other hand, offer a modern look and are generally easier to clean. They also contain water better but may require a structural assessment for installation, which can increase costs and extend the project timeline.
The decision should be based on budget, design preference, maintenance, and bathroom structure.
Waterproofing Measures
To convert a garden tub into a shower, thorough waterproofing is necessary to prevent moisture damage and preserve the structure. Before starting, assess the existing plumbing to connect hot and cold water lines to the new shower valve. Install the valve and showerhead at practical heights for use and appearance.
Waterproofing involves managing water spray. A shower curtain can help, but tiling walls offers better water resistance and durability. When adding a shower, you may need to open the wall to install the pipe for the showerhead, ensuring no leaks and that the wall can support the added weight.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning and checking for leaks, is important to maintain waterproofing. Resealing and recaulking are needed to keep the area watertight.
For plumbing, hire a professional to install a shower line to the faucet. Replace sheetrock with cement board behind tiles for a solid, waterproof base and add insulation between studs to reduce condensation. These steps are essential for a successful conversion to a shower.
Finishing Touches and Decor
After converting a garden tub to a shower, it's important to focus on aesthetic elements to enhance the bathroom's appeal. Finishing touches should align with the existing bathroom style to ensure the new shower complements the space.
Choose shower hardware that matches the existing garden tub fixtures for a consistent look. Consider a glass shower door or a quality shower curtain to improve the appearance and keep water inside the shower area.
Decor should be both practical and attractive. Non-slip shower mats or tiles can provide safety while adding to the design. Install towel racks or hooks near the shower for convenience, ideally in a material or finish that matches other fixtures.
Proper lighting is crucial. Waterproof LED lights can provide a soft ambiance and better visibility in the shower. Decorate with humidity-tolerant plants or moisture-resistant art to personalize the space.
